Karen

Independent filmmaker; married with two children and a dog; Chicago resident for 30 years; lives in North Center.

What neighborhood do you live in?
My husband and I have lived in the St. Ben’s neighborhood (part of North Center) for 18 years, ever since we were married. We’ve raised our two kids here. St. Ben’s is very family oriented. Everyone seems to know one another. Two years ago, I started a Garden Walk with a neighbor to help raise money for the Common Pantry, our local food pantry. It was a way for our neighbors to get to know one another and share our love for gardening. It has blossomed into a Garden Club that meets bi-monthly.

What is your favorite thing about Chicago?
My favorite thing about Chicago is the access to the arts. There are museums, and galleries and artist studios to visit. Artists are accessible in Chicago.

Where do you like to go for fun?
I love to go on the Architectural Boat tours that the Chicago Architecture Foundation presents. And their walking tours are a fun way to learn about the history of Chicago.

What is your favorite place for hot dogs?
I love to buy hot dogs at the nearby butcher shop, Paulina Market and bring them home to grill.

Favorite pizza place?
Spacca Napoli, tastes like the pizza of southern Italy - not the usual BIG Chicago Style pizza. Friendly atmosphere. Johnathan, the owner, comes by the table with samples to try.

Favorite place in Chicago?
The photography gallery in the lower level of the Art Institute.

Where can you find the best view of the Chicago skyline?
Driving south from Belmont on Lake Shore drive going toward the city. It’s like the Land of Oz rising up in the distance.

Where do you like to bring visiting friends or out-of-town guests?
Millennium Park to see Frank Gehry’s bandshell and walk on bridge that leads across Columbus Drive. And coming soon, the new wing at the Art Institute!

Favorite hidden spot?
The green roof on top of my garage. When I go up to weed, it’s fun to view the neighborhood from above and I can see the city in the distance.