Betty Smith, The Regatta

Anytime you walk into the beautiful Regatta building — morning, noon, or night — you are sure to be greeted by a friendly face at the front desk. One of those is our February Doorperson of the Month, Mrs. Betty Smith.

“What I enjoy the most about the job is the interaction with the people. I enjoy being a friendly face and voice for folks when they come back home after a long day,” says Smith.

Smith has handled the door at the Regatta for nearly seven years.  She began as a security person in the area before enthusiastically accepting an offer to join the full-time staff. Since then, she has seen many positive changes in the neighborhood.

“The New Eastside has really improved,” she says.  “The beautification and expanded facilities at the park and all the new entertainment options are wonderful to see!”

Smith has also witnessed “more than a few” interesting incidents, including one particular afternoon when a vicious dogfight erupted in the lobby.

It occurred while a female resident and her two pit bulls were waiting for an elevator. They were greeted by a German shepherd and its owner when the elevator’s doors opened. The dogs immediately went into attack mode.  The pit bulls nearly broke free of their leashes but were restrained by a maintenance worker.

There is never a dull moment in the life of a doorperson.

Of what Betty is proudest, the answer is easy — her family. Betty has a daughter; a son; and two grandsons, one of whom just graduated from North Park College.

To nominate your doorperson, email [email protected].

— Jon Cohn | Community Contributor