August Doorperson of the Month: La’Velle Barnett, 850 N. Lake Shore Dr.

La’Velle Barnett’s position as doorperson at 850 N. Lake Shore Dr. dates back to the building’s conversion into residences in 2012. 

La’Velle explains, “850 North was built in 1927, and was originally the Lake Shore Athletic Club. There used to be a pool here that was used during the Olympic tryouts for the 1934 Olympic Games.” 

Now the historic building is being converted again, this time from apartments to condominiums. “The conversion is about halfway complete with 198 units, 88 of which are sold. I’m helping to lift folks’ moods during this time of change.” 

La’Velle says that his role is to help residents in any way possible. “I appreciate the residents and my job here at 850 North, and I go above and beyond to serve people with joy as my attitude.” 

Prior to 850 North, La’Velle served elsewhere as a delivery person and a valet. Through experience and connections, these previous positions actually led him to become a doorperson in 1996. Then he moved on to join 850 North. 

La’Velle conducts a tour of 850 North with pride. The original fireplace and mailboxes, plus elevator panels repurposed as art, remain in the lobby. The original chandeliers are also in place, and there’s a beautiful ballroom overlooking Lake Michigan. 

“The building itself is old, but the guts of it are new. There was even a gun range in the building at one time, and tunnels under the building like when Geraldo Rivera unlocked the underground vault on live television. One tunnel led to the Drake Hotel. At one time 850 North served as a dormitory for Northwestern students, and there were two bars and four restaurants onsite.” 

La’Velle’s a family man with five kids. He has lost a son. Upon his son’s passing, he and his wife built an extension onto their home so that his son’s two children could come live with the family. 

La’Velle says he “really loves” helping and mentoring people. He also has his own moving company, and is proud to have mentored all of his employees from start to finish. He says, “Mentoring my eight employees has been a rewarding process.” 

Both the residents and management of 850 North reap the rewards of such a quality doorperson, which they have in La’Velle. 

To nominate your favorite doorperson, Email info@chicagostarmedia.com with their name and why they should be doorperson of the month. Winners will receive a $25 gift card to Mariano’s.