February Doorperson of the Month: Takyla Backstrom, 230 E. Ontario St.

She is a guardian, continually scanning back and forth between the lobby and the building entrance of 230 E. Ontario St. and the bustling street beyond. Her name is Takyla Backstrom, and she’s the Doorperson of the Month. 

Her presence is calming and she says, “I am a caregiver, people pleaser, even a jokester by nature at times when necessary, and I enjoy taking care of everyone’s needs.” This includes both her residents and her three young children.

Takyla’s worked at 230 E. Ontario for almost three years, hired as the pandemic was fading. She was born and raised on the South Side, and has worked in the security industry for six years. Her responsibilities include monitoring packages, security cameras, visitors, and the front door. 

“We don’t have an actual package room. I organize the packages into wooden lockers, and remember which residents allow for various deliveries to be brought to their actual front door.” Takyla pauses to phone a couple of tenants to saythat their packages have been delivered.

The 28-story high-rise was built in 1969, and is nestled among numerous hotels and restaurants, not immediately visible to the naked eye. The 144-unit building houses condominiums, a few of which are available to rent. 

“Many of our residents are older condominium owners, and enjoy the convenience of being near grocery stores, shopping and restaurants, and having no need for a car,” she says, adding that the residents also enjoy the gym and rooftop pool.

“I’m family oriented, and am putting together a trip to take my kids to the Mall of America over spring break.”  Speaking of spring, she’s ready for winter to be over and to get back to family cookouts. She says working the day shift at 230 E. Ontario allows her to spend the maximum amount of time with her family.

Takyla enjoys event planning in her spare time. “I like to put together and coordinate parties. Everything down to invitations, snacks, balloons, and banners. I want to learn how to make those cool, decorative balloon arches.”

Anyone walking into the lobby at 230 E. Ontario can see Takyla’s nurturing nature at work, knowing just how to accommodate her residents, all while keeping a watchful eye. 

To nominate your favorite doorperson, e-mail 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.