Please tell us your name.
Char Kawa
How old are you?
Seventy-seven.
How many years have you lived in this ward or your neighborhood?
Twenty. Previously I lived in the Ravenswood neighborhood for twenty years.
Something you might not know about me…
I worked for Playboy for twenty-six years.
What is your favorite memory of living in this area?
When I moved into this neighborhood and building all of my children were with me, we were all in the same building.
Do you think our neighborhood has changed? If yes, how?
It has improved a lot. There were a several gangs in the area when we moved in, and gang graffiti was sometimes written on my garage.
Do you need anything to help you live at home? If so, please let us know what you need to remain independent and living where you choose.
No, I’m doing fine.
What do you like about our neighborhood?
I like the fact that there are all ages of people living here, and people are out a lot walking around. You constantly see people, babies and dogs.
What keeps you in our neighborhood?
I love my building and the neighborhood.
What is your favorite thing to do or place to go?
My senior dance club.
What is the best-kept secret or hidden gem in our neighborhood?
Glen’s Diner on Montrose, it’s excellent.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Forward Chicago 
