Wally

Greeter since 2008, lives in West Loop, retired.

Profession you have held for most of your life?
I retired from a management and engineering career in mid 2007. In my last position in Chicago I was President of a US subsidiary of a British manufacturing company which manufactured High Pressure Hydraulic Valves.

What is your favorite thing about Chicago?
The people are friendly and easy going

What is your favorite neighborhood and why?
My favorite area is the Loop. There are many things happening there.

Favorite summertime activity?
Sailing on Lake Michigan

Where can you find the best view of the Chicago skyline?
Two Places. The absolute best is from a boat off Monroe Street Harbor and I think the second best is next to the Planetarium over looking Monroe Street Harbor

What are your favorite places to show visitors?
First of all I enjoy showing people the Architectural Foundation’s three dimensional model of the city. Secondly, I like to have people look into the window of the Federal Reserve Bank Museum and show them the one million one dollar bills wrapped in a square plastic cube.

What is your favorite restaurant?
Coco Pozzo Café at 636 N St Clair

Favorite pizza place?
Pizano’s. on 61 E Madison

Favorite Chicago tradition?
Go to the city’s St Patrick’s Day Celebration(s)

Favorite place in Chicago?
Tasting Room at Randolph Wine Cellars at Randolph and Ogden overlooking the city skyline.

Favorite hidden spot?
Douglas Dawson Gallery, 400 N Morgan. They specialize in ancient and historic art from Africa, Asia and the Americas. The gallery is like a museum.

Where do you like to go for fun?
Millennium Park Concerts, Steppenwolf, Metropolitan Opera HD simulcasts, Blues and Jazz programs.

Why did you become a Chicago Greeter?
I enjoy meeting new people, especially international people. It is so easy to show everyone the city and they are so very appreciative of this service.

What was your most memorable Chicago Greeter experience?
I was showing two couples from Ireland around the Loop. When we started to get on the El to go to the Merchandise Mart, the one couple didn’t get on the train and we ended up getting separated. We never did find them until we went back to their hotel and the other couple was at the bar. I bought all of them a drink. Everyone ended up happy.