Meet Cara
When did you move to the Rockford area?
I was born and raised in Rockford, and I love it so much that I convinced my husband to move here from the Quad Cities to start our family!
What are your hobbies or interests?
I’m a big fan of good books and cherish spending time with my family.
What is your favorite restaurant in Rockford?
Franchesco's. The food is amazing! We even had our wedding reception there in 2018, and our guests still rave about it!
What’s the best place to grab pizza in Rockford?
Lino’s is my top choice, but my husband swears by Woodfire Pizza on E. State.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to Rockford?
Get involved! Rockford offers countless organizations and events to help you meet people, and we’re known for being some of the friendliest around!
What’s your favorite fall activity or attraction in the area?
I love visiting Edwards Apple Orchard and the Pumpkin Patch.
What’s your favorite winter activity or attraction in the area?
Walking the lights at Nicholas Conservatory, Stroll on State, and enjoying the Festival of Lights at Sinnissippi are some of my favorite activities!
What’s your favorite summer activity or attraction in the area?
I recommend any of the public pools, especially Sand Park, which is a hit with my girls!
What’s a fun or random fact about you?
When I was in high school at Boylan, Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel from The Little Mermaid, performed “A Part of Your World” for my classmates and me! She’s a Rockford alum! Go Titans!
What do you think makes Rockford such a great place to live?
The community here is incredible. As a public school teacher, I often seek support for events or questions, and I’m always met with willingness to help!
What is your occupation?
I teach Middle School ELA for RPS 205.
What is your ethnicity?
Caucasian.
What stage of life are you in?
Young professional with young children.
How do you prefer to meet or connect?
In-person connections are my favorite!
What’s your best advice for someone experiencing their first winter in Rockford?
There’s plenty to do indoors, especially with little ones! The Burpee Museum, The Discovery Center, and the Main Branch Library are great for keeping kids busy. Plus, a drive down Spring Creek after a snowfall offers stunning scenery—Rockford is beautiful!
What is your favorite local event or festival?
I love City Market, the Urban Farm Girl Market, and Stroll on State.
What’s the best place to go for a night out in Rockford?
Garden Explorers at Anderson Japanese Gardens is a fantastic, educational experience for kids in the warmer months, plus it includes free admission to the gardens afterward!
What’s your favorite thing about the Rockford community?
Our community is incredibly supportive. If you need anything, there’s always someone ready to lend a hand.
If you had a free day in Rockford, what would you do?
I enjoy walking along the river, reading at the library, and sipping coffee from Rockford Roasting Company
Where’s the best place to enjoy nature in or around Rockford?
Urban Farm Girl is a favorite of mine.
What’s the best way to get involved in the community?
Attend local events! They’re a great way to meet people and make friends.
What’s one thing you wish you knew when you first moved to Rockford?
Rockford is a beautiful place to raise a family, with strong healthcare, education, and opportunities for everyone!
