Meet Gabrielle
When did you move to the Rockford area?
Born and raised here
What are your hobbies or interests?
Art, music, and food: and activities focused on all three.
Favorite restaurant in Rockford?
Marc’s Fusion
Best place to grab pizza in Rockford?
Nunzios
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to Rockford?
Research, get informed, and go find your community.
Favorite fall activity or attraction in the area?
Brunch at Fresco in the Garden and a walk through Anderson Gardens is Fall perfection.
Favorite winter activity or attraction in the area?
The Rockford Art Museum is always great to visit when it’s cold out.
Favorite summer activity or attraction in the area?
The Top at Embassy Suites to enjoy cocktails overlooking the city.
What’s a fun or random fact about you?
I can’t swim or roller skate.
What do you think makes Rockford such a great place to live?
It’s a city with deep-rooted community spirit and incredible potential. I often hear from residents about how much they value the parks, and I’ve seen firsthand how public art can bring people together and uplift neighborhoods. Plus, Rockford has a vibrant cultural life, with food, music, and art scenes—all things that align with my own love for nature, music, and community.
Occupation
Principal Consultant at Riche Black Public Relations and Alderman for the City of Rockford
Ethnicity
Black and Filipino
What stage of life are you in?
Professional/no children
How do you prefer to meet or connect?
Hybrid (a mix of both)
What’s your best advice for someone experiencing their first winter in Rockford?
Cute coats don’t cut it. Invest in quality winter wear.
Favorite local event or festival
FVV weekend and the Rockford Boxing Classic!
Best place to go for a night out in Rockford?
Hard Rock Casino offers a little bit of everything!
One hidden gem in the Rockford area that you’d recommend?
Social is boutique, quaint, and super high quality.
What’s your favorite thing about the Rockford community?
Being an elected leader allows me the opportunity to engage with many of our residents. Our greatest asset is our people.
If you had a free day in Rockford, what would you do?
Take a walk through Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Enjoy breakfast at Eggclusive
Shop downtown for unique items at J.R. Kortman Gallery and SRM Prints
Visit Midway Village Museum
Dinner and cocktails at 27 Aluna
Where’s the best place to enjoy nature in or around Rockford?
I absolutely love the Sinnissippi Rose Garden!
What’s your favorite local small business or shop?
Guanajuato Tacqueria for the best tacos in town!
Best way to get involved in the community?
Volunteer. It’s a great way to learn about an organization and establish new relationships.
What’s one thing you wish you knew when you first moved to Rockford?
Born and raised here