Dear Rockford, I see you.

I see your people, your iconic attractions and your adventurous nature. From the start, I have seen your people. Rockfordians are some of the most brilliant, talented and hardworking individuals in the world.

From your midst arose people with unparalleled intellect such as Daniel Hale Williams, the first surgeon to perform a successful open-heart surgery and founder of the first non-segregated hospital in the United States. Your home gave birth to astronaut and engineer Janice Voss, Middle East scholar Richard Bulliet, co-founder of the SAS institute John Sall, and inventor John Henry Manny, among many others.

From your seeds sprouted musical talent that has endured through the decades, including the original members of the band Cheap Trick, pianist and composer Emily Bear, American award-nominated film composer, songwriter and record producer Chuckey Charles, and American R&B gospel singer and actress Ann Nesby, among numerous others.

From your skills emerged athletes whose talent knows no bounds, including Albert Spalding, a renowned baseball pitcher, sports manager and co-founder of the iconic sports company Spalding. From your abilities came Olympic medalist ice skater Janet Lynn Nowicki, mixed martial artist Corey Anderson and Jimmie Johnson’s NASCAR crew chief Chad Knause. Rockford, I see your beautiful people.

I see your iconic attractions. Although I can see your infamous Sock Monkey all over the world, nowhere is it more proudly displayed than in its hometown. From its origins in the 1870s to its presence in buildings and museums today, the red-heeled sock monkey will always be remembered as one of Rockford’s early industrial successes, earning it the title of “Home of the Sock Monkey.” I see Rockford’s innovativeness and joy in that simple toy.

In Rockford, I also witness the proud design of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Laurent House, the only known handicap-accessible home built by Mr. Wright. Evident in its construction was Mr. Wright’s care and intention to allow the owner, Mr. Laurent, to enjoy a home that facilitated unhindered movement in a wheelchair while seamlessly experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors. I see the love and thoughtfulness of Rockford in that home.

I see how Rockford cherishes the natural beauty that its land provides. A stroll through Anderson Japanese Gardens reveals the dedication and consistent care of the land, resulting in exotic blooms and cascading waterfalls. Whether enjoying a meal in its restaurant or attending an evening music concert in the heart of the gardens, Rockford’s beauty shines brightly at this iconic attraction.

Nearby, there is another place where I can go to witness the beauty that Rockford offers. Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens features an indoor greenhouse where visitors can enjoy a butterfly exhibit and stunning tropical blooms year-round, or stroll along the river and appreciate native plants and flowers. The family-friendly events, including Food Truck Tuesdays, are a highlight of the warm weather seasons in Rockford! 

I also see your tranquil walking paths and adventurous wooded trails spanning 155 acres of woodlands and botanical gardens at Klehm Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Whether I seek a leisurely stroll or a family event filled with games and food, I see your arboretum, Rockford. I see it, and I love it!

It’s hard to drive through the heart of your town and not notice your orange Symbol. I see the iconic Rockford “Symbol,” which was designed and built by Alexander Liberman in 1978. Serving as a symbol to bridge the economic and cultural divisions between different parts of the city, although originally situated downtown, it was relocated to Sinnissippi Park in 1984. Whether I am on the river or driving between the North and South sides, I see your Symbol, and I know I am home.

Rockford, I see your history and educational opportunities. From Jane the Dinosaur’s home at the Burpee Museum of Natural History to exploring the industrial history of your town at Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, I see your endless opportunities for learning and growth.

Rockford, I see your adventures at every turn! Rock Cut State Park boasts some of the area’s best hiking trails across its 3,254 acres. Pierce Lake’s 162 acres and Olson Lake’s 50 acres offer an abundance of water-related adventures. I see fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, boating and swimming. Even in winter, I see your polar plunges and ice fishing. Fun in all seasons! Hiking and horseback riding trails are plentiful, offering the opportunity to see wildflowers and wildlife. I see your 270 camping sites, cabins, and picnic shelters. I see your people tossing frisbees, lighting campfires, and walking hand in hand on a warm, sunny day. Such a beautiful sight!

If speed is desired, I see your river, Rockford! Whether I simply want to watch the amazing and talented members of the Rockford Ski Broncs Club at Shorewood Park or try my hand at water skiing, your river never disappoints. I see friends tubing down your smooth waters or relaxing along your shoreline. And if I don’t have a boat available to tow me along the water, I can head over to West Rock Wake Park. There, I can see Rockfordians and people from all over the state trying their hand at water skiing and wakeboarding along a cable system: learning the basics or perfecting their jumps and flips. No boat needed! I see the endless adventure you offer, Rockford!

I see you, Rockford. I see all of you, and I love you. I see your people, attractions, adventures and so much more. I have seen you all my life, and you are like fine wine: you get better and better every day. I am truly honored and blessed to be a part of your town and your people. I am proud to call Rockford home!