Rockford University announced a new scholarship this week aimed at Black students interested in pursuing business.

Between Rockford University and the Puri Foundation, twelve Black students per year will be able to pursue a business degree and graduate in five years with zero debt. That’s thanks to a new scholarship, named after Rockford’s first Black mayor, Charles Box.

An Illinois coalition that advocates changing the state from a flat to a progressive income tax is highlighting public support for an amendment on the November ballot that would do just that.

July 15th is the deadline for filing this year’s income taxes. The Vote Yes for Fair Tax group is using this week to remind people of the upcoming Fair Tax amendment.  This includes voters from Rockford, DeKalb, Peoria, Springfield, Chicago and Metro East.

Having recently read To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf, I invite you to escape for the next minute or so and come along on this wee wander down a summer stream of consciousness.

Lots of art is exhibited in downtown Rockford. But most times, there is a cost associated with this. Donor support is allowing the continuation of a certain public display.

The Rockford Sculpture Walk is normally presented for two years.  

Kristen Paul is the director of destination development for the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

She said the 13 sculptures were due to come down in June but the pandemic spoiled that plan.

An Illinois bird tested positive for West Nile virus, but no humans have been diagnosed with the virus this  year.

Ryan Kerch is the environmental health supervisor with the Winnebago County Health Department. He says they don't want to scare anybody, but it's important to understand that the virus is always out there.

"West Nile is present," he said. "It is active and it has been throughout the state for a number of years. It is a statewide concern."

Holding the door open for someone approaching the door. Saying please, thank you, and excuse me. Pulling all the way up at school drop off. Wearing a mask. These are all examples of common courtesy.

I have lived in big cities, suburbs and here in DeKalb County for over a decade. And sadly, common courtesy is not something I see as often as I would hope.

Creativity is not taking a back seat to COVID-19. Some performances are happening with the use of the technology. An Illinois history group is joining in on the fun.

The Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition will virtually host: “Lincoln, The Great Communicator.”

Sarah Watson is the executive director of Looking for Lincoln and the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area. She said seven shows will take place live. Partner communities will host them on their Facebook pages.