- Free tech training program available for local veterans in the Chicago area
- New boat named after fallen deputy for Lake County Sheriff’s Office patrols Lake Michigan
- Donation from New Trier High School class of 1981 supports GoBabyGo program for children with disabilities
- Cook County offers 11-week free training program for veterans in collaboration with Microsoft
- The Record is a nonprofit community newsroom relying on reader support for independent journalism
Revitalizing the GoBabyGo Program with Generous Funding
The GoBabyGo program, aimed at providing electric cars for children with disabilities, has received a significant boost in funding thanks to a generous donation from the New Trier High School class of 1981. This donation will allow the program to continue its noble mission of making electric toy vehicles accessible to children facing mobility challenges such as spina bifida. The program achieves this by modifying and adapting these vehicles to suit the specific needs of the young recipients.
The workshops, which are conducted on-site, are a collaborative effort involving New Trier engineering students, the Illinois Spina Bifida Association, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, and True North. The recent infusion of funds from the Class of ’81 ensures the sustainability of the program, enabling it to provide essential services for the foreseeable future. This initiative not only demonstrates the power of community support but also highlights the commitment to inclusivity and empowerment for children with disabilities.
Enhancing Water Patrols on Lake Michigan with the Gary D. Murphy
Lake County Sheriff’s Office is making a significant comeback in its water patrol activities on Lake Michigan with the deployment of a new boat, the Gary D. Murphy. Covering over 900 square miles of Lake Michigan, the Sheriff’s Office had halted its water patrols in 2018 due to mechanical and safety issues with its previous watercraft. However, the arrival of the Fluid Watercraft inflatable patrol boat, equipped with two 225 horsepower engines and capable of carrying 14 passengers, marks a new chapter in ensuring maritime safety and security in the region.
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Named in honor of fallen sheriff’s deputy Gary D. Murphy, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty in 1976, the boat symbolizes the dedication of law enforcement to protect and serve the community. Stored securely at North Point Marina in Winthrop Harbor when not in use, the Gary D. Murphy will play a crucial role in emergency response situations and search and rescue missions. The collaborative efforts between the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Coast Guard, and Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police underscore the importance of interagency cooperation in safeguarding the waters of Lake Michigan.
Empowering Veterans with Free Tech Training Opportunities
In a bid to support veterans transitioning into civilian life, Cook County is offering a valuable opportunity for local veterans to gain essential skills in the technology industry. The Chicago Cook Technology Academy, a collaborative effort between the Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs, Microsoft, and National Able Network, aims to equip veterans with the knowledge and expertise required to thrive in the modern tech landscape. This 11-week program comes at no cost to the participants, providing a pathway for veterans to pursue lucrative careers in technology.
Previous iterations of the program have yielded promising results, with a significant number of graduates securing employment in the tech industry at competitive starting salaries. Open to veterans residing in the Chicago area, including suburban Cook County, the Tech Academy serves as a stepping stone for individuals keen on leveraging their military experience into successful tech careers. With the application process currently open until July 14, transitioning veterans are encouraged to seize this opportunity to upskill and enhance their employability in the thriving tech sector.
Supporting Community Journalism with The Record
The Record Community News Group stands as a beacon of nonprofit, independent journalism that relies on public support to sustain its crucial role in providing responsible local news coverage. By subscribing to The Record, readers contribute to the continuation of unbiased community journalism that sheds light on government activities, school events, business updates, and neighborhood stories. Donations from subscribers further bolster the capacity of The Record to deliver timely and relevant news that impacts the community.
The commitment to journalistic integrity and public service drives The Record to deliver insightful reporting based on a foundation of transparency and accountability. By staying informed through The Record’s comprehensive coverage, readers empower themselves to engage meaningfully with the issues affecting their community. Supporting community news and dedicated journalists ensures that the voices and stories of local residents are heard and valued, fostering a stronger sense of community cohesion and civic participation.
Initiatives like the GoBabyGo program, enhanced water patrols on Lake Michigan, free tech training for veterans, and community journalism with The Record exemplify the power of collaboration, support, and innovation in enriching and safeguarding our communities. Through collective efforts and a shared commitment to progress, we can create a more inclusive, informed, and resilient society for all.
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