Knox Box program gets boost in New Lenox
The New Lenox Fire Protection District recently received a donation for its residential Knox Box loan/purchase program.
The Family Services Foundation of New Lenox Township donated $5,000 toward purchase of 30 new lock boxes, heavy, reinforced steel, high security key safes designed for single family homes that only the fire district can access without forcing entry into the residence.
“When an individual is injured or critically ill and unable to open the door, we may not be able to gain entry right away which can delay our response. If we must force entry, it can make an already worrying situation even more stressful,” said NLFPD Chief Adam Riegel. “The Residential Knox Box program allows us to gain access to the home quickly in an emergency situation, as well as re-lock the door when we leave, which can give a little peace of mind to the resident and their families.”
The residential Knox Box loaner program helps to reduce delays in providing assistance for residents that meet qualifying conditions which would make them unable to open a locked door in an emergency, including those who often are home alone and those with medical conditions requiring extensive care. Residents who do not meet the requirements to borrow a Knox Box can purchase one through the Fire District For $230 to $385 each.
The Residential Knox Box Loaner/Purchase program began in 2012, and 110 homes have used the program since its inception. More information is at info@nlfire.com or 815-463-4500.
Oak Forest names new deputy fire chief
Oak Forest has named Oak Lawn Fire Department battalion chief Paul Chocola as its deputy fire chief.
During his 31-year career with the Oak Lawn Fire Department, Chocola rose to the ranks of lieutenant and captain before becoming battalion chief.While serving as battalion chief, Chocola coordinated emergency response efforts, spearheaded training programs, developed and implemented strategic plans to optimize departmental operations, and collaborated with local agencies to foster community partnership and enhance emergency preparedness.He also managed staffing levels, maintained team resources, and developed departmental policies.
Throughout his career, Chocola has earned several certifications, including specialized technical rescue instructor, advanced fire officer, rescue task force instructor, and hazardous material incident command and technician.He also has been recognized as Firefighter of the Year by a local Veterans of Foreign Wars and Lions Club.
Chocola earned a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical studies and meteorology from the University of North Dakota.
Area galleries seek entries for exhibits
Two Southland art galleries are seeking art for new exhibits.
In Lockport, artists of all kinds are invited to submit their work for inclusion in Gallery Seven’s Annual Illiart Exhibit, which will take place in October. Illiart will feature various media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.
Gallery Seven is a fine art gallery in the historic Gaylord Building, 200 W. 8th St. in downtown Lockport. The deadline for admissions is Aug. 15, and a prospectus for entries is available at www.galleryseven.net. The Art of Illinois exhibit will be displayed from Oct. 3 to 27.
Entries to Illiart are juried by independent jurors, with awards for those judged best. Winners will be announced during an Artist Reception on Oct. 6. Gallery Seven has no admission charge, and all works on display are offered for sale.
In Chicago Heights, Union Street Gallery, 1527 Otto Blvd., seeks submissions for its exhibit Designed to Dwell. Submissions are due by July 18.
Designed to Dwell is dedicated to exploring the art of living through creative and innovative design. This exhibition seeks to highlight how artistry and functionality merge to transform everyday living spaces into realms of aesthetic delight and introduce themes of both practical and impractical comfort or discomfort. Artists, designers, and makers submit original handmade works that challenge and expand the boundaries of traditional home furnishings and decor. Information is at https://www.unionstreetgallery.org/.
Pace Bus hiring at South Suburban College
South Suburban College and Pace Bus plan a pre-hiring event to provide a free Class B Commercial Driver’s License permit course for the next generation of professional bus operators in the Chicago Southland region. The college and transportation agency will offer a customized two-week course to assist qualified applicants in obtaining their CDL permit. To remove financial barriers for students to pursue and complete the program actively, Pace will cover the costs of tuition, training, books, fees, and other expenses associated with the program. In addition, SSC, in partnership with the Workforce Equity Initiative Grant, will provide a completion incentive for participants who complete the two-week course.
The pre-hiring event is from 5 to 8 p.m. July 22 in the MB Financial Bank Room on SSC’s Main Campus, 15800 S. State Street, South Holland. More information and registration is at SSC’s Continuing Education Program at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5723.
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