I joined Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Jay Ukena, Lake County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor, along with judges, county board members, elected officials, justice partners and others July 17 for the ribbon-cutting of the new Court Tower in downtown Waukegan. The ceremony also included the dedication of the Audrey H. Nixon Pedestrian Bridge.

The new eight-story, 200,000 sq. foot court tower houses 12 new courtrooms, jury assembly space, various administrative services and room for six future courtrooms. The tower construction began in June 2016 and opened to the public July 30, 2018. Watch this video to learn more.

Join the celebration beginning Aug. 9 through Aug. 12 as Gurnee Days Celebrates the Decades. Among the activities will be Gurnee Idol, a rib eating contest, the Gurnee Days Parade and more. Learn more

The Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center has opened its new Zion Health Center, which will greatly expand access to quality health services for residents of northeast Lake County. Located at 1911 27th St., the site was fully renovated to provide integrated health services, including primary care, dental care, behavioral health, women’s health, nutrition services, case management, and more to provide patient-centered care under one roof. Watch this video to learn more about the new center. 

The Lake County Health Department has confirmed nine pools or batches of mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus, tracking ahead of the seasonal average in Lake County. Summer and fall are prime times for West Nile virus. Take action by following these prevention tips.

If you or someone you know is feeling alone, do not be afraid to ask for help. Immediate mental health assistance is a phone call or a text away. Learn more about services in Lake County including Text-A-Tip and the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center’s Crisis Care Program. 

Another television show will be riding with members of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office beginning this month. The show, “Women on Patrol” will ride along with our Highway Patrol Division and provide an inside look at the responsibilities of the Sheriff’s Office and the variety of calls Sheriff’s Deputies respond to. This is not the first time the Sheriff’s Office has been featured on a television show! Watch this video to learn more about the Sheriff’s Office on “Live PD.” 

Returning citizens and individuals with a criminal background can learn the skills needed in today’s workplace through a new program through Lake County Workforce Development called Revive Lake County. Individuals who successfully complete the program may be eligible to receive financial aid for job training or a paid work experience. Interested individuals are required to attend an information session at the Job Center’s Waukegan location. View the schedule. 

Do you know an Illinois veteran whose contributions are above and beyond the call of duty? In partnership with the Illinois Bicentennial Office, the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs is accepting nominations to honor the work of 200 veterans from across the state. Nominations will be evaluated on their achievements and on the extent to which their contributions have aided, benefited and provided inspiration to their community. Learn more, including the qualifications and how to nominate someone. The deadline to apply is Aug. 31.

Forest Preserve News

Kids Nature Funfest

Enjoy an afternoon of nature activities that grow a child’s love of the outdoors at Kids Nature Funfest on Aug. 19 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago. See live animals, build a fort, net some insects, make creative arts and crafts, and take part in nature activities with several of our community partners. Open to families with children ages 12 and under, the event is free. No registration is required. Dress for the weather; event runs rain or shine.

Aquatic Plant ID from a Canoe
Learn about some of the fascinating plants growing in aquatic ecosystems while paddling a canoe. Some previous paddling experience preferred. Only 12 spots are available! Learn more and register today.

Fred Fest

Fred Fest returns to the Fox River Preserve in Port Barrington! The event features a diverse lineup of local bands, food and drinks for purchase, and family-friendly activities. Fred Fest benefits the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves. Learn more