Blood supply shortage reported
American Red Cross Illinois says blood donations are desperately needed as the country faces its most severe blood supply shortage in 20 years.
Officials report the number of blood donors has fallen by 40% over the past couple of decades. They add that blood donations in recent weeks have been given to hospitals faster than they are coming in.
Between Christmas and New Year’s Day, Red Cross officials said there was a nearly 7,000-unit shortfall when it came to blood donations.
Relators leader steps down
The head of the National Association of Realtors has stepped down from her leadership role at the Chicago-based organization after she said she was threatened with blackmail.
Tracy Kasper informed the company that she recently received a threat to disclose a past personal, financial matter unless she compromised her position at NAR. It is the latest bombshell for the embattled organization.
Kasper’s predecessor resigned his post in August after accusations of forced physical contact with females.
I-PASS changing to stickers
Motorists who use Illinois toll roads and pay in advance will see some changes. I-PASS stickers will soon go on the windshields of drivers and will replace the plastic responders.
Officials said the stickers are smaller and less expensive than the boxes that have been used for years. Drivers will be able to use their I-PASS transponders until they expire.
