Lake County Gazette

Illinois State Rep. Tom Weber (R-Lake Villa) is taking the spirit of giving season to new and exalted levels.

The veteran lawmaker has now partnered with Vitalent to sponsor a “Season of Giving Virtual Blood Drive” this month aimed at addressing the state’s growing blood shortage as a consequence of the lingering COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the campaign, interested donors can schedule an appointment to become a donor anytime during December at Vitalant’s donation centers in Crystal Lake or Gurnee.

“Coronavirus has caused the cancelation of traditional walk-in blood drives and we are facing a shortage of blood,” Weber said.

Donations of blood can be made by pledging to donate, then registering online | File Photo

“Through our virtual blood drive with Vitalant, you choose the time that works best for you to donate and it will be setup on an appointment only basis to ensure a safe environment for all donors. Please consider giving the gift of life through blood donation this holiday season," Weber said. 

To sign up to be a donor, information can be found by visiting vitalant.org.

Donations are done by first making a pledge to on the Vitalant page. After doing so, prospective donors will receive a registration link to schedule an appointment at their preferred location, day and time. Face coverings are required for all donors and free antibody testing will also be made available for donors.

Serving in the 64th House District, Weber won a second term last by month by registering 64% of the vote last month against Democrat candidate Leslie Armstrong-McLeod. In recent times, he has been one of the loudest voices in Springfield calling on Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan (D-Chicago) to step down as a growing federal corruption where he has been implicated continues to play out.

“It has been obvious for months now that Mike Madigan is at the heart of the corruption scandal involving ComEd. The latest indictments of four allies linked directly to him make it clear beyond any doubt about his involvement," Weber said. 

Weber currently serves on the House’s Appropriations-Human Service, Counties & Townships, Consumer Protection, Judiciary-Civil,  Labor-Civil Committees, Labor& Commerce and Transportation: Regulation, Roads & Bridges Committees.