dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-19--First demographic report on Illinois Muslims is underway

The first comprehensive demographic report on Illinois Muslims is underway and initial findings are expected to be completed by fall 2021 .
The Illinois Muslim Civic Coalition is partnering with the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding and the University of Illinois Chicago to produce the report , which will provide a detailed portrait of Muslims statewide .
`` It 's to develop a much needed evidence-based needs , opportunities and demographics assessment of a diverse community that is often invisible , misunderstood and inaccurately portrayed , '' said Dilara Sayeed , president and co-founder of the Illinois Muslim Civic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 203 teacher .
`` Illinois is home to one of the largest populations of Muslims in America .
They are Black , because Nation of Islam started here .
`` We have a robust Indian , Rohingyan , Pakistani and Afghani community .
And we have a robust African immigrant community . ''
Nationwide , roughly one-third of Muslims are Black , one-fifth are white , roughly 20 % are Arab , slightly more than 20 % are Asian , and Latinos make up the fastest-growing segment of the population , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dozens of Muslim-led organizations , as well as secular and interfaith groups and community leaders to give Muslims `` voice in the civic space , '' Sayeed said .
College of Lake County student Francisco `` Danny '' Rea is among five winners of Estrella TV 's `` Tengo Talento , Mucho Talento '' singing contest .
It was Rea 's fourth audition for the show .
He did n't make the cut on the first three attempts .
The 21-year-old Waukegan-based musician was flown to Los Angeles in November for the competition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Rea shares in a $ 100,000 grand prize , a Sony Music Latin recording deal and is a founding member of the band Nuevo Elemento , formed by the five winners .
The group has released its first official single , `` No Andes Con Nadie . ''
`` I actually started singing ever since I could talk , especially the music of Los Tigres Del Norte , '' Rea said .
`` I grew up listening to all the music my grandpa and dad listened to .
`` When I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone was listening to rap and pop and I was doing my own thing with regional Mexican music . ''
Rea began performing at age 11 in Waukegan restaurants , karaoke competitions , festivals and charity events .
His first break came a year or two later on another televised singing competition  -- a version of `` The Voice '' for kids on Telemundo .
He started working private events and festivals , and has a YouTube channel .
Rea is working on an associate degree in business administration at CLC .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ adopted new culturally responsive teaching and leading standards to prepare future educators to teach increasingly diverse students .
The state board 's Diverse and Learner Ready Teacher Network developed the standards for educator preparation programs at colleges and universities .
They aim to foster classroom and school environments in which every student feels a sense of belonging .
More than 52 % of Illinois students identify as students of color , and English Learners make up the fastest growing student population .
Yet , Illinois ' teacher workforce remains more than 82 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsibility of ... ( pre-K through 12 ) education institutions to affirm , validate , leverage , support , and listen to students ' backgrounds and lived experiences , '' said Ivette Dubiel , adjunct professor at Aurora University and Lewis University and a teacher network member .
`` They also rightfully challenge us to be anti-bias , anti-racist , mindful , and inclusive of our most marginalized populations . ''
Educators are urged to learn from and about their students ' cultures , languages , and learning styles to make instruction more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; value students ' feedback and leadership ; support and create opportunities for student advocacy ; develop relationships with families and the community ; and curate curriculum to include and represent a wide spectrum of identities .
Islamic Foundation North in Libertyville will have curbside food distribution from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday , and on Jan. 17 and Feb. 21 , at the mosque on 1751 S. O'Plaine Road .
`` During this pandemic ... we are seeing long food lines across the country .
IFN is committed to help those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ president Jaseem Anwer said .
The Aurora Police Department is partnering with Girls Run The World Aurora to collect feminine hygiene products and sanitary supplies that will be distributed to women in need in the Aurora and Yorkville area .
Donations are being collected through Jan. 5 .
They can be dropped off at the Aurora Police Department , 1200 E. Indian Trail Road , and the Yorkville Public Library , 902 Game Farm Road , Yorkville .
Girls Run the World is a girls empowerment program directed by the Aurora Police Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and West Aurora high schools .
The DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team and Reality Illinois students distributed dozens of free stress relief kits Friday to middle school and high school-age teens at Glenbard South High School in Glen Ellyn .
The kits included hand sanitizer , a face mask , COVID-19 information , various stress relief items and information on the County Crisis Text Line -- a free service available to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis .
Teens can text `` REACH '' to 741741 to connect with a trained professional who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Since 2017 , there have been 567 texters and more than 1,000 conversations between teens/young adults and counselors .
Reality Illinois is the Teen Advisory Board to the DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team and the DuPage County Health Department .
It is open to all high school students and focuses on wellness and positive youth development .
• Share stories , news and happenings from the suburban mosaic at mkrishnamurthy @ dailyherald.com .

First demographic report on Illinois Muslims is underway
The first comprehensive demographic report on Illinois Muslims is underway and initial findings are expected to be completed by fall 2021.
The Illinois Muslim Civic Coalition is partnering with the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding and the University of Illinois Chicago to produce the report, which will provide a detailed portrait of Muslims statewide.
"It's to develop a much needed evidence-based needs, opportunities and demographics assessment of a diverse community that is often invisible, misunderstood and inaccurately portrayed," said Dilara Sayeed, president and co-founder of the Illinois Muslim Civic Coalition and a former Naperville Unit District 203 teacher. "Illinois is home to one of the largest populations of Muslims in America. They are Black, because Nation of Islam has roots here.
"We have a robust Indian, Rohingyan, Pakistani and Afghani community. And we have a robust African immigrant community."
Nationwide, roughly one-third of Muslims are Black, one-fifth are white, roughly 20% are Arab, slightly more than 20% are Asian, and Latinos make up the fastest-growing segment of the population, according to the coalition.
The group partners with dozens of Muslim-led organizations, as well as secular and interfaith groups and community leaders to give Muslims "voice in the civic space," Sayeed said.
Student singer spotlight
College of Lake County student Francisco "Danny" Rea is among five winners of Estrella TV's "Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento" contest. - Courtesy of Estrella Media/Kevin Selinger
College of Lake County student Francisco "Danny" Rea is among five winners of Estrella TV's "Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento" singing contest.
It was Rea's fourth audition for the show. He didn't make the cut on the first three attempts. The 21-year-old Waukegan-based musician was flown to Los Angeles in November for the competition. Check out his performance on YouTube.
Rea shares in a $100,000 grand prize, a Sony Music Latin recording deal and is a founding member of the band Nuevo Elemento, formed by the five winners. The group has released its first official single, "No Andes Con Nadie."
"I actually started singing ever since I could talk, especially the music of Los Tigres Del Norte," Rea said. "I grew up listening to all the music my grandpa and dad listened to.
"When I was in middle school and high school, everyone was listening to rap and pop and I was doing my own thing with regional Mexican music."
Rea began performing at age 11 in Waukegan restaurants, karaoke competitions, festivals and charity events. His first break came a year or two later on another televised singing competition -- a version of "The Voice" for kids on Telemundo. He started working private events and festivals, and has a YouTube channel.
Rea is working on an associate degree in business administration at CLC.
Culturally responsive teaching
The Illinois State Board of Education has adopted new culturally responsive teaching and leading standards to prepare future educators to teach increasingly diverse students.
The state board's Diverse and Learner Ready Teacher Network developed the standards for educator preparation programs at colleges and universities.
They aim to foster classroom and school environments in which every student feels a sense of belonging.
More than 52% of Illinois students identify as students of color, and English Learners make up the fastest growing student population. Yet, Illinois' teacher workforce remains more than 82% white.
"These standards emphasize the responsibility of ... (pre-K through 12) education institutions to affirm, validate, leverage, support, and listen to students' backgrounds and lived experiences," said Ivette Dubiel, adjunct professor at Aurora University and Lewis University and a teacher network member.
"They also rightfully challenge us to be anti-bias, anti-racist, mindful, and inclusive of our most marginalized populations."
Educators are urged to learn from and about their students' cultures, languages, and learning styles to make instruction more meaningful and relevant to students' lives; value students' feedback and leadership; support and create opportunities for student advocacy; develop relationships with families and the community; and curate curriculum to include and represent a wide spectrum of identities.
Food distribution
Islamic Foundation North in Libertyville will have curbside food distribution from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, and on Jan. 17 and Feb. 21, at the mosque on 1751 S. O'Plaine Road.
"During this pandemic ... we are seeing long food lines across the country. IFN is committed to help those who are in need," mosque president Jaseem Anwer said.
For more information, visit ifnonline.com.
Helping women
The Aurora Police Department is partnering with Girls Run The World Aurora to collect feminine hygiene products and sanitary supplies that will be distributed to women in need in the Aurora and Yorkville area.
Donations are being collected through Jan. 5. They can be dropped off at the Aurora Police Department, 1200 E. Indian Trail Road, and the Yorkville Public Library, 902 Game Farm Road, Yorkville.
Girls Run the World is a girls empowerment program directed by the Aurora Police Department and serves Metea Valley, East Aurora and West Aurora high schools.
Teen stress relief
The DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team and Reality Illinois students distributed dozens of free stress relief kits Friday to middle school and high school-age teens at Glenbard South High School in Glen Ellyn.
The kits included hand sanitizer, a face mask, COVID-19 information, various stress relief items and information on the County Crisis Text Line -- a free service available to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis.
Teens can text "REACH" to 741741 to connect with a trained professional who will help connect them to ongoing resources. Since 2017, there have been 567 texters and more than 1,000 conversations between teens/young adults and counselors.
Reality Illinois is the Teen Advisory Board to the DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team and the DuPage County Health Department. It is open to all high school students and focuses on wellness and positive youth development.
• Share stories, news and happenings from the suburban mosaic at mkrishnamurthy@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-19--COVID-19 in Illinois: A timeline of the pandemic

A Chicago woman becomes the second COVID-19 patient in U.S. and first in Illinois after she returns from a visit @ @ @ @ @ She is treated at Amita St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates and recovers .
@ @ @ @ @ schools closed by March 17 , one day after he orders shutdown of public events @ @ @ @ @ .
Pritzker bans indoor service in restaurants and bars through March 30 .
Pritzker orders @ @ @ @ @ stay at home and limits gatherings to 10 people .
Auxiliary hospital opens in Chicago @ @ @ @ @ hospitals in Elgin , Melrose Park and Blue Island are readied but not used .
@ @ @ @ @ , Illinois exceeds goal of 10,000 tests a day .
Daily cases hit a record @ @ @ @ @ stabilize until October .
COVID-19 has killed 12,830 in Illinois , 1 in 1,000 residents @ @ @ @ @ hospital workers in Chicago , Peoria .

COVID-19 in Illinois: A timeline of the pandemic
A patient room at the COVID-19 alternate care facility in Hall C at McCormick Place in Chicago in April. Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Friday issued a stay-at-home order in March, and that cleared the highways, like southbound I-94 here. Associated press
Jan. 24
A Chicago woman becomes the second COVID-19 patient in U.S. and first in Illinois after she returns from a visit to Wuhan, China. She is treated at Amita St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates and recovers.
March 13: 46 cases
Gov. J.B. Pritzker orders schools closed by March 17, one day after he orders shutdown of public events with more than 1,000 people.
March 15: 93 cases
Pritzker bans indoor service in restaurants and bars through March 30.
March 20: 585 cases
Pritzker orders everyone but essential workers to stay at home and limits gatherings to 10 people.
April 3: 8,904 cases
Auxiliary hospital opens in Chicago's McCormick Place; former hospitals in Elgin, Melrose Park and Blue Island are readied but not used.
April 24: 39,658 cases
After struggling with supply shortages, Illinois exceeds goal of 10,000 tests a day.
May 12: 83,021 cases
Daily cases hit a record 4,014 then trends downward and stabilize until October.
Nov. 13: 551,957 cases
Daily cases hits record 15,415 in Illinois.
Dec. 3: 759,562 cases
COVID-19 has killed 12,830 in Illinois, 1 in 1,000 residents.
Dec. 15: 863,477 cases
First vaccinations given to hospital workers in Chicago, Peoria.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-19--$100 to cheer up mom during the holiday

$100 to cheer up mom during the holiday

Today 's recipient of a $ 100 bill through the Believe Project is Sally Lynn Crane of Lincolnshire .
She @ @ @ @ @ to her 84-year-old mother .
Here is an excerpt of her story : '' She @ @ @ @ @ of unexpected expenses and health related issues , and I would like to give her @ @ @ @ @ some much needed things for herself for Xmas .
`` This gift would bring cheer @ @ @ @ @ '' • The Believe Project is awarding $ 100 each day to a different person @ @ @ @ @ how to use the money to do a good deed for someone else .
If @ @ @ @ @ to help someone , submit your idea for consideration in 150 words or fewer at @ @

$100 to cheer up mom during the holiday
Today's recipient of a $100 bill through the Believe Project is Sally Lynn Crane of Lincolnshire.
She wants to give the money to her 84-year-old mother. Here is an excerpt of her story:
"She has had a year full of unexpected expenses and health related issues, and I would like to give her the $100 towards purchasing some much needed things for herself for Xmas.
"This gift would bring cheer to her right now."
• The Believe Project is awarding $100 each day to a different person with a great idea for how to use the money to do a good deed for someone else. If you'd like the chance to help someone, submit your idea for consideration in 150 words or fewer at events.dailyherald.com/believe/.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-19--Good News Sunday: How a Palatine teen helped stock suburban pantries

This is Good News Sunday , a compilation of some of the more upbeat and inspiring stories published by the Daily Herald during the previous week : When 16-year-old Eva Konsur read a news article this summer about a milelong line of cars at a food pantry in Texas , she decided to take action .
`` I thought it would be a great idea for all of us to help out our local food pantries , so I started reaching out to local businesses , '' said Eva , who lives in Palatine and is a junior at William @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached out to grocery stores , asking if she could set up a table and ask customers for donations , but was told that was not possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
The manager of Trader Joe 's in Schaumburg , however , came up with the idea of asking employees if they would donate to Eva 's initiative , which got the ball rolling .
Eva reached out to her high school swim team -- `` both the girls and the coaches were very generous , '' she said -- and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sending about 200 letters of inquiry in October , she said .
More than 30 responded , including medical practices , law offices , real estate agencies , beauty salons and schools in Palatine , Barrington , Arlington Heights , Schaumburg and neighboring towns , she said .
Most sites donated five to 10 boxes each , and two had especially large contributions : Lake Zurich Foot Clinic in Lake Zurich and Barrington Orthopedic Specialists , which has four locations .
Some businesses have asked for multiple rounds and extra boxes , Eva @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many people want to donate and how generous they have been , '' she said .
`` It 's a beautiful thing .
We appreciate it , '' said Regina Stapleton , director of finance and administrator for Wheeling Township .
`` It 's good to see kids doing things like that . ''
For the full story , click here .
Hope for the Holidays provides gifts for 2,500 '' Elgin 's Hope for the Holidays , '' a combined effort of the Salvation Army Elgin Corps and the Community Crisis Center @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 2,500 kids of families in need .
Pickup for families , who registered for the program in October and November , was held Wednesday and Thursday at the Salvation Army Community Center in Elgin .
Specific requests made during registration were fulfilled where possible .
All gifts were new and unwrapped to allow parents to be part of the process .
Salvation Army Elgin Corps Capt .
Rich Forney said the gifts were provided by organizations , such as Toys for Tots and Elgin Township , but largely came from community donations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year because they understand the need , '' Forney said .
`` We have so many more families coming here that have never needed help before . ''
Books from the Rotary Club , pajamas from Altrusa International Club of Elgin and holiday dinners also were provided .
This is the first year of the combined holiday effort between the Salvation Army and Community Crisis Center , which opted to work together to improve logistics during the pandemic .
Both groups said they could see the partnership continuing next year .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For 12 years , Grayslake resident Elizabeth `` Lyzzi '' Elliott has run HOPE Ornaments , a nonprofit that gives holiday ornaments to hospital patients .
So she 's used to working hard this time of year .
But the global pandemic has brought new challenges to her effort , making it more difficult to deliver ornaments at a time when there are more people in hospitals in need of cheering up .
Usually , the job of wrapping the thousands of unopened ornaments -- always in clear packaging so patients can choose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Elliot and a team of volunteers .
But such gatherings are unsafe this year , so Elliott , 36 , is wrapping all of the ornaments herself .
`` It keeps me busy , '' said Elliott , who oozes positivity .
`` I have about 4,212 wrapped and ready to go , and I still need to purchase 614 ornaments and wrap them . ''
Elliott , who started the nonprofit in 2007 , has committed to donating ornaments at several suburban hospitals , including Advocate Good Shepherd in Lake Barrington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Good Samaritan in Downers Grove .
For the full story , click here .
Surrounded by giant stacks of toys lining the stairs of the Maple School in Northbrook , physical education teacher Lynn Reimer and her student council co-sponsor Iris Zhang prepare to load the donations to benefit the Northfield Township Food Pantry .
For 27 years , Reimer has been spearheading the annual toy drive .
She credits her childhood as part of her inspiration .
`` I think it comes from when I was growing up , with five sisters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fortunate , '' she said .
Reimer says that she gets a supreme feeling of happiness in every year when she spearheads the drive .
`` I know that today is so very difficult for so many that we want to do everything possible , '' Reimer said .
But it 's not just her -- it 's also the kids at Maple School making blankets and the administrators , teachers and parents donating who make the difference .
`` Usually we have kids from student council loading the cars , but since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ca n't do that , '' said Beth Preis , of Northbrook/Glenview School District 30 .
For the full story , click here .
• Good News Sunday will run each weekend .
Please visit dailyherald.com/newsletters to sign up for our Good News Sunday newsletter .

Good News Sunday: How a Palatine teen helped stock suburban pantries
This is Good News Sunday, a compilation of some of the more upbeat and inspiring stories published by the Daily Herald during the previous week:
When 16-year-old Eva Konsur read a news article this summer about a milelong line of cars at a food pantry in Texas, she decided to take action.
"I thought it would be a great idea for all of us to help out our local food pantries, so I started reaching out to local businesses," said Eva, who lives in Palatine and is a junior at William Fremd High School,
At first Eva reached out to grocery stores, asking if she could set up a table and ask customers for donations, but was told that was not possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The manager of Trader Joe's in Schaumburg, however, came up with the idea of asking employees if they would donate to Eva's initiative, which got the ball rolling.
Eva reached out to her high school swim team -- "both the girls and the coaches were very generous," she said -- and then to local businesses and schools, sending about 200 letters of inquiry in October, she said. More than 30 responded, including medical practices, law offices, real estate agencies, beauty salons and schools in Palatine, Barrington, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg and neighboring towns, she said.
Most sites donated five to 10 boxes each, and two had especially large contributions: Lake Zurich Foot Clinic in Lake Zurich and Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, which has four locations. Some businesses have asked for multiple rounds and extra boxes, Eva said. "It is incredible how many people want to donate and how generous they have been," she said.
"It's a beautiful thing. We appreciate it," said Regina Stapleton, director of finance and administrator for Wheeling Township. "It's good to see kids doing things like that."
For the full story, click here.
Hope for the Holidays provides gifts for 2,500
"Elgin's Hope for the Holidays," a combined effort of the Salvation Army Elgin Corps and the Community Crisis Center, provided Christmas gifts and other necessities for 2,500 kids of families in need.
Pickup for families, who registered for the program in October and November, was held Wednesday and Thursday at the Salvation Army Community Center in Elgin. Specific requests made during registration were fulfilled where possible. All gifts were new and unwrapped to allow parents to be part of the process.
Salvation Army Elgin Corps Capt. Rich Forney said the gifts were provided by organizations, such as Toys for Tots and Elgin Township, but largely came from community donations.
"People have been giving more this year because they understand the need," Forney said. "We have so many more families coming here that have never needed help before."
Books from the Rotary Club, pajamas from Altrusa International Club of Elgin and holiday dinners also were provided.
This is the first year of the combined holiday effort between the Salvation Army and Community Crisis Center, which opted to work together to improve logistics during the pandemic. Both groups said they could see the partnership continuing next year.
For the full story, click here.
Grayslake woman brings cheer to hospital
For 12 years, Grayslake resident Elizabeth "Lyzzi" Elliott has run HOPE Ornaments, a nonprofit that gives holiday ornaments to hospital patients. So she's used to working hard this time of year.
But the global pandemic has brought new challenges to her effort, making it more difficult to deliver ornaments at a time when there are more people in hospitals in need of cheering up.
Usually, the job of wrapping the thousands of unopened ornaments -- always in clear packaging so patients can choose which one they want -- is done by Elliot and a team of volunteers.
But such gatherings are unsafe this year, so Elliott, 36, is wrapping all of the ornaments herself.
"It keeps me busy," said Elliott, who oozes positivity. "I have about 4,212 wrapped and ready to go, and I still need to purchase 614 ornaments and wrap them."
Elliott, who started the nonprofit in 2007, has committed to donating ornaments at several suburban hospitals, including Advocate Good Shepherd in Lake Barrington, Advocate Condell in Libertyville and Advocate Good Samaritan in Downers Grove.
For the full story, click here.
Maple School teacher spearheads toy drive
Surrounded by giant stacks of toys lining the stairs of the Maple School in Northbrook, physical education teacher Lynn Reimer and her student council co-sponsor Iris Zhang prepare to load the donations to benefit the Northfield Township Food Pantry.
For 27 years, Reimer has been spearheading the annual toy drive.
She credits her childhood as part of her inspiration. "I think it comes from when I was growing up, with five sisters and two brothers and we were less fortunate," she said.
Reimer says that she gets a supreme feeling of happiness in every year when she spearheads the drive.
"I know that today is so very difficult for so many that we want to do everything possible," Reimer said.
But it's not just her -- it's also the kids at Maple School making blankets and the administrators, teachers and parents donating who make the difference.
"Usually we have kids from student council loading the cars, but since school is all remote now, we can't do that," said Beth Preis, of Northbrook/Glenview School District 30.
For the full story, click here.
• Good News Sunday will run each weekend. Please visit dailyherald.com/newsletters to sign up for our Good News Sunday newsletter.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-19--Both teams' playoff hopes hang in the balance in Bears-Vikings rematch

It 's not a win or go home game at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis this week -- but it might as well be .
The Bears ( 6-7 ) and the Vikings ( 6-7 ) square off in an NFC North matchup with the season more or less on the line .
As discussed in our playoff scenarios breakdown , the Bears ' playoff odds drop significantly if they lose this week .
Here are five things to watch in the Week 15 game : Both teams need a win this week .
The Vikings beat the Bears once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 matchup on Nov. 16 .
The Bears reached new offensive lows that night .
With a struggling Nick Foles at quarterback , they totaled only 149 yards of offense .
Foles left that game on a cart following a scary hip injury .
Quarterback Mitch Trubisky has started every game since .
Meanwhile , the Vikings revived their playoff hopes following a dreadful 1-5 start .
They 're doing it with one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL , led by running back Dalvin Cook .
Speaking of Cook -- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coordinator Chuck Pagano to speak of Cook .
Pagano wants to hear pads crushing against pads whenever Cook touches the ball .
`` It oughta sound like BBs off a tin can , '' Pagano said .
`` That 's the only way you stop this great runner . ''
Cook ran for 96 yards on 30 carries against the Bears last month .
If there 's one team that has found a way to slow Cook , it 's the Bears .
In his four-year career , the Week 10 matchup marked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He did a good portion of the damage in the second half after Bears tackle Akiem Hicks left the game with a hamstring injury .
Having a healthy Hicks this week will be huge .
Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson is among the three or four favorites to win the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award .
His 1,078 receiving yards ranks seventh in the NFL , and he has done it on 65 catches , with seven going for touchdowns .
The first-round pick out of LSU has had five games with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ catches for 135 yards against the Bears .
Bears All-Pro cornerback Kyle Fuller certainly wo n't stand for that .
There could be a lot on Fuller 's plate , too , if Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson -- who has missed practice this week with a shoulder injury -- is unable to play .
Trubisky played two of his better games all season in each of the past two weeks .
A late strip sack against Detroit soured an otherwise promising effort in Week 13 .
Then last week he out-shined Texans quarterback @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
Focusing on the short passing game has kept the chains moving for the Bears in those two games .
Against a Vikings defense that 's allowing 256.6 passing yards per game ( 25th in the NFL ) , there should be no reason that could n't happen again this week .
With two evenly matched opponents , this game could come down to a kick here or there , or even in the final minutes .
That might scare Vikings fans .
Vikings kicker Dan Bailey went 0-for-3 on field goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points .
His field goal attempts came from 36 , 46 , and 54 yards , respectively .
This was one week after Bailey missed two extra points and a field goal against Jacksonville , too .
Bears kicker Cairo Santos , on the other hand , has made 18 consecutive field goals .
He is the first Bears kicker to do that since Robbie Gould in 2006 .

Both teams' playoff hopes hang in the balance in Bears-Vikings rematch
The Bears face off against the Minnesota Vikings during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 16, 2020, in Chicago. Associated Press
It's not a win or go home game at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis this week -- but it might as well be.
The Bears (6-7) and the Vikings (6-7) square off in an NFC North matchup with the season more or less on the line. As discussed in our playoff scenarios breakdown, the Bears' playoff odds drop significantly if they lose this week.
Here are five things to watch in the Week 15 game:
1. Fighting for their playoff lives
Both teams need a win this week. The Vikings beat the Bears once already, 19-13, in a Week 10 matchup on Nov. 16. The Bears reached new offensive lows that night. With a struggling Nick Foles at quarterback, they totaled only 149 yards of offense.
Foles left that game on a cart following a scary hip injury. Quarterback Mitch Trubisky has started every game since.
Meanwhile, the Vikings revived their playoff hopes following a dreadful 1-5 start. They're doing it with one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL, led by running back Dalvin Cook.
2. Dalvin Cook vs. Akiem Hicks & Co.
Speaking of Cook -- actually, let's allow Bears defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano to speak of Cook. Pagano wants to hear pads crushing against pads whenever Cook touches the ball.
"It oughta sound like BBs off a tin can," Pagano said. "That's the only way you stop this great runner."
Cook ran for 96 yards on 30 carries against the Bears last month. If there's one team that has found a way to slow Cook, it's the Bears. In his four-year career, the Week 10 matchup marked his best game against the Bears. He did a good portion of the damage in the second half after Bears tackle Akiem Hicks left the game with a hamstring injury. Having a healthy Hicks this week will be huge.
3. Justin Jefferson vs. Kyle Fuller
Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson is among the three or four favorites to win the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. His 1,078 receiving yards ranks seventh in the NFL, and he has done it on 65 catches, with seven going for touchdowns. The first-round pick out of LSU has had five games with 100-plus receiving yards, including his eight catches for 135 yards against the Bears.
Bears All-Pro cornerback Kyle Fuller certainly won't stand for that. There could be a lot on Fuller's plate, too, if Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson -- who has missed practice this week with a shoulder injury -- is unable to play.
4. Mitch Trubisky vs. a spotty Vikings secondary
Trubisky played two of his better games all season in each of the past two weeks. A late strip sack against Detroit soured an otherwise promising effort in Week 13. Then last week he out-shined Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, at least for one day.
Focusing on the short passing game has kept the chains moving for the Bears in those two games. Against a Vikings defense that's allowing 256.6 passing yards per game (25th in the NFL), there should be no reason that couldn't happen again this week.
5. The kicking game
With two evenly matched opponents, this game could come down to a kick here or there, or even in the final minutes. That might scare Vikings fans.
Vikings kicker Dan Bailey went 0-for-3 on field goals last week, and 0-for-1 on extra points. His field goal attempts came from 36, 46, and 54 yards, respectively. This was one week after Bailey missed two extra points and a field goal against Jacksonville, too.
Bears kicker Cairo Santos, on the other hand, has made 18 consecutive field goals. He is the first Bears kicker to do that since Robbie Gould in 2006.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Congress seals agreement on COVID relief package with $600 checks

WASHINGTON -- Top Capitol Hill negotiators sealed a deal Sunday on an almost $ 1 trillion COVID-19 economic relief package , finally delivering long-overdue help to businesses and individuals and providing money to deliver vaccines to a nation eager for them .
The agreement , announced by Senate leaders , would establish a temporary $ 300 per week supplemental jobless benefits and $ 600 direct stimulus payments to most Americans , along with a new round of subsidies for hard-hit businesses and money for schools , health care providers and renters facing eviction .
The House was expected to vote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday and Senate action would follow .
Lawmakers are eager to leave Washington and close out a tumultuous year .
A breakthrough came late Saturday in a fight over Federal Reserve emergency powers that was resolved by the Senate 's top Democrat , Chuck Schumer of New York , and conservative Republican Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania .
That led to a final round of negotiations .
The final agreement is the largest spending measure yet .
It combines COVID-19 relief with a $ 1.4 trillion government-wide funding plan and lots of other unrelated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and education .
Passage is nearing as coronavirus cases and deaths spike and evidence piles up that the economy is struggling .
Late-breaking decisions would limit the $ 300 per week bonus jobless benefits -- one half the supplemental federal unemployment benefit provided under the CARES Act in March -- to 10 weeks instead of 16 weeks as before .
The direct $ 600 stimulus payment to most people is also half the March payment , subject to the same income limits in which an individual 's payment begins to phase out after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supportive , particularly of the push for providing more direct payments .
`` GET IT DONE , '' he said in a tweet late Saturday .
It would be the first significant legislative response to the pandemic since the $ 1.8 trillion CARES Act passed virtually unanimously in March .
The legislation was held up by months of dysfunction , posturing and bad faith .
But talks turned serious last week as lawmakers on both sides finally faced the deadline of acting before leaving Washington for Christmas .
In the meantime , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sunday , lawmakers faced the reality of needing to enact another temporary spending bill -- the second in as many days -- to avert a shutdown of non-essential activities by federal agencies on Monday .
Lawmakers had hoped to avoid that step , but progress slowed Saturday as Toomey pressed for the inclusion of a provision to close down the Fed 's lending facilities .
Democrats and the White House said it was too broadly worded and would have tied the hands of the incoming Biden administration , but Republicans rallied to Toomey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ programs provided loans to small and mid-size businesses and bought state and local government bonds .
Those bond purchases made it easier for those governments to borrow , at a time when their finances were under pressure from job losses and health costs stemming from the pandemic .
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said last month that those programs , along with two that purchased corporate bonds , would close at the end of the year , prompting an initial objection by the Fed .
Under the Dodd-Frank financial overhaul law passed after the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ set up emergency programs with the support of the treasury secretary .
Toomey said the emergency powers were designed to stabilize capital markets at the height of the pandemic this spring and were expiring at the end of the month anyway .
Democrats said that Toomey was trying to limit the Fed 's ability to boost the economy , just as President-elect Joe Biden prepared to take office .
The agreement on virus aid would deliver more than $ 300 billion in aid to businesses as well as the extra $ 300-per-week for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that would otherwise expire right after Christmas .
It included $ 600 direct payments to individuals ; vaccine distribution funds ; and money for renters , schools , the Postal Service and people needing food aid .
The governmentwide appropriations bill would fund agencies through next September .
That measure was likely to provide a last $ 1.4 billion installment for Trump 's U.S.-Mexico border wall as a condition of winning his signature .

Congress seals agreement on COVID relief package with $600 checks
WASHINGTON -- Top Capitol Hill negotiators sealed a deal Sunday on an almost $1 trillion COVID-19 economic relief package, finally delivering long-overdue help to businesses and individuals and providing money to deliver vaccines to a nation eager for them.
The agreement, announced by Senate leaders, would establish a temporary $300 per week supplemental jobless benefits and $600 direct stimulus payments to most Americans, along with a new round of subsidies for hard-hit businesses and money for schools, health care providers and renters facing eviction.
The House was expected to vote on the legislation very late Sunday or Monday and Senate action would follow. Lawmakers are eager to leave Washington and close out a tumultuous year.
A breakthrough came late Saturday in a fight over Federal Reserve emergency powers that was resolved by the Senate's top Democrat, Chuck Schumer of New York, and conservative Republican Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania. That led to a final round of negotiations.
The final agreement is the largest spending measure yet. It combines COVID-19 relief with a $1.4 trillion government-wide funding plan and lots of other unrelated measures on taxes, health, infrastructure and education.
Passage is nearing as coronavirus cases and deaths spike and evidence piles up that the economy is struggling.
Late-breaking decisions would limit the $300 per week bonus jobless benefits -- one half the supplemental federal unemployment benefit provided under the CARES Act in March -- to 10 weeks instead of 16 weeks as before. The direct $600 stimulus payment to most people is also half the March payment, subject to the same income limits in which an individual's payment begins to phase out after $75,000.
President Donald Trump is supportive, particularly of the push for providing more direct payments. "GET IT DONE," he said in a tweet late Saturday.
It would be the first significant legislative response to the pandemic since the $1.8 trillion CARES Act passed virtually unanimously in March.
The legislation was held up by months of dysfunction, posturing and bad faith. But talks turned serious last week as lawmakers on both sides finally faced the deadline of acting before leaving Washington for Christmas.
In the meantime, with a government shutdown deadline looming at midnight Sunday, lawmakers faced the reality of needing to enact another temporary spending bill -- the second in as many days -- to avert a shutdown of non-essential activities by federal agencies on Monday.
Lawmakers had hoped to avoid that step, but progress slowed Saturday as Toomey pressed for the inclusion of a provision to close down the Fed's lending facilities. Democrats and the White House said it was too broadly worded and would have tied the hands of the incoming Biden administration, but Republicans rallied to Toomey's position.
The Fed's emergency programs provided loans to small and mid-size businesses and bought state and local government bonds. Those bond purchases made it easier for those governments to borrow, at a time when their finances were under pressure from job losses and health costs stemming from the pandemic.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said last month that those programs, along with two that purchased corporate bonds, would close at the end of the year, prompting an initial objection by the Fed. Under the Dodd-Frank financial overhaul law passed after the Great Recession, the Fed can only set up emergency programs with the support of the treasury secretary.
Toomey said the emergency powers were designed to stabilize capital markets at the height of the pandemic this spring and were expiring at the end of the month anyway. Democrats said that Toomey was trying to limit the Fed's ability to boost the economy, just as President-elect Joe Biden prepared to take office.
The agreement on virus aid would deliver more than $300 billion in aid to businesses as well as the extra $300-per-week for the jobless and renewal of state benefits that would otherwise expire right after Christmas. It included $600 direct payments to individuals; vaccine distribution funds; and money for renters, schools, the Postal Service and people needing food aid.
The governmentwide appropriations bill would fund agencies through next September. That measure was likely to provide a last $1.4 billion installment for Trump's U.S.-Mexico border wall as a condition of winning his signature.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--State reports smallest daily COVID-19 case total since October

State health authorities on Sunday announced 6,003 new confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 in Illinois , the fewest reported on a single day in nearly eight weeks .
The Illinois Department of Public Health also confirmed 79 additional deaths from the coronavirus , 38 of them in Cook County .
State officials also reported four deaths in DuPage County , three in Kane County , one in Lake County and four in Will County .
The case total is more than 1,500 fewer than the 7,562 reported Saturday , and the lowest since Oct. 27 .
However , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down on Sundays .
Hospitalizations also dipped , from 4,624 reported as of Friday night to 4,389 as of Saturday night .
Of the patients hospitalized Saturday , 991 were in an intensive-care unit and 546 were on ventilators .
With Sunday 's cases , the state has reported a total of 900,370 infections since the pandemic began , including 15,202 deaths .
The statewide infection rate continued to decline and stood at 7.8 % on Sunday , based on a seven-day average That number , which was 9.1 % the previous Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of new COVID-19 cases diagnosed over seven days by the total tests processed in that time .

State reports smallest daily COVID-19 case total since October
State health officials on Sunday announced 6,003 new confirmed and probable COVID-19 cases, the fewest since Oct. 27. Courtesy of Jim Vondruska
State health authorities on Sunday announced 6,003 new confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 in Illinois, the fewest reported on a single day in nearly eight weeks.
The Illinois Department of Public Health also confirmed 79 additional deaths from the coronavirus, 38 of them in Cook County. State officials also reported four deaths in DuPage County, three in Kane County, one in Lake County and four in Will County.
The case total is more than 1,500 fewer than the 7,562 reported Saturday, and the lowest since Oct. 27. However, it is not unusual for figures to be down on Sundays.
Hospitalizations also dipped, from 4,624 reported as of Friday night to 4,389 as of Saturday night. Of the patients hospitalized Saturday, 991 were in an intensive-care unit and 546 were on ventilators.
With Sunday's cases, the state has reported a total of 900,370 infections since the pandemic began, including 15,202 deaths.
The statewide infection rate continued to decline and stood at 7.8% on Sunday, based on a seven-day average
That number, which was 9.1% the previous Sunday, is calculated by dividing the number of new COVID-19 cases diagnosed over seven days by the total tests processed in that time.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Advocate Condell to resume COVID-19 vaccinations after 4 workers have adverse reactions

Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville will resume its COVID-19 vaccination program on Sunday after four of its health care workers experienced adverse reactions to shots they received on Thursday , causing a temporary pause in vaccinations at the site .
One worker , who was discharged from the hospital on Saturday after spending the night for observation , experienced what appeared to be a severe allergic reaction , according to a statement from Advocate Aurora Health .
The three other workers experienced `` reactions that can happen with vaccination '' and were `` doing well '' at home .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ making , and our review confirmed the quality of the vaccine batch and our protocols for distributing the vaccine , '' the statement from Advocate Aurora Health read .
`` We proactively notified the CDC , state and local health departments of the situation , and they concurred with our plans to resume vaccinations . ''
The decision came after what Advocate Aurora Health described as a thorough internal review that included input from infectious disease and clinical experts .
In response to the review , Advocate Aurora Health will increase its post-vaccine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at eight other Advocate centers in Illinois and three in Wisconsin continued with no delay , according to Advocate Aurora Health .
Approximately 6,000 of its workers have received the vaccination so far .

Advocate Condell to resume COVID-19 vaccinations after 4 workers have adverse reactions
An employee at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin on Thursday holds a container of COVID-19 vaccine. Photo courtesy of Advocate Health Care
Niles-based Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Robert Citronberg received his first dose of the coronavirus vaccine from a nurse at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove on Thursday. Courtesy of JOHN MARTIN-EATINGER/Advocate Health
Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville will resume its COVID-19 vaccination program on Sunday after four of its health care workers experienced adverse reactions to shots they received on Thursday, causing a temporary pause in vaccinations at the site.
One worker, who was discharged from the hospital on Saturday after spending the night for observation, experienced what appeared to be a severe allergic reaction, according to a statement from Advocate Aurora Health. The three other workers experienced "reactions that can happen with vaccination" and were "doing well" at home.
"Team member safety guides our decision making, and our review confirmed the quality of the vaccine batch and our protocols for distributing the vaccine," the statement from Advocate Aurora Health read. "We proactively notified the CDC, state and local health departments of the situation, and they concurred with our plans to resume vaccinations."
The decision came after what Advocate Aurora Health described as a thorough internal review that included input from infectious disease and clinical experts. In response to the review, Advocate Aurora Health will increase its post-vaccine evaluation period to 30 minutes.
Vaccinations at eight other Advocate centers in Illinois and three in Wisconsin continued with no delay, according to Advocate Aurora Health. Approximately 6,000 of its workers have received the vaccination so far.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Sheriff reports 35-person COVID-19 outbreak in Lake County jail

The Lake County sheriff 's office is monitoring a 35-person outbreak of COVID-19 at the county jail , officials said @ @ @ @ @ office was notified Dec. 14 that four inmates in pod 5-North tested positive for the @ @ @ @ @ Upon notice , Sheriff John Idleburg ordered the pod quarantined , according to the sheriff @ @ @ @ @ jail employees in medical-grade PPE have been allowed to enter the pod and there has @ @ @ @ @ movement of inmates .
On Sunday , tests showed 35 of the pod 's 53 @ @ @ @ @ but they are asymptomatic and in good condition , officials said .
In February , @ @ @ @ @ segregation area for inmates with mild illness symptoms , increased cleaning and began regular COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ .
To date , more than 1,800 tests have been administered , according to the @ @ @ @ @ mitigation efforts include virtual bond hearings and PPE for jail staff , officials said .

Sheriff reports 35-person COVID-19 outbreak in Lake County jail
The Lake County sheriff's office is monitoring a 35-person outbreak of COVID-19 at the county jail, officials said Sunday.
The sheriff's office was notified Dec. 14 that four inmates in pod 5-North tested positive for the coronavirus, officials said. Upon notice, Sheriff John Idleburg ordered the pod quarantined, according to the sheriff's office.
Only specific jail employees in medical-grade PPE have been allowed to enter the pod and there has been no internal or external movement of inmates.
On Sunday, tests showed 35 of the pod's 53 residents were COVID-19 positive, but they are asymptomatic and in good condition, officials said.
In February, the jail established a medical segregation area for inmates with mild illness symptoms, increased cleaning and began regular COVID-19 testing for inmates and employees. To date, more than 1,800 tests have been administered, according to the sheriff's office.
Other mitigation efforts include virtual bond hearings and PPE for jail staff, officials said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--3 AND OUT: Bears hold off Vikings, keep playoffs hopes alive

Take-aways after the Bears ' 33-27 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday : 1 .
Perhaps a season-changing moment on fourth-and-1 at the Minnesota 29 , the Bears ' defense bailed out Mitch Trubisky 's late red-zone interception .
Brent Urban came through to force Kirk Cousins into an errant throw and an incompletion .
2 .
Speaking of that pick , with 2:57 remaining and the Bears knocking on the door for a crucial score only up 3 , Trubisky forced a throw to Allen Robinson and it was intercepted by Minnesota 's Cameron Dantzler .
One of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afternoon , Trubisky picked an inopportune time to make an avoidable mistake .
3 .
Cairo Santos hit 4 field goals on Sunday .
Extending his streak to 22 means Santos is earning the status of 'Mr .
Automatic . '
His fourth field goal ensured the Vikings could n't settle for a game-tying field goal on their final drive .
Monty : David Montgomery is cementing himself as the lead back he was drafted to be .
For the third time in four games , the Iowa State product rushed for more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five rushing scores in the last three games and averaged 4.6 yards per carry on Sunday .
Montgomery finished with 146 yards and 2 touchdowns on 32 carries .
Fourth-down defense : The Bears came up big on a pair of fourth-down chances by the Vikings on the afternoon .
The first coming from Bilal Nichols on Dalvin Cook in the first half and the second by Brent Urban to force Cousins into an incompletion with the Bears nursing a 3-point lead late .
Trubisky : Besides that late interception , Trubisky certainly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the change to Bill Lazor calling plays -- and finding increased confidence .
He has certainly looked like a more complete quarterback the past two weeks and that needs to be commended after his 202-yard , one-touchdown performance .
Final defensive possession : Yes , the Bears defense made a number of key stops , but it was a nail-bitter to the end .
Cousins engineered a drive to the Bears ' 33 with just 7 seconds left .
Cousins had 4 completions and nearly pulled off a Hail Mary miracle .
Sherrick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ice the game .
Cook got Cooking : The Bears traditionally have stonewalled one of the league 's top running back .
Since 2018 -- and including their first matchup of 2020 -- Cook did n't reach 100 yards on the ground , needing 30 carries in Week 11 for 96 .
Sunday , however , Cook went off for 132 rushing yards and a touchdown .
Stopping Justin Jefferson : Vikings rookie wideout Justin Jefferson has arguably played himself into Offensive Rookie of the Year honors .
Jefferson owns the Vikings ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ passing Randy Moss ' 69 ) and appears to be the steal of the 2020 draft class for wideouts .
With a shorthanded secondary , Jefferson finished with eight catches for 104 yards .
The Bears visit the Jacksonville Jaguars , the former team of Allen Robinson , on Dec. 28 .
The Jaguars , who now employ former Bears quarterback Mike Glennon , are in position for a potential top three draft selection .

3 AND OUT: Bears hold off Vikings, keep playoffs hopes alive
Chicago Bears safety Eddie Jackson (39) celebrates at the end of an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in Minneapolis. The Bears won 33-27. Associated Press
Take-aways after the Bears' 33-27 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday:
Three moments that mattered
1. Perhaps a season-changing moment on fourth-and-1 at the Minnesota 29, the Bears' defense bailed out Mitch Trubisky's late red-zone interception. Brent Urban came through to force Kirk Cousins into an errant throw and an incompletion.
2. Speaking of that pick, with 2:57 remaining and the Bears knocking on the door for a crucial score only up 3, Trubisky forced a throw to Allen Robinson and it was intercepted by Minnesota's Cameron Dantzler. One of just a handful of mistakes on the afternoon, Trubisky picked an inopportune time to make an avoidable mistake.
3. Cairo Santos hit 4 field goals on Sunday. Extending his streak to 22 means Santos is earning the status of 'Mr. Automatic.' His fourth field goal ensured the Vikings couldn't settle for a game-tying field goal on their final drive.
Three things that worked
Monty: David Montgomery is cementing himself as the lead back he was drafted to be. For the third time in four games, the Iowa State product rushed for more than 100 yards. He now has five rushing scores in the last three games and averaged 4.6 yards per carry on Sunday. Montgomery finished with 146 yards and 2 touchdowns on 32 carries.
Fourth-down defense: The Bears came up big on a pair of fourth-down chances by the Vikings on the afternoon. The first coming from Bilal Nichols on Dalvin Cook in the first half and the second by Brent Urban to force Cousins into an incompletion with the Bears nursing a 3-point lead late.
Trubisky: Besides that late interception, Trubisky certainly appears to be reaping the rewards from the change to Bill Lazor calling plays -- and finding increased confidence. He has certainly looked like a more complete quarterback the past two weeks and that needs to be commended after his 202-yard, one-touchdown performance.
Three things that didn't
Final defensive possession: Yes, the Bears defense made a number of key stops, but it was a nail-bitter to the end. Cousins engineered a drive to the Bears' 33 with just 7 seconds left. Cousins had 4 completions and nearly pulled off a Hail Mary miracle. Sherrick McManis came down with the interception to ice the game.
Cook got Cooking: The Bears traditionally have stonewalled one of the league's top running back. Since 2018 -- and including their first matchup of 2020 -- Cook didn't reach 100 yards on the ground, needing 30 carries in Week 11 for 96. Sunday, however, Cook went off for 132 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Stopping Justin Jefferson: Vikings rookie wideout Justin Jefferson has arguably played himself into Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. Jefferson owns the Vikings' record for catches by a rookie (passing Randy Moss' 69) and appears to be the steal of the 2020 draft class for wideouts. With a shorthanded secondary, Jefferson finished with eight catches for 104 yards.
What's next?
The Bears visit the Jacksonville Jaguars, the former team of Allen Robinson, on Dec. 28. The Jaguars, who now employ former Bears quarterback Mike Glennon, are in position for a potential top three draft selection.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--First demographic report on Illinois Muslims is underway

The first comprehensive demographic report on Illinois Muslims is underway and initial findings are expected to be completed by fall 2021 .
The Illinois Muslim Civic Coalition is partnering with the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding and the University of Illinois Chicago to produce the report , which will provide a detailed portrait of Muslims statewide .
`` It 's to develop a much needed evidence-based needs , opportunities and demographics assessment of a diverse community that is often invisible , misunderstood and inaccurately portrayed , '' said Dilara Sayeed , president and co-founder of the Illinois Muslim Civic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 203 teacher .
`` Illinois is home to one of the largest populations of Muslims in America .
They are Black , because Nation of Islam has roots here .
`` We have a robust Indian , Rohingyan , Pakistani and Afghani community .
And we have a robust African immigrant community . ''
Nationwide , roughly one-third of Muslims are Black , one-fifth are white , roughly 20 % are Arab , slightly more than 20 % are Asian , and Latinos make up the fastest-growing segment of the population , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with dozens of Muslim-led organizations , as well as secular and interfaith groups and community leaders to give Muslims `` voice in the civic space , '' Sayeed said .
College of Lake County student Francisco `` Danny '' Rea is among five winners of Estrella TV 's `` Tengo Talento , Mucho Talento '' singing contest .
It was Rea 's fourth audition for the show .
He did n't make the cut on the first three attempts .
The 21-year-old Waukegan-based musician was flown to Los Angeles in November for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ YouTube .
Rea shares in a $ 100,000 grand prize , a Sony Music Latin recording deal and is a founding member of the band Nuevo Elemento , formed by the five winners .
The group has released its first official single , `` No Andes Con Nadie . ''
`` I actually started singing ever since I could talk , especially the music of Los Tigres Del Norte , '' Rea said .
`` I grew up listening to all the music my grandpa and dad listened to .
`` When I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , everyone was listening to rap and pop and I was doing my own thing with regional Mexican music . ''
Rea began performing at age 11 in Waukegan restaurants , karaoke competitions , festivals and charity events .
His first break came a year or two later on another televised singing competition  -- a version of `` The Voice '' for kids on Telemundo .
He started working private events and festivals , and has a YouTube channel .
Rea is working on an associate degree in business administration at CLC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has adopted new culturally responsive teaching and leading standards to prepare future educators to teach increasingly diverse students .
The state board 's Diverse and Learner Ready Teacher Network developed the standards for educator preparation programs at colleges and universities .
They aim to foster classroom and school environments in which every student feels a sense of belonging .
More than 52 % of Illinois students identify as students of color , and English Learners make up the fastest growing student population .
Yet , Illinois ' teacher workforce remains more than 82 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the responsibility of ... ( pre-K through 12 ) education institutions to affirm , validate , leverage , support , and listen to students ' backgrounds and lived experiences , '' said Ivette Dubiel , adjunct professor at Aurora University and Lewis University and a teacher network member .
`` They also rightfully challenge us to be anti-bias , anti-racist , mindful , and inclusive of our most marginalized populations . ''
Educators are urged to learn from and about their students ' cultures , languages , and learning styles to make instruction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lives ; value students ' feedback and leadership ; support and create opportunities for student advocacy ; develop relationships with families and the community ; and curate curriculum to include and represent a wide spectrum of identities .
Islamic Foundation North in Libertyville will have curbside food distribution from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday , and on Jan. 17 and Feb. 21 , at the mosque on 1751 S. O'Plaine Road .
`` During this pandemic ... we are seeing long food lines across the country .
IFN is committed to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mosque president Jaseem Anwer said .
The Aurora Police Department is partnering with Girls Run The World Aurora to collect feminine hygiene products and sanitary supplies that will be distributed to women in need in the Aurora and Yorkville area .
Donations are being collected through Jan. 5 .
They can be dropped off at the Aurora Police Department , 1200 E. Indian Trail Road , and the Yorkville Public Library , 902 Game Farm Road , Yorkville .
Girls Run the World is a girls empowerment program directed by the Aurora Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aurora and West Aurora high schools .
The DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team and Reality Illinois students distributed dozens of free stress relief kits Friday to middle school and high school-age teens at Glenbard South High School in Glen Ellyn .
The kits included hand sanitizer , a face mask , COVID-19 information , various stress relief items and information on the County Crisis Text Line -- a free service available to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis .
Teens can text `` REACH '' to 741741 to connect with a trained professional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resources .
Since 2017 , there have been 567 texters and more than 1,000 conversations between teens/young adults and counselors .
Reality Illinois is the Teen Advisory Board to the DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team and the DuPage County Health Department .
It is open to all high school students and focuses on wellness and positive youth development .
• Share stories , news and happenings from the suburban mosaic at mkrishnamurthy @ dailyherald.com .


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Mount Prospect man killed in Chicago crash

A 56-year-old Mount Prospect man was killed late Saturday when the car he was driving went off an interstate ramp @ @ @ @ @ Chicago and rolled over , Illinois State Police said Sunday .
According to state police @ @ @ @ @ a 2000 Toyota Avalon on to the northbound I-55 ramp south of Princeton Avenue at @ @ @ @ @ unknown reasons , the car veered off the roadway to the right .
The car @ @ @ @ @ grassy median before rolling along the embankment and coming to rest on the slip ramp @ @ @ @ @ northbound .
The driver 's name is being withheld pending notification of family , state @ @ @ @ @ is pending .
A 16-year-old Oak Lawn girl riding in the car was hospitalized with @ @ @ @ @ .
The ramp from southbound I-94 to northbound I-55 was closed for more than two @ @ @ @ @ police investigated .
It reopened shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday , state police said .

Mount Prospect man killed in Chicago crash
A 56-year-old Mount Prospect man was killed late Saturday when the car he was driving went off an interstate ramp on the South Side of Chicago and rolled over, Illinois State Police said Sunday.
According to state police, the man was driving a 2000 Toyota Avalon on to the northbound I-55 ramp south of Princeton Avenue at 11:29 p.m. when, for unknown reasons, the car veered off the roadway to the right.
The car struck some trees along a grassy median before rolling along the embankment and coming to rest on the slip ramp from I-94 southbound to I-55 northbound.
The driver's name is being withheld pending notification of family, state police said. An autopsy is pending.
A 16-year-old Oak Lawn girl riding in the car was hospitalized with nonlife-threatening injuries, police added.
The ramp from southbound I-94 to northbound I-55 was closed for more than two hours after the crash while police investigated. It reopened shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday, state police said.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Suburban Hero: Amid pandemic, Maine South student ensures blood drive goes on

Carter Collins had to scramble when he found out the usual location for his third annual Park Ridge community blood drive would n't be available this year , and that his plan B was going to cost more to rent than he could afford .
But through his network of volunteers and community supporters , the 17-year-old Maine South High School junior raised enough money to secure the new location .
And despite challenges related to the pandemic , this year 's blood drive was his most successful yet .
Carter , assisted by his 16-year-old brother Noah and six @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the event Oct. 4 at Prospect Park , where they took temperatures of blood donors upon entry , and directed them to ensure social distancing , hand sanitizing and mask wearing was followed .
The units of blood collected that day were from 46 donors -- an increase of more than 60 % from the pre-pandemic prior year .
One pint of blood , broken down into its main components , can save up to three lives .
At the same time , Carter collected 50 pounds of food for the Maine Township @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than he collected the year before .
`` I was surprised we had so many donors and we beat our goal , '' he said .
`` But I guess people wanted to help . ''
For his efforts , Carter received a Chicago Bears Community High School All-Star award , which recognizes prep football players who make a positive impact in their communities and school .
Carter is a linebacker on Maine South 's varsity team .
`` Carter and his brother do this for no other reason than helping those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ football Coach David Inserra , who nominated him for the award .
`` It is an honor to coach these young men .
We are blessed to have them in our program .
Their work is an exact reflection of who they are : humble , self-directed , innovative , driven , persistent and extremely caring . ''
Carter decided to organize his first blood drive after seeing on TV the devastation left by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana in 2017 .
His first blood donation event was at Roosevelt Elementary School @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he added the food drive component .
School officials normally let him use their gym for free , but they said the school would be off-limits this year because of COVID-19 restrictions .
So he searched for other locations , including hotel ballrooms , gymnasiums and church facilities , eventually finding availability at Prospect Park -- but for a price .
Thanks in large part to a donation from Park Ridge Community Church , Collins raised enough money to rent a room to make sure the blood and food drive could go on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's effort , Carter says he 's already working to secure a larger location for next year in hopes of welcoming even more donors .
He is among nine high school football players being honored by the Bears from November through January .
He received a personalized , hand-painted football , gift bag , and a $ 500 check directed to the charity of his choice , the American Red Cross .
• Do you know any Suburban Heroes ?
Share your story at heroes @ dailyherald.com .

Suburban Hero: Amid pandemic, Maine South student ensures blood drive goes on
Maine South High School junior Carter Collins received a Chicago Bears Community High School All-Star award in recognition of his efforts to organize a community blood and food drive. Courtesy of Carter Collins
Faced with logistical challenges brought on by the pandemic, brothers Carter and Noah Collins were determined to make sure their annual blood and food drive took place this October. They hosted it at Prospect Park in Park Ridge. Courtesy of Carter Collins
Carter Collins had to scramble when he found out the usual location for his third annual Park Ridge community blood drive wouldn't be available this year, and that his plan B was going to cost more to rent than he could afford.
But through his network of volunteers and community supporters, the 17-year-old Maine South High School junior raised enough money to secure the new location. And despite challenges related to the pandemic, this year's blood drive was his most successful yet.
Carter, assisted by his 16-year-old brother Noah and six other Maine South student volunteers, hosted the event Oct. 4 at Prospect Park, where they took temperatures of blood donors upon entry, and directed them to ensure social distancing, hand sanitizing and mask wearing was followed.
The units of blood collected that day were from 46 donors -- an increase of more than 60% from the pre-pandemic prior year. One pint of blood, broken down into its main components, can save up to three lives.
At the same time, Carter collected 50 pounds of food for the Maine Township Food Pantry, which is 20 pounds more than he collected the year before.
"I was surprised we had so many donors and we beat our goal," he said. "But I guess people wanted to help."
For his efforts, Carter received a Chicago Bears Community High School All-Star award, which recognizes prep football players who make a positive impact in their communities and school. Carter is a linebacker on Maine South's varsity team.
"Carter and his brother do this for no other reason than helping those in need," said Maine South football Coach David Inserra, who nominated him for the award. "It is an honor to coach these young men. We are blessed to have them in our program. Their work is an exact reflection of who they are: humble, self-directed, innovative, driven, persistent and extremely caring."
Carter decided to organize his first blood drive after seeing on TV the devastation left by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana in 2017. His first blood donation event was at Roosevelt Elementary School in 2018, and the next year he added the food drive component.
School officials normally let him use their gym for free, but they said the school would be off-limits this year because of COVID-19 restrictions.
So he searched for other locations, including hotel ballrooms, gymnasiums and church facilities, eventually finding availability at Prospect Park -- but for a price. Thanks in large part to a donation from Park Ridge Community Church, Collins raised enough money to rent a room to make sure the blood and food drive could go on.
After the success of this year's effort, Carter says he's already working to secure a larger location for next year in hopes of welcoming even more donors.
He is among nine high school football players being honored by the Bears from November through January. He received a personalized, hand-painted football, gift bag, and a $500 check directed to the charity of his choice, the American Red Cross.
• Do you know any Suburban Heroes? Share your story at heroes@dailyherald.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Fire heavily damages Wheaton repair shop; no one hurt

A fire caused extensive damage to a vacuum repair shop in Wheaton Saturday night , authorities said .
Firefighters were @ @ @ @ @ a report of a building fire in the 800 block of East Roosevelt Road .
@ @ @ @ @ control within 20 minutes .
The fire left extensive damage to the center of the @ @ @ @ @ area , officials said .
The business was closed at the time of the fire @ @ @ @ @ several dogs out of the building .
There were no reports of injuries .
Wheaton @ @ @ @ @ Fire Investigation Task Force are conducting an investigation .
The cause of the fire is @ @ @ @ @ were unavailable Sunday .
Firefighters were assisted by Wheaton police and several neighboring fire departments @ @ @ @ @ turned over to the owner after the fire .

Fire heavily damages Wheaton repair shop; no one hurt
A fire caused extensive damage to a vacuum repair shop in Wheaton Saturday night, authorities said.
Firefighters were called about 8:15 p.m. to a report of a building fire in the 800 block of East Roosevelt Road.
Arriving crews found heavy fire showing inside the repair shop.
The blaze was brought under control within 20 minutes. The fire left extensive damage to the center of the building along with the attic area, officials said.
The business was closed at the time of the fire. Emergency personnel safely assisted several dogs out of the building. There were no reports of injuries.
Wheaton fire officials and the DuPage Fire Investigation Task Force are conducting an investigation. The cause of the fire is unknown, and damage estimates were unavailable Sunday.
Firefighters were assisted by Wheaton police and several neighboring fire departments. The building also was turned over to the owner after the fire.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Feder: Former WGN anchor Pielach joins WLS morning show

Longtime Chicago radio news personality Judy Pielach has signed on as a contributor to the new Bruce St. James morning @ @ @ @ @ WLS 890-AM .
Starting Monday , Pielach will join St. James from 5:30 to 9 @ @ @ @ @ a cast that includes news anchor Nick Gale and executive producer Midge Ripoli .
It @ @ @ @ @ Pielach accepted a buyout from news/talk WGN 720-AM and stepped down as afternoon news anchor @ @ @ @ @ station .
Get the full report and more Chicago media news at robertfeder.com .

Feder: Former WGN anchor Pielach joins WLS morning show
Judy Pielach will join the Bruce St. James show at WLS 890-AM. Courtesy of Kristy Vicari
Longtime Chicago radio news personality Judy Pielach has signed on as a contributor to the new Bruce St. James morning show at Cumulus Media news/talk WLS 890-AM.
Starting Monday, Pielach will join St. James from 5:30 to 9 a.m. weekdays, rounding out a cast that includes news anchor Nick Gale and executive producer Midge Ripoli.
It's been two years since Pielach accepted a buyout from news/talk WGN 720-AM and stepped down as afternoon news anchor at the former Tribune Broadcasting station.
Get the full report and more Chicago media news at robertfeder.com.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Driver charged with DUI after crashing into squad car stopped for separate DUI arrest

A North Chicago woman faces felony drunken driving charges after she crashed into a parked Lake County Sheriff 's squad car at the scene of a separate DUI arrest in Beach Park , authorities said Sunday .
Alaya N. Solomon , 36 , is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol , aggravated DUI , aggravated driving while license revoked , violating Scott 's Law and other traffic violations .
Also known as the `` move over law , '' Scott 's Law requires drivers to slow down and move over , if possible , when approaching a stopped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sheriff 's police said the crash occurred at about 2 a.m. Sunday , after a deputy parked his squad car on Sheridan Road , facing south , just south of Yorkhouse Road .
The sheriff 's deputy was waiting for a tow truck to take a Honda after its driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI , authorities said .
A passenger from the Honda was seated in the back of the parked squad car because the deputy was going to provide the individual with a ride after the Honda was towed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ driving south on Sheridan toward him at `` a high rate of speed , '' according to the sheriff 's office .
The Dodge was traveling in the same lane where the squad car was parked .
The deputy stepped partially onto the road and flashed a flashlight toward the Dodge in an attempt at getting the driver 's attention after the squad 's emergency lights had failed to do so , according to the sheriff 's office .
The Dodge continued south toward the squad car , forcing the deputy to jump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Dodge , identified as Solomon , of the 1600 block of Sheridan Road in North Chicago , struck the rear of the squad car , authorities said .
The collision caused the squad car to hit the Honda .
The sheriff 's deputy called for an ambulance to check the passenger , who was in the back of the squad car , and Solomon .
Both were uninjured .
Solomon is being held in Lake County jail on $ 100,000 bail .
She is due in court Tuesday .

Driver charged with DUI after crashing into squad car stopped for separate DUI arrest
A North Chicago woman faces felony driving under the influence charges after authorities say her SUV slammed into the back of a parked Lake County Sheriff deputy's patrol vehicle early Sunday. Courtesy of the Lake County Sheriff's Office
A woman was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol after crashing into a parked squad car in Beach Park, authorities said. Courtesy of the Lake County Sheriff's Office
A North Chicago woman faces felony drunken driving charges after she crashed into a parked Lake County Sheriff's squad car at the scene of a separate DUI arrest in Beach Park, authorities said Sunday.
Alaya N. Solomon, 36, is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, aggravated DUI, aggravated driving while license revoked, violating Scott's Law and other traffic violations. Also known as the "move over law," Scott's Law requires drivers to slow down and move over, if possible, when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights on.
Sheriff's police said the crash occurred at about 2 a.m. Sunday, after a deputy parked his squad car on Sheridan Road, facing south, just south of Yorkhouse Road. The sheriff's deputy was waiting for a tow truck to take a Honda after its driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI, authorities said.
A passenger from the Honda was seated in the back of the parked squad car because the deputy was going to provide the individual with a ride after the Honda was towed.
The deputy then noticed a Dodge Durango driving south on Sheridan toward him at "a high rate of speed," according to the sheriff's office. The Dodge was traveling in the same lane where the squad car was parked.
The deputy stepped partially onto the road and flashed a flashlight toward the Dodge in an attempt at getting the driver's attention after the squad's emergency lights had failed to do so, according to the sheriff's office.
The Dodge continued south toward the squad car, forcing the deputy to jump off the road. The driver of the Dodge, identified as Solomon, of the 1600 block of Sheridan Road in North Chicago, struck the rear of the squad car, authorities said. The collision caused the squad car to hit the Honda.
The sheriff's deputy called for an ambulance to check the passenger, who was in the back of the squad car, and Solomon. Both were uninjured.
Solomon is being held in Lake County jail on $100,000 bail. She is due in court Tuesday.


dailyheraldchicago--2020-12-20--Constable: Roller coaster year ends on a high note for both kidney recipient and donor

College student Ally Hembd has spent most of 2020 sheltering in her Wheeling home , hooked up to a dialysis machine and hoping to find a donor who would give her a kidney and a new chance at life .
The upbeat 24-year-old got that life-altering kidney in August and returned to the hospital this week after showing symptoms of the coronavirus .
She tested negative for COVID-19 as of Saturday night .
While any illness can be dangerous for someone whose immune system is coping with a strange kidney , Hembd is expected to recover with the care she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chicago .
`` I trust my teams and doctors here immensely , '' Hembd says in a text from her hospital bed , insisting this temporary setback does n't change the message of her journey this year .
`` I think it 's a great idea to give people some hope by reading a wholesome story with a good ending before the holidays . ''
She has experience making that trip from the worst to the best .
`` Before my transplant was horrible .
And COVID in general has been horrible , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ struggling with Stage 4 chronic kidney disease since shortly after her 2014 graduation from Hersey High School .
`` But the transplant was incredible news . ''
Robin Paolino , 37 , of Aurora gave Hembd a new kidney , and both say they are thrilled with the result .
At the start of 2020 , Hembd barely had the energy to take a single computer science class at Harper Community College in Palatine , where most of the other students were 18-year-old men .
Then COVID-19 restrictions took away that brief brush @ @ @ @ @ @ @ down , I was completely at home 24/7 , '' she says .
Starting in November 2018 , four days a week , five hours a day , Hembd was tethered to tubes moving her blood through a pair of dialysis machines stacked next to her heated recliner in what used to be the family living room .
The machines did the work of her two damaged kidneys -- removing the waste , salt and extra water from her blood and keeping her blood pressure , potassium , sodium and bicarbonate at safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off dialysis machines is through a new kidney or death .
The typical waiting time for a donated kidney in Illinois is more than seven years , and only half the people who rely on dialysis live past five years .
Hembd 's break came because of a car window sticker thought up by her parents , Ron and Lynne Hembd , that read , `` Daughter Needs Kidney .
Blood Type O , '' and included an email address .
Paolino , a 2001 Waubonsie Valley High School graduate and high-performance coach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moved back to Aurora after living in Atlanta when she saw the decal on the car of her neighbor , who happened to be a friend of one of Hembd 's sisters .
`` The car was in the parking garage , so I saw it every day , '' Paolino says .
`` I wondered , 'Is that something I 'd be open to ? '
'' She researched the topic of donating a kidney and came to the conclusion that she could handle it physically and mentally .
She sent Hembd @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't get too excited after Paolino submitted her application on Feb. 6 .
`` That 's what happened numerous times with other potential donors , '' Hembd says .
A dozen potential donors were eliminated immediately and another 10 were rejected later because they were n't a good match or they had health issues .
Going through extensive testing at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago , Paolino found out she was a suitable donor on the night of July 2 .
`` I will never forget that day .
It was so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ begged the nurse , `` Please let me tell her . ''
As Hembd donned her latex gloves and was preparing for another dialysis treatment , her cellphone rang .
`` This is happening !
This is it !
I 'm the donor ! ''
Paolino said .
`` I immediately started crying , and then she started crying , and we were just sharing the joy and the love , '' Hembd remembers .
Hembd 's parents and sister , Theresa , were home and joined in the celebration .
`` They @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dad started tearing up , '' says Hembd , who quickly developed a friendship with Paolino .
`` She does n't know me .
Or at least , she did n't know me .
It 's incredible .
She 's just that kind of person . ''
On Aug. 13 , the day after Hembd 's 24th birthday , Paolino went to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago for the pre-op to make sure everything was a go .
`` My way of protecting myself was thinking , 'Well , this is n't going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Even when doctors scheduled the transplant for Aug. 28 , Hembd worried .
`` There 's a lot that can happen in two weeks .
It was kind of torture , '' Hembd says .
`` You 'd think after waiting years for a transplant , I 'd be totally fine waiting a couple of weeks . ''
Her parents took her to the hospital that morning .
Dr. Joseph Leventhal , director of kidney transplantation at Northwestern Memorial Hospital , performed the surgery to harvest Paolino 's kidney .
Then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kidney on Hembd 's right side in Chicago .
Hembd came home two days later .
`` That first week at home , I felt really content and happy , '' Hembd says .
Complications sent her back to Northwestern and later to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge .
Paolino also had some pain during recovery .
But both say they are feeling `` pretty great '' these days .
`` Getting off dialysis is a huge thing , '' says Leventhal .
A donated kidney `` normalizes life expectancy very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noting most kidneys from living donors perform for 20 years .
He says doctors at Northwestern and elsewhere are making progress on efforts to reduce the risk of rejection and make donations easier and last longer .
`` There 's a misconception that you have to be a close relative ( to donate ) .
Nothing could be further from the truth , '' Leventhal says .
`` Do n't fixate on the incompatibility , because we have ways of getting around that . ''
Rejected donors often can change their status by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an underlying condition .
People who are n't good matches for a loved one can donate a kidney to a stranger , then get a kidney back through the kidney paired donation that Leventhal calls `` our swap-ortunity . ''
For more information on donation , visit nmlivingdonor.org and organdonor.gov .
`` It was an amazing experience , '' Paolino says .
`` This is exactly what I 'm supposed to do .
It 's a spiritual thing to do , also .
I feel really good about it now .
Just hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It really moves my heart . ''
Years ago , Paolino lost a 24-year-old friend to cancer .
And , like Hembd , Paolino comes from a family of sisters .
`` I hope to influence others , '' Paolino says , crediting the support she got from Laurie Lee , a former Hawthorn Woods resident who now lives in Cary .
Lee donated a kidney in 2016 and now is a board member of Transplant Village , which supports donors , recipients and their families .
With her new kidney and outlook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ list of colleges .
She says she 'd love to get a master 's degree and become a biostatistician working in the medical field to determine the best ways to treat diseases and disorders .
`` It 's a little hard to remember how I felt all those years ago , '' Hembd says .
`` I feel incredibly hopeful for the future , more than I have for a long time .
It 's really great to be able to give people some good news during this crapshoot of a year .
@

Constable: Roller coaster year ends on a high note for both kidney recipient and donor
As difficult as 2020 has been, Ally Hembd, center, got a new kidney that allows her to join in with her sisters, Julie, left, and Theresa, right. Courtesy of Ally Hembd
Robin Paolino of Aurora says she couldn't be happier about her decision to donate a kidney to stranger Ally Hembd of Wheeling. courtesy of Robin Paolino
After Robin Paolino, left, donated a kidney to Ally Hembd, the pair share a moment. "We're both a little beat up and wearing gowns, but we're so happy," Paolino says. courtesy of Robin Paolino
College student Ally Hembd has spent most of 2020 sheltering in her Wheeling home, hooked up to a dialysis machine and hoping to find a donor who would give her a kidney and a new chance at life. The upbeat 24-year-old got that life-altering kidney in August and returned to the hospital this week after showing symptoms of the coronavirus.
She tested negative for COVID-19 as of Saturday night. While any illness can be dangerous for someone whose immune system is coping with a strange kidney, Hembd is expected to recover with the care she's getting at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
"I trust my teams and doctors here immensely," Hembd says in a text from her hospital bed, insisting this temporary setback doesn't change the message of her journey this year. "I think it's a great idea to give people some hope by reading a wholesome story with a good ending before the holidays."
She has experience making that trip from the worst to the best.
"Before my transplant was horrible. And COVID in general has been horrible," says Hembd, who has been struggling with Stage 4 chronic kidney disease since shortly after her 2014 graduation from Hersey High School. "But the transplant was incredible news."
Robin Paolino, 37, of Aurora gave Hembd a new kidney, and both say they are thrilled with the result.
At the start of 2020, Hembd barely had the energy to take a single computer science class at Harper Community College in Palatine, where most of the other students were 18-year-old men. Then COVID-19 restrictions took away that brief brush with normalcy. "Once that shut down, I was completely at home 24/7," she says.
Starting in November 2018, four days a week, five hours a day, Hembd was tethered to tubes moving her blood through a pair of dialysis machines stacked next to her heated recliner in what used to be the family living room. The machines did the work of her two damaged kidneys -- removing the waste, salt and extra water from her blood and keeping her blood pressure, potassium, sodium and bicarbonate at safe levels.
The only way people get off dialysis machines is through a new kidney or death. The typical waiting time for a donated kidney in Illinois is more than seven years, and only half the people who rely on dialysis live past five years. Hembd's break came because of a car window sticker thought up by her parents, Ron and Lynne Hembd, that read, "Daughter Needs Kidney. Blood Type O," and included an email address.
Paolino, a 2001 Waubonsie Valley High School graduate and high-performance coach for Transformational Growth Partners, had just moved back to Aurora after living in Atlanta when she saw the decal on the car of her neighbor, who happened to be a friend of one of Hembd's sisters.
"The car was in the parking garage, so I saw it every day," Paolino says. "I wondered, 'Is that something I'd be open to?'"
She researched the topic of donating a kidney and came to the conclusion that she could handle it physically and mentally. She sent Hembd an email, but a wary Hembd didn't get too excited after Paolino submitted her application on Feb. 6.
"That's what happened numerous times with other potential donors," Hembd says. A dozen potential donors were eliminated immediately and another 10 were rejected later because they weren't a good match or they had health issues.
Going through extensive testing at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Paolino found out she was a suitable donor on the night of July 2.
"I will never forget that day. It was so powerful," says Paolino, who begged the nurse, "Please let me tell her."
As Hembd donned her latex gloves and was preparing for another dialysis treatment, her cellphone rang.
"This is happening! This is it! I'm the donor!" Paolino said.
"I immediately started crying, and then she started crying, and we were just sharing the joy and the love," Hembd remembers. Hembd's parents and sister, Theresa, were home and joined in the celebration.
"They were cheering and stuff, and my dad started tearing up," says Hembd, who quickly developed a friendship with Paolino. "She doesn't know me. Or at least, she didn't know me. It's incredible. She's just that kind of person."
On Aug. 13, the day after Hembd's 24th birthday, Paolino went to Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago for the pre-op to make sure everything was a go.
"My way of protecting myself was thinking, 'Well, this isn't going to happen,'" Hembd says. Even when doctors scheduled the transplant for Aug. 28, Hembd worried.
"There's a lot that can happen in two weeks. It was kind of torture," Hembd says. "You'd think after waiting years for a transplant, I'd be totally fine waiting a couple of weeks."
Her parents took her to the hospital that morning. Dr. Joseph Leventhal, director of kidney transplantation at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, performed the surgery to harvest Paolino's kidney. Then, Dr. Derrick A. Christopher implanted the healthy kidney on Hembd's right side in Chicago. Hembd came home two days later.
"That first week at home, I felt really content and happy," Hembd says. Complications sent her back to Northwestern and later to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. Paolino also had some pain during recovery. But both say they are feeling "pretty great" these days.
"Getting off dialysis is a huge thing," says Leventhal. A donated kidney "normalizes life expectancy very significantly," the doctor adds, noting most kidneys from living donors perform for 20 years. He says doctors at Northwestern and elsewhere are making progress on efforts to reduce the risk of rejection and make donations easier and last longer.
"There's a misconception that you have to be a close relative (to donate). Nothing could be further from the truth," Leventhal says. "Don't fixate on the incompatibility, because we have ways of getting around that."
Rejected donors often can change their status by losing weight or getting new treatment for an underlying condition. People who aren't good matches for a loved one can donate a kidney to a stranger, then get a kidney back through the kidney paired donation that Leventhal calls "our swap-ortunity." For more information on donation, visit nmlivingdonor.org and organdonor.gov.
"It was an amazing experience," Paolino says. "This is exactly what I'm supposed to do. It's a spiritual thing to do, also. I feel really good about it now. Just hearing from her makes me feel great. It really moves my heart."
Years ago, Paolino lost a 24-year-old friend to cancer. And, like Hembd, Paolino comes from a family of sisters.
"I hope to influence others," Paolino says, crediting the support she got from Laurie Lee, a former Hawthorn Woods resident who now lives in Cary. Lee donated a kidney in 2016 and now is a board member of Transplant Village, which supports donors, recipients and their families.
With her new kidney and outlook, Hembd is applying to a long list of colleges. She says she'd love to get a master's degree and become a biostatistician working in the medical field to determine the best ways to treat diseases and disorders.
"It's a little hard to remember how I felt all those years ago," Hembd says. "I feel incredibly hopeful for the future, more than I have for a long time. It's really great to be able to give people some good news during this crapshoot of a year."