Illinois Summary - 8/10/11

State Treasurer Weighs In On Iowa Republican Debate

(Springfield, IL)  --  Business experience and the ability to govern are just two things that will set Mitt Romney apart from other Republican presidential hopefuls.  That's according to Illinois state treasurer Dan Rutherford who is the chairman of Romney's campaign in the state.  Rutherford adds that the Massachusetts governor has the financial savvy that's needed to rebuild the nation's economy.  Romney will square off against the other candidates in the first debate of the 2012 election cycle in Ames, Iowa tomorrow.

Smart Grid Can Save Nearly Three-Billion Dollars

(Springfield, IL)  --  A new report reveals that a smart grid in Illinois could save customers nearly three-billion dollars over the next 20 years.  The grid would call for a three-dollar rate hike for every ComEd and Ameren customer but officials say they'll see at least that much shaved off their bill.  Governor Quinn, on the other hand, doesn't like the idea of making customers pay for the grid.  He says he'll veto the measure as soon as it hits his desk.

Trading Limit For Corn Raised

(Springfield, IL)  --  Daily trading limits on corn futures and options are going up ten cents per bushel.  The Commodity Futures Trading Commission approved the increase, which was proposed by the CME Group last month.  The current trade value is 30 cents per bushel.  The increase will go into effect on August 22nd.

Champaign Mayor Named To National Top Five List

(Champaign, IL)  --  The mayor of Champaign is getting national recognition.  Mayor Don Gerard is on MTV's list of top five musicians who have political credentials.  Gerard spent nearly 20 years as a rock and roll artist, sharing the stage with the likes of Sheryl Crow.  The late U.S. Congressman Sonny Bono has also been recognized by MTV for his musical and political contributions to the nation.

Parents Reminded To Get Student Vaccinations Before School Starts

(Springfield, IL)  --  More than two-million students are heading back to school and the Illinois State Board of Education advises parents to make sure they're up to date on their shots.  Required vaccines include tetanus, diphtheria, measles, rubella, mumps and human papillomavirus.  Proof of up-to-date immunizations is required for children entering any grade.  State Superintendent of Education Christopher A. Koch says proper vaccinations help students stay healthy and active.

State Treasurer Looking To Return Money To Rightful Owners

(Springfield, IL)  --  The state treasurer is hoping he has money that belongs to you.  He's setting up shop at the state fair where people can come find out if the state owes them money through Cash Dash.  There's more than one and a half billion dollars in assets in Treasurer Dan Rutherford's care and he wants to put in the hands of the rightful owner.  He says about ten-percent of people at a recent cash dash event found they had money coming to them.  The Illinois State Fair runs August 12th through the 21st .

State Farm To Monitor Driving Habits

(Bloomington, IL)  --  State Farm is keeping a closer eye on some its policyholders, but that may not be bad news.  The insurance company plans to monitor the habits of its drivers.  Those who are considered safe will get a break on their rates while those who aren't so safe will see an increase in theirs.  Drivers can choose to participate in the program which will start in September.

Business Bureau Offers Tips To Protect Students From Identity Theft

(Alton, IL)  --  The Better Business Bureau is urging college students to protect themselves against identity theft.  One investigator says the students should be careful not to get an quote "it can't happen to me" attitude.  They offer a few tips for students to keep in mind.  First, students should have sensitive mail sent to their parents' home or a post office box.  They should also keep important documents under lock and key, never lend their credit or debit card to anyone, and make sure their computer has up-to-date antivirus and spy ware software.