New laws going into effect Aug. 1 will help consumers get what they pay for, according to Minnesota House Commerce and Labor Committee Chairman Joe Atkins. From new laws that keep concertgoers and sports fans from getting ripped off to new penalties against unscrupulous insurance companies that wrongly deny and delay policyholders' claims, Atkins said 2008 was a great year for Minnesota consumers.

Call 651-989-5151 for events, unless noted. 10 A.M. TODAY Ingrid Michaelson , Nov. 17 at the Pantages Theatre in Mpls. $20-$25. ... Jackson Browne , Oct. 16 at the Orpheum Theatre in Mpls. $36-$56. ...

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois House on Wednesday approved new versions of legislation that Gov. Rod Blagojevich had rewritten to cut taxes for disabled veterans and lower insurance costs for college students.

CHICAGO - Gov. Rod Blagojevich wants lawmakers back at work in Springfield to consider a newly slimmed-down version of his statewide construction program that has stalled because of feuding and disagreements.

[Carla Staffon was inducted into the Morris Communications' 2007 President's Club.

CHICAGO - Gov. Rod Blagojevich tried to revive his proposed statewide construction program Thursday by ratcheting down the price tag and abandoning gambling expansion to pay for it.

Love and Memory quilt show in the West Gallery of the Earlville Opera House. Local quilters invited to exhibit their quilts to celebrate this region's quilting culture. Quilters write a description of how quilt fits the theme "Love and Memory."

Grand Friday Night Fights presents “Undefeated” -- 7:30 p.m. Aug. 29; Grand Casino Hinckley Event Center, Hinckley, Minn....

[Robert Bell of Pierz High School has signed a National Letter of Intent with the University Minnesota men's golf program and will join the team as a freshman for the 2008-09 season, director of golf Brad James announced Thursday.

Elvis Crespo -- 8 p.m., Sept. 13; Grand Casino Hinckley Event Center, Hinckley, Minn....