Drier weather in Plains: Drought is expected to expand across the wheat-growing southern and central Plains and in the western Corn Belt this fall while easing in the eastern Corn Belt and the U.S. Southeast, said the Seasonal Drought Outlook. (National Weather Service)
High prices frustrate consumers: In a recent survey, some 80 percent of consumers expressed frustration at rising grocery prices and said they were responding by stocking up during sales, switching to lower-cost brands, using more coupons, and limiting impulse purchases. (The Packer)
More clean energy funds: USDA deputy secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced $104 million in grants and loans through the Rural Energy for America Program for 300 projects in 34 states to expand the use of renewable energy and improve energy efficiency. (USDA)