NEWS FROM THE HILL

NEWS FROM THE HILL: "USDA ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF $21.9 MILLION IN HIGH ENERGY COST GRANTS WASHINGTON, Aug. 20, 2007 – Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today announced the availability of $21.9 million to help rural communities cope with extremely high energy costs. Communities have until October 1 to apply for grants under this program. “These grants will help rural residents and businesses upgrade energy infrastructure and make other energy efficiency improvements,” Johanns said. “The rising cost of energy can challenge economic growth and opportunity. These grants are another example of how USDA works to help rural communities overcome economic obstacles and create opportunity.”"