Gas Prices Drop As Fall Begins

WASHINGTON — The national average price for a gallon of regular gas fell five cents in the past week to $3.15, according to the American Automobile Association. The decrease comes as the switch to winter-blend gasoline, which is cheaper to produce, begins and a Pacific Northwest pipeline issue is resolved. Prices in northern Illinois vary, with Ogle County at $3.10, Lee County at $3.05 and DeKalb County at $3.31. The statewide average is $3.37. The Atlantic hurricane season remains a concern for potential refinery impacts in the Gulf over the next two months.