David Kesmodel

U.S. regulators are poised to ban the sale of caffeine-containing alcoholic drinks amid rising safety concerns, in a blow to several small but fast-growing drinks companies. Four Loko, Joose and other fruit-flavored, alcoholic beverages will no longer be able to contain caffeine under a series of regulatory actions expected from the Food and Drug Administration and other agencies this week, according to U.S. Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D., N.Y.) and people familiar with the matter.

CHICAGO -- President Barack Obama has raised some eyebrows with his decision to send as ambassador to the U.K. a little-known retired investment banker -- and top fund-raiser -- from his hometown who has little diplomatic experience. The post at the Court of St. James's in London is one of the most prestigious in U.S. diplomatic circles.

Mark Lehr's favorite beer is Heineken, but one recent afternoon, the Chicagoan emerged from a 7-Eleven with a 12-pack of Busch that cost him $8 -- about $7 less than a dozen Heinekens. "My funds are limited right now," said the 39-year-old house painter, noting that he has had far fewer customers during the recession.