Recession Briefing 8.3: Housing is Back

What you need to know today to survive and thrive in the recession.

By every measure, except foreclosures, the housing market has stabilized and many areas are recovering, according to a spate of data released in the past two weeks. (Los Angeles Times)

Families are expected to spend 8 percent less on back-to-school purchases, including everything from new shoes to dorm room gear, the National Retail Federation forecasts. Also, Recessionwire: 10 stores offering deals. (Associated Press)

Strapped local and state governments are still spending on at least one activity: seeking stimulus money. (Wall Street Journal)…