Gas prices hit $4 mark

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BY KATHLEEN QUILLIGAN
Kathleen.Quilligan@nwitimes.com
219.662.5331 | Wednesday, May 14, 2008 | (113 comment(s))

The $4-per-gallon gas prices at numerous stations welcoming residents in the region Tuesday morning were unwelcome -- especially for those with nearly empty gas tanks.

Watching gas prices steadily creep up during the past few months has been an aggravating exercise for residents as they figure out how to get the most gas for their buck and balance the rest of their funds accordingly.

"(Customers) come in crying sometimes," said Kulwant Multani, the owner of the Valero station at the corner of 101st Street and Broadway in Merrillville, where a gallon of gas was $4.05 on Tuesday.

Bill Bush, a spokesman of the American Petroleum Institute, said the cost of crude oil is by far the biggest factor in gas prices. He said with crude oil at least $120 a barrel, the refiners pay at least $2.85 per gallon. Each barrel contains 42 gallons.

"Today there is a good, strong demand for oil worldwide," Bush said. "Even though the United States' demand has leveled, we end up paying the world's market price, and there's a lot of growth in China and India."

Brandon Wright, the manager of communications for the Petroleum Marketers Association of America, said the weakening of the U.S. dollar also plays a role in the increase.

The weakening of the dollar wasn't on the mind of Crown Point resident Sarah O'Conner when she filled up her car at the Valero station. The weakening of her wallet was.

"I'm just thankful I can walk down the street," said O'Conner, who now walks to her job at a local nursing home. "I get everything on sale, and my mom watches my son to save money."

Brad Durham, of Merrillville, filled up his wife's car Tuesday at the Speedway station on the corner of U.S. 30 and Broadway for $59.25.

Gas prices have had an effect on his family's budget as well as his business - the Avis car rental facility at 81 W. 78th Place. Durham said he's seen more rentals of smaller cars but also has seen an increase in business with the rising cost of plane tickets.

AAA spokeswoman Beth Mosher said it is becoming common for families to scale back driving plans as they watch the prices rise. She said more families are expected to stay closer to home this summer.

"Gas prices have an impact on the economy as a whole," she said. "It's a bad circle we're in."

AAA ways to save money on gas:
- Slow down. Every five miles you drive over 60 mph adds 20 cents per gallon.
- Consolidate your shopping trips. For example, go to the grocery store after work.
- Take public transportation or car pool.

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Dems at fault wrote on May 30, 2008 12:52 PM:

" We now find out the Democrats have been restricting our ability to drill for our own oil, and to refine it. They are also preventing us from building any safe nuclear plants, while 75% of France's energy is from safe nuclear.

I am now going to sign up to help elect more Republicans, I have had enough! "

good Question wrote on May 23, 2008 8:51 PM:

" Good question, how are gas prices set at the pump? For the answer, google the phrase "The cost of gas: How two stations set their prices" and read the article.

Here's an example:
Earlier this week, Kehler's wholesale price jumped by 4 cents a gallon. The price is set by Sunoco Inc., from whom he leases his gas station and is contractually obligated to buy.

Shipments arrive overnight, whenever a remote sensor tells Sunoco that Kehler's tanks are low. The wholesale increase means Kehler will have to raise his pump prices soon — if he wants a shot at breaking even on gas sales.

That decision — the type of pricing dilemma gas station managers face daily — is not as much of a no-brainer as you might think. If a station raises its prices before its competitors, it may lose gasoline sales. But the longer station managers wait — with wholesale prices rising — the more money they lose. And sometimes they have no choice but to cut prices to keep cash flowing in.
"

Question wrote on May 21, 2008 10:40 PM:

" What I don't understand is this: The oil companies already have gas and oil stored. The gas stations have a gasoline supply. Why then when oil goes up $3.00 in one day does the gas go up within hours? Isn't this oil that has already been paid for at a lower rate? "

two words for you wrote on May 21, 2008 9:00 PM:

" Economical Terrorism!!! "

Econ major is right Delbert wrote on May 21, 2008 7:13 PM:

" EconMajor is right, Delbert.
"Regulation" cannot overcome the law of supply and demand. That would be like saying, "we are going to pass a law that if you fall off your roof, you will not fall to the ground, instead you will float in the air until your buddies can pull you down with a long stick".

Would be nice wouldn't it? But you can't "regulate" oil supply and demand. China and India are growing fast, and they DEMAND more oil. Democrats won't let us drill for more oil or refine what we have, thus redeucing the SUPPLY.

Ask yourself, what happens to prices when DEMAND goes up, and SUPPLY goes down?

For example, if there is only one life preserver on a boat and it starts sinking, does the short supply make it more valuable or less valuable?

What if all of a sudden red cars become in very hot demand. Everyone wants a red car, no one wants any other car. So you go to the local car lot...do you think the extra demand will bid up the price on the red cars there?

Thank you for thinking. "

Matt wrote on May 21, 2008 3:00 PM:

" go to h t t p : //articles.moneycentral.msn.com/SavingandDebt/SaveonaCar/Why4DollarAGallonGasIsABargain.aspx?GT1=33007 (remove spaces in the beginning.
msn article about gas prices "

Econmajor wrote on May 20, 2008 8:20 PM:

" Regulate'g the price of gas is the fastest way to completely destroy whats left of the economy. Oil Co's (all-of-them-not-just-BP) would be forced to limit production as they would not be able to maintain a margin between the price of crude and the cost of gasoline (most of which is taxes anyway). As a result, there will be extreme shortages at the pump, not to mention long lines a.k.a gas-rationing. This will effect every product/consumer, etc. The gasoline market is a FREE market and is self-correcting, there's plenty of $4/gal gas but there wouldnt be enough $2/gas,...thats the way it works! Simple! However, the govt does need to look into speculation which is responsible for the inflated price of crude. Or then, maybe the US Govt should stop cause'g the things which inflate the market and keep the price of crude so artificially high. "

Just thinking wrote on May 20, 2008 5:20 PM:

" I'm from IL and usually go to IN for everything. Today gas was higher in IN (which doesn't have all the taxes IL has). IN was 3.96, IL towns: Crete 3.93 Glenwood 3.92 which means Walmart was probably cheaper - those are only a few. I think you people in IN should ask your gov. to investigate price gouging. "

delbert wrote on May 20, 2008 2:46 PM:

" Used to be in the "old days" the government used to regulate industries that had the ability to gouge the consumer. Republicans say deregulate, the free market will take care of itself. Just like cable tv and electricity, this is a case that proves they're wrong. "

to Fundamental changes wrote on May 20, 2008 12:34 PM:

" Those are good short and long term options, but in the short term we also need to drill for more oil under American soil, for national safety and security and also to save cost while we develop alternative sources....they just aren't there yet to take up the slack.

Of all the candidates, McCain agrees most with your commonsense suggestions as well as understanding the economic realities that require drilling for more American oil in the meantime. "

Fundamental changes wrote on May 20, 2008 10:26 AM:

" Keep blaming whoever you want to but it's time we accept that the cheap oil party is over. We have two choices: adapt or see our standard of living significantly decline.

Short term solutions:
Increase usage of alternative fuels, increase fuel efficiency on current vehicles, take less trips and consolidate when possible, walk/bike whenever possible, eat locally/regionally grown food.

Long term solutions:
Changes in urban design that accommodate pedestrian/bike travel, changes in our commuting habits, transitioning more fully to non-petroleum based fuels and sources of energy (e.g. solar, nuclear).

I agree that our leadership across the board has failed to have the foresight to push for such changes but it's about time we start doing our part. We need to buy more efficient vehicles, walk instead of drive, and demand more from our politicians. "

sick of the bull wrote on May 19, 2008 5:36 PM:

" You must work at BP. "

Is anybody listening wrote on May 19, 2008 2:23 PM:

" But, who cares right? "

to Sick of the bull wrote on May 19, 2008 11:41 AM:

" Hey "Sick of the bull", Saudi Arabia can't get around the laws of supply and demand any more than they can get around the laws of gravity. Sure, they can tax their citizens and decide to subsidize the price of gas, but one way or another, they are paying market prices, either through taxes or at the pump.

Please learn some economics before you spew any more untruths here. Thank you. "

RegionAire To taxpayer and other conspiracty theorists wrote on May 19, 2008 8:42 AM:

" Lame ducks and taxes? Just when did prices start soaring? Seems to me it coincided with the entrance of "chicken-with-its-head-cut-off" Democratic congress and by China finally starting to flex their not inconsiderable purchasing power to fuel their needs. We are talking about commodities here that can be moved to whomever will pay the highest price. That applies to natural gas too. NOBODY sets the price on commodities because it is impossible to do so. The MARKET discovers the price of goods because it is the most efficient and accurate way of reflecting REALITY. Do you people have even the slightest grip on basic economics? "

re Canadian oil wrote on May 19, 2008 7:10 AM:

" I don't know if you happened to watch CNN We were warned Out of gas that aired this past weekend. but according to that piece they say that Canada is in the process of building a pipe line to export it's oil to China. If it's 100% true I do not know.

"

maria wrote on May 19, 2008 12:16 AM:

" REDICULOS "

Canadian oil wrote on May 18, 2008 11:17 PM:

" Demand is down - oil goes up. Demand is up - oil goes up. Everyday on the news is a new reason the oil goes up. I thought Canada had a lot of oil they are pumping out. What's the deal with that? "

Wall Street wrote on May 18, 2008 11:10 PM:

" Wall Street is controlling the price of oil. The shareholders are now filthy rich. They'll do anything for the shareholders. "

Sick of the bull wrote on May 18, 2008 11:08 PM:

" Remember the video of Bush holding hands with the Saudi King - I wonder what they were actually saying to each other. Do you know that gas is only like .25 a gallon in Saudi Arabia and some of the other middle eastern countries? Supply and demand doesn't seen to be a problem over there. "

taxpayer wrote on May 18, 2008 7:05 PM:

" First its gas at $4 a gallon.
Next, natural gas will "spike" because winter is coming.
Nipsco already wants an increase for electric rates.
Another four years of Republicans will have you eating dog food and sleeping in a cardboard box.
You can't have either party in power for over four years. Once they become "lame ducks" they pour on the tax increases. "

Retired wrote on May 17, 2008 9:57 AM:

" I like the person who said Bush worked for an oil company. WAKE UP He owned Abrusco Oil and then bought Harken Energy from his Dad. HE OWNS AN OIL COMPANY. Thats when his Dad invested heavily in The Carlyle Group with the Bin Ladin Family. United Defense is a division of it. They sell Bradley Military Vehicles to our Government. Ever Wonder why we are still in the war. "

living on the edge wrote on May 17, 2008 9:11 AM:

" Oh my gosh. Thank you so much, namyzarc! I get it now. I will trade in my 6 cylinder car for a 4 cylinder; quit my job of 20 years and find a new one (because it is so easy) and pull up my stakes and move closer to work all because of the increase in gas. I didn't realize it was that simple of a solution!!!! Thank you for opening my eyes and setting me straight! "

TO CORY wrote on May 16, 2008 10:17 PM:

" Cory, your right....and to add to your point if you can't afford the gas, move closer to work (less travel), turn off your cable ($50 a month), get a cheaper cell phone plan ($20 month), drink only water from your tap because pop and coffee are ridiculously overpriced ($30 month). An extra $100 a month should help ease the pain... "

namyzarc wrote on May 16, 2008 5:04 PM:

" To all those that have implied that I'm well off: Sorry to dissapoint you, but I'm not. I drive a 4cyl car also. I've been affected by gas prices also.
If I can live in Hammond, work 30 miles away in downtown Chicago and though I am affected by gas prices, I can still adjust my lifestyle to compensate.
So to those that say I'm ignorant, here's my advice:
Keep living as far away from your jobs as possible. Never ride a bike to work. Never carpool. Keep driving your gas-guzzlers. Don't bother adjusting your lifestyles at all. Keep complaining. If you complain enough maybe the tooth-fairly will come over and magically make things better. "

to Curtis wrote on May 16, 2008 3:52 PM:

" If you pay $35 for 1/2 tank in your 4 cyl car, you pay $70 per tank. Just how big is your gas tank? Sounds bigger than a 4 cyl. Last summer, it cost me $30 for a full tank in my Cavalier. Yesterday, it was $48.00. That's a 60% increase. And you don't see a problem with that?

If there was an EFFICIENT bus system around here, maybe some of us might ride it. In the 90s I lived in an eastern state that had a very active bus system. It took 1 1/2 hours to get to a job that took 20 minutes by car. That's NOT efficient.

My apologies to those of you who pay a lot more than I do. I know there are many. Everything is relative. I'm merely trying to make a point. "

to TS wrote on May 16, 2008 3:46 PM:

" It might still be a free country but the way it's headed it won't be for long. And all you sheeple are just going to sit around and watch and listen to everything this government tells you to do.
And if that's what it takes to get the government to understand that we won't put up with it, then I got my tent ready. I think a few of us can manage living without electricity for a few days... lights, a warm shower, god forbid the internet, (even though that will never happen) I'm sure there are some that can survive. For all of you that can't then it sucks to be you, maybe you shouldn't have become so dependent on others. "

Talk about cutting taxes wrote on May 16, 2008 3:19 PM:

" Holiday tax cut...Ha..just so the Government can get the money for road and bridge work from us another way anyway. I suggest imposing a VERY HIGH short term capital gains tax on oil futures..maybe 70%.. thus driving down the incentive to continue to trade as that would increase the risk threshold for speculators. I am all for free trade and market opportunity..as a stock trader myself.. however oil is choking the economy and everyone will pay the price in the form of less money, lost value in retirement plans, etc. etc. Oil executives estimate that speculation is driving about 30 to 40 dollars of the oil price..source.. cnbc.com... Think about it... "

Sick of Ignorance wrote on May 16, 2008 12:25 PM:

" Fuel prices ARE a major problem, for consumers and our nation as a whole. It is weighing down what would otherwise be a robustly growing economy.
Instead of buying into childish rhetoric and politician fueled misdirection blaming oil companies (for performing a vital service), do some reasearch and learn something.
I'm all for alternative Energy systems working with current ones (Wind, solar, Hydro-electric, Nuclear) and we should develop that concurrent with drilling everywhere we can for Oil and Natural Gas. We already know where it is, but we are being blocked from getting it by environmentalist extremists and their political allies who run Congress. These people are blocking efforts that HARM THE UNITED STATES directly. It is about time the citizens realized who is responsible for this.
Look up who has voted against Drilling in ANWR and other areas, and you will find a majority of Democrats and some Republicans as well. If you want to place blame--there are your culprits. Every time you fill up with $4.00 gas, remember that those crooks are responsible. Find out who they are, and vote them out of office. Stop believing the lies. "

TS wrote on May 16, 2008 9:25 AM:

" I'm not saying to not stand up for your rights. Every person in America has the right to do so if they wish. What I'm saying is that is it really worth shutting down the entire nation just to save money on gas? It could make it worse than the Depression. At least then people could have lights, heat, food, etc. They just couldn't afford them. Our country could come to a complete stand still without gas. Which is why I have said over and over again that we need to be LESS DEPENDENT ON OIL.

Again please stand up for your rights your way and I'll stand up for mine my way. After all , even though some may say I'm wrong, we do still live in a free country. "

to TS wrote on May 16, 2008 8:53 AM:

" Yea that's exactly the problem... Everyone who thinks like you. It's not about what it will do or how it will help us. It's about standing up for our rights, something people did all the time MANY years ago. Now people just does what the government tells them to do. The man that stood on the roof of the Family Express for example. He knew it wasn't going to change anything, let alone the prices but he was standing up for himself and his rights. There needs to be more people in the US that can be as brave as he was, to fight for their rights and to let our government know that we aren't going to put up with this anymore.

The good ole US of A was SUPPOSED to be a free country. Now look what they've done. "

moron hater wrote on May 16, 2008 8:35 AM:

" to cory:
Try that $.25 difference in filling up 200 gallons of fuel on a semi! "

Sick of Ignorance wrote on May 16, 2008 8:05 AM:

" To the other poster using 'Sick of Ignorance'
First--I don't own any oil stocks, and pay just like everyone else, and worry about the rising costs. The difference is that I understand the reasons for this, instead of espousing idiotic and incredibly childish conspiracies about the President and "Big Oil."
I honestly don't know how someone comes to cling to ignorance such as you are displaying. If you hate the President and his policies--fine, but please try to avoid the hysterical and baseless nonsense that you embrace.
I'm not forwarding the President's or Oil companies views--I'm stating facts in regards to the Economy, which you clearly have no understanding of.
Economics and things like oil prices are not governed by the President or even oil companies, but rather an international market--one that is prone to speculation (look it up). Democrats blockage of things like Drilling in ANWR and off the Coast of Florida makes us victims of that speculation, which is why we are having these inflated oil prices, which is the cost factor driving up prices at the pump.
Try learning something and addressing problems instead of playing the victim. "

TS wrote on May 16, 2008 7:44 AM:

" All of you who think a nation wide gas strike will solve our problem , have you really thought it through? If you some how managed to get every person in the U.S. , heck the world, to not buy gas for a week or two, or longer, do you really think that the oil companies are going to cry uncle?

What if the reverse happens. What if instead of lowering the prices, they raise them, or worse they shut the entire system down. How long could we live without gas? Do you think our government would open up our oil stock pile to help out with a problem we caused by striking?

Our grocery store shelves would be empty in a matter of days. Because without gas there would be no shipments. Every person in the nation would be unemployed. The lights , heating, water systems, etc. would all stop operating. We would be back in the dark age all because people think that a gas strike will lower our gas prices. Is it really worth it? "

cory wrote on May 16, 2008 6:36 AM:

" To What:

Gas prices increased a quarter in the past week. For an average 15 gallon gas tank, that's an extra $3.75 per tank. If you can't swing that increase, you need to get your finances together and get another job. "

Rocket Scientist wrote on May 16, 2008 12:19 AM:

" Starbucks coffee on average is about $54 a gallon, but nobody seems to have a problem paying for that... What about tabasco sauce... nearly $100 a gallon. Oh then there's liquid paper at nearly $200... and inkjet printer ink is over $2,700 a gallon. I don't hear nobody complaining about these items... But then again, my car doesn't run on ink or tabasco sauce. "

Don Dodge wrote on May 15, 2008 6:31 PM:

" I have a solution that would work, but too mant people are afraid to carry it out. A NATIONWIDE STRIKE!! Shut this country down. Noone goes to work, the store, the movies-nowhere. I gaurantee a couple days of that and they'll be scrambling to drop their prices. But like I said, too many people in this country have become scared little sheep. "

To Those that are Laughing about the Gas Prices wrote on May 15, 2008 5:55 PM:

" As diesel fuel continues to escalate, you will be paying more for everything in order to cover transportation costs. How shortsighted can you really be? "

stray wrote on May 15, 2008 4:40 PM:

" I have a scooter that gets excellent gas mileage!!! Will someone tell me when they're going to extend the South Shore rail line to Valpo? "

Steve wrote on May 15, 2008 3:09 PM:

" Rather than going back and forth insulting each other and blaming politics, remember that the price of gasoline (more specifically oil), like any commodity, is dependant on the market. Supply and demand is still in effect here. The problem is that consumption has only very recently slowed, and only a small amount (1.3% was the figure I read in the WSJ yesterday). We can all do things to use less gasoline – and in turn buy less gasoline. I am not saying do not drive, ride your bike, etc. I know that does not work for everybody. My point is trying some little things to reduce your consumption of gasoline. The “don’t buy gas on day X” idea does not work, but a REAL overall reduction will work – and when demand falls, so will prices. There are tips everywhere on the Internet about how to combine your trips, carpool when possible, maintain your tire pressure, drive the speed limit, ease off the gas and brake pedals, etc. Let us all try those ideas and buy less gasoline and in turn the prices will fall. Good luck to everybody! "

Steve wrote on May 15, 2008 3:08 PM:

" Rather than going back and forth insulting each other and blaming politics, remember that the price of gasoline (more specifically oil), like any commodity, is dependant on the market. Supply and demand is still in effect here. The problem is that consumption has only very recently slowed, and only a small amount (1.3% was the figure I read in the WSJ yesterday). We can all do things to use less gasoline – and in turn buy less gasoline. I am not saying do not drive, ride your bike, etc. I know that does not work for everybody. My point is trying some little things to reduce your consumption of gasoline. The “don’t buy gas on day X” idea does not work, but a REAL overall reduction will work – and when demand falls, so will prices. There are tips everywhere on the Internet about how to combine your trips, carpool when possible, maintain your tire pressure, drive the speed limit, ease off the gas and brake pedals, etc. Let us all try those ideas and buy less gasoline - and in turn the prices will fall. Good luck to everybody!
"

To Keith wrote on May 15, 2008 2:18 PM:

" You didn't see me in the Starbucks drive-through the other day but if you look tomorrow I will be there getting my $5.50 cup of Latte, just because you said something. And while I am sipping on it and all that foam on top, I will be thinking of you, and wondering why you are worried about the size of cars there, and how much we are paying for our Joe. By the way I will be in the small suv. Blow and I will wave at you. "

To Keith wrote on May 15, 2008 12:53 PM:

" Just so you know as I sat in my new Ford Expedition EL waiting for my Starbucks ($5.53 cup Keith)I said to myself I should have gotten a scone (you need to try them!!) as well…. Like the Harley sign states “want free gas – EAT BEANS”.. You could buy a new vehicle to get better gas mileage…. WHY??? You would offset the new care price with better gas mileage…. This too shall pass.. Walk Ride Run – We can all use a little exercise every now and than – including myself but filling up my lawn mower is killing me!!!!!

"

To Sick of Ignorance wrote on May 15, 2008 12:34 PM:

" You must have stock in BP. Anyway I am "stunned" too. That you can still swallow the lies Bush and the Republicans throw out to the sheep like you that care about nothing but your oil company dividend check. "

Keith wrote on May 15, 2008 12:18 PM:

" Talk about stupid just this morning I seen four big suv's waiting in the drive up at a Starbucks to buy a $5.00 cup of coffee! "

Sick of Ignorance wrote on May 15, 2008 9:53 AM:

" I'm stunned by the people posting here about "big oil" and the President. How you can go through life with such misconceptions is amazing.
Perhaps you need to take off the tin-foil and learn something instead of listening to your Democrat masters who feed you this line of nonsense to trick you into forgetting their failures.
There is one reason we have high energy prices (well two--the other is a weak dollar), and that is DEMOCRATS have blocked every attempt to drill for oil, that we know we have, which would have a massive effect on the market price, which is where it is due to SPECULATION, not supply and demand.
Democrats are depending on your ignorance, which is apparently in abundant supply regarding how the economy works. They just say "Bush is to blame" and you are stupid enough to believe them, with your idiotic "big oil" conspiracies. I'm sorry that your public education failed you so badly that you believe this drivel, but reality trumps your little fantasy.
If you are unhappy with gas prices--look no further than the Democrats you keep electing to blame.
Democrat Congress=failure. "

Not gonna happen wrote on May 15, 2008 9:44 AM:

" Sure, I will just go out right now and trade in my vehicle that I still owe on for a 4 cylinder. In the meantime, I lock myself into ANOTHER 3-5 year car loan. That sounds like a good idea. The issue is not what car you drive, the issue is getting taken advantage of by having to pay outrageous gas prices! There is no reason gas has to be this high, but as long as we say/do nothing about it, we are screwed. "

To Reminder wrote on May 15, 2008 9:43 AM:

" Boy, you really swallowed Bush, Cheney and Rummy's lies hook line and sinker. The more Bush keeps the Middle East stirred up the higher the price of gas. That's why the oil companies bought him the presidency. "

Transit wrote on May 15, 2008 9:16 AM:

" Curtis, one thing you overlooked is that in Europe, there is MASS TRANSIT, so for the most part, people don't even NEED a fuel-efficient vehicle.

MASS TRANSIT, you know things like the South Shore that the NIMBY's in NWI whine about paying for because "I don't use it" "

Dont be such a simpleton wrote on May 15, 2008 8:13 AM:

" May I remind the class that DEMOCRATS have run congress for the last 2 YEARS. We surrendered control to them accepting their promise to correct course. YET, THEY HAVE DONE NOTHING BUT COMPLAIN & BLAME BUSH FOR EVERYTHING!!! If the President is indeed in "big oil's hip pocket," then the DEMOCRAT-controlled Congress should pass energy legislation which calls him out. Back him into a corner and force him to veto it thereby exposing the conspiracy you charge him with. God Almighty, put your darn political sabers back in its partisan sheath and realize that WE are the problem... the President & Congress mirror our cowardice, selfishness, ignorance, and intolerance. We want our cake and eat it too! That ain't gonna happen. "

Curtis wrote on May 15, 2008 8:03 AM:

" After reading all these comments, I must say that namyzarc actually made the most since. Our country is so dependent upon oil that our economy is not greatly hurting because of this. Most people do not know, but gas prices in Europe are double if not triple what we pay. However, what they have been smart about is that they buy fuel efficient vehicles that can take them 30 to 40 MPG. Go to London some, well anywhere in Europe for that matter, and count how many SUVs or full size trucks you see. Very little!

I have a 4 cylinder vehicle and drive 500+ miles per week and only pay $65 a week in gas. I have yet to pay over $35 to fill my car up when it is at a half of a tank. Use your common sense. Trade in the gas guzzlers for more efficient vehicles! "

TS wrote on May 15, 2008 7:40 AM:

" They have been telling us for years that this was going to happen, sky high gas prices. But either no one listened or they said it was "crazy talk" , saying that would never happen in America. Are any of you listening now? WE made this mess we're in and we can either do something about it or just sit around whining. We can support people who want to put in nation wide public transportation systems. We can support people who are trying to find affordable alternative fuels. We can personally stop being so dependent on oil. It's time to stop pointing fingers and blaming others for this mess. It's time to stand up and do something about it. Whining about it doesn't change anything. "

reminder to Can anyone wrote on May 15, 2008 7:31 AM:

" Yes, "Can anyone", I will remind you that this war is not about oil.

The US is showing to the world, to its friends and foes, that it will pay a high price to make the world better. We will put it all on the line. This country is, still, the place that will take responsibility when no one else will. In this our entire country is like the firemen of 9/11 who looked up, saw the burning towers and charged.
Bush has, meanwhile, demonstrated to the entire world that he is neither a bombastic naïf nor a reckless cowboy but, in fact, another kind of American stereotype: the steely-eyed rocket man. Don't tread on him. It is good for the world that it see him as he is.

The American victory in removing Saddam means that the United States has removed a great and serious threat to the innocent people of the world. An evil man who was gathering to himself weapons of mass destruction was a danger to the world. And so, with the successful prosecution of the war, the world will be safer. "

to Intellegence wrote on May 15, 2008 6:48 AM:

" How will voting for Obama in November lower the price of gas? It's controlled by people in the markets. If Iran says it's going to destroty Isreal, the market feels the flow of oil will be disrupted so up goes the price. It's supply and precieved demand. Also, AlGore, if elected back in 2000, wanted to put a $3-4 tax on each gallon of gas. Imagine if he was our prez and got his way? "

Quit Bellyaching wrote on May 15, 2008 6:39 AM:

" If you voted for Bush/Cheney like most in Indiana did, what did you expect? Did you think they were going to stab their oil company buddies in the back? The same buddies that bought their election and were invited to the secret (no photos please) wedding in Crawford? "

Can anyone wrote on May 15, 2008 6:05 AM:

" remind me again that this war is not about oil. "

misunderstanding on Bush and oil wrote on May 15, 2008 2:35 AM:

" There is a lot of misunderstanding on President Bush and oil. Yes, he used to work for an oil-related company many years ago, so yes, he has experience in the energy industry which makes him a better president. But, he does not have any current oil investments and he doesn't personally benefit from the price of oil going up. In fact, he would like to see oil prices stabilize so we can continue to have the great, booming economy we have had since his tax relief of 2003. (by "booming economy" I mean the very high GDP growth rates, which reflect the higher wages earned by people, the lower unemployment (around 5%, lower than the average the last 3 decades), low inflation, and 7.2 million good new jobs).

So yes, liberating the 25 million Iraqi people and giving them back their own oil resources was a good thing...in the past, it was used by Saddam to build more palaces, pay off corrupt UN officials like Saddam and his son (google: Oil for Food Scandal), and build more state run rape rooms, pay for plastic shredders and pay those who dug the mass graves. "

Send the message home wrote on May 14, 2008 10:27 PM:

" Think of this, in 1941 we entered World War II because Japan thought we were going to cut off their oil supply. So Japan jumped the gun, we were supplying them oil from our fields in Texas, Oklahoma and other states. After the war we developed Saudi Oil fields looking for water. Their oil was cheap and easier to refine. Our government made policies to cap our wells and to buy foreign oil. We are not stuck, we have our own oil we just need to make some new policies. "

Send the message home wrote on May 14, 2008 10:03 PM:

" In the past seven days gas prices went up thirty two cents. Excessive Gouging? You can bet on it but don't run out to buy stock. Dip into the bank account and ride the wild ride of the commodities markets. That is where the money is made and why the price of oil is so high.
The housing market is bust, inflation is on the rise and those low intrest rates will be double digits again in the near future.
The holiday is around the corner, stay home grill some burgers and dogs. Travel and pleasure boating is becoming a sport for the upper rich and famous crowd, don't support them by following their lead.
You don't have to start a war to have a revolution! "

Re Scott N wrote on May 14, 2008 9:12 PM:

" Good points , well put . "

Difference ... NO wrote on May 14, 2008 9:11 PM:

" If you go back and look at the voting records of our Leaders , you will find you cannot tell Democratic from Republican , one is just as involved in this fuel mess as the other . Nothing will change regardless to who gets in the white house . "

Jana wrote on May 14, 2008 6:09 PM:

" Namyzarc, you're ignorant. A lot of us in the region are living at poverty level or way below or a little above (at least the part of the region I'm from)and the businesses and workplaces in this area are so far apart that the only way we can get to work is to drive FAR! My boyfriend and I are graduate students at Purdue Calumet and we work on campus while attending classes. We can't afford to live on campus and we can't afford to drive to campus anymore so we have a choice-- get jobs on a pretty much worthless Literature degree (we can get jobs in Chicago!) and drop out of school, or go to school and go broke. Wake up! We people can't afford everything! "

To FOOLS Dont U Get It wrote on May 14, 2008 5:37 PM:

" Precisely explained. It has nothing to do with who's in the White House or who's running Congress. The high price of oil is the result of Bernanke cutting interest rates and tanking the dollar to stave off the subprime crisis, and the speculators who caused real estate prices to soar going into commodities to make a buck.

Until interest rates go up and the dollar strengthens again, expect to pay through the nose for gas and diesel. Oil company profits are about 8-9% of revenue, which is well less than Google makes. "

What wrote on May 14, 2008 5:22 PM:

" To Cory:

If gas was only "a few dollars more," it wouldn't be an issue. I think most of us would agree gas has gone up more than a few dollars to fill our tanks!! "

Democrats Promised wrote on May 14, 2008 5:06 PM:

" in 2006 during their campaign to do something about high gas prices that they claimed was the result of republicans who controlled congress. Well, they didn't do anything and the price of gas is up over 75% since then. And they prevent the oil companies from drilling and exploring. They are the cause of higher gas prices, not the republicans. "

Sick and Tired wrote on May 14, 2008 4:44 PM:

" Things will only get worse when the Republican gets back into the White House. So stop crying and vote Democratic in November. "

kathy wrote on May 14, 2008 4:34 PM:

" To namyzarc: Maybe your hand's in the cookie jar (or oil barrel), but ours aren't. Even those of us driving 4 cyl cars are having a hard time. I remember when it took $20 to fill my car. That was about 2 years ago. Now, it's $60. If you were in Europe for 13 years, why did you come back to the "brats" that live here? Maybe you should go back there. "

cory wrote on May 14, 2008 3:48 PM:

" if paying a few dollars more for a tank of gas is breaking your budget, something is wrong with your budget, not the gas prices. "

FarmerTrucker wrote on May 14, 2008 3:26 PM:

" How you'd pay upwards of $4.75 to $5.05 a gallon for diesel?
Diesel fuel brings you your food. Diesel fuel runs the tractors that plants and harvests your food as well as the food for the cows, the chickens, the piggies.
"

Look At The Bright Side.... wrote on May 14, 2008 3:22 PM:

" Higher gas prices mean more conservation, less congestion on our overcrowed roads, much cleaner air to breath. less dependancy on foreign oil, and we don't have to worry where to store all our dollar bills (or should I say pesos?). And with less consumption the crooks in the government will have less money to hand out to their buddies! Any other benefits?

"

Valpo Rez wrote on May 14, 2008 2:19 PM:

" There is NOT one polician that does not have money tied to the oil industry , look it up, they all do on both sides on the isle . We need to start more oil drilling in the US . "

Calm down wrote on May 14, 2008 2:17 PM:

" vote McCain 11/08 and you'll will be okay...I promise "

Mommy mommy wrote on May 14, 2008 2:08 PM:

" Since the price of gas is of no issue to you, why don't you move to Europe? "

Mommy Mommy wrote on May 14, 2008 1:56 PM:

" Wahhhhh, wahhhh, wahhhh. I have to pay significantly less for a gallon of gas than the rest of the world.
Help me mommy. Waahhhhhhhh. Sniff,sniff. "

living on the edge wrote on May 14, 2008 1:48 PM:

" to namyzarc

I think that comment was the most ignorant I have ever read.

You must be very well off or you would be feeling the gas crunch also. Those of us who spend $200-$300 a month on gas just to get to work are complaining when gas has doubled in cost from last year. Again, I am happy you find the price of gas reasonable but lay off the ones who don't!!! "

Princess wrote on May 14, 2008 1:46 PM:

" namyzarc - that is the stupidest thing i have ever heard. are you even aware that the price of a gallon of gas is almost as much as minimum wage? so we work to be able to afford to go to work. maybe you have all the money and everything you need but for the average person its tough out here. and we are in AMERICA not Europe. think before you speak "

Barrack Obama Supporter wrote on May 14, 2008 1:45 PM:

" To all those people that say there mad or don't obamb or dems for not allowing drilling to happen in our own soil.
ANSWER ME THIS, WHY SHOULD WE HAVE TO DRILL IN OUR OWN SOIL WHEN CONGRESS ARGUED WITH THE EXECS. FOR THE OIL COMPANIES THAT THE SUPPLY WAS ADEQUATE!!!!!!!!!!????????????? ALL OF YOU NEED TO STOP IT!!! INHOUSE DRILLIN IS NOT NECESSARY, THATS WHY THE DEMS WON'T GO FOR IT!! THINK, JUST THINK THATS ALL I ASK. "

Intellegence wrote on May 14, 2008 1:09 PM:

" Tell me this all, has anyone noticed that the prices of oil started to sky rocket when GEORGE W. BUSH JR. was running for office and the won????? This is a little to coincidental if you ask me!! His family is involved in the oil companies, COME ON!! DO I HAVE TO SPELL IT OUR FOR YOU!! "

Intellegence wrote on May 14, 2008 1:06 PM:

" Here we go. You can't possibly think that this was not predicted several years ago?????? They new this was going to happen and something tells me they have a plan once "THEY" make enough money for what ever purpose there waiting for. The gov. and execs. who run this country and oil companies are people of high intelligence. Believe when I say they new this was coming!! There is a plan that will happen, but it will not be the presidents idea people, trust me, it will be someone elses idea. An advisor for higher perhaps? ONE HUGE SCAM! NOTHING MORE. "

JTV wrote on May 14, 2008 12:54 PM:

" Why is there such a huge difference in pricing between stations and locations....
$3.39 and $4.05(just a few miles apart)?? The lower price is what it is AFTER the increase went into effect...so who is ripping who off??...the darn station owners !!!...Also, thanks to the stupid enviro wacko's(Dems) who wont allow drilling or new refineries to be built.... "

namyzarc wrote on May 14, 2008 12:44 PM:

" I, for one, am happy that prices are going up.
Boo-hoo! So you can't drive your gas-guzzler any more!
People in Europe spend lots more than we do on gas, and in the 13 years I spent there, I never heard them complaining like the spoiled little brats do here. They just drive smaller & more fuel efficient cars.
The reason these people complain is because they lack the foresight to live lifestyles than can adapt to these types of changes. They build their lives during a "time of plenty" & they assume things will never change for the worse. Then they're not mentally or financially prepared for any adverse changes.
Go see how people in poor countries live, & then try to figure out if paying more for gas is really worth complaining about. Brats... "

Linda wrote on May 14, 2008 12:38 PM:

" As long as Bush is in the White House absolutely nothing will be down about the price of gas. His money is in oil! I wholeheartedly believe that there are way too many politicians who have too much invested in oil that Congress will never stand up to do anything to bring down prices. Congress would rather spend time on worrying about drug usage in baseball than about price gouging at the gas pump. I feel that we the people are generally powerless in this crisis. I laugh at the tax rebate we were given. I used it to pay my bills and take my family out for dinner one evening. We have not even bothered to plan a summer vacation. I can only hope that we can afford to do some activities with the kids closer to home this year. Thanks, Mr. Bush, you're only helping the economic crisis worsen!
"

bill p wrote on May 14, 2008 12:38 PM:

" Park the pickups and the gas guzzlers and consolidate your trips! Time to pare down your auto choices! Most of you are a bunch of macho showoffs and now you are really paying through the nose! Oh junior, you're going to have to get a job if you want to use the family car! "

Make it hurt wrote on May 14, 2008 12:15 PM:

" Folks: In case you didn't know it, LOTS of companies make billions of dollars in profits. Banks, insurance companies, Google, Microsoft, GE, Walmart, and the list goes on. The banks in particular are sticking it to consumers every single day with overdraft fees and ATM fees and late payment fees, etc. How about your federal government? Your government is sticking it to you too. They are running a debt that costs YOU about $1,000 in interest charges every single year. One thousand dollars, every year, for every man, woman, and child in the US (the legal ones anyway). "

Just Dumb wrote on May 14, 2008 11:52 AM:

" I have no sympathy for everyone. I drive a small Honda for my four person family and yes its not a big SUV but it gets the job done perfectly. And best of all I get 35 mpg in the city. Let gas go up, I won't complain till it gets to 6-7 per gallon. "

Fed up wrote on May 14, 2008 11:28 AM:

" Why don't we just dip into our reserves for a couple years. If this all boils down to supply and demand, our gas prices will drop because the demand is now down. "

Just Wondering.... wrote on May 14, 2008 11:24 AM:

" To Ha
Are you going to lead the charge to take the oil fields or just send some young kid in your place? "

Big Kielbasa wrote on May 14, 2008 11:24 AM:

" I don't understand the rage toward the oil companies, heck you people of Lake County just re nominated a politician who stoled gas at the tax payers expense. Do any of you know what percentage of your gas cost is for taxes ? No one ranting about the profits your local and Federal government is amassing every time you fill up ? "

had enough wrote on May 14, 2008 11:22 AM:

" it is crazy the price that we have to pay just to get buy, I have to leave for work 2hr 15min early too take 2 trains to work and if I'm lucky I will get home only 1 hr later than normal with the price of gas and tolls it is just crazy I think it is time to go on wellfare and quit my job "

Ridiculous wrote on May 14, 2008 11:17 AM:

" Both the Democrats and Republicans are responsible for not federally regulating the price of gas and natural gas as they do electricity and water. This is a matter of national security and our economy is being ruined by the oil companies. "

Illinois Toll Road wrote on May 14, 2008 11:07 AM:

" Last night I was on the Illinois Toll Road and gas was $3.97 a gallon I come into Indiana and it was $4.05 a gallon, is there something wrong with this picture. "

BushCheneyRice OIL wrote on May 14, 2008 10:29 AM:

" Republicans took over in 2000. Oil was $31 a barrel, and gasoline was $1.50 a gallon. Republican policies raised the price of a barrel of oil 409% to $127, and the price of a gallon of gasoline 266% to $4. They owe favors to oil companies. George Bush founded Arbusto Energy in 1974 and was director of Harken Oil Company in the 1980's and 1990's. Cheney was Chief Executive of Halliburton Corporation, the world’s largest oil field services company with multi-billion dollar contracts with oil corporations including Chevron. And Condoleezza Rice was a Chevron Director from 1991 until 2001. "

Gassed wrote on May 14, 2008 10:28 AM:

" GB has nothing to do with the gas prices. You could use this excuse until two years ago. The Democrats have been in charge for the last two years and gas has spiked higher than before they were in. They said they were going to do something about gas prices. When will they start?
Speedway owns the market in this area and they can charge whatever they like. We have to pay it.
We need more drilling, more refining and less speculation allowed on Wall Street. "

SPEEDWAY wrote on May 14, 2008 10:28 AM:

" KEEP BUYING OUR GAS FOR 10 CENTS MORE THAN EVERYBODY ELSE WE THANK ALL YOU DUMB PEOPLE. "

Scott N. wrote on May 14, 2008 10:17 AM:

" Uh huh... I can't complain if I voted for Bush? Last I saw, Bush wasn't the controller of all things oil. A president, democrat or republican, isn't god. When you have a scarce resource and much demand, prices increase. NOone can change that.

China and India should starve for fuel? Would you suggest we go to war with China and India to facilitate this? I don't think so.

Its the realities of the market place. We don't want to develop our own oil resources to add to the world production so we pay more. "

gouged wrote on May 14, 2008 9:38 AM:

" Back in 1998 or 1999, I remember hearing the DJ on WCKG Allan Stagg (RIP) saying, "just wait until you get a Texas oil boy in the Whitehouse, you'll be paying $3.00/gallon of gas". Everyone thought he was crazy. But remember when the price started to creap up in 1999? That was when Bush started to campaign for the White House. He does this economic stimulus joke in 2003, and in October 2004 the prices plummets, then he says "see what I did? re-elect me". It'll happen again this late summer and fall, and they he'll say "the republicans fought big oil - please elect John McSame". Then it'll go back up so they can later sell their stock and make a profit at our expense. "

HA wrote on May 14, 2008 9:38 AM:

" WHY DON'T WE JUST TAKE THE OIL FIELDS-WHO IS GONNA STOP US? "

Intellegence wrote on May 14, 2008 9:05 AM:

" Yeah, right on!! Lets vote in the """GAS TAX HOLIDAY FOR THE NEXT FOUR MONTHS AND SAVE AN ENTIRE 30 CENTS A DAY! YIPPY SKIPPY!!

"""""IGNORANT PEOPLE""""""" POINTLESS!! BUT HEY, LETS VOTE HILLARY!! DON'T MAKE ME LAUGH!! AT LEAST OBAMA SPOKE THE TRUTH ABOUT THIS SO CALLED GAS TAX HOLIDAY. "

Overcharged and feed up wrote on May 14, 2008 9:00 AM:

" When the oil companies are posting billions in profits from year to year it is difficult to believe that speculation is the only reason that the price of gas is skyrocketing. It still smacks of good ole price gouging. No other company in this country is posting billions in profits every year! Since it is the working man needing to work the oil companies and oil barons are taking full advantage of the situation and I don't believe that there is a politican alive that will stand up to the oil companies either. "

MICRO-ECONOMICS wrote on May 14, 2008 8:36 AM:

" LEARN MICRO-ECONOMICS, NUFF SAID! GOD BLESS AMERICA! "

Happy wrote on May 14, 2008 8:34 AM:

" I hope it hits $10 a gallon. Buy some oil stock and laugh all the way to the bank. "

Amber Klimasara wrote on May 14, 2008 8:33 AM:

" I have a cleaning business in Portage and we drive all over Northwest Indina. I am hoping for someone to stand up against the oil companies and stop all this. It has come to a point that businesses are paying more to send out their employess to work that they have to raise their prices on their services to cover the extra cost. I am not in favor for passing the extra cost to customers, but there will come a point when I wont have a choice but to do so if the prices stay the same or raise even higher that they are now.I paid $4.05 per gallon yesterday at Speedway here in Portage.

"

glad hes leaving wrote on May 14, 2008 8:26 AM:

" If you voted for Bush, please don't complain. What do
did you expect would happen when you put oil executives in the White House??? You asked for it, you got it. "

June wrote on May 14, 2008 8:15 AM:

" Could someone explain to me why the price of gas goes up the same day a barrel of oil goes up? Isn't gas made from previous less expensive oil supplies so that the price of gas should stay the same until the more expensive oil is used? Also, why do the oil companies terminate the hourly workers instead of reducing the outrageous salaries of the CEOs, CFOs, and presidents of the companies? Hmmm, just wondering. "

FOOLS Dont U Get It wrote on May 14, 2008 7:06 AM:

" It's speculation on oil that's running up the price. Just as it was speculation on real estate that drove up housing prices in CA, AZ, NV & FL and inspired the predatory lending which caused the mortgage crisis. The dollar was weakend by the mortgage crisis forcing speculators to bet on oil instead of the dollar. It's really that simple. "

suzy wrote on May 14, 2008 6:57 AM:

" I was so upsetting to see 4.05. As a family we have changed things. And all in all we have also learned that we have wasted alot,over spent alot. So now we have changed things, like not eatting out, 30 trips to the store and walking or biking. We
are better people for it, it's just now we are not quite so fast to just give up our money... "

George C wrote on May 14, 2008 6:54 AM:

" This is SO ridiculous and WRONG! The government should halt the trading of gas and oil futures on the markets because these spikes aren't about the supply and demand of oil, rather the greed and demand of investors and speculators! Cap the price of oil and gas as a matter of national interest and security!! Do something, don't just talk about it. "

HELP wrote on May 14, 2008 6:48 AM:

" Someone needs to do something now. This is crazy and is going to kill the economy this summer. I know all the oil people are happy, but us little working middle class citizens can't take this any longer. Someone really needs to step up and do something NOW!! "

People are Dumb wrote on May 14, 2008 6:42 AM:

" Quit driving those stupid suburban's and other SUV's for a family of two and you won't have any pricing issues. "

And Obama and Durbin dont want expansion wrote on May 14, 2008 5:49 AM:

" This is what you get when the democrats refuse to allow drilling off our coasts and Alaska. Also a big thankyou to Durbin and Obama who continue to fight the BP expansion and at the same time ignore the untreated Chicago waste water that enters our Lakes and rivers and closes our beaches. "

To the Oil Companies etc. wrote on May 14, 2008 4:38 AM:

" Didn't you hear me crying "uncle" long ago? Our family can't take much more. We have already sold one vehicle, and I now drive my husband to work then go to work early myself to combine trips. Unfortunately, we know there are families that are much worse off than we are. "

lee wrote on May 14, 2008 2:10 AM:

" do we spend what little we earn on gasoline,pay bills,or eat? hmm.. which one will I choose for this week, as I ponder. Sorry little susie and johnny you'll have to starve; can't afford both. "

jim wrote on May 14, 2008 12:49 AM:

" It is so nice to see we have a goverment that does not have the courage to stand up for the people and stop this gouging. Let China and India starve for fuel, America is supposed to be a super power in the world, looking from the outside in we are a laughing stock because we do not stand up to the forign oil producers. It would be nice to have a president that did not have just his personal welfair in mind because he has his greedy hands in the barrels as well!!!! "

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