What readers are saying about gas prices
The News & Record asked readers to tell us what they were doing in the face of gas prices increasing, this time thanks to Hurricane Katrina.
Their responses are below. If you would like to talk to us about gas prices, please click on the "Comments" link.
... Last year, the oil companies posted record profits, and still obtained corporate tax breaks. It is time to stop with the political favors, and time for the President to stop getting tied up in the phrase "don't bite the hand that feeds you."
Jason E. Coley, Jamestown
The president has talked about not letting the hurricane flood victims be price-gouged, but we are being price-gouged over the rising gas cost. This increase is really hurting the small businesses in the area.
I can not believe that something is not being done especially with the oil companies showing their highest profit margins in years!!
This is just going to cause a great depression if something is not done soon.
Bryan Welch, Greensboro
When will the price gauging stop? These gas stations must all be in cahoots with each other, because they all go up at basically the same time.
... I guarantee you that the gas stations and, of course, the oil companies are making large profits. I think there should be some regulation on what they can charge and how and when they can raise their prices. But of course that would need to come from our government, who seems to have blinders on when it comes to the high and rising costs of fuel.
We must decide to do better. Walk when possible, carpool when possible, and plan meals and shopping once a week instead of once a day.
I remember in my teens I felt we'd be in trouble if gas ever hit 75 cents a gallon. We're in trouble now. But we can make better choices.
Mike Clark, Greensboro
On Tuesday morning, my husband and I said we'd better fill up our little Nissan truck since it was on a quarter tank.
So, we were on our way to Home Depot and our gas station is across the interstate and the price for regular was $2.45. I told my husband maybe we should fill up before we go to the store. He said we'll get it on the way back.
We were gone 45 minutes maximum! When we got to the gas station the price had changed to $2.55!! Ten cents a gallon we were stunned!
We got it filled, no shortages yet but we did see a fellow filling up big containers of gas and putting them in his truck. That for sure will make for shortages!!!
Arlene Leingang, Mebane
... I remember distinctly hearing that damage to Gulf Coast production was minimal, intimating that the workers at the facilities were only kept off the rigs for a day or two at the most.
With that scenario, it would appear that price hikes are just another opportunistic way for the major oil companies to profit from the scare. They're already reporting record profits and that should send some kind of message to Washington. But, alas, John Q. Citizen has no voice that can compete with the oil lobby.
The sad fact is that gas prices not only affect travel but food prices and literally all other aspects of the economy. Is the end - or even any relief - in sight?
Leo Derrick, Asheboro
My philosophy is that the price and availability of gasoline is something over which I have no control, therefore I don't spend precious time or energy worrying about it.
Steele Smith, Jamestown
I really don't think there is a lot we can do right now. We'll just have to grin and bear it and get part-time jobs.
I think there should be some consideration on putting a cap on fuel prices. Why should every single last penny be passed on to the consumer? Will there be a point when fuel becomes a luxury only afforded by the elite? Will the oil companies stop putting the squeeze on consumers?
... Maybe this is will make the new hybrid vehicles look more attractive. Or maybe we show all get off of our lazy duffs and replace the dry rotted tires on our bicycles. Do you remember when people used to walk everywhere ...Me either.
Eric F. Bowden, Greensboro
... I am sure we haven't seen the prices top out yet and I can assure you we have not begun to see the effect it is going to have on our economy. Everything in some shape or form relies on gas and that cost is going to be passed on to the consumer.
Joe Stephens, Climax
It's hard to make ends meet as it is these days with our manufacturing jobs being sent overseas and the textile plant closings in N.C.
I am thankful I have a job. But it makes it very hard to choose between gas and food. I wonder how the people will survive as things become worse day by day.
Leslie Auman, Climax
I think our President needs to step up to the plate and say "That's enough" and lower prices back to where people can afford to buy it. There is no more a shortage of gas than there is a shortage of weeds in your yard.
I have not heard of companies give us a raise to help off-set the difference. I think President Bush is doing a great job but he has dropped the ball on this issue. I would hate to find out that he is getting rich off the American people trying to provide for their families.
Philip Rock, Stokes County
