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Gas Prices Climb Save Email Print
Posted: 4:55 AM May 17, 2008
 Last Updated: 4:55 AM May 17, 2008
105 comments
A | A | A

It's going to cost you even more for a fill-up today.

Triple-A this morning puts the price of gas at a national average of just over $3.76 for a gallon of regular. Premium is a whopping $4.17.

That's about 67 cents a gallon higher than this time last year. And the price is expected to climb at least until the Memorial Day weekend.

You can watch WITN News at Sunrise and 6 p.m. each day to track gas prices, and you can also get the information
here on witntv.com. Check out the related link below to find the lowest prices in your community.

The Energy Department forecast recently that prices would top out next month at an average of $3.73 a gallon. Many analysts now expert the national average to hit $4 a gallon in the coming weeks.

Meantime, the price of crude oil today has steadied above $124 a barrel. Crude prices slipped from record highs following a mixed report from the government yesterday on U.S. petroleum reserves.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.
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Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 24, 2008 at 03:22 PM
To Russ..Speaking of demand. Per Capita, the US has 745 vehicles per 1000 people. In China it is 14 per 1000 and growing. Gas in the UK is $8.45 per gallon. Our lazy,self-centered, hypocrical society will never adjust, because the "new generation" never had to do without. Wait until the government takes over everything, like Congress woman Maxine Waters (D), from California,openly hopes for. You ain't seen nothing yet! I was raised in the 40's, so I know how to do without. Our society of "Plastic Card" junkies has brought alot of this on themselves. Plus a spend, spend, spend government. People must review their budget, get rid of credit cards, and buy the things they need and forego their wants until their debt is manageable. We are a nation of materialistic degenerates. Wake up America!!
Posted by: anywhere usa Location: ENC on May 24, 2008 at 02:10 PM
Devild Dog you're the man kid. you are right on the money.
Posted by: PugLuver65 on May 24, 2008 at 10:39 AM
Robert Humberstone you sir are a jerk and I wonder how you can say such things. I never had kids but I do have 5 pugs which I love more than anything. I drive my 5 pugs in an SUV, because how else are they going to fit in a car? You tell me that ha ha and another thing I work at (Name of restaurant edited out) and if I see you Humberstone I spit in you food, ok buster. That's all.

Editor's note: Pugluver referred to a specific restaurant. We opted to edit the name out.

Posted by: Robert Humberstone, Sr. on May 24, 2008 at 10:37 AM
Seems that you sissies and dime-bag liberals are too obsessed with feel good politics to actually get off the couch and pick up a 2nd or 3rd job to get the bills paid. I know you people complaining about gas- sit at home moms, watching Maury or Judge Joe Brown all day, then you cry about gas costs when you contribute nothing to society. My tax dollars at work, yet again.
Posted by: Brownie Location: Kinston on May 24, 2008 at 10:31 AM
Yesterday in Greenville a station raised their price 10 cents a gallon while people were in line. The mgr. left and would not talk to anyone....
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Greenville on May 23, 2008 at 09:45 PM
Gas was 3.85 yest morning and 3.95 lunch time at all the gas stations. So I guess all the stations refilled there tanks between 8am and 1pm. No I dont think so, the gas stations are just doing whatever they want and it is killing consumers. But they can do it because we have to have it. We have to band together and do something before we all have to abandon our cars (whether they get 10, 25 or 45 MPG) for bicycles.
Posted by: me me Location: nc. on May 23, 2008 at 05:03 PM
to neil and craig: to bad your mother's did not feel that way when she was breeding you. and to think you are better then others because you got money. you really need to seek some help. you have no right to judge some one, you dont know what they have went through in this life. only god has that right. and the both of you could not make it in my world if you lost everything and had to get a real job. so think twice before you down people. maybe you should give a hand out to some one that needs it since you have such good fortune. try to do a good dead and see how great you will feel. i dont have a lot of money but i sure have gave a lot to charity's. and it is crazy for them people to get rich and make the poor, poorer. they need to lower gas price at least 2.00 a gal. 4.00 way to much. prices go up every day. why?? and russ we have cut back on everything. i dont know how much more we can cut back...
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 23, 2008 at 04:24 PM
Here is the real problem asside from the many postings here. It isn't personal or subjective, its based on the fact oil has doubled since early 2007. Sorry, cutting back is the only way to get the demand down. If you think govenment, oil companies that are publicly held or any other reason, guess again. Web site below show the prices from 07 to now. If the govenment interviens, I will see you all in the gas lines.... http://www.wtrg.com/daily/clfhl.gif
Posted by: patty Location: geenville on May 23, 2008 at 04:00 PM
gas is now 3.96-99 now we are always overpriced...and the usa and surrounding waters have plenty of oil and gas.I agree...we can supply our own country...but bush refuses until and emergency comes. well, i consider this and emergency, get the prices down to 1.50
Posted by: J Location: NC on May 23, 2008 at 03:48 PM
To Robert Humberstone, are you just a plain idiot or an ***hole? That is the most stupidest comment I've ever heard in my life. Women or men, whichever you prefer, must not like being included in sexual activity with you and in result has made you have a bad attitude towards it. I know you don't have no kids not with that kind of attitude. And you think it's so nasty, but news for you, you wouldn't be here if it wasn't for it. And maybe some of us want a family and not be all alone like you obviously are. And no, it's not our fault that gas is $4 a gallon. This war is what started it, and now it can't be stopped b/c people have forgot about 9/11 and already have turned greedy again and not worrying about how they affect other people. So don't be ignorant using a sorry excuse like that. People like you just look for somebody to blame something else on. Get a life man. Just for that comment you make me want to give my child a sister or brother :)
Posted by: disgusted Location: Williamston on May 23, 2008 at 12:41 PM
Well gas is now 95.9 at the Hess and they say the price is going up again today. It's time to drill in America and get off this dependency on foreign oil. It may take 10 years. But that's no excuse not to do it. Clinton said it over 10 years ago when he vetoed a bill to drill in America. We would have that oil now if he hadn't done that.
Posted by: Howdy Location: Washington on May 23, 2008 at 12:31 PM
Neil and Craig and Robert, How nice of you to post your first and last names so that we can identify you for the people you really are, uncaring (deleted). For your information most of the ppl that work for minimum wage are self sufficient. Your tax dollars are not paying for them. Your tax dollars are paying for the ppl who don't get out and work at all. As for breeding, apparantly you parents did so at some point or you would not be here today. And if you talk to ppl in real life the way you do here then I'm sure your parents are questioning the wisdom of that breeding.

Slightly Edited

Posted by: Jamie Location: Washington on May 23, 2008 at 12:20 PM
To Robert Humberstone Sr.; You must be a lonely ole man. Must have met Jackie too much in your life to have a woman or a family. Get a life.
Posted by: Mother of 3 Location: pink hill on May 23, 2008 at 11:56 AM
To Neil and Craig... I am self suffiecient, yet I have a family. Yes Neil I have been breeding as you call it. Anyway, Neil breeding and having children is natural and if you mom had of decided not to breed you would not be here making an A** out of yourself with your stupid comments. As for Craig, I guess you are with Neil with the breeding thing huh, considering you want to be alone. I guess you sexless hermits will be alone for ALONG time with those attitudes. Times are hard right now and people, even those who are college educated, are feeling to results of it. Craig and Neil I am glad you are wealthy enough that this is not hurting you financially but for the rest of us it does hurt and we are not low life, low class, uneducated people we are human beings with lives.
Posted by: Neil Shlonson on May 23, 2008 at 11:35 AM
I agree with Craig, and would like to add that if you can't afford gas, you're doing something wrong in life. Time to grow up, put on the adult pants and get to work. This is not the 1800's and you have no excuse for breeding. It's time to be self-sufficient, people.
Posted by: Craig Krofek on May 23, 2008 at 11:32 AM
There's a reason why people have low income- they waste thier time and money in pursuit of the opposite sex. What kind of sissy would waste their money on a relationship? Talk about low self-esteem. Gas is the least of your worries if you can't manage to live on your own.
Posted by: mother of 3 Location: pink hill on May 23, 2008 at 10:51 AM
Thanks you Howdy, you said it all.
Posted by: Howdy Location: Washington on May 23, 2008 at 10:20 AM
What rock did some of these people crawl out from under? and why are their comments being posted when they have nothing to do with the subject? We have went from the price of gas to "breeding", to crushing cars (and we never did find out if that was while the owner was still in the car) and now to only "society's upper crust" having cars? Seems that this is turning into a way to bash people, and it also seems that the lower income people are the ones catching the brunt of this. After all we are the ones who drive "junk" cars, "breed" and don't have an education etc. But guess what? We are the ones who keep society going. We are the ones that work for minimum wage at the gas station so you can fill up and get coffee on the way to the office. We work at walmart so you can shop cheaply for your house. and just wait till the "upper crust" have to mow their own yards and take off their own trash because there is no one left to do it for them.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: NC on May 23, 2008 at 10:00 AM
Craig some people may not be as fortunate as you. For you call people car junk that's not nice. For you to say you have the resources because you didn't waste your time on money and marriage. I see it like this with the negative comment you posted first and last name, it will stand out. As long as you think like that you will continue to be by yourself. Needless to say Americans have to come up with something better, they always say it's got to get better before it gets worst.
Posted by: Connie Location: Washington,NC on May 23, 2008 at 09:59 AM
I agree Craig. I'm 50 and love my single-life. Evertime I cared for somebody I ended up "being broke" now as Single I can afford things. LOL
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 23, 2008 at 08:38 AM
To S and Devil dog, it is not the govenment that is causing the problem, it is the damand on fuel and the competition of other countries. It is the way we drive and what we drive. For example, do you know why truckers convoy? Saves fuel, they stay behind each other. They never just sit out in the left lane doing 81mph like some do, its called wind resistance. Also, the speed limit has increased gas consumption. Some will not drive it, they are compelled to go much faster. There were no drive thrus, a drive to town was just that, to run erands and get back home. Use the school bus, its free and your taxes are paying for it. Note, anyone that buys an SUV right now is getting a great deal for a reason. At what point do all of us get it, price is near $4 now, $5, $6, it will wreck you household and mine. Cut 10% of what you are doing driving while you can afford it.
Posted by: Craig Krofek. on May 23, 2008 at 08:19 AM
Actually it's quite funny that people are complaining about the high costs of gas. Maybe you people should get yourself an education and a better job. It doesn't affect me. If anything, it will get junk cars off the road, when only society's upper crust has vehicles. My stock portfolio is soaring, and I just bought a new Suburban, for myself to drive, alone. How do I have the money and resources? Simple- I didn't waste my time and money on marriage. Stay single, stay wealthy.
Posted by: Kim Location: Columbia on May 23, 2008 at 08:19 AM
I agree totally with you S from Washington. We need to bomb bard our congress reps. and force a change. If we don't, our country is going to defeat itself as a world leader! So folks vent here if you like. However, also vent strongly to your reps. and senators they have the power to make a change. Make them work for us not BIG OIL!!! Mr. Humberstone, you and others with strong opinions should check the actual definitions of words before putting them in blogs for everyone to read!!! Thank you but I have one daughter and paid for her totally on own our as my insurance at work was cancelled 2 weeks prior to my first dr. appt.!! I don't regret one dime of it either. She has been a blessing and a joy in my life. Thank God for her! I do hope one day you meet someone to change your life and attitude before it's too late for you!!
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 22, 2008 at 08:45 PM
To S.....Concur...Start at the local,then the state,then the federal level. Partisanship must be stopped. Their is so much of a blur between parties it really doesn't matter who is in office. As far as I'm concerned no Republican is running for President. McCain is a conservative Democrat, Clinton is a liberal Democrat and Obama is a Socialist. It's just that simple.
Posted by: S Location: Washington,NC on May 22, 2008 at 07:34 PM
Folks,I sit here reading all these hurtful & negative comments being thrown around and think to myself,this is why we are in this position now....if all of us stopped taking our anger out on each other and started writing & e-mailing our representatives,maybe they would get the message that we are all tired,disgusted and on the edge of revolt! The first order of business is getting the fools that are in government now out and only if we vote can we accomplish that first step...let's stick together people and we can accomplish change....I think that basically we all feel the same about gas prices going skyhigh along with everything else...calling each other names & baiting each other accomplishes nothing....take it out on the politicians,they are the ones who truly deserve our derision & disgust!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 22, 2008 at 07:21 PM
Hey whats wrong with being a hippie ????
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 22, 2008 at 05:28 PM
To Kisha...If you are looking at MSNBC, you are looking at the most bias network in the world. They are a bunch of far left "loons" that are in the tank for Obama. Keith Olberman is a retread sports announcer from espn and Chris Matthews is a woodstock hippie. Journalism in this country is pathetic! It reminds me of Pavlov's theory of conditioned reflex.
Posted by: Ted Location: Greenville on May 22, 2008 at 04:50 PM
While I'm no fan of the oil companies, it's the Government who makes the most profits off a gallon of gas. Congress needs to tell the bunny huggers and assorted hippies to take a hike and lets start drilling for oil in this country.
Posted by: Rosebud Location: Lagrange on May 22, 2008 at 04:33 PM
Robert...you are way out of line. I have three beautiful grandsons and another on the way. I resent your hateful comment! These babies are gifts from God. You need to go somewhere else.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: NC on May 22, 2008 at 04:16 PM
To Mr. Robert breeding is what they do to dogs. Humans don't have four legs. I agree with Viv. Children are a gift from God and it's not about the children. It about the gas prices. How the children got into it was Bob called the ones driving idiots. Most of them was saying that they needed that SUV to accommodate them. As for Martin....you're glad to see gas prices rising. Wow!! What a jack you are. I wonder what kind of work you do. If your pay check wasn't going up, you probably would rollover and die. Everyone may not have it like you. Yes, we are concerned about the atomsphere. You must not have read The Basic Intructions Before Leaving Earth (BIBLE). Just to enlighten you a little we all have to leave one day. In the book of Revelation it speaks of certain things comming to past. Actually, the gas getting high is a start. Look at all the stuff going on in the world. It's the Bible forefulling itself. Maybe you need to sit down and read it. Then you will get a better understandig
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Greenville on May 22, 2008 at 03:45 PM
The gas prices are WAY out of hand!!! This is ridiculous! When is it ever going to stop??? Soon gas will be the same price as minimum wage! How in the world are people going to survive??? When is someone going to step up to the plate and help the American people out? I love to hear on the news how the oil companies made billions of dollars and geez I wonder how that happened? They raise the prices and the people that work for these oil companies get nice, big, fat raises because of us. How fair is that? People are struggling now because of this. Now food prices are going to go up too because it's gonna cost more for the trucks to ship it to the stores. It's never going to stop. It's sad and pathetic. It's only going to get worse.
Posted by: mother of 3 Location: pink hill on May 22, 2008 at 03:33 PM
Neil I was not trying to impress you, or anyone else. BTW what do you drive Neil????Also, I work to pay for my so called gas guzzler and the gas that goes in it and therefore you have NO call for tell me or anyone else what we should drive. As for Robert Humberstone SR, I bred FOUR times... What you think about that. I had three live births and thank GOD everyday for them. You SIR should not tell anyone they should not have children. As for breeding, its natural what is so disgusting about it. All types of animals do it.
Posted by: Martin Location: Greenville on May 22, 2008 at 02:27 PM
I for one am glad to see the prices go up. I hope that people go ut and buy bikes. The greed in America has got to the point that we don't give a rip about our environmnet. For every person that can't afford to drive, that is that much less CO2 that is being emitted into the atmosphere. Green Plant!!!
Posted by: AS Location: Greenville on May 22, 2008 at 02:02 PM
To Robert Humberstone, Sr.: your name implies that you have participated in "breeding" yourself or is your Jr. your dog. Please do not be ignorant. People who chose to have children have done so for their own reasons, and the last time I checked I didn't live in China and my government didn't dictate how many children I could have. Also, Devil Dog, maybe one day the liberals will wake up and feel the pain of the "lower and middle class" that they claim to fight for and allow more US drilling, and the building of more refineries.. just don't hold your breath.
Posted by: J Location: NC on May 22, 2008 at 01:58 PM
Where I live, we have already reached $4.14
Posted by: Kisha Location: Newport on May 22, 2008 at 01:42 PM
I understand supply and demand but when the heads of the oil companies were called before the Senate they reported having PROFITS of 36 BILLION dollars in the first three months of the year! If they are making that exceptional amount of money I'm sure it wouldnt kill them to knock the price down some. That article I am using as reference is located at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24757944/
Posted by: RHODA on May 22, 2008 at 01:06 PM
What about you? How did you get here? Don't you think you help with the "destruction of our environment and planet"? I for one work to feed my child and alot of others do so as well. It is OUR choice to breed and our responsibility!
Posted by: Viv Location: Beaufort Co on May 22, 2008 at 12:59 PM
`Folks, we have no reason to blame each other for the price of gas. No matter what we choose to drive should not concern another person. Please take a look at the anger in your comments and slow down and stop to think. We are all, no matter if we are single, married, have children, single parents with children, or whatever our situation may be, in this thing together. For the gentleman Robert, what if your parents had not decided to breed as you call it, where would you be? God gave us the choice to have children and I am thankful to him everyday for mine and my grandchildren. Do not judge another person because you may not like or want children. Rememeber, we are all paying the high price for gas, so let's see if we can't empathize with each other and quit bashing people for their life they have. Let's think positve and pray to God for a solution and maybe good things will come to us. BELIEVE and have FAITH! Remember the drought? Prayers went up and look what happened!
Posted by: Robert Humberstone, Sr. on May 22, 2008 at 11:37 AM
What's truly remarkable is the number of people complaining how they need a large vehicle to haul their children around. First of all, you should've used protection. By breeding, all your doing is contributing to overpopulation and the destruction of our environment and planet. Secondly, breeding is disgusting. Thanks to you people, gas is now $4.00 a gallon. More mouths to feed = faster depletion of resources. It's extremely selfish to breed, it's like you have no self control.
Posted by: Neil Shlonson on May 22, 2008 at 11:33 AM
24 MPG is not 25 mpg, and as a result, your gas-guzzler status mobile should not be permitted on the roads. BTW- your talk of "payment books" impresses nobody.
Posted by: Mother of 3 Location: pink hill on May 22, 2008 at 10:38 AM
Hey Neil, if you will take over my payments you can do whatever you want with my car. It gets 24mpg, but you said 25 or higher so I guess my new car I just bought in March will have to be crushed. So when ever you are ready to get my payment book so you can tell me what I can or can not drive just let me know.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: NC on May 22, 2008 at 03:28 AM
Just to add to my comment of trying something else, cut back on certain things. To Bob.............Just to let you know my mother is one of the idiots you're referring to. I say this because just yesterday she purchased a SUV. Why did she purchase it because she love her grandchildren. She said she needed something bigger to haul her five grandchildren around. In which four of them are in a car-seat or booster seat. So some of the idiots you're referring to don't have any choice. It's accommodate their family and not you. It's not because my sister and I don't have cars it's just because she's being a grandma. Thank you..
Posted by: Anonymous Location: NC on May 22, 2008 at 03:19 AM
I agree with some gas is extremely high. For the ones a single parent and trying to take care of the home. I understand your pain. I make sixty cent less from beinging at nine an hour, I work an average of 36-38.5 hours a week. I have three children, one I recently gave birth to 12 weeks early. I having a hard time myself. Not alone with the gas but, because I was not due until August I am out of work early. Not even prepared for this. I have done some things to save gas.I recently got new tires,in the process of getting a tune-up, and I stop going out different places with my children. I explained to them that gas is to high for me do things they like to. I also make it fun for them at home. It's nothing like quality time at home. I cook more meals, I walk to the park and do arts and crafts at home to save money. Actually, it works for me. Because I need the extra money to go back and forth to the hospital to see the baby. Because, he will be in there until August. Try something else.
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 21, 2008 at 09:03 PM
It's both supply and demand. China, India and Central American countries have increased oil consumption 3-fold over the last 15 years. Even if we had sufficient oil supply, we do not have the refinery capacity to maintain our thirst for fuel. I don't think anyone wants to go back 40 years. Why should we suffer when other countries could care less? We get a large portion of oil from Mexico and Canada, but you never hear about that. Let the oil companies drill, like Bush recommended in 2000, and tell Congress to quit whining and pass meaningful legislation. It's the incompetent, leading the unwilling, to do the unecessary for the ungrateful. Wake up America....
Posted by: Rosebud Location: Lagrange on May 21, 2008 at 08:35 PM
Neil, will we have some warning or will we be crushed in our vehicle also?
Posted by: Jonathan on May 21, 2008 at 07:49 PM
To Russ, I agree with you to a point even if we cut back 10 percent, all they will do is cut production and the price will remain the same. Look at what gas that was made in Texas..and diesel is costing just across the border in Mexico as of ten minutes ago Gas is 1.45 and diesel is 2.00. That makes no freakin sense to me. Maybe it's time for a revolt and vote all of these idiots of our government.
Posted by: Joe USA Location: America on May 21, 2008 at 06:57 PM
DEVIL DOG FOR PRESIDENT! All of your postings are Right On!! Someone with vision and common sense is who we need to fix our problems. Too bad our leaders are in it for themselves. A good gig if you can get it.
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 21, 2008 at 06:48 PM
I am sure that the problem is global warming. Even though we just had our coldest winter in 100 years, that had to be created by global warming. Devil Dog, the problem is the demand not the car and Neil, get a life already. The Saudi cartell keeps increasing supply but the demand keeps increasing. I agree that we should drill in the US just like we did before. The libs, not necessarily the dems, took environmental regulation too far in the past. The dems went along to keep their jobs. We also need to stop burning oil to make electricity. Some states stopped this with the attack by Greenpeace and now, well, they are starting to understand this was the cleanest form of energy and we had and we would be totally self sufficent. Wow, I was against killing whales but when they got involved with energy and dictating no energy, well, a candle just doesn't make it. Finally, Me in Pitt, cut back on your driving, it will help and get a tuneup, my Suburban gets 19 mpg. Take care, Russ
Posted by: Howdy Location: Washington on May 21, 2008 at 06:20 PM
My car might get 19 mpg, and thats on a good day. So, you think it should be scrapped? Right, So what time will you be picking me up for school in the morning? College that is, no free buses for that. Even though I drive a older car I probably still spend less in gas than most. My car is filled up once every 2 weeks for around 85$. It takes me to college everyday, and my mother to work every night. It may be a gas guzzler, but it gets me where I need to go. Are you planning on buying me a car when mine is "scrapped"? If not then you need to quit making snap judgements. Alot of us would love to have cars that are better on gas, but in this area how many of us really have the money to go buy a brand new car? Its like we are darned if we do, darned if we don't. And for whoever keeps saying 10%, I have already cut back my driving to only work and school. Can you say you have done the same?
Posted by: Me Location: Pitt Co on May 21, 2008 at 04:28 PM
Hey Neil my truck only gets 13mpg but I'd like to see you try to take it.
Posted by: do what Location: nc on May 21, 2008 at 02:08 PM
to devil dog: amen! and thank you!
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 21, 2008 at 12:49 PM
To Neil Shlonson...Let's see..No delivery trucks, no Ambulances, no tow trucks,no firetrucks to name a few. Back to the "stone age" we go. You have been hugging too many trees and chasing too many spotted owls. You need to get on our Democratic Congress who were supposed to take charge. Wake up America!!!!!
Posted by: Neil Shlonson on May 21, 2008 at 12:26 PM
Any vehicle that gets less than 25mpg city/30mph highway should be immediately confiscated and crushed into scrap iron.
Posted by: Robert Humberstone, Sr. on May 21, 2008 at 12:17 PM
Be sure to thank a liberal, the next time you fuel up.
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 21, 2008 at 10:11 AM
Let's see...It's illegal for the US to drill oil in our country and offshore. When the price of gas gets to a "rebellion point", I bet Congress gives the oil companies approval to start drilling.
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 20, 2008 at 08:41 PM
Jonathon, what I have been getting at is if everybody cut back 10% of their driving, prices would come back down and speculators would loose their buts just like real estate speculators did. The real estate speculators and Country wides of the country then wanted us to bail their sorry buts out. I have never meant to get rid of the truck, just drive smarter right now for a time. If I were driving a SUV, I would only use if for long trips where they get their best mileage. I would find an older Toyota or Nissan that gets better gas, not a new one but an older one. Even the Hondas that are older are fairly dependable. Looking at the Hybrids you are right, they are not exactly what people say they are. They get good gas mileage but at a cost of the energy to build them and the batteries. This is the best reason to buy a motorcycle that you can get by your wife......use it some of the time and you get that 10%. The only problem is some are in denial and that will drive the price.
Posted by: Chris Location: Greenville/Va Beach on May 20, 2008 at 08:04 PM
I am an E-6 in the US Navy. I am from Eastern NC and I have my wife and kids living in Greenville, while I live in VA Beach during the week. I go home on the weekends to spend time with them. I know that is my choice and I have to live with it. My wife recently graduated from Pitt with her degree in nursing and my 3 kids just love being in Greenville with all of my other family. But, it is getting to the point that my little 4 banger that used to only cost 24 dollars to fill up now cost 45 bucks for a round trip. It is killing my wallet. I have to skimp on meals during the week so I can afford to go home on the weekends to see my family, and I don't have the money to move them up here with me. I lose sleep at night trying to figure out how to save money just so my kids can see me. It infuriates me everytime I sit there and picture those "arabs" or what ever you want to call them just sitting there with a smile on their faces as they count their profits. They should be ashamed!
Posted by: Anonymous on May 20, 2008 at 10:31 AM
Wow some people on here can really show their ignorance! Get off the red neck kick for a minute and understand that some people can't afford to just go out and buy another vehicle because the one they own now is one you dont think they should be driving. Maybe the person that owns the SUV to be able to carry her family around cant afford to buy something else. People dont think about things before they say them, not everyone is in the same situation as everyone else. Welcome to the real world!
Posted by: J Location: Kinston on May 20, 2008 at 09:17 AM
When gas prices are 3.75 on hwy 70,and 3.69 on hwy 11,that tells me these gas station are raising the price and using the oil co.for their cover!The president should have put a cap on it,greedy people do things like this all the time,price gouging is the second step after a disaster!
Posted by: Broke Location: Greenville on May 20, 2008 at 08:40 AM
Is it me or has the quality of gas we're getting seemed to have gone down? I used to put regular in my tank w/ no problem and now within the past couple of months my motor seems to not like regular anymore for some reason. I guess it could just be a mechanical problem of some kind or else they're putting less gas in the gas they're selling us or something haha Anyone else noticed that at all or am I just special?
Posted by: Jonathan on May 20, 2008 at 08:23 AM
To big J, Maybe I shouldn't have called you dumb, I apologize for that. I never said I wasn't upset about the cost of fuel. But I'm not gonna get all depressed and stuff over something I cannot control. It is our own countries fault for the situation we are in. We are the one who have restricted ourselves to the point we cannot do anything to help ourselves. But this is what the liberals want, they want us to be dependent on the government, this is why I will not give up my truck and buy one of those crappy little hybrid cars. Did you know the prius for example is worse for the environment than any other car on the road? Research it. It has to do with the material the batteries are made of.
Posted by: BIG J Location: SNOWHILL on May 19, 2008 at 04:26 PM
To the 2 that called me dum with my statement,,,,1 I am gald you can afford it.Keep up the good work and may GOD Bless you and your.2 to the lady about her Husband and 4 kids.Have you ever heard of a Min-Van? Also GOD Bless you, I am just a dum red-neck trying to get By,,,sure don:t mean to upsat anyone.I just call it as I see it. We need more RED-NECKS that will stand up and be acounted for.
Posted by: jonathan on May 19, 2008 at 03:33 PM
To hope....The government cannot put a cap on oil because it is purchased in the free market. The government is the last thing that needs to get involved. And furthermore diesel pickups prior to the 07.5 models consistently get about 20 mpg. After 07.5 with all of the new emissions crap installed they are lucky to 13. Which was brought on by the government.
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 19, 2008 at 03:17 PM
For those who want Universal Healthcare check out VA Hospitals. It is government run and the system has been in shambles for decades. Why are so many Canadians coming to the US for treatment? Because we have the best Healthcare in the World. Most of our health problems are because we don't listen to doctors anyway. Quit smoking, lose weight,and exercise. Sound familiar. Don't forget ....out of 50 million people without healthcare, 12 million are illegal aliens. How many others rate Medicaid and never applied? How many do not want to go to doctors? Check out all options before signing up for a system that will be worse than what we have.
Posted by: J Location: NC on May 19, 2008 at 03:07 PM
I never thought gas prices would be this high, it's ridiculous, and needs to be stopped. How are we supposed to live, when we are having to pay so much on gas?
Posted by: mad!! Location: nc. on May 19, 2008 at 03:02 PM
just get use to it the price will only keep going up like everything else and we will never get any help. why should we have to give up what we need because we cant afford it. it's not fair we work so hard allof our life for people to steal our money so they can get richer.i had a cleaning service and had to let it go cant afford to drive and haul what i need in my suv. i was going broke for gas...
Posted by: labbrat Location: Pungo on May 19, 2008 at 01:50 PM
And everyone thought healthcare was breaking our backs. It's terrible .The things that we are not able to live without we are made to pay through the nose for. Anything that can make a profit will be abused on both ends by providers and consumers.
Posted by: do what Location: nc on May 19, 2008 at 10:14 AM
to anonymous on 5/19: so true, thank you for your comment!
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 19, 2008 at 09:42 AM
How did we get so many people in a car years ago? We didn't have SUVs..remember? We drove "cars" that get much better mileage than SUVs. Yes, some people do use these SUVs to do work with, however, most use them as daily drivers. If you look at a photo of any parking lot in the 70s and 80s you would only see one or two pickup trucks. Now, you see it is dominated by SUVs and trucks. This is what is causing the high demand on oil. period. Until we change the way, what we drive and use some comon sense, the price will rise. Demand just keeps increasing. If we have the gov regulate fuel prices, have a nice time in the gas lines. Its about demand and if we won't pay the price, the Chinese will.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 19, 2008 at 09:09 AM
You say outlaw SUV and such.. please tell me how I am supposed to carry my 4 children and husband in a two seater car?!?!? some of you people on here dont make any sense with your comments.
Posted by: hope Location: NC on May 19, 2008 at 09:02 AM
Why doesn't the gov put a cap on the price of gas?
Posted by: Jonathan on May 19, 2008 at 08:03 AM
To Big J, that is one of the dumbest statements i've seen on here. some people actually use these vehicles. I drive a one ton diesel pickup and my wife drive a big ole suv.....because we need them. We can afford the fuel yeah it sucks thats it's high. but the market will correct and the price will drop. Outlaw big vehicles thats what communist countries would do!
Posted by: BIG J Location: SNOWHILL on May 18, 2008 at 11:17 AM
Outlaw SUV and big v-8 pick-up truck and evryone drive a 2 seater.
Posted by: to russ Location: nc on May 17, 2008 at 06:13 PM
Good point about the drive thru. I am guilty of this. Thanks for pointing this out and I am going to go inside from now on! Pray for pick up driver everybody!!
Posted by: Matt Location: Eastern NC on May 17, 2008 at 03:37 PM
To Drew... Im not sure what traffic signals you're watching, but EVERY set of lights is set up in a sequence. The busier the intersection, the longer the light sequence is going to be, making you wait longer. If people weren't so impatient, they wouldn't mind waiting calmly at an intersection for the light to change! The DOT is not out to lower your gas mileage like you claim, I promise! :)
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on May 17, 2008 at 02:44 PM
Congress needs to do the following...Put the clamps on the commodity speculators. This would drop the price of gas $30 per barrel. Authorize offshore drilling. Oil companies would not receive anymore subsidies. Mandate our car makers start making cars that get 30 miles per gallon. Nuclear power plants should be constructed. In the interim, people have to drive smarter by consolidating trips and conserve. The state should eliminate the yearly tax on vehicles. Tax was already paid on the initial purchase. Gas stations can offer lower prices if gas is paid for in cash instead of credit cards. The reason we have a weak dollar is 40% of Americans spend more than they make. This is our fault not the Presidents!!!
Posted by: BIG J Location: SNOWHILL on May 17, 2008 at 07:27 AM
This is to Pickup Driver,,,,Why are you putting down the low income people boy. If it was not for those people doing the job you think you are to good for where would you be.The little man is the real one that keeps this world going.Don't 4 get this(you never get so high you can;t come down)anything could happen and then you could be on the low side.So don't think you are any better than anyone else.People like you thinking that way is what is wrong with this world.
Posted by: Anonymous on May 17, 2008 at 07:04 AM
Good point Rosebud. I'd like to see pick-up guy on a bicycle! People like that need to be kicked off the road and forced to drive something a little more fuel friendly. Thats what it's going to come too.
Posted by: mom of 2 Location: nc. on May 16, 2008 at 03:32 PM
you could lose your job youre money your house and your health dont brag to much. god hears you and you well i wont say what could happen only remember my words. all them things could be taken away from you. and you could have to pick peppers...
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 16, 2008 at 03:24 PM
I guess when ole pick up guy sees how much food, groceries, heat and ac, shipping, travel, airtravel and products go up because of an economy that is getting wrecked, maybe he won't be making as much money. And if some on this post get the government to go after the oil companies then ole truck driver will sit in lines with the poor people waiting for his 10 gallons of gas. Guess he will be making a lot of trips to the gas station then. I have a good income, but I am intelligent enough to recognize that fuel effects everything. If people do not do as I have posted here, the price will still climb due to demand. If you can cut back yourself at least 10%, the price will come down. For some of you waiting in the drive thru at Bojangles, that 12 minutes at the drive thru could be that 10%. I love to watch someone waiting there wasting gas as I go in and come out before the even order.
Posted by: Rosebud Location: Lagrange on May 16, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Everyone needs to back up and take a deep breath. No one needs to get mad. I think we all need to invest some money in bicycles. We might make some money. Any stock brokers out there?
Posted by: Christy Location: MHC on May 16, 2008 at 02:26 PM
To Pick Up: Your post is not only bias, it is misinformed as well. I spend my money on childcare, food and gas. I don't drink or go "clubbing". My husband decided to go be with another woman and decided he did not want to be married anymore. Is this my fault..no! So I took on the responsibility of raising my children, whom I had in a marriage, while he is the one that is clubbing and all that kind of stuff. I work 40hrs a week to keep my bills paid, so don't act like you know what I do with my money. I don't go out and buy extra stuff I don't need. Your comment was rude and uncalled for. Single parents don't ask to be put in the situation some of us are in. As parents we already give up alot for our children, we give up even more as a single parent. So don't presume to know how I spend my money. The gas prices hurt and they hurt where it counts.
Posted by: Kisha Location: Newport on May 16, 2008 at 01:52 PM
Pick-up Truck Driver I take great offense to your comment. I was going to collage. I was married. My family could afford what we wanted and needed. Then my husband decided he wanted to be with other women and left us. I suppose that is my fault to. I had to quit my education to keep a roof over my daughters head. Unless YOU or anyone else who feels the same as you is going to pay ALL of my expenses so I can continue my education I dont want to hear that my living situation is my fault!
Posted by: k Location: somewhere nc on May 16, 2008 at 11:58 AM
thanks jonathan, i agree with you completely. if our country had started drilling back in the 90s then we would not have this problem today. about half of our oil comes from the mid-east and almost the other half comes from mexico and canada. if we had drilled then, our prices wouldn't be so high. the president can't do anything about it because he does not make laws, he can only agree or veto what congress wants to do. it's our congress that makes the laws. when congress wanted to do the drilling in the 90s, clinton vetoed it because he didn't want the environmentalists coming down on him. now here we are over a decade later and where has it gotten us? it has made this country too dependent on foreign oil instead of what our own country has for us to use.
Posted by: Pick-up Truck Driver Location: Greenville on May 16, 2008 at 11:49 AM
I drive a big ole V8 pick up truck every day. It takes over $80 to fill it up. Do I complain? NO..Why?.. Because I make enough money to not worry about it. I get tired of people with low income complaining about they dont make but so much money and how hard it is to survive. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Dont blame the oil companies either. Everyone in this country has the opportunity to get a continued education and get a good job with good pay. Its not my fault that you work at a convenient store at the age of 40 with 3 kids that are 15 years younger than you are. Stop trying to change the way you drive and change the way you live. Stop spending child support money on DVD's and drinks at the club. Dont use your EBT card on things that you want and use it for things that you need. If you cant afford gas then you cant afford those things either.
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 16, 2008 at 11:12 AM
"Lower Gas" petition does nothing but authorize gas lines...read my post again, it is up to you to lower your demand on fuel. "you" are the one responsible and until you get it, $5 a gallon will come.
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 16, 2008 at 08:35 AM
Not to say it is a no win situation but cutting back driving or "speed" helps a lot. In the 70s we learned that when it wasn't price, it was availability. You were only allowed 10 gallons of gas. So, we slowed down, walked when we could and used the car when it was out of walking range. We didn't have drive thrus in those days. Yes, we parked the car with the engine off. We didn't "cruise" around for no reason. We bought smaller cars, remember? That was a time when the oil companies cut production because the govenment interviened to tax them for making money. Don't forget why that farmer was only driving 35mph. He was saving fuel because he was driving a pickup truck. Nowdays, people drive trucks like they are cars. If you are exceeding the speed limit with a pickup, obviously, you can afford the gas. Also, for those that take their kids to school and complain about this, remember, the free bus? They are still around, trust me, I see them every morning.
Posted by: lower gas!! Location: nc. on May 16, 2008 at 07:54 AM
why did you not post my comment? we need everyone to sign this petition. http://www.petitiononline.com/jschei12/petition.html please!! sign
Posted by: RAY Location: CHESAPEAKE on May 15, 2008 at 11:05 PM
To Rosebud and anyone else trying to get rid of their disel drinking vehicles. I live in Chesapeake va. Virginia bch. has a company named car max. They will by anything even if it is not working. Whatever they give you for it you could by a good on gas car, and you don't have to buy from them. They would cut you a check. You just need to show your deeds or give them your bank info. IT IS WORTH THE TRIP UP HERE!!!!
Posted by: Jonathan on May 15, 2008 at 08:02 PM
People lets look at some facts. America has cut it's prodution by 30 percent since the 1980's but the needs have grown by more than 40 percent. We keep blaming the oil companies but they are only making 8 percent profit on oil. The problem is we haven't built ANY new refineries since the 70's. We have restricted where and how much oil we can get. We have the oil here we just aren't aloud to get it. Look back to when Clinton vetoed drilling in Anwar. He said it would take ten years to get it well guess what it's been ten years. Thats an extra million gallons a day that we would have. Maybe we need to stop letting the envirowackos run the country.

Slight Edit

Posted by: Drew Location: Greenville on May 15, 2008 at 04:22 PM
It is a no win situation people. It is the law of supply and demand. We can't possibly cut back on our gasoline consumption enough to force the price down. We need to get to work and school. Sure we hear about alternate methods. I would love to ride my bike to work everyday. However, that is imposible here in Greenville. First off, no bike paths exist that actually lead anywhere important. Most main roads don't have a shoulder wide enough for a bicycle to operate safely. Plus going from the eastern side of the city to the western side you have to pass through neighborhoods that I don't feel safe riding in. Also, it is always stop and go here at rush hour. The traffic signals are not in any kind of sequence. It is almost like they set it up purposely for you to be stopped at every light on the major roads making your gasoline consumption even worse. Thanks DOT. This problem is just something we have to live with.
Posted by: Russ Location: Washington on May 15, 2008 at 03:58 PM
The oil companies buy oil at speculated prices because they are publicly held.... Cut back on Gas, here are some suggestions. Plan your route just like UPS to minimze miles. Don't use drive thrus, you just sit and wait burning gas, Don't leave your car running while you wait on you store to make your order, keep to or slightly under the speed limit, don't drag race at the stop light rather, lightly accelerate like there is an egg under the gas pedal, keep you car tuned, don't go to Greenville to pick up something you might save a dollar on there, keep you tires inflated properly, actually draft behind a larger vehicle it works, buy groceries in bulk such as don't buy a 6 pack of cokes when you know you will need more in three days, use you cell phone to call you spouse to pick something up on his or her way from work. These are just a few to help you save on fuel. If you are not doing this do not whine about the price as you are bringing on yourself. Yes, you. $5 here we come.
Posted by: Christy Location: MHC on May 15, 2008 at 03:54 PM
I barely make 7.00 a hour and being a single parent of two, it is very hard to hold onto anything I have. I can barely put food on the table, yet I work 40 hours a week. I know Carteret County has alot of low income families, now they are just getting poorer and I am, one of them. With rising energy, food and now gas costs, how are we supposed to be able to afford to live here? They have gotten rid of most of the low income housing for this area. I was born and raised here and this is my home. I just pray that my kids can grow up in the town I love, but with the way things are going, people like me won't be able to live here. I did'nt ask to be a single parent, nor do I choose to be low income. I am just trying to keep my head above water and it is getting harder by the minute. What in the world are we going to do now?
Posted by: Enough Location: Belhaven on May 15, 2008 at 03:28 PM
I just wish before I die that these oil tycoon's would go busted and become homeless.

POST EDITED
Posted by: Russ on May 15, 2008 at 01:09 PM
In my last posting when gas was $3.50 per gallon, what have you done about it. I have an SUV but I drive it slower than any vehicles on 264. As I watch the rush of people going into Washington in the mornings exceeding the speed limit...at what point will it slow them down to better their mileage. Apparently, with it approaching $4.00 by Labor day, none. At $5 will they get it or not. Demand, is driving up price, useless driving, unplanned driving to pick up something...this is useless wastefull demand. SUV are the big culprits. They are not supposed to be daily drivers but most are. So guy with the F250 that sped by me this morning...burn that fuel, when your wallet gets empty, maybe then you will understand. Solution, cut back on driving, reduce you speed. Driving 50 mph will yield 25mpg mileage with most SUVs. If everybody would cut back 10% of speed or driving, the price would go down. If you do nothing, $5 is coming.
Posted by: allena Location: washington on May 15, 2008 at 01:06 PM
What can I do to help the rising cost of gas. I can't afford to buy a hybrid. My 11 year old taurus doesn't take that much gas but I still have a hard time buying gas to take my children to school and myself to work. Please give me any suggestions on how to make it.
Posted by: Scott Location: Beaufort county on May 15, 2008 at 12:16 PM
Your choice may not be food or fuel. The continuing effort to eradicate the small family farm for subsidized big agriculture is about to show us all how high food prices can go. Commercial fertilizers are mostly petroleum based. Fuel gulping ships and trucks deliver tomatoes from Venezuela and California. When the Eastern NC farm land is gone to development and pipe dream alternative fuel corn crops, what will a potato cost. Most don’t care right now, but they will soon.
Posted by: Starr Location: Greenville on May 15, 2008 at 11:11 AM
Yes I did mean carpool, sorry but trying to type and worry about gas prices has my brain in a fog.
Posted by: Kisha Location: Newport on May 15, 2008 at 10:36 AM
Does anyone have a bicycle and a bike trailor I could borrow? I dont know how my kid is gonna feel about being pulled behind a bike but this is getting very close to being my only option. At $7.25/hr I make "too much" money to recieve any kind of help. The rising cost of everything will soon force me to give up my independance and have to live at a shelter or with a family member.

Editor's Note: Kisha, you are not alone in your frustration. We'd like to hear more about how gas prices are impacting your life. If you're up for it, please send us an e-mail at desk@witntv.com so we can get in touch.

Posted by: Rosebud Location: Lagrange on May 15, 2008 at 10:30 AM
Bob...I'm one of the idiots with a pickup truck, also mine is a diesel. That makes me a double idiot. I bought my truck in 2002, I can't afford to sell it because no one wants it. I will park it and ride my bicycle. Also while I ride I will by a shirt that says "no longer an idiot".
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Greenville on May 15, 2008 at 10:09 AM
Starr: Do you mean carpool
Posted by: Concerned Location: Eastern NC on May 15, 2008 at 09:51 AM
First, I would like to know from Mr. Bob what is wrong with SUV"S and I see more idots driving regular cars and trucks than anything else. Next, I think it is time that the politicians do something about the gas prices. We have oil in reserves and it is time that we use it instead of continuing to let the oil companies become rich off of the low and middle class working people. Maybe if all of the low and middle class people quit their jobs and lived off of welfare we would see a change in gas prices. Let's all go down to social services tomorrow and be there when they open to file for medicaid and food stamps.
Posted by: Starr Location: Greenville on May 15, 2008 at 09:49 AM
Mr. Bob, I am one of those "idiots" in an SUV and I just wanted to add something to your comment. YES gas is high and YES people including us "idiots" are suffering at the pump and at home with the overly high gas prices, but if you would like to make my car payment so I can get a compact car, carry my trash off in your car, cart kids around when it's my turn to car pull (yes, us "idiots" do car pull) then let me know. People that I work with have compact cars and are spending almost the same amount I am in gas a week. In this area people really do not have a choice about taking a car to work.
Posted by: Becky Location: MHC on May 15, 2008 at 09:29 AM
Congress still needs to look into the oil companies, since they are making billions in PROFIT.
Posted by: Mr. Bob on May 15, 2008 at 09:18 AM
Maybe this will take some more of the idiots off the road in those suvs' and useless 3/4 ton pickups.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Williamston on May 15, 2008 at 08:57 AM
Regular gas here is already 3.78 a gallon. It's getting harder and harder to determine whats important anymore, gas to get to work or food to feed your family. Its a no win situation, have to have the gas to get to work to get a pay check, but next to nothing left for groceries! We all need help. Everything is costing more, but we arent getting paid any more!!
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