Erratic Gas Prices Fuel Highway Robbery

I just returned from a two-week vacation driving around the U.S. The difference in prices of gasoline in various parts of the country surprised me, although given the current state of affairs with the Bush administration that gives business such sweeping control over the rest of us, it shouldn’t have.

When I left L.A., the average price for gas here was about $1.97. Less than 50 miles away, in Hesperia, it was $1.77. In Utah it was $1.44 a gallon, and in the rest of the U.S., $1.39 to $1.59 was the norm.

Anyone who says gasoline in L.A. is worth that much more than in the rest of the country is a liar. Anyone who believes him is a fool. Those who pay L.A. prices without complaint are cowards. When we pay such prices for gasoline, we are having our pockets picked by common thieves, and part of their booty is being funneled directly into our politicians’ pockets.

Dave Willis

Bellflower

Just returned last week from up north (Danville-Livermore area), fueling up for our trip south on Interstate 5. I paid $1.97 a gallon (some stations as high as $2.11). Refueled halfway at the Harris Ranch oasis for $1.87. Stopped off at Buttonwillow for a cold drink--gas price was $1.75 a gallon. Upon arriving in West Covina, the price was $1.97 a gallon. Why such a large difference? Go figure--I can’t.

Ted Grinstead

West Covina