Like driving that SUV now?

In Arizona, gas shortages led to long lines at the pump and prices at some stations of almost $4 a gallon.

In Connecticut, pump prices surged by as much as 21 cents a gallon in a matter of hours. A state industry group predicted prices will continue to rise this weekend.

Higher gas prices mean more than just a couple of bucks more to top off the tank in the SUV. They also mean higher prices for food (which is shipped by truck) and energy (what do you think makes those turbines go if the power plant isn’t hydro-electric?).

So, do you think wages in our country are going to keep pace with the additional expenses of living? Notice how the subway, bus fares and tolls have all gone up? Notice how taxes have gone up while the government scrambles to cover budget deficits? Don’t think it will get worse? Get ready to dig deeper into your pocket.

If you think gasoline prices are high now in New York and Connecticut, wait until next year.

If you’re thinking of trading in that gas-guzzler or even if you’re in the market for a new car, might I suggest a stroll over to the EPA website so you can take a look at those mileage estimates before you get your heart set on that new Hummer.

So, I guess invading Iraq didn’t work out the way some people thought it would.



For the first time the poll has found that more registered voters — 49 percent — would not want Bush to return for a second term in office if the elections were now, compared with 44 percent who would.

Only 23 percent said terrorism and homeland security would be the most important issues for them in the November 2004 election, compared with 48 percent who said deciding factors for them now would be the economy and jobs.

Meanwhile, 69 percent are now convinced the United States will become bogged down in Iraq, without achieving ostensible goals in getting the country back on its feet.

Some 40 percent of them are now "very concerned" US troops will be there for the long-haul.

A majority also fears that US forces will be overextended in the event of a security threat elsewhere, according to the poll in the latest edition of Newsweek — 29 percent very concerned and 30 percent somewhat concerned.