Since the administration already has predicted $3.40 a gallon for gas by spring,

[predfan]

someone help me on two questions: (1) is the US still buying and storing crude oil in the Strategic Oil Reserves, and if so, wouldn't that help maintain a shortage? and (2) since oil is priced in US dollars, and the dollar is weak as water against most currencies right now, isn't the price of gas in the rest of the world less of a shock, when converted into the indivual currencies?

[Richard D]

1. I paid 3.45 today.

[DJ13]

2. (1) Yes. Every barrel added is a barrel taken off the market

(2) Also yes. Gas prices in Europe arent much changed over the last 6 months.

Were getting screwed twice.

Once by the Bush administration for allowing the dollar to fall, the second time by the investment class who are moving into oil speculation to maintain the value of their portfolios as a hedge against a weakening stock market, which further pushes up the price of oil and gasoline.

[predfan]

5. I have a friend who drives about 15 miles each way to work,

bought a 98 neon with a blown engine for $300, is retooling it solar for about $4000. Expects 50 mile capacity. Then for another 3-4 grand can set up a solar collector system at home to charge all day, then transfer over to his car at night.

all the technology we need is out there, just need a little leadership, instead of the criminal class we've had.

[predfan]

6. correction: retooling ELECTRIC..sorry

[Vincardog]

3. (2) since oil is priced in US dollars, and the dollar is weak as water against most currencies

That is why the USA prefers WAR to allowing oil to be priced in any other currency. Even though $100/bbl oil does not hurt so much if you are paying for it with $2/Euro. $100/bbl oil is only 50 euros/bbl.

[mitchtv]

4. Gee , prices going down?

we've been payin more than that for a while now