By Staff
Gas prices certain to remain high
Gas prices have dropped an average of 7 cents across the country - but that doesn't necessarily make much difference for consumers.
The cost of a gallon of regular gas held steady in Brewton at just under $3 in recent weeks.
And despite the fluctuations of a few cents here and there, it's pretty certain that the higher prices are here to stay, at least for a while.
But we can at least take comfort in this knowledge: A gallon of gas still costs less than a gallon of milk. For that matter, a gallon of gas costs less than Coffee Mate, which would set you back $5.54, and Hershey's chocolate syrup, which is about $13.23 per gallon. And it's a good thing you probably don't need a gallon of Liquid Paper - that's $198.40 - or nail polish - which is about $892.80 per gallon.
As they say, it's all relative. And most of those products will last you longer than a gallon of gasoline.
But in all seriousness, our country needs to take a look at alternative fuel sources. We're running the risk now of becoming complacent about the cost of gas - even as the price eats into the budgets of so many families.
The federal government needs to consider better incentives for the makers of alternative fuels, as well as consider extending tax breaks for consumers who buy hybrid vehicles. Right now, a tax break on hybrid automobiles only lasts for the first 3,000 from each model - which is a deterrent from buying them.
Higher gas prices are here to stay. But we can find ways around them - it's just going to take thinking creatively.
But at least you're not filling your tank with Hershey's syrup.