VALDOSTA —
As if the lack of economic recovery isn’t enough of a sore point across the country these days, experts predict another huge spike in gas prices come summer.
Why? Reasons vary from the potential for more conflict in the Middle East as Iran begins flexing its muscle in the region to closed refineries, the increased demand in the summer months, and lest it escape anyone’s attention, presidential elections in the fall.
It’s hard to believe that the timing of the predicted $4 and $5 a gallon gas isn’t somehow tied politically to the presidential race.
A similar spike occurred late in President George W. Bush’s term, and what effect the potential rise in gas prices has on President Barack Obama’s chances for re-election remain to be seen.
But there’s always unrest in the Middle East. Americans always drive more in the summer months, and we’ve been hearing about the closing of oil refineries for several years now. The only thing different this year is the election.
It’s difficult trying to trace those responsible for gas prices, as everyone blames everyone else, but the president is typically the fall guy. How sad if the election is in any way to blame and gas prices do spike close to $5 per gallon this summer. Once again it is the American public that will suffer, not the politicians who are the impetus behind it.
What We Think
The campaign of rising gas prices
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Getting a jump on hurricane season
Come June 1, the 2012 hurricane season begins and lasts through Nov. 30.
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A few thoughts for new graduates
Graduation ceremonies reflect how life marches on. For the students receiving their diplomas and degrees, graduation is a culmination of the majority of their lives’ work.
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Video helps veterans
During Thursday night’s Military Officers Association of America meeting, the local chapter shared a video presentation regarding the Community Blueprint program, which is also known as Valdosta Veterans First.
For those unfamiliar with Community Blueprint, Valdosta is one of three cities across the nation selected as a pilot city for the program. -
Happy Mother's Day!
Mother. Mama. Mommy. Ma. Mom. She fed us when we were too small to feed ourselves. She nurtured us, clothed us, cleaned us, protected us.
She helped us form our first words. -
Thumbs Up. thumbs down
THUMBS UP: To Dr. Brian Hickox. Valdosta’s newest chiropractor overcame great odds to open his practice last week. Born with partial vision, an assault robbed him of the remainder of his sight. Despite these odds, he followed his dream to become a chiropractor. School took him twice as long, at seven years rather than the usual three and a half to complete, but he reached his goal. The story of Brian Hickox should be an inspiration to us all. It proves that we may lack sight, we may have to overcome difficulties and disabilities, but that doesn’t mean we have to lack vision.
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Honoring area students
As graduation ceremonies approach, many students, parents, and families will gather and have gathered to celebrate young people’s accomplishments this past school year.
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What next for a little safety?
Officials predict that the most recent al-Qaida attempt to bring explosives onto a plane will not increase airport security for travelers. Most security officials and transportation gurus claim the current measures of scanners, X-ray machines, random pat-downs, shoe and belt removal, etc., remain effective in detecting the type of situation from the latest terrorist attempt.
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VSU Softball: A new tradition
A record-setting winning streak. Advancement to the Super Regionals. A dramatic comeback. And a growing number of hometown fans to watch it all.
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Feeding the hungry by mail
Despite all of the region’s disagreements on various issues, Valdosta-Lowndes County continues revealing its generous spirit. South Georgia’s rich, poor and all who fall somewhere in between repeatedly answer the call.
If you want hard evidence of Valdosta-Lowndes County’s generosity drive around town this coming Saturday morning. -
Brown Bag Concerts return
The annual Brown Bag Concert Series is always an enjoyable way to hear some of the region’s talented musicians.
The series is a great break from work. It’s a fun time to meet friends and chat. Or to drop by and listen to the music. It’s a great break for lunch or to just drop by and sit a spell. - More What We Think Headlines
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Getting a jump on hurricane season
