Talk of the Town

By Jeff

September 1, 2005 08:03 AM | Link to this

I am changing my travel plans. Instead of traveling this weekend I have donated the money I would have spent to the Red Cross

By nate

September 1, 2005 08:11 AM | Link to this

My wife and I had planed to across the state this weekend to visit with some family members. We talked about it last night and decided that we should conserve the fuel we already have in the car and stay in this weekend.

By Akeya

September 1, 2005 08:11 AM | Link to this

I will be walking to the grocery store, laundromat, and any other places near my house that I need to go. I have changed the air filter on my car, I drive no faster than 60 MPH, I make sure that my tires are inflated properly, and I don’t run the air. I keep ice water in my car with me to sip on so that I don’t have to run the air. Any other suggestions?

By Jeff M

September 1, 2005 08:12 AM | Link to this

I changed my driving plans the day gas went up above $2.00 a gallon, let alone $3 and God-forbid $4. When gas was $2.39 a gallon, I calculated I was spending $1900 more a year in gas for my two cars. That $1900 cost me my vacation this year. We were gonna go Scuba diving in the Caymans. Instead we went camping. So yes, gas prices affect me personally. Kinda hard to dive in central Georgia.

By Jason

September 1, 2005 08:14 AM | Link to this

I’ve been telling friends for quite some time that this day would come. They thought I was crazy moving in town. They thought I was even crazier moving downtown. My last employer thought I was crazy for quiting to accept a job downtown. But now I can walk to work and it’s great.

I feel sorry for those who are getting hurt by this crisis but this will not be the last time this happens. Get use to it. Start looking at alternatives, they do exist. But you have to open your eyes and your mind to all the possibilities. I never thought I would live and work downtown but now I do and it is great. And it’s not just because I can walk to work, it’s also because I walk to the store, the bar, to see friends, etc. Ironicly, it’s like living in a small friendly village.

Intown living doesn’t work for everyone but I think you’d be surprised just how many people do fall in love with it once they give it a try.

By S.Reed

September 1, 2005 08:14 AM | Link to this

This Labor Day weekend, I going to blockbuster, and staying home….all weekend…I can’t afford to use all my gas for the week.

By Sandi

September 1, 2005 08:15 AM | Link to this

Our entire family will be changing habits. My son, a Senior at Etowah High is organizing his friends to ride their bikes to school instead of driving. My husband and I will be walking instead of driving for our short grocery trips. My co-workers and I are working out a carpool for at least three days out of the week. This is a long term problem with no short term solution. The people on the gulf coast will need the resources more than anyone. We should give up a little so they can have more. PS glad I bought the little Toyota instead of the big ol SUV!!!

By Stephen from Fayetteville

September 1, 2005 08:17 AM | Link to this

I’m headed to South Alabama this weekend. Hope I can still find some gas down there.

By Terry Baker

September 1, 2005 08:19 AM | Link to this

My plans are not changing due to the gas prices. I am headed to Ohio to visit my two young grandons. I fully expect the cost of the trip to nearly double for fuel, but it is a small price to pay to see them.

By Larry W.

September 1, 2005 08:23 AM | Link to this

No, I’m not changing my weekend plans. What I will change, though, is my spending habits inside of the those places that have taken advantage of us. No more drinks, snacks, lottery tickets, etc. Hopefully eveyone else will do the same.

By David

September 1, 2005 08:23 AM | Link to this

I’m driving from Charlotte to Lilburn Friday. Lilburn to Athens Saturday. Back to play golf in Canton on Sunday. Lilburn to Duluth Monday. And back to Charlotte. So no, I’m not changing my schedule.

By Bill T

September 1, 2005 08:26 AM | Link to this

yeah, I’ll be changing my driving habits. I’ll be avoiding intersections with gas stations to avoid getting stuck behind all these knuckleheads topping off their vehickles and creating traffic jams.

By Becky Camp

September 1, 2005 08:29 AM | Link to this

I won a townhouse in Panama City, Fla, and I was planning to spending the holiday down there. But with the shortage of gas and the prohibitive cost, I think I will stay at home.

By Bill Fogarty

September 1, 2005 08:31 AM | Link to this

Please try not to promote hysteria at gas stations. I drove by at least two stations this morning on my way to work and there were no lines, just the normal number of cars.

I hope the governor will not waste time penalizing “price gougers”. These are businesses adjusting to the supply/demand balance. There are certainly enough gas stations in the Atlanta area for the competitve marketplace to discipline gougers very quickly without unnecessary govt intervention.

Thanks.

By jacket

September 1, 2005 08:31 AM | Link to this

Me and a group of friends were gonna go to Auburn to watch Georgia Tech play. But you can forget that now. There is no way the three of us can split up the 80 bucks worth of gas it would take to get there and then have money to scalp a ticket, eat, drink, etc. The outrageous price gouging around town is ridiculous. With oil companies making bigger profits then ever, shouldn’t they have a little compassion and charge a fair price?

By EBateman

September 1, 2005 08:32 AM | Link to this

We have even modified our plans out to October. We are flying to Disney World from Atlanta rather than the normal drive. It was so much cheaper to buy tickets on AirTran than to drive my Suburban!

By E Wilburg

September 1, 2005 08:34 AM | Link to this

I have changed my driving habits, from work to home. I am no longer stopping here and there to get the shopping done. I am keeping it to the minimum. I see the ripling negative effect on business as I am sure the above can be said for many others.

By Joe Baker

September 1, 2005 08:34 AM | Link to this

No I haven’t changed my plans for traveling for the weekend, this won’t stop me from going out of town, but I am being more conservative in how I plan my days and priorities with my family and, errands and traveling back and forth to work to save as much as possible on gas in my car.

By Nancy2

September 1, 2005 08:34 AM | Link to this

Netflix. I highly recommend it.

By John K.

September 1, 2005 08:47 AM | Link to this

I had been planning routes and building a commuter bicycle for the past two weeks and finished the bike the weekend the storm made landfall. I had planned on riding my bike to work for the first time (17 miles) on Monday 8/29 but decided to wait until the bad weather cleared. On Wednesday 8/31 I rode my bike to work for the first time and all this chaos started and I laughed all day long. My route is great (and safe) and I get all the excercise I will ever need with the 34 mile round trip. I have been freed from the car and feel like a new person!

By Laura

September 1, 2005 08:50 AM | Link to this

We will be planning all of our errands in the same area at the same time. I don’t like the high price of gas, but at least then you have a choice when to drive and when not to. What scares me is NOT being able to get any gas. My kids need to get to daycare and we need to get to work. We will be saving the majority of our gas for that.

By Brandy

September 1, 2005 08:52 AM | Link to this

I was driviing to Milwaukee, WI for the weekend if gas is 2.79-3.19 a gal I can imagine what the price is in Chicago. The last time i checked it was $4 a gal I can’t afford the gas there would be no spending money. I will fly in two weeks it will come out cheaper.

By Low income earner

September 1, 2005 08:55 AM | Link to this

I walk to the grocery store now. That helps me lose weight and get fit. I avoid buying unneeded items, that cuts down on clutter and trash. I laugh at the big SUV owners and Hummers. Let’s see, 51.5 gallons times $5.87 a gal makes it $300 a fill every time for those box on wheels. Hope you love your Hummer now!

By Edward Lopez

September 1, 2005 08:56 AM | Link to this

Recent gas prices have effected my driving. We have a 4 door sedan, a Tundra and a Golf cart. The Tundra is staying home more than ever, the sedan is for work and planned shopping trips to the bank, grocery store, video shop etc., are by Golf cart….in Peachtree City. PS. The Tundra has 1/3 of a tank and I do not plan to fill’er up any time soon.

By Sheena

September 1, 2005 08:56 AM | Link to this

Yes, my husband now drives my Cadillac Catera 40 miles to work and I now drive his GMC Yukon 5 miles to the MARTA station.

By Susan frm Lwrcv'l

September 1, 2005 08:57 AM | Link to this

I think we don’t need to panic, gas will be here, but if the people are willing to top off their tanks and fill up extra containers…we will find a shortage and the prices will continue to rise.(it’s called “Supply and Demand”).~ ~ ~THINK~ ~ ~ Just reduce your traveling for the weekend, and start concerving… don’t go boating, or mow that lawn this weekend. Find a more positive thing to do…Volunteer to help the red cross… INSTEAD OF GIVING YOUR MONEY TO THOSE GAS STATIONS…. GIVE IT TO RED CROSS

By Angie Hill-Riverdale

September 1, 2005 08:58 AM | Link to this

I have change my travel plans to Florida to visit my family. The gas prices here and Florida are just out of my budget. I drove around and it’s CRAZY out here. I’ve decided to stay here and help a family through V-103 radio station. (Thanks Frank & Wanda)

By kunifa

September 1, 2005 08:59 AM | Link to this

No changes. Going to see elderly parents in VA. and would pay $10 per gallon to see someone who may not be here next year. Neither should any of you. Go and enjoy them and just think of the alternatives. Cutting back on dining out, utilities (air is now set at 78 vs.74)less shower time, time management for car,etc,. saves us gas $. I am now using ADVO coupons sent in mailbox which is a GREAT money saver…. Go see your folks!!! watch some games and relax. My prayers are with all effected by Hurricane. PEACE

By Bill Mc.

September 1, 2005 09:00 AM | Link to this

Yes, it did cause me to change plans for the weekend. I’ll stay home and conserve fuel….not just to reduce my personal cost but to allow more access to fuel for those who need it more than me. I’d like to see everyone do the same. Can you imagine how much gasoline those buses will suckup in transporting people from N.O. to Houston, TX. They need it, I don’t.

By CONNIE

September 1, 2005 09:00 AM | Link to this

Alot of changes.Driving 60 miles a day just to work and home requires changing. I no longer go home then out on errands, no vacation plans and no way to know how long I can affortd to commutte to work. I saw this in the 70’s, prices weren’t near what we are seeing today.

By M. Moore

September 1, 2005 09:01 AM | Link to this

I will have to change again. I commute 90+ miles each way. No jobs where I live. Gas is now costing me $500/mo so I will take advantage of a tele-commuting program 2-3 days a week and cut all non -essential travel. I also hope I can get another 200,000 miles out of my Toyota Corolla. And I won’t be trading with the stations that jacked the prices 30 cents a gal higher that the others when the prices started going up.

By K. Barnes

September 1, 2005 09:01 AM | Link to this

We lived in England for a few years and are used to paying $6-7/gallon for gas anyway. Therefore, even though these prices are higher than what the US is used to, it’s still not as bad as it is over there. We also drive a Honda and it gets great gas mileage so we are still driving up to Kentucky to visit friends over Labor Day weekend.

By Laurel Parker

September 1, 2005 09:02 AM | Link to this

I will be driving a lot less until the hysteria dies down. I came within inches of hitting a car that plowed across rush hour traffic on Rosswell Rd at Habersham JUST to beat me to a spot in line at the gas station. But, I wasn’t cueing up for gas, I was driving down Rosswell. She was so out of her mind over getting a little gas that she completely ignored the fact that the gas station was situated along a road filled with moving traffic. The passenger curled into a fetal position and clearly thought ( as did my two children) that she was going to die because of this insane act. How self absorbed can you get?

I am astounded by the large numbers of people who buy houses that look far bigger than they are (and have siding only where it shows the most), and cars too big too manuevor, but then panic when they realise they will have to share (and it’s ONLY gas!) for the first time in their lives because there is a crisis. You can’t understand the looting in New Orleans? Hey - you’re looters too, people!

Change your life - help others it feels MUCH better than grabbing everything for yourself!

By tene

September 1, 2005 09:02 AM | Link to this

I have change my driving habits as soon as I saw the gas go up to $2.35. I use to go 80 miles an hour on the expressway now I am going 55 miles to 60 miles an hour. Not only has it save me some dollars on gas but I arrive at my destination at the same time. I don’t catch as many traffic lights and I don’t have to press my breaks as much, and rarely have to switch lanes which all cost you more gas usage. I have also lighten the load in the trunk of my car and make sure that my car is maintain properly. People just need to slow down and think because the more you drive crazy and unnessarily the more it will cost you!

By anna

September 1, 2005 09:04 AM | Link to this

I believe in mass transit, have used it since moving to GA. I haven’t changed my routine except wishing I lived closer to the park-n-ride and wishing there were actual bike paths along route 20East because I would ride my bike to the p-n-r instead of driving at all. I am finding it hard to live though w/increased prices of everything from gas to electricity and no increase in salary to just match. I make sure my animals eat…but am worried about me. I cancelled a trip to MI to see my grandsons (planned once a year…which will be longer now) because of it. I am devastated by this! I’m going back to college, and trying to buy a house. How am I going to survive?

By SUZAN

September 1, 2005 09:05 AM | Link to this

This morning I road the bus to work for the first time and it was great. I had to get up a little earlier, I had to walk 2 miles to catch the bus, but I will get my exercise, save $200.00 a mont in gas cost and help the over traffic in atlanta buy not being another car on the road. Marta now is your time to really show Atlanta that riding the buses and trains is the way to go.

By Jim

September 1, 2005 09:05 AM | Link to this

Let’s face it, our country is nothing but a bunch of “spoiled brats”. Yes, me too. We have got to learn that because we have “plenty” in our country does not mean that we do not have to conserve. Thinking does not cost us anything, but it can certainly save us a lot. Hoarding gas like I saw at the pumps yesterday with a guy filling up his pickup with an extra tank plus 7 gas cans in the back is totally rediculous. Everyone can have what they need, but be considerate, too. We are lucky here in Atlanta. I live on the street in McDonough that got the brunt of a tornado spawned by Dennis in July, but that was nothing compared to what is going on with our neighbors in AL, MS, and LA. Let’s all thank God for how fortunate we are and learn to get along and help our neighbor. It is time to stop and ask ourselves, “what can I do?”

By Holly

September 1, 2005 09:07 AM | Link to this

Months ago, we planned to fly to Florida this weekend, because AirTran is much cheaper than the 9-hour drive.

With my husband and I both driving 25 miles one-way to work, we will be making many changes. Like not having cable television and not eating out any more. We live in Cherokee County where public Transportation is not available so Driving is not a choice for us. Therefore, we have to make cuts in other areas.

My company will be moving closer to my house is December, and my husband is looking for a new job. We are wondering now how we will buy Groceries and make rent because of the amount we have to spent on gas.

By cathy

September 1, 2005 09:07 AM | Link to this

No, my plans have not changed. I still intend to stay home & have a barbeque with the family. People tend to freak out when unusual things like this happen.Things either work out or you have to deal with it. We’ll all be in the same fix so we may as well be reasonable about it.

By SBM

September 1, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

If a college student has enough sence to call off a 12hr rd trip to visit her grandparents 55th wedding annv this weekend to volunteer with the RED CROSS to collect $$ at the U of T game. We all can learn from this. PRIORITIES people. We don’t need to be thinking of ourselves….but of those in need. We don’t need to be driving with our air on or and these high speeds. THINK ABOUT IT.

By Jacki Winters-Allen

September 1, 2005 09:09 AM | Link to this

I am carpooling today and tomorrow to save gas and money, which means I will be getting to work about 30 min. early and staying almost 2 hours later. I will not be driving anywhere over Labor Day Weekend!

By Vikki

September 1, 2005 09:09 AM | Link to this

This weekend my husband & I going to thrift stores to try to get a care package together for my father & mother-in-law. When they fled the city they lost everything so, I’m sure it’s hard for them to feel grateful to be alive when all they worked so hard for is under 15 feet of sewage. Maybe others should see what they could do for the real victims of this tragedy rather than being fixated on themselves and their cars? Paranoia gets us nowhere.

By Tami

September 1, 2005 09:09 AM | Link to this

This is our weekend to take our kids up north to see their other parents (my two daughters and my husbands son live with us), so we don’t have much choice. However, on the bright side, I know that gas will be cheaper coming home that it will be going. Kentucky always has cheaper gas than anybody else. So, no, we’re not changing plans. My husband and I fully anticipated the issues with gas prices due to hurricane Katrina, but the mass hysteria that everyone is reacting too is only causing gas prices to go even higher. Calm down everyone, the market will eventually adjust to a fair price, if WE let it. However, maybe more citizens and our government will be more supportive of developing new technologies that make us less dependent on oil as a major source of fuel. Bring on the hydrogen powered cars!

By Margie

September 1, 2005 09:12 AM | Link to this

Yes, I’ve changed my driving habits. I have a 60-mile round trip commute to work each day, and by dropping my speed down to 55 mph, I save about a quarter of a tank of gas each week. Every little bit helps. We may not be able to do anything about the high prices, but we can conserve!

By Nanny

September 1, 2005 09:17 AM | Link to this

I’m down to a quarter of a tank and I’m going to stop on the way home today and fill up. Please don’t call me a name for doing this.

By Rebecca

September 1, 2005 09:20 AM | Link to this

Naturally, this would happen one week before the only vacation I have planned in 5 years. After feeling so violated after paying $4.99 a gallon for the regular stuff in Morrow after everyone else had run out (I actually NEEDED gas), I decided that nothing is going to keep me from Florida this year—I’ve been counting on this vacation for so long! I refuse to let my trip fall victim to this senseless gouging. After I get back, I will definitely look at cheaper alternatives: that’s the only way to make these billion-dollar proffit gas companies feel the pinch. Good luck to everyone!

By Paige Jackson

September 1, 2005 09:21 AM | Link to this

I’m a student at UGA. My friends and I moved off campus this year. We’d already been carpooling, but now we are trying to take the Athens and UGA buses as much as possible. But if we have to go, we have to go. That’s when we carpool. I’d also planned on going home for Labor Day, but now I may not make the 1 1/2 trip due to the high gas prices.

By Beverly

September 1, 2005 09:22 AM | Link to this

We’ve just cancelled plans for lunch get togethers for the next week. Our granddaughter, in Athens, is postponing coming home for a dental appointment. We’re more concerned about gas shortages than we are gas prices. What are the people doing who have long communtes to get to work?

By Jim Biles

September 1, 2005 09:23 AM | Link to this

We were planning to go to a family reunion in Statesboro and then down to Liberty County to stay with a brother-in-law, but at even $3.40 per gallon and not knowing if there would be gas to get back home Sunday we will probably stay home and celebrate my wife’s birthday at home.

By Cindy

September 1, 2005 09:24 AM | Link to this

Yes, we canceled our trip to Nashville for the Holiday weekend. We were worried about having enough gas to get there and back home. Just gonna stay close to home now…

By June Griffeth

September 1, 2005 09:25 AM | Link to this

I own a midsize SUV and now I drive a scooter to work 2-3 times per week. I figure it offsets higher prices now but I won’t have that option in winter.

By Kisha

September 1, 2005 09:25 AM | Link to this

I will not be going out of town for the weekend and no more driving to work (from Decatur to Midtown). I am on MARTA starting today until the gas prices come down.

By Doug

September 1, 2005 09:26 AM | Link to this

Like others on this board, I have slowed down on the freeway - 55 seems so slow when you used to drive 70 or 75 but you get used to it! I did an experiment with my last tank in my four-cylinder 2001 Celica, and drove no faster than 60 and kept the A/C off. I got about 70 more miles cruising range than I’d been getting. Slow down everyone and conserve the gas for others who need it! I think we need to institute new per-gallon gas prices based on the car you drive. Someone driving a Escalade or H2 uses gas more quickly than someone driving a Sentra and should pay more for it. Also going to Auburn for the GT game and we already have the tix, so our plans will not change in that regard. We’ll have to be more conservative in our tailgating, however!

By Darrell

September 1, 2005 09:36 AM | Link to this

If everyone in Atlanta would drive the speed limit, consolidate their trips, and drive less often, we could collectively reduce our gas usage by 15 percent or more. Then the same supply and demand process that’s driving gas prices up would drive them back down again.

By dognose

September 1, 2005 09:41 AM | Link to this

drive less and plan local trips more wisely. no travel for me this weekend. i will cook out on the grill in the back yard instead.

By Stew

September 1, 2005 09:45 AM | Link to this

My partner and I had planned to spend the weekend at the lake, but decided this morning after paying $3.15 for a gallon of gas in Chamblee to stay home.

By Charles

September 1, 2005 09:48 AM | Link to this

As of this morning I have begun taking the GRTA XPress bus to work each day. I commute daily from Powder Springs into Midtown each day and with gas prices te way they are it is much cheaper to take the bus. I only wish I had begun this sooner!

By Gene

September 1, 2005 09:50 AM | Link to this

Yes we will conserve. Even though we get good mileage compared to the guy getting 8 MPG driving an SUV in downtown Atlanta, we will not drive from our rural home into town two days a week. We will stay home and save the trips for doctors, groceries and the more important things such as church.

By Bill T.

September 1, 2005 09:55 AM | Link to this

I walked the 3/4 mile from home to work today. I hope to keep that sort of thing going long after this current panic passes.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if all of those folks commuting alone in SUVs from Acworth saw the light and moved closer to work and bought more reasonable cars? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we turned out of Congress those who changed the tax codes to encourage purchase of gas guzzlers?

By Jen

September 1, 2005 09:57 AM | Link to this

I am not worried about a gas shortage, I am worried about the price of gas. My husband and I were planning on driving to Missouri over the long weekend with our newborn daughter to see his family. With the price of gas rising, we are choosing to stay home this weekend. Also, I’ve started carpooling with a coworker. For years agencies have been encouraging Atlantans to use public transportation and carpool, this may provide the incentive for people to make that move.

By Amy

September 1, 2005 10:03 AM | Link to this

I had to cancel my 25th birthday trip to D.C. this weekend because there is no gas. I guess its not much to lose considering what people have lost because of Katrina. But why is it that my friend in Manassas, VA was filling up at $2.79 yesterday afternoon with no problem and even later in the evening told me the price was now $2.55 and there were only a few people filling up?

By Jeremy

September 1, 2005 10:30 AM | Link to this

First, I had planned more than a year ago to be flying out to New Orleans today. Needless to say, that won’t be happening and any inconvenience to my vacation plans pales in comparison to the suffering and misery those people are suffering down there. Then, as a back up (I live in Augusta) I was planning on going to Atlanta. Then the gas prices rose, the shortage came and then the chaos of yesterday’s gas panic. Not to mention that hotels in Atlanta have already filled up with various events going on there this weekend plus the additional evacuees (we are, believe it or not, getting hurricane evacuees as far east as here, too). I will be either walking to the nearby stores if I absolutely need anything, or else I will attempt to use the public transit system here. My car has 3/4 of a tank (filled up on Sunday before Katrina came through at 2.29/gal in South Carolina) and I hope to keep the needle near there.

By Scott

September 1, 2005 10:32 AM | Link to this

Ya’ll should consider not coming to PAnama City or Destin this weekend. We ahve been advised there will be a severe gas shortage this weekend. The gas barge cannot get through to us here. Besides if you come here evacueeswho are here will lose there rooms. Do you wnat to kick out an evacuee for a holiday? Help the Gulf Coast and stay home.

By Horatius

September 1, 2005 10:34 AM | Link to this

Yes, I have changed my driving habits. I plan all of my driving activities for the day and execute them in the most economical way. I get a map route thru Rand McNally or Mapquest and determine the total mileage. Figure out which way to go and do all the things needed in the various areas with the least mileage necessary. Anything, anybody does will be effective. Cutting down on the air conditioner, proper tire inflation, etc.. However, the most effective strategy is for enough people to cut down dramatically on their use of gas for an extended period of time. Even to the point of bicycling, walking or just staying home. The result will tell the gas industry that we will no longer tolerate these outrageous prices. If, I am not mistaken, we did that to the coffee industry some years ago and they got the message. It’s time to send the same message to the gas industry.

Horatius Coleman

By anang

September 1, 2005 10:34 AM | Link to this

When gas prices went up to $1.76, it was a struggle. Now, its absolutely devastating, financially, for me at least. I can live without getting my hair cut, or my nails done, or not buying new clothes, which I desperately need (I’ve dropped 3 sizes)…I’ve lived meagerly for a little over a year now. But now, I am having to choose which bills to pay, just so I can get to and from work. I don’t feel sorry for myself…After Katrina, I have a lot to be thankful for. I am now going to have my home phone turned off, and use my cell phone solely, I’m also going to change my cable to just basic local channels, beyond that, I can’t cut back much more. I will stay with family 3 nights a week, 10 minute drive to work from there. Desperate times, and I have to sacrifice where I can.

By Suzanne

September 1, 2005 10:34 AM | Link to this

Our plans are not changing. We have a no-refund condo in Florida for the weekend, and we would lose significant funds if we didn’t go. My husband and I refused to give in to the mass hysteria yesterday and we waited until late last night to fill our tank for the weekend, paying $3.69 a gallon only because we were almost on empty anyway.

This is one situation where I am thankful I live in a smaller house IN town, only 10 minutes from work and from my kids’ school.

By Scott

September 1, 2005 10:39 AM | Link to this

As soon as gas hit $2.25 a gallon I started driving 68 mph on the highways instead of my usual 80 mph in my Honda Civic. It does make a difference in MPG. I’ve cut out all unecessary trips - only running errands in bunches or at stores I can stop at on the way home from work. I drive 65 miles roundtrip to work every day. I have tried to convince a co-worker (who makes less money than I do and who drives a Geo Metro) and lives in my neighborhood to car pool, even 2 days a week and he won’t do it because he likes to run errands after work (every night…?) - maybe at $3+ a gallon he’ll think it over again.

By Joe

September 1, 2005 10:54 AM | Link to this

Coincidentally, I just got a bike for the first time in years last Friday. As I get my body in shape, I’ll be using it to get to a bus stop so I can free myself from my car.

The saved money will go toward a move intown where I could just walk to work. If only intown living were a little more affordable, I’d do it today.

By Lynette Goswick

September 1, 2005 11:03 AM | Link to this

Our plans will be the same for the holiday weekend. However, I drive a total of 68 miles a day just to my job and back home. Between paying childcare at 90.00 a week for one child alone and the rediculous gas prices I’m wondering if I shouldn’t just quit and stay at home. I have a total of 3 children. Someone who’s worked hard all their life seems to get less help than someone who never works and sits at home on their bum.

By Victor Healey

September 1, 2005 11:03 AM | Link to this

I am a line haul driver for a major trucking company. Late last night I was shocked to see gas lines stretching up to 1/4 mile at various interstate exits in other states. The point is that this was late; no one lines up to buy gas that late at night! There is no way at this time that I would waste my time on trip anywhere in a car that didn’t have at least a 300 gallon tank.

By Doris Molina

September 1, 2005 11:05 AM | Link to this

Several of us have intercommunicated within our firm looking to forming groups of car pools…. gas prices, even before Katrina are making car pools a far more viable means of commuting to and from work. I would hope other organizations will also encourage their employees to do same.

By Smacktard

September 1, 2005 11:07 AM | Link to this

My trip to downtown is 55 miles each way. Would walk if it was an option. My family hardly went anywhere to begin with prior to the crisis. We can afford it, just makes it more inconvienant. I’d drive a motorcycle but the idiots on these freeways would probably kill me the first day I drove the bike. Hybrids will now be overpriced and still the benefit of them is poor compared to cost/performance. Gotta pay it out and deal with it. life is better than commodities so love your friends and family.

By Sue S

September 1, 2005 11:08 AM | Link to this

I bought a used Honda CR-V last week so that I don’t have to drive my Suburban around by myself while my kids are at school. Boy, am I glad that I did!

By Ric Hunt

September 1, 2005 11:12 AM | Link to this

We will cut back where we can. We have a time share week in South Carolina that we use or loose so we will drive this weekend. Plan to drive much slower than usual to save gas.

By Eric

September 1, 2005 11:14 AM | Link to this

Instead of leaving town on vacation, We’re going to go and buy a piano for the family. It’s time to get back to true home entertainment.

By Resa

September 1, 2005 11:31 AM | Link to this

I’m joining the vanpool on Tuesday. I already combine trips, don’t run the air, combine weekend errands, and drive close to 60 mph when on the highway. The vanpool will cost less per month than I currently pay in gas each week.

By Katie

September 1, 2005 11:38 AM | Link to this

We were going to drive to Michigan, but have instead decided to stay in-state. We’ll probably split what would have been our travel money…half to conserve for rising gas prices, half to the red cross or other charity.

By Jervay Hackett-Watts

September 1, 2005 11:38 AM | Link to this

Yes, we have changed our travel plans and overall driving routines. We actually are using our sons electric scooter for local errands such as grabbing that forgotten item from the store. We have also decided to stay home and enjoy our community pools and parks that are located within “walking” distance. Jervay and family of Sugarhill

By Sharron - Powder Springs

September 1, 2005 11:40 AM | Link to this

I think it’s time we all get down on our knees and thank God for all that we are truly blessed with and look at the Hurricane victims and pray for them that they are able to cope and get through this with all of our help and financial assistance. I will not be changing any driving plans but trying to be more conservative and combine short trips with neighbors so that we can all save gasoline during this crisis. I retired from BP and when I see price gouging like I saw on the major news channels yesterday, it makes me ashamed. There should be “0” tolerance for those dealers that take advantage of situations like this. I am proud of those stations that are truly trying to stay in line pricewise and assist the public at a time like this…and I thank God for all I have.

By Fred

September 1, 2005 11:44 AM | Link to this

I can rarely afford to take a vacation. The last time I had planed a vacation flying out on 9/13/2001, of course that had to be cancelled with a great loss of money. Then this weekend I planed drive up to Chattanooga to spend 2 days at a great hotel that I have paid for with a half price AARP discount, non-refundable, of course. Then I had planned to drive up to a cabin in the mountains on the Tennessee/Virginia boarder (also paid for and non-refundable). Now I am afraid to go, afraid that I will run out of gas a couple of hundred miles away from home because everyone is topping of the gas in there cars at every other block and causing what is basically an artificial gas shortage, because they just could not wait for a real one to happen. Oh well.

By Rita Weirich

September 1, 2005 11:47 AM | Link to this

We were planning a trip to Florida next week, but we’re waiting to hear about gas availability before we go. We can’t afford to get stuck down there and not be able to make it back to work.

By John

September 1, 2005 11:49 AM | Link to this

I am going to change plans…. I was going to drive somewhere this weekend but I think I will now fly… the airlines are too stupid to raise prices becasue of gas going up… they like loosing money..

By John

September 1, 2005 11:52 AM | Link to this

FLY…. FLY….. FLY….. It is much cheaper than driving.

By Andrea

September 1, 2005 12:00 PM | Link to this

We have changed plans for family activities this weekend. We had planned to travel to north Georgia but have decided to stay at home. I am also exploring buying an electric scooter for local errands.

By Stephanie Loomis

September 1, 2005 12:10 PM | Link to this

Having moved here from the San Francisco Bay Area the beginning of this year, I had already adjusted my driving patterns. I sure didn’t get to enjoy low Georgia gas prices very long! Tips for drivers new to high gas prices: 1. Trade in all but one family sized car for smaller cars or hybrids. (We love our Honda Civic Hybrid, but need a multi-passenger van for when the entire family rides together.) 2. Combine trips. It takes planning, but it is effective for fuel economy. 3. Fill your tank at half empty. This is “dollar cost averaging” for fuel. You’re able to take better advantage of yo-yoing prices this way. 4. Car pool—-even at some inconvenience. 5. Walk or ride a bike as often as possible. The extra benefit here is improved health. And you can fit more in a backpack than you think you can! 6. Don’t panic about prices/supply. This fuel “crisis” is hysteria based and short term.

By Dennis Q

September 1, 2005 12:16 PM | Link to this

I’m from Savannah and have tickets to the UGA game but decided not to go due to the gas situation. I’m afraid I’d have to search for gas or wait on long lines. I’d go if it were not on TV though!

By Lisa

September 1, 2005 12:17 PM | Link to this

Sell your SUV! Especially those of you who drive around the city with no one else in the car with you and who drive over the center line because you have a cell phone stuck to your ear!!!

By Cynthia Demery

September 1, 2005 12:18 PM | Link to this

I had plan to go to North Carolina this holiday weekend for a family gathering, but now with the gas price hype, I don’t think I will be traveling. It’s a shame that the govenor did not stop this price gouging before it started. I also, notice that the gouging appeared at the majority of the Indian own service stations. I’m not prejudice at all, but that’s what I observed while searching for the cheapest gas in Atlanta on yesterday

By R. Dean

September 1, 2005 12:21 PM | Link to this

We recently purchased a house with a pool & are turning our backyard into our own little resort. I still have a long commute, but will no longer need to fly or drive to vacation. I will sit under my tiki hut, play ocean sounds on the stereo & practice my backstroke.

By Kita

September 1, 2005 12:50 PM | Link to this

My family had planned to drive to Atlanta to visit family in a few weeks, but because of gas prices and pumps running dry, we decided not to make the trip. Living in the panhandle of FL we have had this problem since Hurricane Dennis a few weeks ago. We had the same problem with Hurricane Ivan last year.

By Michelle from CfPT

September 1, 2005 12:50 PM | Link to this

I guess I feel disappointed that our elected leaders have fought so hard to avoid funding any form of public transit or trains or bike/pedestrian improvements, while spending tons on roads and making it impossible to get around Atlanta without a car. And now they are encouraging us to conserve fuel - they’ve made it nearly impossible to do! Learn more options at cfpt.org I have personally gotten away from driving for over a year now. I ride my bike and take MARTA and CCT. I save a lot of money and have improved my health (and waistline). But we need much better service, bike lanes, sidewalks, commuter rail, less sprawl … I feel for those who are having to make sacrifices due to the cost of driving their car, who don’t have a choice. I hope that their burden will be eased soon. But I also hope we won’t just go back to building sprawling cities and massive roadways. I hope this motivates us to call on our leadership for more and better transit choices. This is not the last time we will face this problem.

By staci h.

September 1, 2005 12:58 PM | Link to this

I now have 1/4 or less tank of gas. when that is used up I will start walking. Yes it’s a mile away and I am overweight and out of shape but you gotta do what you gotta do and I’m not complaining because at least my hometown is not under 20 feet of water. I am humbled… God speed New Orleans, Miss. and Alabama!

By Andrew

September 1, 2005 12:58 PM | Link to this

I traded my gas guzzling Jeep Sahara last fall for a Subaru Forester. Plus, with the great weather we’re having, I’m taking the motorcycle to work more often and for small errands.

By Jeff

September 1, 2005 12:59 PM | Link to this

I am not changing my plans due to this foolishness. I will still be traveling to Columbia, SC tonight to watch South Carolina (in which I will be speeding to get there on time). Then I will return home here in Atlanta for my son’s high school football game on Friday night. Saturday we are heading to Auburn to watch the Yellow Jackets play and then from there we are heading to Raleigh, NC to watch VA Tech play. Thank goodness for a gas card!!! It is Football season!!!! That is cause for a celebration!

By Ray

September 1, 2005 01:06 PM | Link to this

I am from south ga. I was going to take my fiance up to atlanta for our 1 year anniversary but with the uncertainty of whether there would be gas and the cost per gallon I had to cancel our hotel reservations and try to sell our Braves tickets. We may experience a shortage here too according to local news so we are having to conserve what we have.

By Robert

September 1, 2005 01:06 PM | Link to this

Well, the weather has been dry and gas now results in $7.00 25 mile daily commute. My action: Got out the helmet, jacket & gloves and took my motorcycle to work. Will keep doing so long as it isn’t raining. Daily savings, about $4.00 as the bike gets 55mpg. Heck, if price goes higher, I’ might just ride it in the rain too.

By Rebecca

September 1, 2005 01:07 PM | Link to this

I think this is a time to conserve gas for those who must travel. We had planned to leave town for the weekend, in part to escape the football frenzy, but we’re staying put.

By Reggie

September 1, 2005 01:47 PM | Link to this

Let’s just say I don’t plan on changing my budget. If I can afford to go somewhere without spending more, I will.

By Jennifer

September 1, 2005 01:47 PM | Link to this

We were going to Myrtle Beach with family from SC. They aren’t going because their gas stations are sold out, so neither are we. I guess we’ll go see the Braves.