CURRENT COSTS-OF-LIVING PRIMER

06.12.08

Current heating oil costs are hovering around $4.50 per gallon; this is 67% higher than the pre-purchase contract price offered by some companies in August 2007!

Current fuel cost of driving, round trip, to some "key" interest spots around our area, based on 20-23 mpg, and gas at $4.39.9 for regular grade gas as purchased in CT: Gt. Barrington, MA-$9.00; Torrington, CT - $10.00; New York City - $42.00; Hartford, CT - $22.00; Tanglewood - $12.00. Rhinebeck, NY - $12.00.

If your car gets 30 MPG, that cost is reduced by roughly 30%. Unfortunately you can’t buy furnaces that get significantly improved efficiency factors against the ‘stiff’ price of oil.

As mentioned last week, along with the above examples, the costs to "enjoy" living are going up throughout all levels of expenses. Refer to last week's column for other suggestions. See the right of this page for my last several columns (and you can find all of them at the archive)

It would appear that this reality is just beginning to "hit" people in a big way. Travel habits have already changed for many. High mpg motor scooters, as dangerous as they can be, are showing up on our local roads, as are some bicycles. This means, with our curving roads, narrow sidelines, and the shadows thrown by trees, that driving needs to be done VERY alertly, to watch for people using these alternate transport methods.

A safety tip for this week: if you are riding a bicycle or low powered scooter, wear a HIGH VISIBILITY neon vest. It may save your life.

©2008, R. Leech features.