by dpuckett » Wed Feb 20, 2008 7:15 pm
What they fail to report in addition to the "record profits" is also record volume. At the same profit margin per gallon (9 cents or so), with record galons sold, of course they are going to have record profits. Duh.
As for the economy, I dont think it's that bad. People are buying more $30-40K BBQ pits than we can produce; restaurant parking lots are jam packed every night of the week (the good ones, not McDonald's); lot of new vehicles on the road, etc, etc. Unemployment is still around 5%, which statistically, is full employment. (I learned that in Jr High social studies). Around here, if you show up 80% of the time, you keep your job. Show up and work the minimum required every day, and you get an occasional raise. Show up early, leave late, work harder than any 2 of your co-workers, and they toss money at you like you're an exotic dancer. I currently make more than 90% of my co-workers, and started in July 07. I could get more, but I am only going to be there til this coming May. Bad economy? Talk to someone who lived in the '30s.
If you really want to point fingers for fuel prices- thank an environmentalist. Their lobby efforts are why we havent built a refinery in almost 30 years. You think the refineries are efficient with 1960s/ 70s technology? According to several recent studies, there is more oil under the US, and immiediately offshore than in the ENTIRE Middle East. So, why dont we drill it out? Because we are already refining at full capacity, drilling more oil would be pointless. Build a refinery in every city, and drill oil wells close by.
As for the war, I would rather pay $4 or even $10 for diesel than pray toward Mecca 5x daily, or get tortured and beheaded because I pray to the wrong god (peaceful bastards they are). What some dont understand is that our very way of life is at stake, and if we lose, no more USA. They dont hate us because we are in the middle east. They hate us because we are free, esp the women. They think it unconscionable that a woman and a man are on a level plane, equals. They hate us because everyone wants to be like us, and we free every person we get the chance to. I dont recall us ever invading a country and forcing blue jeans and McDonalds down anyone's throat. Those towelheads can kiss my Christian behind. What price do you put on freedom? My freedom can and will not be bought. Taken away, one piece at a time by liberal politicians, maybe. (and no, the current president is NOT a conservative, neither will our next one, so dont go there).
I really miss $1.50 diesel and $1.75 gas, though. Paying $3.39 +/- here.
Daniel
His- 93 W250 club cab LE, auto to Getrag conversion, piston lift pump, 3.54 LSD. 400k+
Hers- 04 QC 4x4. Built auto, Triple Dog, Air Dog. Funny Round truck that aint so quiet.
!
Thank you, FDR.