Prices are on the rise

Amy R. Spurgeon

NEWPORT-MESA -- Locals forced to pay premiums at the gas pumps appeared

relatively unaffected Sunday.

“We’re not really worried,” said Jessica Jones, an attendant at the 76

gas station in Corona del Mar. “Everybody has to buy gas and this is a

pretty wealthy neighborhood.”Jones said the majority of business Sunday

came from those requesting full-service premium gasoline at $2.15 a

gallon. But that’s much different from her own story.

“I can barely afford to drive my car,” said Jones. “I don’t see how

people can afford to be driving long distances.”

A decline in gasoline production overseas has put the squeeze on American

drivers. Some think the high gas prices will be short-lived while others

are predicting that a more European lifestyle is just around the corner.

“We are actually just catching up with Europe where gas costs about $4 or

$5 a gallon,” said Mehdi Rafaty, a Corona del Mar resident and Land Rover

driver. “Mass transit would be a solution, but people in Southern

California like their cars too much.”

Gas prices remained constant at stations throughout Newport Beach and

Costa Mesa. The median price is about $1.70 per gallon.

Owners of SUV’s paid an average of $30 to $60 a tank compared with small

to mid-size car owners who paid approximately $25.

“I’m just glad I have a Honda,” said Newport Beach resident Scott Wilson.

“I’m just going to fill up in Anaheim,” said Corona del Mar resident

Robert Haviken. “Gas is cheaper there.”