As Gas Prices Increase, So Do HardshipsBy Julie Livingston Staff ReporterWith gas prices a

As Gas Prices Increase, So Do Hardships

By Julie Livingston

Staff Reporter

With gas prices at more than $4 per gallon, many Upton citizens are being forced to break their regular routine and change their way of living.

In the past, high gas prices meant Uptonites would postpone their weekend trip or even summer vacation, but today, Uptonites are changing more than travel plans.

"I started riding my bike to run errands in town," said resident Dale Brown. "But I still have to commute into the city for work, and I'm paying nearly double in gas. I may have to look for a new job."

Not only are people riding bicycles more, buses have been fuller than usual, and the gas prices are forcing the city council to discuss increasing ticket prices by 20 cents.

Still many people are driving as usual, but filling their tanks only half way. "I get calls a few times per week that they've run out of gas, so I drive out to where they are and bring them gas," said Marty Watson, owner of Marty's Gas Station. "It's a shame that [the gas] is not as affordable, so people fill up less and get stuck."

What problem is being discussed？

A．Lower wages

B．Higher fuel prices

C．Rising unemployment

D．Higher healthcare costs