There are many more “working poor” people in this country than ever before. The gap between the wealthy and other working folks is becoming wider. Every time prices rise, the everyday person finds it harder and harder to make ends meet. Unless you are destitute, there is no assistance available.

The recent increase in gas and oil prices will adversely affect other areas. It will raise the cost of transporting food and other goods. These costs usually end up being passed on to consumers. Electricity will probably be affected, as well.

Hopefully, researchers will find a safe, affordable alternative energy source soon. Let’s not wait until the last minute to find another source of energy. This would be disastrous for our country. Oil is not a renewable resource.

Oil companies seem to be able to charge what they want for their product with little or no restrictions. Apparently, our government, is going along with this policy. Why? Are favors owed?

There are countless numbers of hardworking people in America. Many live from paycheck to paycheck. It is becoming increasingly difficult to cover rising costs of rent, lights, heat, phone, food, medical care, car payments and insurances. Now, higher gas and oil prices are adding to this burden. Earnings do not increase in proportion to these rising costs.

Working people do not want a handout. They want and deserve fair and reasonable prices for goods and services.

Peggy A. Belkenny, Auburn