Have read several articles on the impact gas prices are going to have on the economy I won’t reprint them here as I do not agree with all of the information they contain. One fact I do agree with is the impact the prices are having on auto repair shops and parts suppliers mainly aftermarket. Many of the aftermarket chains are seeing a drastic drop in sales and thus a rise in inventory. I don’t know what the answer is but I am sure we will see prices rise as a result. When they have to pay taxes on this inventory increase the money has to come from somewhere. I have seen some specials come from the major aftermarket repair facilities that make me glad I am no longer in the business. The second is Starbucks and many specialty shops are getting nervous. Who is going to pay $4.00 for a cup of coffee (I never would) after they pay $50 and up to fill their tank. Also I think many of these overpriced business are due a wake-up call. I only hope the few honest shops can stay true to their values and not resort to over selling to stay afloat. When gas prices first approached $3 I thought the major oil companies would drop the price down to $2 or so and we would think we were getting a bargain but usage never fell off so why let the price go down. I am just as guilty I haven’t changed my driving habits as the price has risen and I know of very few people who have. I don’t know what the answer and I normally don’t complain unless I have a cure but in this case I had to after I read the article on Starbucks and visited with folks in the repair and parts business. Crew Chief Happy Turkey day