CJ: Pinched at the pump 

Guzzler sits
My '02 Ram 1500 gas guzzler got parked and put on restricted mileage insurance so it can only be used when necessary.  The gas savings will cover 75 percent of the cost of an '02 low-mileage Honda Civic that is now the commuter vehicle.
--Charles Wilson, Three Mile Bay, N.Y.

Stretching out the legs
I actually purchased a bicycle. I have not rode one for 25 years. I cannot tell you how enjoyable [and healthy] it is to ride again. I also do not have to give my hard earned money to the pump.
--Tom, Cleveland, Ohio

Slowing down and relaxing
I own a SUV, that's the only vehicle I have for transportation. I live 22 miles from work with the freeway right next door. I don't take the freeway anymore, I use the little old highway which is 55mph all the way into town. I don't mind it at all. I get to see the nice views of mountains and fields, occasionally a deer or two. I have stopped spending $80.00 a week on gas and have saved half that by taking the "scenic route" Its worth it, I relax before and after work!
--Linda Guillen, Las Cruces, N.M.

High on hybrids
Anticipating gas prices going up, we purchased a Toyota Prius a year ago.  Fifty to 55 miles per gallon means we don't have to forego trips by car.  Also, I got a bike for my birthday and started riding my bike to work round trip eight miles.  I really enjoy my ride. It's stimulating in the morning, relaxing in the afternoon and healthy all the time.  Our other car is also a 4-cylinder Toyota and good on the gas mileage.  We recommend that everyone consider a hybrid car; we love it.
--Harvey Lee, Carson City, Nev.

Smells like bio-diesel
Even before this latest price jump, we had made changes at home. I am now the proud owner of a 1983 Mercedes Benz 240D, and my car runs on homemade bio-diesel -- fuel that my husband and a friend make from waste vegetable oil from restaurants in town. So I tell my friends "that's Yardarm you smell" (a great local place...food, music and sand dollars - yum). It costs about 80 cents per gallon to make. I also took a job in town, so my commute is 2 1/2 miles each way. As I am banned from bike-riding, I still drive.
We have a second Benz that has an auxiliary tank installed, holding waste vegetable oil. Start the car with (bio) diesel, when it warms to 80 degrees centigrade, switch to the auxiliary tank. Cost - $850 plus installation for the tank, the subsequent cost is collecting the oil, heating and straining.  I am concerned what these fuel costs will do to price of groceries and necessities as the price stays up. We will be shopping frugally!
--Helle Koustrup Berry, Racine, Wis.

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