The price of gas has dwindled down from its peak in July, when it topped the four-dollar mark in some parts of the nation. Currently, the price of oil has dropped drastically, where the price of a gallon of gas is below the two-dollar mark throughout the nation. “It is amazing that the prices have dropped to their lowest mark since 2005. It is refreshing to know that people are finding alternative means of transportation for both the environment and the economy. It is definitely a step in the right direction and even though it will fluctuate, it is very promising for the future,” stated Brian Castillo (12th).
Conveniently, the drop in oil prices came after the greatest financial crisis in recent years and right before the holiday season. Some say that OPEC’s reasoning for dropping the price of a barrel could be attributed to their desire to rebut the global economy. Chris Nie (12th) provided this statement: “The economy follows gas prices inversely, gas goes down, economy goes up. That’s just how things go. With everyone happy after using the pump we’ll see a spike in consumerism this holiday season.”
The Organization for the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) could be using their in-high-demand resources to jumpstart the global economy. By providing the necessary breathing room the world desires, OPEC is simply stalling long enough for the world to recover sufficiently enough for the real gas guzzling vacations to take place once more.
Everyone remembers when their families would take road trips to the tip of the Sandia and Jemez Mountains for a weekend of family bonding, or how every snow-filled winter they would drive to Angel Fire and sometimes Colorado to hit the slopes. Of course those memories have long since diminished due to the recent sky-rocketing gas prices, dominating the thoughts of every driver. Isaiah Lucero (12th) provided this statement and advice, “Gas prices are presently amazing. I have saved an average of $20 to fill up. Take advantage of the price now, because soon it will shoot up.” Now we, as consumers, must ask ourselves: are we going to fall for OPEC’s ploy this holiday season and exploit the temporary relief we have been given?
Marina Charrette (11th) stated, “The latest gas prices are very positive for our economy. Now that gas prices are lowering, I think everyone will appreciate it even more, and it gives them more freedom.” And freedom is the only aspect of reality we Americans care about. So while some save money with this opportunity, others will waste more because of the relief, putting them further in a hole of poverty.