Issues: October 2008 Archives

This term, mentioned today during a phone interview for a story, was new to me. I had never heard, thought about or considered billboard pollution.

That's probably because I drive Route 30 and Interstate 83 most days and feel like it's just a given -- not good, not bad, just there.

Well, now that I've heard the term, I'm thinking and considering and you'll have to check back here on the blog tomorrow to find out more about the story I'm working on and why billboard pollution should be part of every York County resident's vocabulary.

Have you heard this term? What's your take on billboards?

This morning, I was jolted out of my pre-coffee haze by a sign at the Sheetz in Mechanicsburg saying regular unleaded gas was $2.25 a gallon.

With my tank on empty, I scooted in and filled up my Honda Civic for $24.75!!
Not $45 or $50 like recently. $25!!!!!!! I'm not getting overly excited though. I fear the prices will just go back up once the election is over.

It was such a pleasant discovery during a time when it seems the all news relating to jobs, finances, cost of living and the economy in general is bad news.

On the flip side though, I read this story about how some people are about fed up with being charged $1,000 for some domestic flights -- for COACH seats! -- and that doesn't include the fee to check luggage.

What do you think of this?

Hey everyone, look what's coming!
I was pretty psyched to read this story about how we'll probably be able to keep our drinks and other liquids with us as we go through security in airports starting sometime next year.

How exciting!

What? You never have time to kill?

You must not have ventured into the world of air travel in recent years. The best way for me to get caught up on books, magazines, music and such is to fly.

If you'll find yourself on a plane in the future, you may want to pick up a copy of this book for some new ideas.

What's your best use of in-flight or airport lag time?

I know firsthand that with the economy the way it is and the immediate outlook anything but encouraging, it's kind of frivolous to be sad about news that airfares -- especially international ones -- are at an all-time high.

Last week, for the first time, I felt the pain of homeowners who rely on oil heat as I wrote a check for nearly two week's worth of pay to the guy who came to fill the tank in my basement.

I'm saving a week of vacation for a mid-winter escape, but with air travel getting so expensive lately, I'm wondering if I'll be able to swing it.

Are you changing your travel plans for financial reasons?