March 3: Pain at the Pump

Everyone is taking notice, drivers and non-drivers alike.

Yes, we're talking gas prices, which hit an average of $3.69 a gallon citywide this morning, according to the American Automobile Association. Not only is this spike in energy costs putting a crimp on family budgets, it is prompting conversations that strike at the heart of our car-centric way of life.

So we here at Little Neck Patch thought we'd pose these questions to our readers: How has the rise in prices at the pump affected your family budget? Also, has the rise in energy costs changed any of your driving habits? 

The comments section is open. Look for our continuing coverage in the days and weeks ahead.

1. We'd like to welcome our new calendar editor, Pamela Perez, to the Little Neck Patch family. Pamela will be coordinating events and announcements coverage for our site. If you have a local happening or milestone (that includes anniversaries, birthdays, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs) you'd like posted, email her at pamelaperez.patch@gmail.com.

2. The New York City Council passed a bill required crisis pregnancy centers to post a notice to visitors on whether or not they provide abortion coverage. Check out yesterday's story, including from a Bayside CPC, .

3. Debate over the renaming of the Queensborough Bridge to honor former Mayor Ed Koch heated up Wednesday with word of a just-released poll of Queens business owners weighing in on the issue.

4. We are in for a 24-hour period of cold weather today, with temperatures expected to rebound later this week. 

5. Speaking of gas prices, there are two places we've heard about in recent days with gas already over $5 a gallon. A reader correctly guessing either one of these locales wins a special gift from Little Neck Patch.