There is only one positive note to the high gasoline prices. About 15 years ago the oil drilling and pumping operations of western Nebraska were shut down because they could not compete with the imported crude oil. With the higher prices it could be that there might be enough profit for the oil industry around Kimball, Neb., to start up again. Another possible positive note is that engine technology research might advance to the point that greater miles per gallon will be achieved. Research could also change our engines so they could use a higher percentage of ethanol than the present 10 percent.
Ethanol is made from a renewal resource, corn from Nebraska and Iowa fields.
Germany and Brazil had vehicles that burned 100 percent alcohol that is similar to ethanol. The OPEC nations say they will increase production by 3 percent. Such a small increase in production will hardly make a splash in the gas tank. My guess is that good old U.S. ingenuity will recognize the problem and the opportunity to create a solution for the U.S. fuel customers. Opening game tickets Save back enough money for gas to take you to the opening game between the Nebraska Cornhuskers and the San Jose State University on September 2nd in Lincoln.