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--> --> Intolerable acts are back - it's price gouging A national disaster brings out the best in us - and unfortunately the worst. Price gouging is among the disagreeable acts perpetrated on citizens already weary of the burden of horrible events. Gas stations nationwide have leaped into the fray, with prices spiking to as much as $6 a gallon in some areas. Ashland hasn't suffered that indignity, but any hike in prices is unprincipled. Attorney General Hardy Myers weighed in on the subject in the wake of Tuesday's terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. "Profiteering on the misery of others is unconscionable," he said. "We have opened an investigation and are closely scrutinizing complaints of exorbitant prices on ... gasoline. Dealers charging excessive and unjustified prices for gasoline with consumers having little choice but to purchase will not be tolerated." Prices immediately went up around Ashland - topping out at $1.84 for regular, $2.02 for supreme. A few stations held the line. Most did not. The stations that immediately spiked the prices - as much as 20 cents a gallon - should be ignored by consumers. We strongly condemn them. During the past two legislative sessions a pair of Democrats - Rep. Vicki Walker of Eugene and Sen. Peter Courtney of Salem, sponsored "price gouging" legislation only to have the bill defeated from lack of support. Perhaps this disaster will spur Oregon lawmakers to reconsider. Myers also alerts Oregonians to "disaster scammers" operating in the state. Fraudulent telemarketers are expected to be calling Oregon homes and businesses asking for donations to assist New York City victims and their families. Be alert, especially for those asking for direct donations of cash or checks. In our vigilance, if we have doubts or concerns, call the local office of the charity to verify the solicitation. Further, Islamic centers in Oregon are suffering threatening phone calls. In America, no one should live in fear because of who they pray to, or their national origin. Once we know who the enemy is in our recent tragedy, our anger and swift revenge must be focused. If it turns out to be Osama bin Laden, remember, he is a Saudi fugitive who does not speak for Islam. Once again, be vigilant. But also, practice tolerance. This is the stuff of a great country. Email your... Technical questions & comments to: WebMaster Daily Tidings editorial comments & questions to: Editor Visit our other Oregon Newspapers... | Albany Democrat-Herald | Ashland Daily Tidings | Corvallis Gazette-Times | | Lebanon Express | Newport News-Times | Springfield News | Cottage Grove Sentinel | Ashland Daily Tidings 1661 Siskiyou Blvd. Ashland, OR 97520 Telephone 541-482-3456 © Copyright 2001 Lee Northwest Publishing