gasoline for automobiles

You stated: There is no distribution network for refined product that connects the Pacific Northwest and the Gulf Coast. Logically, when the refinery capacity was taken off line by Katrina, that should have resulted in a temporary reduction in demand for crude oil (for which there is a global distribution system) and therefore a drop in price here.

I think you are confusing a processing point with demand and supply. If you remove a processing point (a refinery) the overall demand for refined petroleum products goes unchanged. Consumers and all other users still need the same amount of refined oil, and because there is less of the product available to be refined the price for crude and the resulting refined products goes up. The refineries that are on line are working longer shifts trying to replace the lost capacity, but they are unable to do so.

Then until you or someone else comes up with some proof of collusion lets not spread unfounded rumors.

demand >and supply for petroleum products, >would you care to try (again)?

=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D I shouldn't have to, but I will - just for you.:--)

to reiterate, the demand is there, the supply is there, and the opportunists - are at work.

the above "package" makes for to-day's prices - without any interference, so far.

mho v=83e