Gas Prices Rising Dramatically, AAA Reports

BELLEVUE, Wash., Feb. 11 -- AAA reports, the average price of self-serve regular unleaded gasoline in Washington has increased 18 cents in the past month to $1.559 per gallon. In Idaho prices have increased nearly 15 cents in the past month to $1.597 per gallon. The national average for self- serve regular unleaded gasoline is $1.605 per gallon, 13 cents higher than one month ago.

It appears that this sharp increase is due mostly to industry fear and speculation concerning war with Iraq and the possibility of another terrorist strike on the United States. Consumers are urged to shop aggressively for the best price on gasoline, look for ways to limit their gas consumption and keep their vehicles properly maintained to increase fuel economy.

             Sample Self-Serve Regular Unleaded Fuel Prices*

                            Presidents'      Holidays      Presidents'
    City                      Day 2003         2002         Day 2002
  Washington
   Bellingham                  1.525           1.362          1.083
   Bremerton                   1.514           1.309          1.123
   Olympia                     1.463           1.229          1.158
   Seattle-Bellevue-Everett    1.593           1.392          1.234
   Spokane                     1.543           1.367          1.059
   Tacoma                      1.487           1.296          1.143
   Tri-Cities                  1.583           1.449          1.143
   Vancouver                   1.500           1.306          1.197
   Wenatchee                   1.552           1.404          1.167
   Yakima                      1.503           1.364          1.251
  Idaho
   Coeur d'Alene               1.597              NA          1.002

AAA Washington/Inland provides over 820,000 members in Washington and northern Idaho a full range of products and benefits, including travel agencies, personal lines insurance agencies, a range of auto-related services, and member discounts on many consumer products and services. A not-for-profit organization, AAA also assists travelers through its highway and transportation safety and legislative advocacy programs. More information about AAA is available on the company's website at www.aaa.com.

   Contact:  AAA Washington/Inland
             Janet Ray - 425-646-2058
                       - 509-358-6920

Source: AAA Washington/Inland

CONTACT: Janet Ray of AAA Washington/Inland, +1-425-646-2058, or
+1-509-358-6920

Web site: http://www.aaa.com/