We also operate a considerable fleet of vehicles. And, like everybody else, rising gas prices have hit us, too.

We are operating under the assumption that they will extend.

This is the first time we have requested an increase in our base rate since 2000. During that time, we have seen a lot of our costs increase significantly.

There are two components that go into a bill -- the gas cost rate and the base rate. This request is for our base rate.

It not only lets us respond to what is occurring now, but we are preparing (for the future). The valley is going to start building up.

Having them makes everything easier. They get us second-chance points, they block shots and they bring a lot of heart.