Spring

I can tell we're in springtime again. Nope. The weather is still cold and miserable. No buds are are beading the black branches. Even the early little flowers are not doing the peeping above the earth. I and all the rest of my compatriots know it's spring because gas prices are climbing up the green pole at the gas station.
Talking heads are explaining that a) troubles in Libya raise prices, b) an influx of worms invaded Mrs. Smith's gardern, c) cows are flatulent, d) a short rainfall in Outer Mongolia made roads slick last night.
If you guessed that none of the above is a reason, you're right.
What happened is the yearly discussion.

Some Senator mentioned that Oil Companies get huge tax breaks, make huge profits and pay a pittance in taxes. Americans like to drive on vacation. It's the annual opportunity for big speeches about a free market.
(By this is meant a market without restrictions of any sort. Let the market rule itself! Look at the banking system.)