Morning Roundup: Fuel Pump Woes Edition

Houstonist drives a mid-sized car, but like many commuters we get crappy MPGs because of our lead feet. The $3.35 per gallon at the pump near our casa sent us reeling today. Unfortunately, prices are jumping in Houston and the rest of the Republic. Prices increased an average of seven cents per gallon bringing the price to $3.28. Try not to cry when you read this, but the average price last year was $2.69. Ouch. How you feeling about your gas guzzler now, Mr. Hummer? Don't like it? Well, that's karma for driving (and parking) like a jackass.

>> Ten year-old cyclist dedicates BP MS 150 to ill mother: Cian McConnell is only 10, but he's got the drive of someone much older. The Houston youth will be riding in this weekend's MS-150 from Houston to Austin. The ride may be a fund raiser for multiple sclerosis, but Cian's resolve has been hardened by his mother's battle with cancer. The 180 mile ride is a daunting undertaking for adults let alone kids. "I've wanted to do this ride since I was 7," the young McConnell said. "I'm ready. I'm nervous, but I'm also confident. I just hope my dad will help me and I can at least finish." According to The Chronicle, Helen is currently undergoing a grueling chemotherapy treatment at M.D. Anderson, but plans to be in Austin to greet Cian after the race. Good luck, Cian.

>> Houstonian to become youngest bishop: Houston native, Father Oscar Cantu will become the youngest bishop in history, that's like youngest ever, when he is ordained on June 2nd. Cantu was named as auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of San Antonio by Pope Benedict. The 41-year old priest is currently the pastor of his childhood parish and will relocated to San Antonio for his new post. "I am humbled by the confidence the Holy Father has shown in me and I look forward to getting to know the people of the Archdiocese of San Antonio," Cantu said in the AP report run on ABC13.com.

>> Today's weather: The day's complexion is overcast and blah. The blah will fade later this morning into partly cloudy with a 20% chance of moistness in the afternoon. Short-sleevers beware as the temperature will drop nearly 30 degrees from a high of 81 to a chilly low of 54 this evening.

>> In brief: MJB & Jay-Z bounce Toyota Center sans Beyonce ... Houston Red Cross to sponsor Houston to New Orleans bike ride ... Hempstead soldier killed in Iraq ... Food inspections near the Galleria; Marvin would be proud ... Mmmm...melted cheese is good for the soul ... Navy SEAL from Woodville earns Silver Star ... Man ends stand-off with SWAT team

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Photo by Flickr user Todd Huffman.