New York Times, by Jad Mauawad & Nick Bunkley Posted By: KarenJ1- Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:19:54 GMT The increase in energy prices is beginning to resemble the rise in 2008. But this time, the American economy may be better prepared for higher fuel costs. Gasoline prices have risen by nearly a third in the last year, and oil costs more than $100 a barrel for the first time in more than two years, driven by fears of extended Middle East supply disruptions and increased demand from an improving global economy. While the latest surge in energy prices is likely to cause some pain and slow the