No doubt about it-West Texas sure is a special place. From the black gold underground here to the gold in the hearts of the residents, there's no other place in the United States quite like it. People come and go here with jobs in the oil industry on a fairly regular basis--so just in case you were wondering about some basic code of conduct things to worry about in these parts--I'm here to help. NEVER, ever:

SAY "OIL FIELDS"--WITH AN 'S'

There is only ONE Oil Field. So when describing where you, a family member, or friend work if they work with oil--it's NOT "They work in the Oil Fields".

BRING 15 THINGS TO THE "12 ITEMS OR LESS" CHECK-OUT

This is just plain rude and inconsiderate of other people's time, and a blatant disrespect and inability to follow the rules. Here in the Basin, we are more respectful of others than this.

SAY "I HAVEN'T SEEN THE WEATHER REPORT"

There typically isn't a huge difference day to day, depending on the season-of what the weather will be like here. Summer is hot and dry, Fall is dry and cooler, and winter is brief with a little snow. Once in a while, we get rain. Done!

STAND UP IN A BAR AND LOUDLY SAY "THE COWBOYS SUCK!!"

Whether they're doing great, so-so, or really getting trounced by the opponent--you NEVER speak poorly out loud of America's Team. EVER.

STEAL A PARKING SPOT FROM SOMEONE ELSE WAITING

Nothing worse than sitting in the parking lot at Midland Park Mall waiting for someone to pull out so you can pull in, and someone else zips in and takes the spot you've been waiting for. Be courteous to your fellow West Texans and move along to the next open space.

DRIVE IN THE LEFT LANE ALL THE WAY TO DALLAS

The left lane is for PASSING ONLY--not for cruising. Pass, and get back over. I-20 is mess enough right now, especially from Midland to Big Spring being all torn up and grooved (bring earplugs)--let's be kind to others on the road.

GET READY FOR WORK WHILE DRIVING ON THE LOOP

It's crowded enough on Loop 250 in Midland and 338 in Odessa at rush hour-don't be distracted and not pay attention. Let's all get there safely!