Why TFO

I live close to work, so it takes me a bit to get to the point where I need to refuel my car. Yesterday my tank was about 1/2 empty, so I went to the Terror-Free Oil gas station. Part the reason I went there was curiosity about the business. Part of it was patriotism and a desire to *not* help the enemy. And another part of the decision to go to TFO instead of one of the other gas stations in the area was simply economic. The prices at TFO were $2.17 and $2.19. Next door it was $2.17 and $2.23. And up the street at the BP station, it was a whopping $2.29, $2.39, and -this is astonishing- $2.49.

Big signs above each pump at TFO explain the concept of terror-free oil. But basically, the experience is pretty much like anywhere else. Clean surroundings, pay-at-the-pump option, , etc.

Inside is smaller than some stations, but it has everything you could want...snacks, drinks, sundries, etc. And more is coming. Right now the ice cream freezer chest is still empy, and so is a drinks cooler. But they have plenty of cold beverages, and who needs ice cream when is 7 degrees outside?

The decor has a definite patriotic them. Nothing with bells and whistles or cheesy schmaltz. Just various messages around that make it clear the owner is proud to be here. Fliers about volunteering opportunities and more information about the whole terror-free oil concept are easy to find, but they don't get in the way of grabbing what you need and getting on your way. The lady behind the counter was friendly, efficient and helpful --not overly so like some bubbly cheerleader types, but simply the kind of person who would give you a smile and eventually get to know your name.

Will I go there again? Probably. And here's why: 1) the prices are the lowest around, 2) I like the concept of TFO, and 3) like the theme song from "Cheers", sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name. They don't know me at TFO yet, but over time I'll be a "regular" and they will know who I am. And I like that.

Be safe.

Melissa Arnold
Omaha, NE