Picking a Gas Station

With gas prices reaching a new high almost every day, one might be picky about which gas station in which they choose. However, all the gas stations that I pass on my way home from work have, one way or another, ticked me off- and not because of price.

The four gas stations that I pass on my way home from work are:

1. Chevron on Douglas Blvd/ HWY 5

2. Circle K HWY 5

3. Shell HWY 5/ King's HWY

4. Marathon King's HWY

My irritations:

Chevron requires that I put in my zip code in order to process my debit or credit card. Yes, it does make sense to do it for identification protection purposes, but it is also used as a marketing tool. I don't mind participating in the advancement of a business because of marketing, but on a volunteer basis. Thus, I volunteer to take my business to somewhere the doesn't force me to enter my zip code.

Circle K often has problems processing my debit or credit transaction. I would prefer not to wait to be ripped off on high gas prices. The faster the better.

Shell... where do I start? They have the SLOWEST pumps ever. This, in addition to the same marketing scheme as Chevron makes this station a loser. Plus, every time I buy Yoohoo drinks here, the lids are always pre-popped. I prefer to hear the thunk noise synonymous with the opening of a fresh bottled beverage.

Last, the gas station that I settle with every time as my best option, but still much hated- Marathon. I cringe every time I purchase my gas here. I have three reasons to hate this place.

First, the morning station attendant is psycho. Every time I am driving, and she sees me, she bright lights me or honks at me. She has followed me home 3 times because random traffic occurances in which I have been involved with her. I hate to support her paycheck. Secondly, the gas pump screen does not work. I can never see how much I spend until after the receipt has printed out, or how many gallons I have put in my vehicle. Lucky me, I fill up the tank all the way every time. Lastly, the lids to the storage containers under ground stick up way too high in the parking lot, creating a speedbump like affect while driving over them.

Overall, I choose Marathon because the pumps are fast, and there is nothing stopping me from putting my debit card in and getting my gas.

Remember to choose your gas station wisely!