7 Unwritten Rules of Living in Amarillo

For anyone who has lived in Amarillo for an extended period of time, you know there are just some things you don't do, and some things you do.  Every city has its own set of rules, and sometimes, you just need to know.

Rule #1: Never Bash a Beloved Local Restaurant Online

For the love of all things holy, don't ever go on to Amarillo Restaurant Reviews At Your Own Risk, or Google for that matter, and bash a popular local restaurant. It will not go the way you want it to go; the community will verbally flog you in the comments. The owner may clap back with pure marketing genius, and you'll end up making them more famous. We're looking at you Jim "Green Chile Willy's" Robinson, and your happy salad. (I need one of those shirts)

Rule #2: Your Mugshot Is Permanent Currency in Randall County

Get arrested, and your face will land on Mugshots of Randall County for all to see. Be rude to the admins about it and threaten them to take it down, and your mugshot will achieve immortality. They don't play.  Amarillo has a long memory and twisted sense of humor.  Be on your best behavior.

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Rule #3: Car Insurance Is Non-Negotiable

With the way people drive in this town, this isn't a suggestion; it is a warning. Insurance is a must, and you will regret skipping it.

Rule #4: Forget the Speed Limit - Construction Owns This Town

Remember the days when your drive took 10 minutes? Now it takes you 20, and why? Those orange cones are now permanent citizens of Amarillo, and you'll never get to drive top speed ever again. Just get in, buckle up, bite back the cussing, and get ready to grin and bear your drive.

Rule #5: The Wind Is Not a Surprise - Stop Acting Like It Is

Did you know that Amarillo holds the title of the windiest city in the United States? Yep, we do. Yes, the wind is blowing. Yes, it is normal. No, there isn't a day when the wind doesn't blow in Amarillo. You think 10 mph is fast? Oh dear. That's a slight breeze compared to the 50 mph we feel daily.

Rule #6: You Will Be Asked: "Which Church Do You Go To?"

Be ready to answer it. Amarillo is in the Bible belt, and that belt has a big Cowboy buckle on it. Religion and community are deeply woven into the Yellow City culture. Don't be offended if you are asked, because you aren't being judged.  It's just a way for people to place you and connect.

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Rule #7: The City Council Will Never Win the Love of the People

It doesn't matter who sits behind that table. Amarillo will never be satisfied with city leadership. These days, a new face gets elected on big promises, but after the first budget meeting and a string of closed-door decisions, they have already lost their shine. The only way this will ever change is if leadership actually stops and listens to the people, and stops listening to the bank account.