$57.50, Part 1

I need to brag just a little so that you fully understand the impact of an episode which occurred on December 10, 2011.

I drove a taxi for about one and a half years and have owned a car in NYC for most of my life. I understand New York City parking regulations and signs. I have street parked for years. I interpret signs and help others understand them whenever possible. I even did a story on the logic of parking regulations and signage.

And, most importantly, I DON'T GET PARKING TICKETS (the only parking ticket I recall receiving was over 30 years ago). I rarely stand in No Standing or stop in No Stopping zones. I check parking signs religiously and read and reread them if necessary. With the exception of momentary loading or unloading (while double parking), I never leave my car illegally parked and unattended for more than a moment.

I park within 12 inches of the curb. I never park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or in front of a driveway. And I garage my car, so my street parking within New York City is limited. I use the vehicle primarily for excursions to the outer boroughs or out of the city entirely.

I was LIVID on Saturday night. I was FUMING. I had thoughts of RETALIATION against the New York City Department of Transportation. Of course, I was being childish, indignant, and self-righteous - LIKE ANYONE WHO GETS CAUGHT. It took me a couple hours to calm down, and only because I started to formulate a plan and a way to make use of the experience for this website. I am a Lemonade Maker, and in Part 2, I will tell you why the cost of today's lemonade will most likely be $57.50…

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