Thanks, Toll Collector #426!
A week ago Sunday I was getting close to the Carquinez Bridge on my way home to West Sacramento from Palo Alto. It was late and I was tired, but I had $2 cash — enough to cover the toll, or so I thought!
As I drove past the last exit before the bridge entrance, I was dismayed to see the many prominent signs announcing the $3 fee. I scrambled to find the rest of the toll but scrounged only two quarters. When it was my turn at the gate I explained my predicament to the toll collector. She asked me when I’d be back. When I told her “next week,” she handed me a small envelope marked “IOU 50¢ #426″ and a brochure explaining the $25 ticket I’d normally get for not paying. “You can pay me back next week. This is so you know what you’re missing,” she told me. I thanked her and sheepishly drove on.
Last night as I once again crossed the bridge on my way home to West Sacramento from Palo Alto, I carefully chose the same gate. I recognized the toll collector and asked her, “do you know #426?” She paused and eyed me suspiciously. “That’s me,” she said. I smiled and handed her my $3 and the envelope with my 50¢ from the week before and said, “Remember me from last week?” “Yes I do,” she laughed. “Thank you very much,” I answered, and drove on my way.
Thanks, Toll Collector #426! I’ll always look for your gate!