It is freakin' HOT here right now, about 93 degrees. Which I know is nothing to some of my friends who live in the south or on the East Coast where summers can be sweltering. But for those of us who melt in the sun (or blind people when its rays touch our shockingly reflective lily white skin) this is "batten down the hatches and pray you outlast the wave" weather. Or alternately, "get too hot and snap and have an emotional breakdown and sob your eyes out" weather. Not that this happens to me. I'm just saying, it could happen to some people. ;)
The last few days have been the beginning of what is now deemed Nerd Mobile Taxi Services*. This service has been the main transport of Ashleigh's sister Meghan's friends. The name comes from a running joke with Ashleigh's friends in middle school who called themselves the Nerd Herd. The Nerd Mobile was the rolling backpack that was as close to a car as any of the middle schoolers were going to get.
This service has actually changed hands over the years. As a family company, this handing over of the business has gone from mother to eldest daughter. And that eldest daughter is thrilled (for those of you unfamiliar, this is called sarcasm. If you do not understand it, do not worry. It's an acquired skill).
Under the new management of this daughter, Ashleigh, a new, formalized price sheet has arisen (along with the official name). In past years, there has been no set payment amount or method. Chip in for gas money, become a cleaning slave, free fare, or the ever popular "Mom pays your gas money so you have to drive me" have all been used.
But now, a price chart has been created. With the help of her friend Jim, Ashleigh has found the line between riches and deterrent of use (actually, really making an expensive charge is the hopeful deterrent here). There is now a flat fee of $2 to get in the vehicle. Then every 1/4 mile costs $.50. And to avoid the flaws of payment in the past (namely, payment never comes to fruition), this payment is due within three days of transport or you are put in the Nerd Mobile Wall of Shame and have your taxi privileges revoked for as much as two weeks (determined on a case by case basis).
Are the prices steep and the penalties harsh? Maybe. But taxi services are not to be used without need and careful decision. And Ashleigh was tired of driving all over Vancouver.
*Note: Nerd Mobile Taxi Services is not an actual company and is recognized by no bureau or association as a viable business.
OH wow.. I wonder if we can make a Mom Mobile Taxi Service. Years ago, Lizz's dad used to threaten to paint my car yellow and black checkers because I drove people EVERYWHERE. I even drove a friend to Seattle once, cause she couldn't afford the bus. Dang that was a looooonnnnngggg drive home.
ReplyDeleteSorry Mona, the Mom Taxi Service is required by law to be pro bono. I'm not sure who enacted this law, but it has been on the books for quite some time now. This is the main reason for handing down the reins of the taxi service to said daughter... at least she can charge.
ReplyDeletePS - Ashleigh, I'd require payment before taking anyone anywhere as I don't think the thread of being on the wall of shame is really going to encourage someone to pay up. However, that being said, you should also consider the occasional "free ride" for someone in need in recognition of all the times your momma drove you around free of charge.
Of course, free rides will be given every now and then. And yes, payment up front may be a good idea. Except I have no idea of the mileage until I finally get to where were going
ReplyDeleteYou are too funny! LOL Aunt Tana
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