Imagine my surprise and consternation when, upon leaving the Meroney Theater in downtown Salisbury recently, I was greeted by an empty parking lot where my car had been parked. My cousin, from Alabama, and I had attended a wonderful performance of “Shakespeare in Love” and were happily chatting about the Piedmont Players’ performance; that is, until our happy evening turned into an unpleasant ending.

When we arrived at the theater, we started to park on the street, but when I noticed many people had parked in the former Wells Fargo parking lot, I decided that would be a safer option. Sadly, I did not notice the sign stating that no parking was allowed after banking hours. We parked, went in the theater and had a lovely evening. When I realized my car was gone, a young lady told us all the cars had been towed.

At that point, ABC Towing turned into the parking lot, pulling a truck. The driver informed me that for $175 in cash I could get my car back. If I didn’t have the cash, the cost would increase by $35 each day.

With no forseeable options, I paid the fee and my car was returned.

I am writing this letter so that others will not have the experience I had. If Salisbury wants to attract tourists and customers to its lovely town, with its many restaurant and theater options, then safe parking should be readily available. If Wells Fargo doesn’t want people parking in its lot, it should barricade it. Otherwise, it seems to be a gimmick to give ABC Towing a great deal of business, which unfortunately, does not speak well for the open and inviting atmosphere that downtown business should be providing.

— Millie Fulton

Mocksville