An ode to the failed parking meter
Parking at a failed meter is no longer an option. A few days ago, the Los Angeles Department of Transportation began placing stickers warning drivers that they must pay, in one form or another, to park. The old coin meters are being phased out, meaning there is less than a one percent chance you'll come in contact with a coin and card meter that won't accept payment in at least one form (credit, debit or cash).
The new meters will save the city money, but I can't help but be sad to lose one of the few moments I get to feel as if I'm teaching the city a lesson. If you don't keep the meters working, I park for free.
With that said, it's time for me to say goodbye.
An ode to failed parking meters
You served me and my friends well during our adventures out of the San Fernando Valley.
The many times we leisurely ate at a restaurant in Hollywood one could never tally.
To the many UCLA students who braved the Westwood streets looking for a space,
Their day was made better when like the golden ticket, they found you.
It was fate.
Yes, you may have been vandalized by those who wanted to make luck where it didn't exist.
For upstanding citizens, you made the sun shine brighter on a trip to Santa Monica and more.
A long list.
Most importantly, the coin and card parking meters have nothing on you.
I'll never forget the sweet music the unused coins made in my wallet.
Sadly, future generations will only know of the new.
I spill a strong spirit in your memory.
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