SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Santa Barbara County's decision not to impose parking fees at beaches means people can at least go to the beach for free. But the list of free things nowadays is short. The saying "nothing is free but the air you breathe" is not far from the complete truth.
Everyday people are paying for things that used to be complimentary. Free coffee refills are hard to find. Getting extra cheese on your pizza at no cost is unheard of now. Even extra condiments at drive-thru chains can cost a quarter each. You used to be able to fill your tires for free at gas stations, but now there is at least a $1 charge.
David Lewis of Santa Maria remembers a time when businesses were more generous, but he's gotten used to the changing times.
"Well some of the things I don't really like but I have to deal with it like everyone else, so no problem."
