Truth matters. Community matters. Your support makes both possible. LAist is one of the few places where news remains independent and free from political and corporate influence. Stand up for truth and for LAist. Make your year-end tax-deductible gift now.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Angelenos bit by love bug during Metro's Valentine's Day speed-dating event
One Valentine's Day speed dater brings flowers and chocolate — just in case, on Friday, Feb. 14, 2014.
(
Shirley Jahad/KPCC
)
Daters ride the speed-dating train.
A Cupid, from outside the Metro speed dating train on Friday, Feb. 14, 2014.
(
Shirley Jahad/KPCC
)
Metro officials provide information before the start of the first speed-dating event on the Red Line.
Waiting to board the love train at Union Station.
Listen
1:00
Angelenos bit by love bug during Metro's Valentine's Day speed-dating event
Metro hosted its first speed-dating event for Angelenos hoping to get struck by Cupid's red arrow this Valentine's Day.
Metro officials dressed up in festive Valentine's-themed attire before handing out wristbands and instructions for those participating in the love match on the Red Line.
"This is the way it's going to work. When we depart, someone sitting in one of these seats could be the next love of your life," said Dave, one of the love guides on board the speed-dating train.
RELATED: Dates on a Train: Go speed-dating on the Metro Red Line this Valentine's Day
Daters were given two minutes to pick someone on the train and strike up a conversation.
Sponsored message
"Take a look around — when we start the train, pick somebody out and you'll have two minutes to talk to them. If you find somebody that you feel like you might be compatible with, get to know them. We're not here to interfere at all. It's on you from now on."
Rene Sayyed, a widow for more than 26 years, was one of the participants in the speed-dating event.
She told KPCC that she’s had several relationships, but she never quite met the guy she wanted to marry since the first one.
“I’m taking a chance on the unknown, and I’m an explorative and adventurous person by nature, and I like meeting people,” said Sayyed.
“Whether I meet someone or not ... it's just nice to have fun," Sayyed said. "It keeps endorphins flowing and wrinkles lessening. That’s why I’m here.”
Marcus Hill got on the first train leaving Union Station hoping the speed-dating car would make it easier for a shy guy like him.
Sponsored message
“I used to be scared to go up and talk to a girl, and I never really had a prom date," Hill said. "Even though it's been years later, it bothers me I had to take my cousin to the prom.”
Andy Green, 25, says he got on board for fun and that he’s riding up and down the Red Line to see if he finds a connection.
“It’s only been five stops. My life hasn’t changed yet. I’m going all the way to Union Station and back," Green said.
Katie Devine, 27, took a chance on her lunch hour and boarded the train car decorated with hearts and cupids.
“And I got a rose. I feel special.”
Speed-dating starts in T minus...
Even Cupid was on hand:
This story has been updated.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive before year-end will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive before year-end will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
