• Come on, Delta Airlines: No free movie, no free meal on a nearly cross-country flight? That’s weak. The menu says:
Todd English has developed a unique style and approach to the cuisine of his many restaurants, both on land and at sea (Cunard’s QM2 and Queen Victoria). Among them is his highly acclaimed Olives, featuring interpretive rustic Mediterranean dishes, now in six cities nationwide. This award-winning chef, author, and television personality offers a modern twist on familiar favorites for his signature entrées on Delta’s new in-flight menu.
Translation? Eight bucks for a chicken parm sandwich. I’ll admit, it was a surprisingly good sandwich. But I’ll take Continental’s shitty-but-free “Pierre Creations” beef-and-swiss sub any day of the week. (Note to mon ami Pierre: Here in the U.S. we actually call that dish a “cheeseburger.”)
• I will give Delta a couple of points for the hardwood-pattern floor covering in the lavatory. Classy.
• In three days, I only got hassled by Mormons once. Two dark-suited young fellows accosted me (albeit politely) as I waited to cross the street. I was handed a card with a picture of Jesus on it. I was told there was a number on the back that I could call for a free DVD. Not my cup of tea, but still, with Delta charging $6 for a movie, I admire the generosity.
• The state’s citizens are called “Utahns.” Which rhymes with croutons.
• As a movie buff, I really like living near New York City. But the truth is: In Salt Lake City, it’s cheaper to go to the multiplex ($8 vs. $12) and they have selections that haven’t even been released in Manhattan.
• Shouldn’t an arcade called “Tilt” contain at least one pinball machine?
• Shouldn’t I be too old to be wandering around mall arcades?
• Since when did Blondie get topical?
• “Isaac Asimov’s Super Quiz” appears in the Salt Lake Tribune.
• I like the airline seatbelt urging “low and tight across your lap.” It sounds kind of sexy.
Jack Silbert, curator