A few weeks ago, I headed up to Ann Arbor, Mich., for a little work and a little fun. The fun included a football game between the University of Michigan and Purdue University. Unfortunately, the fun did not include a win for the Big Blue, although we did have pretty good end zone seats. The Michigan faithful came out 100,000-plus strong to support the “maize and blue.” It is really an unbelievable sight. Even during this so-so season, the fans are as rabid as always.

Later, on Saturday evening, we decided to try a Southwest restaurant, Prickly Pear. We worked hard and then cheered hard during the game, which left us with healthy appetites. The food came fairly quickly; however, it did not come as ordered. The waitress cheerfully announced that the restaurant had run out of rice, so we would be getting their special sauteed spinach (as if we should be grateful for the “upgrade”). Huh? How can a Southwest restaurant run out of rice at 7 p.m. on a Saturday? That’s ridiculous. Rice is essential to a good Southwest meal. Rice is also essential to sating a big appetite. Running out of rice is inexcusable; however, announcing the substitution as our dinners were served is just as bad. I like spinach, but what if I didn’t? Either way, we should have been given a choice from their other side selections.

This is not meant to downgrade the Prickly Pear. The place had a nice ambience, a pleasant staff, quick service and great food. We all really enjoyed the rest of our meals, but the rice debacle left us feeling empty (pun intended).

— John Wroblewski, distribution specialist