This last week we heard that Gerald Thomas, a C.A. Swanson & Sons executive, died. He was credited with inventing the TV Dinner and changing America's eating habits ever since. Now, the WSJ reports a new trend - flat panel televisions "prices have dropped precipitously, making such displays more popular" and replacing CD's music as background ambiance.

"In both homes and restaurants, televisions are being turned on -- not off -- once the first guests arrive. Caf� Europa, a Bethesda, Md., restaurant known more for its romantic atmosphere and Continental cuisine, recently installed a flat-panel TV above the fireplace in its lounge."

Ah, but beware for that same story recounts many evening entertainment disasters arising from this trend.