Scotty passes away

Yesterday I did a day-trip up to Seattle to speak on a panel at the Casual Games Conference. Also visited with a few developers while I was there. It was unbelievably gorgeous in Seattle, and it reminded me of what I like about that city. Although it would be hard to move back to Seattle after getting used to all the interesting things to do in San Francisco, I’m always reminded of how relaxed I feel there, and how beautiful the mountains and water are. That is, when it isn’t raining. 🙂
On the way back home, the chief steward on the plane was absolutely hilarious. He introduced himself as Scotty (in a Scottish accent) and suggested that the plane was being flown by Captain James T Kirk and Science Officer Spock. That the stewardesses were Lieutenant Yar (don’t cross her) and Counselor Troi (don’t look at her funny, because she knows what you’re thinking!) He went on and on and I just busted up. After he finished describing the plane and its various safety features (in suitable sci-fi language), he got a round of applause from the passengers. To which he replied, “I don’t think you’re giving it all you’ve got!” And of course, got an even bigger round of applause. 🙂 It was a welcome hint of personality on what is usually an utterly boring and sterile flying experience. (Thanks, Alaska Airlines!)
So I find myself even sadder this morning upon reading the news that James Doohan, Star Trek’s Scotty, passed away this morning. I’m a Star Trek geek, I’ll admit it, I’m not ashamed. It was a nice coincidence to be reminded of Scotty just a day before his passing.