The Slice: TV underdogs worth a peek this Sunday

Super Bowl Sunday has become a rewarding TV-watching day for those who have no intention of checking out the game.

Most networks used to more or less throw in the towel. But in recent years, counter-programming has gotten interesting, with oddball marathons and whatnot.

So grab your remote and check it out.

Or switch off the TV and tackle your tax return.

“Put down that yogurt and back away: Someone here at the newspaper is a genius.

Let me explain.

Maybe six or nine months ago, a full-size refrigerator appeared in a secluded spot just outside The Spokesman-Review newsroom. Because of its location, no one can see it without getting up and going through a door.

I assume it is intended to store snacks and beverages for various gatherings that take place here. We have a lot of meetings.

(There is another fridge elsewhere for employees’ lunches.)

Well, you know what happens to refrigerators. People open them. So I’m guessing that some staffers who were not invited to these important confabs went ahead and helped themselves to the contents.

Shocking, I know.

Full disclosure: I once took a bottle of water. Oh, and there was that apple juice. May God have mercy on my soul.

Not long ago, a ceiling-mounted surveillance camera appeared. It is pointed right at the fridge.

Really.

I don’t know if this camera is actually hooked up to the security command center here. Maybe it’s just a prop. The chilling intent is pretty clear, though.

So you’re expecting me to get all upset about the creepy lack of trust, Big Brotherism or something along those lines, right?

Well, guess again. I think it’s brilliant.

After all the gimmick diets and half-baked approaches to weight control, perhaps this is just what America needs. Maybe video cameras should be pointed at every refrigerator in the land.

Imagine the deterrent value. It’s one thing to try to sneak a piece of pie when no one is looking. It is quite another matter to contemplate going for that last slice knowing you might be caught on tape.

The S-R ought to market this idea. It could really address the problem of rogue snacking. It might also generate a lot of new jobs as people are hired to monitor the fridge-cams.

And obviously there would be a new hit show, “America’s Funniest Fridge Videos.”

“Speaking of refrigerators: The Slice had asked which caused more tension among roommates — bathroom issues or violation of fridge etiquette.

“I’m 20 and pregnant and live with three guys,” wrote Christine Wardle. “I would say currently the fridge violation is worse.”

She routinely comes home from work to discover that all the juice is gone and the only thing left is beer. “Which obviously doesn’t work for me right now.”

“Today’s Slice question: Who holds the local record for working with someone the longest time without ever meeting that person’s spouse or significant other?