i was ready to unleash an all-out FT temper tantrum upon noticing that BDL has been removed from the list of 'exception' cities (along with BOS, LGA) that get ORD meal service even though the flights are blocked under 2h20m. BDL has always been on that list (note that PVD has never been on the list, making BDL 'special').
and then i noticed UA pads BDL-ORD block time to 2h45m+, so it now falls under the default rule of receiving a full meal.
but then i checked the eastbound, which is blocked at 2h5m, thus not receiving a meal nor an exception.
so, unless i'm mistaken, UA is catering the plane at ORD only for that food to be served on the return?