I am quite happy as a ATCO to say its ATC providing pilots with a service, however, what a crutial service it is.
On a slightly different edge, and one thats been here before, is including the 'expect FL*** by ***' I have had far too many experiences to now have to reinforce this to some, but time and again have to clarify its only an 'expect ' level. We need this read back on the tapes, otherwise we are in deep sh!te should a level bust occur. When levels are known by me to be published in the STAR charts, I feel the whole transmission to be a total waste of time, but when they aren't reitterated by me, at least half check what to expect. Its a case of either "why print them" or "why have to reitterate them".
So to all pilots out there, do you expect to be given the restriction eventually and ALWAYS plan descent for them, or are you one of those that will only get there if told to do so at top of descent??????