The Illini are 24-0 and still #1 after 10 weeks. With Boston College losing last night to Notre Dame, Illinois is the last undefeated team this season. It would be great if they could finish the regular season before the tournaments start as 30-0. If they beat Wisconsin on Saturday, they will tie the school record of 25 straight wins. It won't be easy, because Wisconsin is rated #20 and has a very good team. I wish that I could be at the Assembly Hall to cheer them on. Go Illini!

It's Mardi Gras! Somewhere, people are having fun and partying before Lent. I'd love to be in New Orleans right now. Although, Bourbon Street is probably so jammed that no one can move. Men are throwing beads while shouting "Show me your (well you know)" while nubile women are obliging. A bizarre ritual, but quite inspired even so. Commerce at its finest.
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For Lent I think that I am going to give up seeing films at theaters. Not that seeing movies is a sin, but it has become almost addictive for me. The worst part is paying almost 10 bucks for snacks which are bad for you. They're mostly too salty, if you get the popcorn or nachos, or too sweet if you get a soft drink or candy. I don't understand how you can buy microwave popcorn and a cheap soda at a grocery store for 50 cents, but it costs about 4 bucks each at a theater. I remember when you could buy an entire meal for less than 4 bucks, including tax and tip. In fact, at MacDonald's you could get a hamburger, fries, and a Coke and get change from your dollar.
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Speaking of films, I saw Roger Ebert at the Barnes & Noble in Old Orchard on Saturday. He gave about a 30 minute talk and then answered questions for about 20 minutes. He finished by signing copies of his new book about great movies. He's an extremely bright guy. I don't agree with all of his beliefs, e.g. his love of silent films and black and white films, but he has certainly put a lot of thought into his opinions. Perhaps one has to study film as deeply and thoroughly as he has to understand some of his ideas. I have to admit that "The Last Picture Show" was more effective in black and white and silent films can become almost dream like. I remember some Fellini films in college that still haunt me.