If they have known about this decision for at least a year, why in the world didn't they make it public last year, and give the Chief the proper farewell and dignity in the end of the tradition? (Recall last Fall when the Chicago media reported that the Chief was officially done, the BOT denied it)

Posted by ralexander on February 17, 2007 at 3:06 AM Suggest Removal

As a '66 grad I have painfully watched as this important symbol has been dismantled over the years. I'm not sure why the word Illini disappeared from team uniforms, but it is bittersweet to see that it may be returned. They're taking away my Chief - they can have my diploma back.

Posted by LLTC on February 17, 2007 at 5:16 AM Suggest Removal

Once again political correctness and a population minority rules. And once again the current university officials are behaving like the bureaucratic lapdogs they are.

The school could have fought the good fight. It could have stood up and said 'enough of this absurd whining and wailing' by supposedly injured select interest groups. But no, the university lies on the ground, bares its neck and whimpers '"we're sorry". This was a truly pathetic performance by a group of self-interested politicians who call themselves higher education administrators.

Posted by jmayer on February 17, 2007 at 8:52 AM Suggest Removal

So here's an idea-- why not a dancer dressed as Abe Lincoln doing an exaggerated country/Appalachian dance? That way, there can still be a dancing chief at games-- a Commander-in-Chief.

Posted by grayskies on February 28, 2007 at 11:01 AM Suggest Removal