Dream on

In yet another attempt to delude itself, UI pro-Cheefers are attempting to paint a rosy face on the NCAA's decision to deny North Dakota's petition to retain the hostile and abusive Fighting Sioux mascot and imagery. Face it guys, it was a decision to DENY. Not much positive there, is there?

In Thursday's News-Gazette, speaking of the NCAA decision

"I think the decision by the NCAA on North Dakota is specific to North Dakota, and anything we would do is separate and independent from that appeal decision," said UI spokesman Tom Hardy. He said the UI will likely appeal the NCAA decision regarding the Chief Illiniwek symbol and Fighting Illini nickname, but administrators have not yet made a final decision.
"I think that we have circumstances regarding the Chief Illiniwek tradition and the University of Illinois that are distinct and different from these other institutions," Hardy said. "In the event we were to file an appeal, we'd make a strong case on the distinct characteristics of our tradition."

Sorry guys, your argument simply doesn't wash.

Fighting Sioux = Hostile and Abusive
Fighting Illini = Hostile and Abusive

Simple math.

And just how much are you willing to spend, gamble and waste on an appeal attempting to defend the indefensible?

Florida State, Central Michigan and Utah were exempted by support from local tribes. (And support from a presidential brother.)

How unlikely is it that the Cheef is going to get support from a 'local tribe'? Only local tribe you're likely to find is a tribe of white suburban frat boys who like their beer, like their cheef and like to party. And a few equally delusional but extremely loud alumni who also like their cheef, like their beer and like their pathetically misguided opinions on the rocks, thankyouverymuch.

And so it goes.