The Monuments Men

George Clooney sure directed a beauty in "The Monuments Men." A winning cast with a superb true story seldom fails. Clooney and Matt Damon are the lead characters and were brilliant as always. Even if you're not a big war buff, this movie tells the true story of how a specially appointed army unit recovers some of the world's most famous European art pieces that Hitler had stolen during World War 2. Although some art was destroyed, this unit appointed by President Roosevelt managed to save a huge part of Europe's culture.

Bill Murray and John Goodman were especially terrific. The true sign of a great funnyman is how they can also touch you with a serious role. Both of these actors did it well and Murray's shower scene was especially poignant. I'll stop there so I don't give too much away but I highly recommend it.

After watching the movie at the Oriental Theatre we stopped next door at Replay sports bar and watched the second half of the Chicago Bulls game. Unfortunately, the Bulls fell apart in the 4th quarter and the Miami Heat won without LeBron James. His nose didn't look broke to me but it must be bad if it sidelined him.

After Replay, we headed over to Wolski's Tavern to finish off my birthday weekend in the proper fashion. Thanks again Krissy for the wonderful birthday celebration and to everyone for your well wishes.

Congrats to Dale Earnhardt Jr. on his second Daytona 500 victory. The rain delays and a huge pileup made it a long race day.

Summerfest just announced that Fall Out Boy will be the headliner on July 5th. There's still a few main stage openings so stay tuned.

Legendary comedy writer, director, and actor Harold Ramis passed away today from vasculitis. Ramis was a member of the famous Second City comedy troupe. Some of his most famous scripts were "Groundhog Day," "Animal House, " "Ghostbusters," and "Stripes." His performance with his real life great friend, the aforementioned Bill Murray, made "Stripes" a blockbuster at the box office. Thanks for all the laughs, you were legendary!

Later