The University has cancelled all classes tomorrow for Valentine’s Day. Extremely hazardous weather conditions have forced this unprecedented action. My good sense tells you to stay inside and out of the weather but since we all know that many will use this opportunity to get smashed, I’ll ask that you please stay safe. The last thing we want is to have to report on another terrible accident.

What are your plans for the next 36 hours or so? Do you disagree with this decision or the administration’s handling of the situation? Sound off here. Look for letters I’ve received regarding the plight of some University staff in tomorrow’s edition of The Daily Illini.

The campus community found out at 8:39 this morning that classes were cancelled for today. After trudging over to Green Street all the way from Lincoln Avenue, I have to say that it was rough. It was apparent that the sidewalks around the Gregory Drive area and the Main Quad had been plowed at least once (this was as of noonish). But despite that, traveling was still treacherous because of massive drifting. As of 4:30 this afternoon, the blizzard hasn’t let up much at all. Roads are still pretty terrible and we’ve just gotten word that MTD will be shutting down for the night. In addition, SafeRides is also suspending service. This is troubling because according to our information, most of the bars will still be open for their regular hours. If you want to brave the cold and go have a few drinks, don’t count on SafeRides. It would probably be better for you to stay home this evening.

Supposedly, there’s an administration meeting being held this afternoon and they will determine what the University’s course of action will be tomorrow. We have to ask the question: Will we have two snow days in a row?

After spending the entire afternoon in the newsroom, it’s apparent that things are getting worse. The storm isn’t slowing down and more and more businesses are closing up. If you want an idea of how crazy things are, consider this: Wal-Marts in Champaign and Urbana are closing at 6PM. Wal-Mart! Wal-Mart never closes, at least where I’m from. While Wal-Mart is closing, we at the The Daily Illini are happy to report that Coldstone Creamery has in fact, been open for business all day and has no plans to alter its schedule. A big salute to the people over at CU’s favorite ice cream shop!

So what do you think? Do we need another snow day? Both local school districts have already thrown in the towel for tomorrow and in light of this tragic traffic accident involving two Illini basketball players, I can’t say that I wouldn’t be in favor of erring on the side of caution. But that’s just me.