I'm just back from Chicago, where life is good. That is to say, where the Cubs beat the Cardinals in two straight come-from-behind wins. Sometimes -- even amid foul weather and more-foul economics -- it's easy to define "good."
I'll tell you more about Chicago soon. First, however, I had a chance to do some advance TV viewing; some notes:
1) It's hard to believe, but tonight (Monday, April 20) already brings the season's second-to-last new episodes of "Chuck" and "Heroes," at 8 and 9 p.m.on NBC.
2) "Chuck" is a fun show that never quite gets noticed. Tonight, Chuck (the reluctant secret agent) and Sarah (the beautiful and talented secret agent) try to rescue his dad, played by guest star Scott Bakula.
3) This whole "Heroes" chapter has been a disappointment. Still, I had a chance to see next week's season finale (April 27), in which Sylar is a handshake away from being the most powerful man in the world. The show still has its basic flaw -- it has given both the heroes and the villains such extreme powers that there's no way to tell a satisfying and convincing story -- but next week's finale is pretty good. Catch tonight's episode, to get ready.
4) And while you're doing that, tape the episodes (9 p.m. Mondays on most PBS stations) of "We Shall Remain," the "American Experience" mini-series focusing on some key American Indian stories. Tonight tells of Tecumseh, who came as close as anyone to uniting the tribes to make a stand. Next week is the Cherokee nation, seen through the eyes of two strong-but-opposite leaders. On May 4 is Geronimo, the Apache warrior who seemed to forever be two steps ahead of the cavalry. These stories are alternately fascinating, energizing and disturbing; give them a try.