A win and a loss

The last few days have been intense for Northeast Ohio as the Kent State Golden Flashes baseball team took on Oregon in the Super Regional for a berth to the College World Series. The Flashes were up 2-0 for most of the game until the Ducks came back to tie it in eighth. In the bottom of the ninth, senior and Kent State's all-time hits leader Jimmy Rider nailed one to left field, allowing sophomore Derek Toadvine to score the game-winning run. The 3-2 victory sent the Flashes to their first trip to the College World Series. Not since 1970 has a team from Ohio made it to the CWS and not since 1976 has a team from the MAC moved on (the last teams to experience such success were Ohio University and Eastern Michigan, respectively).  This is the first time since 1970 a team from Ohio will be represented in the CWS and also the first time the MAC will be represented since 1976.

Golden Flashes pile up (photo via Kent State)

Usually when Kent State is on national news it's because of uncontrolled block parties and bizarre crimes so it's nice to see positive press. As a recent M.A. recipient from the school, this is especially pleasing. If you missed the moment or want to relive it, you can do so here.

And now for more somber news. Many of you might have seen me talk about Sandusky, Ohio on Twitter. Normally, I'm poking fun at the rockin' roller coast (it's all in good nature, I swear), but today I have to give my extreme condolensces to the community as they continue to mourn the loss of a beloved coach and friend. I did not know Chris Smith, but I do know a few of his relatives and many of the people who had the pleasure of knowing him as a person. Judging by the Facebook and Twitter statuses, this man had an impact on many lives throughout the Sandusky area. While it's unfortunate it takes something so tragic to remind us how precious and short life is, it is important to take this time to be thankful for the life we're given. No matter what you're doing or where you are, always remember to tell the people in your life how much they mean to you. No one is every too busy to hear those words.