The Duke of Kent

Kent State University is known for two things, both of which are equally dark: black squirrels and the May 4, 1970, shootings that left four students dead, 13 physically wounded and countless others with emotional scars.

I'm a Kent State alum (2005, baby) and while the shootings are a significant part of the school's history, this was the first year I attended the commemoration ceremonies. And I am slightly ashamed to write it was largely because of a boy.

You see, there's a boy I managed to meet despite a torrent of cross movements in both of our lives. After meeting and learning that we share a passion for bacon and amazing sex, we realized that we would both be in Ohio -- a state in which neither of us lives (yet) -- at the very same time. Fate, people. You got to give it up to fate.

So, the boy and I met up in Kent, Ohio, which is a city totally synonymous with romance. I mean lookit--how hawt is that?

The boy's people are activists from way back and his ties to the original hippie set are deep and strong. The May 4 commemoration is a BIG DEAL to him and those whom he holds near and dear, and I was glad to be there with him and be a part of it.

It was lovely and inspiring, particularly the midnight candle-light peace march around campus and the all-night vigil that the group holds. Several speakers, including a particularly resonating discourse from former U.N. weapons inspector Scott Ritter, delivered messages of hope and action.

It was truly moving and in the vein of all successful commemorations, it left me remembering those who I've lost and what I can do to make the world a better place for those who are still here.

But, I didn't get any pictures of that stuff. Nope. My attention was focused on the kid who played Reese on Malcolm in the Middle who was also attending the ceremonies. Because I am a dumb American.

OK, wait for it ... wait for it ... here he his getting up. That's his bum on the left.


Here he is walking by! Wizard!

Lord. In the Comments section, tell me where you've been lately. I miss you.