In response to the June 6 Akron Beacon Journal article headlined ”PETA says KSU’s mascot too terrified to be at games”: I believe the Kent State University Athletic Department has made a poor decision in using a live golden eagle at sporting events.

The article raised a bigger question: What is a golden ”flash” anyway? Does it exist in the wild?

As a Kent State alumnus, I am confident to say we are the Golden Flashes, not the golden eagles; yet a golden eagle is exhibited. Why the substitute? Do alumni have any affinity to a golden flash?

Personally, I have always found the nickname weak and thought Kent State’s mascot ought to be the obvious Kent transplant critter — the black squirrel. They are at least real.

Look at Miami University. It changed from the Redskins to the RedHawks, and the alumni still support that university.

Maybe the reason the eagle is back on display is to hide the fact KSU doesn’t have a national award-winning mascot in a suit.

I believe both Athletic Director Laing Kennedy and President Lester Lofton do not want to exploit animals. However, when it comes to this case, their judgment may be clouded by fear. I believe they Fear the Roo.

For the record, the University of Akron does not use a live wallaby, kangaroo or any live marsupials named Zippy at sporting events. Instead UA prudently gives a lucky college student the chance to be Zippy, the 2007 Mascot of the Year decided by the Capital One Mascot Bowl on Jan. 1.

On Jan. 23, the live golden eagle came out of retirement. Give up the bird and the golden flash nickname. Let’s be honest, the kid in the flash suit is sufficient.

The university does not have a compelling argument or need to use a live eagle, or the nickname for that matter. Does it really add value to a sporting event or increase attendance?

Go Kent State Black Squirrels!

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