The Cornell men’s lacrosse team made history by securing their first national championship in nearly five decades, with Vermont native Chris Davis playing a pivotal role. As a senior on a team filled with leadership and determination, Davis contributed significantly to the victory, especially after overcoming previous setbacks against Penn State and Maryland. His journey from high school stardom in Essex to becoming a key defensive player for Cornell showcases perseverance, adaptability, and dedication. The championship win at Gillette Stadium held personal significance for Davis, who grew up attending lacrosse finals in the same venue. Now, as he transitions into professional play with the New York Atlas, Davis hopes to inspire young athletes across Vermont to believe in their potential and pursue excellence through hard work.
A Championship Redemption Story
Chris Davis and his Cornell teammates turned past defeats into motivation, ultimately claiming the national title. After being defeated by Penn State during the regular season, the team regrouped, refined their approach, and faced the same opponent in the semifinals with renewed confidence. Their strategic adjustments and belief in each other allowed them to overcome their earlier shortcomings. In the final, they took on Maryland, the team that had ended Davis’ championship hopes two years prior. With a strong sense of unity and resilience, Cornell executed their game plan effectively and emerged victorious, capping off a season-long journey of growth and redemption.
Davis reflected on how crucial mindset and trust among teammates were in turning challenges into triumphs. He emphasized that the earlier loss to Penn State served as a learning opportunity rather than a defining moment. The coaching staff and players identified areas for improvement, tightened their execution, and entered the rematch with unwavering belief in their ability to win. This same mentality carried over into the championship game against Maryland, where the team remained composed despite the emotional weight of facing the squad that had previously dashed their dreams. Davis noted that the leadership of the senior class played a major role in maintaining focus and composure throughout the postseason, proving that persistence and teamwork can lead to historic success.
From High School Star to Collegiate Role Player
Transitioning from standout high school athlete to a supporting role on one of the nation’s top collegiate teams was a defining challenge in Davis’ career. At Essex High School, he was recognized as an All-American, but upon joining Cornell, he found himself among a roster full of similarly accomplished peers. Rather than resist the change, Davis embraced his new responsibilities, switching from offense to defense and adapting his style to fit the team’s needs. His humility and willingness to evolve earned him valuable playing time and eventually led to recognition as a second-team All-Ivy League performer.
Davis' shift from being a central figure in Vermont high school lacrosse to a complementary piece on a powerhouse college squad required both mental and physical adjustments. He described the experience as humbling, noting that every player on the Cornell roster had been a top performer in their own right. Accepting his role without ego allowed him to contribute meaningfully to the team’s success. His transition also highlighted the importance of versatility—his move to defense not only showcased his athletic adaptability but also demonstrated his commitment to doing whatever it took for the team to succeed. Despite not being the focal point, Davis played critical minutes and earned honors that affirmed his value. Looking ahead, he hopes his story encourages other Vermont athletes to remain committed to their goals, no matter the obstacles or transitions they may face along the way.
The Pennsylvania Treasury Department has issued its second round of Money Match payments, delivering over 39,000 checks totaling $9.2 million to residents who were unaware they were owed money. This initiative, backed by state legislation and designed to streamline the return of forgotten assets, automatically identifies eligible individuals and sends them direct payments without requiring any action on their part.
Unclaimed property can take many forms, from inactive bank accounts and uncollected dividends to expired insurance benefits and abandoned safety deposit items. Under current regulations, companies are required to report such dormant assets after a period of inactivity, typically three years. The Treasury then takes responsibility for locating the rightful owners and returning the funds. With more than 10% of the state’s population likely to have unclaimed assets, the program offers a valuable service by reconnecting families with lost financial resources.
This latest disbursement follows an initial successful round earlier this year and marks a step toward the department’s goal of returning $30 million by 2025. Scheduled to continue quarterly, the program is expected to expand access to rightful claimants while reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Officials emphasize that recipients should treat these checks as legitimate and encourage prompt deposit or cashing to ensure smooth processing.
Returning forgotten funds to citizens not only strengthens individual financial well-being but also reinforces trust between government and the public. By simplifying the process of reclaiming lost assets, Pennsylvania sets a precedent for transparency and efficiency. Every dollar returned is a tangible benefit to families, helping them meet daily needs and build a more secure future. As the program progresses, it serves as a reminder that proactive governance can make a real difference in people's lives.
In a vibrant display of community spirit and charitable giving, the Keene Trace Golf Club in Jessamine County hosted PGA Tour icon John Daly—famously known as the “Wild Thing”—for a special golf tournament aimed at raising funds for local causes. The event, held in the heart of Kentucky, centered around supporting organizations like Justin’s Place, which provides equine-assisted therapy to children with disabilities. Spearheaded by Travis McLaughlin of Good Boy Vodka, the initiative reflected a deep personal connection to the late Justin King, after whom the organization is named. With a focus on keeping contributions local, the tournament brought together sponsors, athletes, and community members to celebrate service, nature, and the joy of giving back.
A Star-Studded Tournament with a Heartfelt Mission
On a sun-drenched day at Keene Trace Golf Club in Central Kentucky, golf enthusiasts gathered for the inaugural John Daly Charity Golf Classic. The event, hosted by the two-time major champion himself, was more than just a sporting occasion—it was a heartfelt tribute to community values and philanthropy. Among the beneficiaries was Justin’s Place, a nonprofit offering therapeutic horseback riding programs for children facing physical and developmental challenges. The organization holds particular significance for Travis McLaughlin, whose company, Good Boy Vodka, served as the event's sponsor. Remembering his childhood friend Justin King, who was passionate about animals and helping others, McLaughlin expressed pride in channeling those ideals into a meaningful cause. Allie Barnett, executive director of Justin’s Place, emphasized how the event mirrored their mission of finding healing through nature and animal interaction. Held during the summer heat, the tournament not only raised vital funds but also reinforced the importance of community engagement and support.
Reflections on Community, Legacy, and Giving Back
As a journalist covering this event, what stood out most wasn’t just the presence of a golf legend, but the genuine sense of unity and purpose that permeated the atmosphere. This wasn't a typical celebrity charity appearance—it was a deeply personal endeavor rooted in friendship, memory, and a shared vision for a better community. McLaughlin’s words about balancing work and life while making a difference resonated strongly. Events like these remind us that charity doesn’t always have to be grand or far-reaching; sometimes, the greatest impact comes from staying local, honoring loved ones, and investing in the well-being of our own neighborhoods. In a world often driven by self-interest, seeing a community come together under the banner of compassion and remembrance is both refreshing and inspiring.