Photo by James Bednarick, Photo Editor

Making the effort, William Wolbrink (left) and Brian Soucie (right) rode in the elevators of Cramer Hall for 60 hours this past weekend. Money was raised and donated to the American Red Cross for relief efforts.

Donations abundant for elevator marathon

By Amy McElmurray
Assistant News Editor

Ferris students Brian Soucie and William Wolbrink, both residents of Cramer Hall, helped raise over $2,000 to contribute to the relief efforts of the American Red Cross. While riding in the elevator of Cramer Hall for 60 hours, they took tips from loyal riders and visitors.

"As college students, we don't have a lot of money to give to the cause, but what we do have to give is our time," Wolbrink said. "I look at this as the best possible way that we can give back to America and its heroes and include the whole community while doing it."

Soucie and Wolbrink were very excited that so many people came out over the two and a half days to contribute what they could to the cause. Their original goal was to raise $500, but after collecting sponsorship money from local businesses, they raised the goal to $1,000.

"We don't know what to expect at this point," Soucie stated Thursday evening, just two hours into the event. "We'll just wait and see what we can get. There have been lots of donations, so I'm feeling good about it."

A goal chart was kept in Cramer Hall's lobby to show how much money had been collected. The tip jars that Soucie and Wolbrink held were emptied every four hours to update the total amount on the chart.

All of the money raised will be given to the local chapter of the American Red Cross and then dispersed to help with the efforts in New York City and Washington.

"We are giving out American flags to large donors," Wolbrink stated while waving a small flag in the air. Many students have been displaying flags at their residences lately, and the flags given out were yet another effort to show that America will stand united.

"This is a very respectable thing they are doing for the people of America and the Red Cross," Nick Vandebergha, a sophomore in education, stated.

The idea for the elevator marathon was thought up by Soucie and Wolbrink one afternoon while discussing what students could do to help out. The two originally met each other three years ago when Wolbrink served as Soucie's resident advisor (RA) in Cramer Hall. Soucie then decided to become an RA as well, and the two worked together for a semester before Wolbrink moved off-campus.

This year Wolbrink is serving as the Assistant Hall Director of Cramer Hall, and Soucie is the third floor RA. Soucie is also the president of the Residence Hall Association.

The two rode in separate elevators throughout the 60 hours. Each was able to speak with the many elevator patrons throughout the weekend and see just how giving Ferris State University students are. Many students were only able to donate the change in their pockets, but that change is what helped the effort surpass its goal.

T-shirts showing the "Ride for Life Elevator Marathon" logo were donated by Different by Design to the men who spared their time for the worthy cause. Other RAs purchased shirts to support their fellow students.

Soucie and Wolbrink left the elevators during the 60 hours only to use the restrooms and to take a shower. Other RAs filled in for them when they needed to be relieved. Many generous donors brought the men food on a constant basis.

"An employee of Campus Pizza kept stopping by and dropping off snacks for us," Wolbrink stated. "He was checking in to make sure we were doing okay."

Many questioned the motives of the two men and what events they were giving up in order to take part in the marathon. Although neither of them directly knew anyone involved in the tragedies, they wanted to make a difference.

"I normally would have gone to the football game, especially against Grand Valley," Wolbrink said.

"There weren't any big plans for me this weekend," Soucie said. "I volunteer a lot of my time to the community and to being an RA."

By late Saturday night, both men were tired and feeling kind of sick. They were also excited and feeling some sort of adrenaline rush. Although the event was almost over, there were still many long night hours to pass by. The elevators slowed down after about 3 a.m., so they had gotten another RA to bring a TV and VCR to the lobby to enjoy some quality entertainment.

"We're not sure who helped publicize the event so much, but many media outlets across Michigan and the U.S. were picking up the story," Wolbrink said. "One radio station called Brian's cell phone and spoke to him live from the elevator. We even heard that CNN and another national broadcast ran the story."

"People saw us on the news and came and donated to us and the American Red Cross," Soucie said. "Community members were coming to the residence hall and donating throughout the 60 hours."

Photo by James Bednarick, Photo Editor

Student Government discussed possibly limiting the number of credit cards solicitors on campus among other issues.

Student Government busy at work

By Laura Chene
News Editor

The Student Government of Ferris State University, which continuously makes campus decisions, remained busy passing motions and discussing student concerns at last Wednesday's meeting.

Members introduced new issues to the student body and announced community and on-campus updates. One concern involved credit card solicitors. The administration asked the body to look at possible negative impacts credit card solicitors may have on students. The body was asked to determine whether Ferris should limit the number of credit card solicitors allowed on campus.

"It may be hard to believe, but there are fewer credit card solicitors than there were 10 years ago," Vice President of Student Affairs Daniel Burcham said.

Student Government President Rocky Byington stated that Registered Student Organizations are able to use credit card applications as a way to receive funding but noted that the negative effects on students may not be worth it. "The RSOs can make a decent amount of money by having students fill out applications," Byington said. 'We are looking at an average of $300 - 400. Usually they get about $10 - 15 per application filled out."

"Are we hurting our fellow students by asking them to keep filling out applications? Does it really affect their credit rating as much as they say it does?" Byington asked.

"These are questions that I cannot answer right now."

Vice President of Governmental Relations Mircea Cotosman introduced an issue concerning international students. International students are currently required to complete an Intensive English course as part of their program but do not receive credit for the class. As a result, a retention issue may develop.

"International students pay full tuition and don't even get credit for intensive English," Cotosman said. "It's very complicated."

Discussion over SAFAC and the Student Affairs Programming Committee also took place. Members stated concern over attendance at these meetings and the effect on the allocation process. A certain amount of students must be present in order for quorum, the number of people for a decision to be made.

Byington explained the difference between SAPC and SAFAC and the impact attendance has. "If SAPC does not have quorum for allocation meetings, this really prohibits the groups from having ample time to get contracts and other necessary information. Because SAPC handles the larger, more annual events, this can really be detrimental.

"With respect for SAFAC, because we have the four week minimum, the effects that a missed meeting has is not as great. It just looks negatively on student government and is an inconvenience for the proposal presenter," Byington said.

"SAPC and SAFAC allocate money to help [fund] student organizations," Vice President of Public Relations Tony Aloia said. "Without those, organizations wouldn't have a majority of funding they have."

Students can remain up to date on student government issues by attending meetings every Wednesday at 5:00 in the Rankin Center President's Room, or by visiting the student government website. "I think it's still early in the year, but I think the new cabinet and senate members will have a positive impact in student government as a whole," Aloia said.

The importance of giving back to your community

Oshotayo Adedeji
Ferris State Torch

A person's gift is a wise investment in the Mecosta and Osceola counties, and 85% of every dollar donated goes directly to the health and human services working to meet community needs.

Ferris State University will be kicking off its annual United Way campaign on Oct. 11. This year's combined student and employee fundraising goal is $58,000. This year's campaign theme is "Choose to Care." The goal for the United Way Student Campaign is $3,000.

A primary method of contribution to the United Way by employees is through payroll deduction. Ferris students employed at the university will also have an opportunity to provide a one-time donation to the campaign via payroll deduction. Many student organizations are raising money for the United Way campaign.

A variety of student-led fundraisers are scheduled to take place during Homecoming week. Student proceeds should be handed into the Office of Student Leadership and Activities or the President's Office by Oct. 20 at 8 p.m. At the Homecoming Student Alumni Dance Reception, photographs will be offered for $5, and $2 will go to the United Way, which will then be forwarded to the local United Way branch.

These proceeds assist two dozen United Way-sponsored agencies in Mecosta and Osceola counties. These agencies include Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Food Pantry.

The United Way agencies in the Big Rapids community help students provide healthy meals for their kids, recover from domestic abuse and sexual assault, obtain counseling services, receive legal assistance, mentor school children, find suitable childcare, help older citizens and volunteer in the community.

"Based upon the success of last year's FSU United Way campaign, it is evident that
Ferris State University students and employees have chosen to care," Dan Hurley, assistant to the president and Board Member of the Mecosta-Osceola United Way, said.

Sara Johnson, the United Way overall chairperson for the student homecoming committee and a senior in healthcare systems administration, said, "It is important for students to get involved in the United Way Campaign because we get back what we put in, and we are excited that we will be able to meet our goal. We should give to the United Way because the services help the students, as well as the Mecosta and Osceola counties."

Rick Spathelf, manager of Human Resources General Mills, Inc. at Yoplait Operations, co-chairperson of the 2001 United Way Campaign and son of the former 1952-1970 president at Ferris State University, said, "It's exciting to see the generosity of students at Ferris impact total strangers in this community."

Executive Director of Mecosta and Osceola counties United Way Betty Seely said, "Local needs will be affected by the national tragedy, and we are already seeing 'trickle-down effects' that need to be addressed by our local human service agencies. There is very much a local need that the United Way must help with."

"We are very pleased with the students' effort on behalf of the United Way," Anja Wing, executive director MCACC and co-chairperson of the 2001 United Way campaign.

"Imagine losing all your belongings in the middle of the night [including] your pictures, treasured keepsakes … your pet. Just at your lowest moment … the Red Cross and the United Way are there with a warm blanket and a place to stay. Caring volunteers who help in your time of need," Bill, a Red Cross disaster volunteer, said in a United Way handout.

According to Julie Schneider, a part-time library worker, "It serves to benefit many non-profit organizations in the community."

There will be a Celebrity Auction on Nov. 2 at the Holiday Inn to help raise funds for the United Way. Among the items auctioned off will be: a dinner for 20 people at the lookout, a private camp, a pizza party and bowling for four people at Eastgate Lanes, dessert for 20 people, a free membership to Ferris Recreation Center and golf lessons for four people.

"I am proud to be involved with such a worthwhile organization, and we are confident we will reach our goal of $10,000," Karen Shedd, executive assistant for the United Way and co-chairperson for the Celebrity Auction, said. Anyone with questions regarding this event should call (231) 592-4144 for assistance.

Binge drinking tapers off

Rachel Pedlar
Ferris State Torch

Implementing some new programs for drinking at Ferris has helped students to drink wisely or not drink at all during the past few years.

Binge drinking is an issue every campus in America has to deal with, yet Ferris is going to great lengths to clean up irresponsible drinking acts on campus.

"I'm aware of CHOICES," industrial electronics senior Mike Hanlon said. "It's good they have something about educating students."

Hanlon is referring to a program that has been implemented for the past couple of years. CHOICES is a program that students who have committed a drinking or drug offense must go through. For the past few years the program has been free; however, now offenders must pay a $100 fee for the class. There are two professional staff members who teach the course.

"Changes I have seen at other campuses are because of parental notification," Director of Judicial Services Celeste Belcher said. "There's been a dropoff in serious cases. If a parent can have a positive impact on their children, that's great."

Students are more aware of the effects of binge drinking. "[Different speakers have] helped students to understand when someone has had too much to drink and what to do," Student Government President Rocky Byington said. "Like the parents of Brad McCue said, 'Better off having a pissed-off friend than a dead one."

One of the biggest programs on campus is the Ferris LINKS Freshman Mentor program. "It allows upperclassmen and freshmen to associate in social settings," Byington said. "It gets them involved in activities that are drug- and alcohol-free."

"The older people are more weathered when they drink," Hanlon said. "They know when to stop. Younger people don't seem to know their limits and keep going and going."

According to Byington, enrollment in the LINKS program has gone up drastically. "Freshmen are looking at positive avenues that college can offer and avoiding the pressures of alcohol," he said.

Ferris is currently looking into a social norming program that reinforces the positive, instead of dwelling on negatives. "Instead of saying 45 percent of college students have been drinking during the week, we would say that 65 percent of college students have NOT been drinking during the week. Things are always better than people think," Byington said.

"Each case is unique in how we deal with them," Belcher said. "There is never a formula, black and white. We want to treat each case as uniquely as possible."

Hanlon thinks there needs to be more reinforcement on the term binge-drinking.

"They may be aware of the term, but they still don't know enough about it. What exactly constitutes 'binge-drinking'? For different people, that could mean different things."

New royalty to win the throne

Brandi Gregory
Ferris State Torch

It's time again to decide which individuals among the 10 women and seven men finalists will land the titles of homecoming king and queen are this year.

There are many different organizations, talents and unique personalities that the candidates have and are willing to bring to the homecoming court.

Noelle Pizana, a senior in elementary education, feels she is a good leader and a positive role model for every woman knowing that an individual can do anything regardless of the outcome.

"I would gain a sense of appreciation for the student body. I've taken a lot of preparation," Pizana said. She is working with the Ferris LINKS freshman program, is vice president of Entertainment Unlimited, a member of Minorities in Teacher Education (MITE) and a member of the Delta Zeta sorority.

Resident Advisor of Masselink Hall Andrea Bucher, a junior in psychology, feels that if she were elected queen, one of her goals would be to help bring a greater awareness to the disabled students on campus.

"I think every candidate is fit for the job to represent Ferris. I have excellent leadership skills and listen really well," Bucher said. Bucher is also a member of the Professional Psychology Association, College Republicans. She was also a freshman orientation leader this past summer.

Liza Hall, a senior in social work, feels that it is a tough competition. "All of the women are wonderful, and we all have equal opportunities," Hall said.

This year Hall has been working with the Social Work committee and is the Public Relations Director and Historian of the Social Work Association. "I feel it's important to get social work's name out there," Hall said.

Lisa Joppie, a junior in dental hygiene, worked very hard these last three years. "I like being a leader and being involved," Joppie said. "I'm a natural leader."

Joppie has been a part of Phi Delta Alpha Sorority, an SADHA member and a Dental Hygiene Big Sister Mentor. "I'm really excited about getting to know the other candidates," she said.

Jennifer Biggar, a student in plastics engineering technology, realized her goal early. "I've always wanted to run," Biggar said. "I realize it is my sophomore year, but I feel all the things I'm involved in, on and off campus makes me a good representative for the university."

"I feel running is important to focus on people's important points, true sprits and commitment," Naomi Babel, a senior in biology and physics, said. She has a lot to contribute to the court. "I'm reliable, trustworthy, dependable, responsible, loyal, and I have true commitment," Babel said.

Babel is a member of the Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority, American Association for the Advancement of Science and intramural sports - volleyball and flag football.

With the qualities spoken by the homecoming queen candidates, this year's homecoming king candidates are no different, and they all want to represent Ferris well.

Inspired by friends and last year's homecoming king Shannon Keys, Martwuan Owens, a senior in public relations, said, "I have the leadership skills that are necessary, and I would make a good candidate for this year's crown."

Owens, president of Black Leaders Aspiring for Critical Knowledge, said, "It's a good opportunity to meet a lot of people that I would have never met had I not been a candidate. I feel that all of them are good candidates and will equally represent the school well."

Nominated by his fraternity Phi Sigma Kappa, Jeffrey Nelson is a senior in business administration

"I like all of the candidates. I know most of them. They would represent well," Nelson said. Nelson is also a part of the United States Army, Society for Human Resource Management and treasurer of Phi Sigma Kappa.

President of Student Government Benjamin "Rocky" Byington, a senior in psychology with a minor in communications, said, "I'm very friendly and willing to speak to anyone and will address issues whether I agree or not."

Byington is also the co-student coordinator of the Ferris LINKS Freshmen Mentor Program and a student dispatcher for Public Safety.

Andrew Slovik, a senior in plastics, feels he has the right qualities and leadership skills to make a good role model. "I'm just an all-around nice guy," Slovik said. Slovik is a member of the FSU Ski Club and Society of Plastics Engineers.

As an active member of Pi Kappa Alpha for six years, Matthew Schuett, a senior in communications, knows what it takes to be the king. "I love being at Ferris. I feel that Ferris is easy going and enjoying every year," Schuett said. This is Schuett's fifth year with Adopt-a-Block, and he is on the Interfraternity Council.

President of the Residence Hall Association Brian Soucie, a senior in criminal justice, said, "I am a good speaker, have a positive attitude, [have] good communication skills, and am a positive role model."

"I thought this would be a positive experience," Soucie said. Soucie is an RA in Cramer Hall, on the Cramer Hall Council and in the group called Students of Forensic Science.

"That was a lifetime experience where I met a lot of people; it was fun and exciting. I wish all the of the candidates good luck," Keys said.

Students can vote at the their academic colleges on Oct. 17 and 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Can you live long enough to become a hero?

By Matt Cherry
Assistant A&E Editor

Most people know the basic plot line for a first-person shooter. You go around, find a gun, and then blast the living daylights out of anything that moves.

In that respect, Red Faction is sort of like that. But only sort of. In this game, the hero, a miner named Parker, has a reason to kill: revolution.

The game takes place on the planet Mars, some odd years in the future. Mars is the only colonized world that has the precious metal noachite. The Ultor Corporation is in control of Mars, and in control of the noachite.

Ultor is also a corporation that prides itself on its ability to maximize production while at the same time reducing costs as much as possible. This means that Ultor's employees, the miners, are treated incredibly bad.

Living conditions are terrible in the barracks. The shifts share their beds, and food is high in demand, and little in supply. Plus, there is a mysterious plague that is infecting everyone all over Mars. Guard beatings of miners are also very routine.

The tension mounts and all it will take is one event to send Mars into revolution.

And that event comes after Parker's shift ends.

While going back to the barracks, Parker hears a guard picking on a miner. The miner fights back, and both end up killing each other. After that, all hell breaks loose.

Parker immediately weighs his situation, grabs a weapon, and jumps into the fight. After all, when there's a planet-wide revolution, it's kill or be killed.

This is where the player comes in. She/he watches the miner get killed, and then must decide to act before she/he is also killed.

And this is where one of the biggest downfalls of the Playstation 2 version of this game hits you: the controller. The Dual Shock 2 controller will/can never be as precise as a keyboard and mouse configuration, but the game's creators, Volition, did add an auto-aim feature to help fill the void. Unfortunately, they have to get an "E" for effort there.

However, the controller problem can be easily overlooked thanks to the invention of what might be the greatest addition to the first person shooter (or FPS) genre: Geo-Mod Technology.

With this incredible technology, players can actually interact with their environment, in a most destructive way. What does this mean? It means that if a player fires a grenade at a wall, if the wall isn't reinforced, it blows a hole in it.

So why is this so important? Simple: it's never been done in a game before.

This feature is enhanced even more so by the game's outstanding graphics. Volition's use of textures and colors is incredible. The environments of the levels, and the robots and creatures that infest them, are just incredible. Even though the game only uses 30 frames per second, it is still terrific.

On the down side, the actual human characters are nothing to get excited about. However, the faces are a huge improvement over Volition's attempt in "Summoner."

The gameplay is very interesting. As stated before, the use of the Dual Shock controller really takes away from the game. It's quite clumsy to use, and one can only use the L3 and the R3 analog controllers to move.

However, the Geo-Mod Technology more than adequately compensates for the poor control, especially in multi-player mode. Unfortunately, Volition didn't quite use this technology to its full potential, and the number of interactive environments becomes thin as the game progresses.

All in all, the gameplay is incredible. It's easy to overlook the problems as the story enthralls the players, and engrosses them in the plot.

The sound is nothing to write home about, but it's nothing to complain about, either. The sound effects are quite realistic (well, as realistic as games set in the future can be), but the music is the key. When it plays, the music adds the perfect tension to the game. It's just too bad that the music doesn't play the whole time. The breaks between songs are many and long. But it tends to come around just in time for a nice big firefight.

On a ten-point scale, "Red Faction" comes in at a 9.3. The gameplay is the key for this game, and it overcomes its own problems in the long run. The story is long and engrossing, and the multi-player is always fun.

When everything's weighed, ign.com's review of this game really shows what it is: "One part Half-Life, two parts Total Recall, three parts World War III. All goodness."

Marchers protest domestic violence

By Rachel Cherry
Ferris State Torch

Men, women and children of all ages gathered to take part in a non-violent protest Thursday night at the thirteenth annual "Take Back the Night" march and rally.

Take Back the Night, sponsored in part by Women's Information Services (WISE), served as a non-violent protest against the violence that many people endure within their homes and communities on a daily basis, according to a leaflet advertising the event.

Marchers gathered at Cardinal Hall in the Big Rapids Middle School on Oct. 4, some wearing T-shirts with Take Back the Night logos, some wearing coats and sweatshirts but almost all wearing a colored armband. Survivors of domestic violence wore red armbands, supporters of the march and rally wore purple armbands and counselors wore light blue armbands.

Before the march, Brandi Shelton, co-chair of the Take Back the Night committee, spoke to the crowd. "When we march, we are marching for the same purpose--to restore dignity," she said.

Ben Coburn of WYBR-FM spoke to the crowd as well. He indicated the Clothesline Project, many T-shirts bearing handwritten survival stories that are hung on a clothesline, and the Jane Doe Quilt project, which was started by the Canadian Lakes quilters several years ago. Coburn also mentioned that support counselors were available anytime for anyone who needed to talk.

As the group left the hall around 6 p.m., the marchers picked up protest signs with a variety of sayings. "Real Men Don't Hit." "If She Says No, It's Rape." "No One Deserves a Beating." Another sign said that in Michigan, every five days a woman dies from abuse.

The marchers walked south on Michigan Avenue from the middle school, chanting as they went. "Yes means yes, no means no, however we dress, wherever we go." The marchers proceeded down Locust Avenue, heading west towards State Street, still chanting. "What do we want? Safe streets! When do we want them? Now!"

Chanting still, the marchers went north on State Street and to Bellevue Avenue, back to the middle school. "Two, four, six, eight, stop assault! Stop rape!" When the marchers returned to Cardinal Hall, there were doughnuts and cider provided by Carter's of Big Rapids and yogurt provided by Yoplait of Reed City.

As the marchers came in and sat down, the lights had been turned off and candles were being lit. Danielle Marek of WISE called for a moment of silence in honor of those who had died as a result of domestic violence, and FSU student Ja'Cole White read a poem about a woman who stayed in an abusive relationship because other women wanted her man, and she thought staying was the only way to keep him. "My man's fine," White read.

Carrie Belanger of WISE and the Take Back the Night Committee continued the memorial service. She began to read a list of names and stories gleaned from Michigan newspapers in the past year, "when the editors thought them newsworthy," Belanger said. Over thirty cases were read, in which men, women and children died or were injured as a result of domestic violence.

To close the memorial service, FSU men's group Harmony Az One sang an a capella harmony rendition of the Beatles song "Yesterday," and the candles were blown out.

Testimonials then began. Two detailed stories were read, both about Michigan women and their children who had been severely abused. Domestic abuse survivors were encouraged to share their testimonials from the back of the room, where they could remain anonymous if they wished.

After the testimonials, an awards ceremony was held. These awards were given to law enforcement and emergency personnel who had made a difference in the lives of domestic abuse survivors.

The first Take Back the Night march was produced in 1988 by a committee of leaders in the Big Rapids community. Marches of this kind were happening in other parts of the state and the country, and Betty Adams participated in some of these marches, according to a leaflet handed out at the beginning of Thursday's event.

Adams believed that "the residents of west central Michigan should have an opportunity to join with other people in the world to speak out against violence toward women," according to the leaflet.

Photo by Chris Miller, Editor in Chief

Two customers are eating their meals at Ruddy Dux. Ruddy Dux in Stanwood is known for its atmosphere and food.

Outdoor Atmosphere

By Shannon Vesper
Ferris State Torch

Looking for a place to eat where you can get more than just a hamburger from MasCar grill? Ruddy Dux Food and Spirits has just that and more.

Bringing a "woodsy" feeling with fine cherry wood and a fireplace, Ruddy Dux is a comfortable place to dine. Adjacent to the bar is a game room with a pool table, video games, dartboard and pinball; you may just want to stop on by.

The menu offers a large number of appetizers from potato skins to duck strips, which are pieces of chicken dipped in beer batter. Salads include the chef's salads with all the toppings such as egg, ham, and relish. And a chicken Caesar salad offers a bed of fresh lettuce and slices of tender chicken breast.

Offering a hint of Mexican, their burritos are really popular among the student diners. With several seafood dishes and crab legs on the weekends, there is a large variety of tastes to enjoy.

"With the bar we serve drinks and the game room right next to it, it's a very laid-back atmosphere," Melissa Digergorio, an FSU senior, said.

Special to the restaurant are their hamburgers, which are called "big dux" and "little dux" and also five different steaks, including a one-pound T-bone steak, prime rib, filet, and phenomenal ribs - you can't go wrong.

Prices ranging respectably from $3.99-$16.99, it's possible to treat just anyone to a daily lunch special, or an appetizing dinner. Each day offers a special dessert, usually an array of cheesecakes.

Located at the intersection of 8 Mile and US 131 in Stanwood, the hours of operation are Sunday thru Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Photo by Chris Miller, Editor in Chief

Peggy's Cafe and Coffee House is now open on Michigan Avenue in downtown Big Rapids. Ferris has talked about opening a coffee shop on campus.

Coffee on campus

By Chris Miller
Editor in Chief

For the first time this past summer, I had a chance to go downtown Big Rapids and stop in the newly-opened coffee house, Peggy's Memory Lane Cafe and Coffee House.

It's a small place located a couple of businesses down from Star Shooters, but for the first time, I can go and enjoy the wide variety of styles of coffee in Big Rapids. Slowly this town is turning into a college town.

Peggy's has what any other usual coffee house has. It has tables and chairs outside the doorway, tables and reading material inside and real dishes. Peggy's also has a variety of food orders that customers can purchase. In a way, it is kind of like Peppers. Peppers mostly specializes in deli-style sandwiches. Most of all, Peggy's has gourmet coffee. Of course, it has the real kind of coffee and not some sugared-substance crap with French vanilla flavor that you can get from a vending machine.

It would be awesome if Ferris State University put a coffee stand somewhere on campus.

Students could either order a cup of coffee to go, or sit down with a group of friends and eat a bagel with their preferences of coffee. Someone once told me that FSU was possibly going to install a cafe on campus and so far, the only places you can get half-way decent coffee is in the dinning centers. That's not real coffee!

The problem with coffee houses is that people either don't know or understand the different types of gourmet coffees. Therefore, in case Ferris brought in a coffee house, I have come up with a creative guide to gourmet coffee. Call it "Gourmet Coffee for Dummies." Enjoy!

Espresso (S-press-o): This is the base for most of the coffee drinks. Espresso is a regular coffee bean, roasted longer and harder for maximum coffee strength. Espresso is by no means good tasting. It is the hard liquor of coffee, and it resembles a really thick, hard version of coffee. If you can't handle a really strong shot of really strong stuff, stay away.

Cappuccino (Cap-uh-chee-no): No, this is not the sweet sugary, flavored coffee you get in the machines at the gas station or FSU campus. Cappuccino is something very different. It is a shot of espresso mixed with foamed milk. That is all. the foam mixes slightly with the espresso, making the espresso slightly less bitter but not a whole lot. Don't expect to take a big sip and be delighted with milky, sugary euphoria. The cappuccino will be slightly bitter and slightly creamy.

Cafe Latte (Caff-ay La-tay): Now this drink is a little more up your alley. It's espresso mixed with steamed milk, topped with a dab of foam. It is a creamy coffee drink and delighting to the tastebuds. Keep in mind, though, it is still made with espresso, therefore it is still pretty strong. This kind of coffee is a lot more like the sugary sweet drink you can get at any gas station or the Pug.

Cafe Au Lait (Caf-fay Oh-lay): This drink is for you real wimps out there. It is just like a latte, but instead of espresso, regular brewed coffee and steamed milk are used. This is a good drink for anyone who doesn't want to be knocked over with caffeine.

Some other helpful knowledge about coffee:

- Did you know coffee starts off as a berry?

- There are two coffee beans in every berry and it takes 8,000 beans to make one gallon of coffee.

- Coffee was originally discovered by a sheep herder who noticed that when his flock would eat the berries from a certain bush, they would be very lively and excited.

- Next to oil, coffee is the second largest international business in the world.

- All coffee is hand picked because the bush the berries grow on is too fragile to be handled by a machine.

- Coffee beans were originally discovered in South America, but coffee as we know it today was created in the Middle East.

- Espresso machines were created in Italy, and, along with it, all the espresso drinks mentioned before.

Now that you have a basic understanding of some of the types of coffee and a few useless facts, FSU would benefit from having a coffee shop on campus. When they promote a "community atmosphere" on-campus, it would be a good way to get people together.

Photo by James Bednarick, Photo Editor

Grand Valley pressure got to Ferris State QB Tom Marsan during the second quarter of the Bulldogs loss 63-17 to GVSU.

Bulldogs got crushed

By Nick Wasmiller
Sports Editor

"What we did obviously didn't work today."

In seven short words, Ferris State head football coach Jeff Pierce pretty much summarized the entire game between his Bulldogs and the top team in the GLIAC, the Grand Valley State Lakers.

Grand Valley beat Ferris 63-17, in a game that was out of hand by the midway point of the second quarter. The main cause of the Bulldogs' problems was GVSU quarterback Curt Anes and wide receiver David Kircus.

Anes threw for a school and GLIAC record eight touchdowns, five of which went to Kircus, who tied a Laker single-game mark and set a new league record. Anes finished the game completing 21 of 27 attempts for 301 yards. Kircus caught eight passes for 169 yards.

"Early in the game our defense gave us a shot in the arm," Grand Valley coach Brian Kelly told the Grand Rapids Press. "Ferris had the momentum and was driving in for a tying touchdown when we were able to hold them to a field goal. Then we scored on the ensuing possession to go up 21-10."

The momentum Kelly refered to came early in the second quarter. The Bulldogs drove down to the GVSU 11-yard line, where their drive stalled. The Bulldogs settled for a Tom Perez 27-yard field goal and trailed 14-10. Anes found a wide open Kircus streaking down the sideline on the first play after the kickoff and the game was never close following that.

Grand Valley went on to score seven straight touchdowns in the next two quarters, leading early in the fourth 63-10.

Ferris State brought the score to 63-17 with just 1:34 remaining with a 13-yard Clarence Coleman touchdown reception.

Coleman finished the game with nine catches for 81 yards and the one touchdown reception. Coleman is now only 41 yards shy of the Division II career receiving yards record.

Senior tailback Matt Otero lead the Ferris State rushing attack with 149 yards on the ground. Otero's 138 first half yards kept the game close early on, as he was one of the only effective offensive weapons for the Bulldogs.

"I was happy we were able to move the ball on the ground, but we weren't able to sustain a drive," Pierce said. "We had to almost play a perfect football game and we didn't. We had trouble controlling their offense and I don't know what we could have done to stop them without looking at the film."

The passing game produced just 133 yards with quarterback Tom Marsan completing 17 of 29 passes. Marsan also had one touchdown pass to go along with two interceptions.

This Saturday, the Bulldogs travel to Pennslyvania to take on Mercyhurst. Game time is at 1:30 p.m.

Photo by James Bednarick, Photo Editor

FSU hockey took on Waterloo, Ontario in an exhibition game. The Bulldogs open their regular season against Wayne State.

Bulldogs outskate Waterloo, Ontario for exhibition victory

By Adam Gasper
Ferris State Torch

Bulldog Hockey started their season on the right track Friday night, with a 5-1 victory over Waterloo of Ontario. Waterloo was outshot 53-19 by a young FSU team.

"It was nice to get some experience under our belt," forward Chris Kunitz said. "The lines did great. The checking line checked, the scoring line scored, and the defensive line played good defense."

A big question for FSU heading into the game wasn't how many shots they would get, but how well freshman goalie Matt Brown would fare. Brown was thrown into the goalie mix earlier this year after senior goalie Phil Osaer left the team to pursue a chance at one day playing in the NHL. Osaer was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in the seventh round of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft.

Brown picked up the victory by playing nearly 30 minutes of shutout hockey, stopping all 11 shots he faced. The rest of the game belonged to another freshman goalie, John DeCaro. DeCaro gave up Waterloo's lone goal while making seven saves. Waterloo goalie Jason Willard made 48 saves, while giving up all five Ferris goals.

Kunitz wasted little time getting his season going. He scored the first goal of the season 3:07 into the game on a power play. Rob Collins made the assist.

"We played really well as a team with good defense. We had lots of goals. Our defense really took care of their zone," Kunitz said.

The Bulldogs completely owned the second period, taking 24 shots and allowing just eight. The second period scoring started at 5:24 when Collins scored an unassisted goal on a 5-on-3 advantage. Derrick McIver continued to take advantage of Waterloo penalties by scoring another power play goal just over one minute later. Rob Collins rounded out the second period scoring with a shorthanded goal at 15:40, his second of the game.

Kunitz later picked up his second power play goal of the evening at 6:52 in the third to move the score to 5-0. Chris Hopiavouri scored Waterloo's first and only goal of the night at 9:49 on a two-man advantage.

Although the game was mainly one-sided in favor of Ferris State, Kunitz thinks the team needs to improve in a few areas to make this season a successful one.

"We need to get more confidence," Kunitz said. "We had a few let ups especially towards the end of the second period. We need to continue to crash the boards and bang the other team around."

Ferris has now won three straight games over Waterloo. The Bulldogs begin the regular season next weekend with a non-conference weekend series at Wayne State. The games will be on Friday and Saturday nights and each begin at 7:05 p.m.

"Wayne State has a pretty good team," Kunitz said. "It will be a big change in pace from Waterloo and we will have to jump up and get ready to play Division I hockey."

Girls' Volleyball getting it done

By Jason Nelson
Assistant Sports Editor

The Ferris State women's volleyball team has been piling up the victories lately, that is until they ran into Gannon last Sunday. The Bulldogs who had won their previous two matches endured a 3-1 loss.

The Bulldogs came out flat, as Gannon took the first two games by scores of 30-27, and 30-20. The Bulldogs came out with a bark in the third set pummeling Gannon 30-16, in what looked like would be a momentum changing match.

Unfortunately, for the Bulldogs, Gannon had other ideas as they squashed any comeback the Bulldogs had in mind by winning the fourth game 30-25. Errors played a big part in the Bulldogs undoing as they had 32 attack errors to 31 for Gannon.

Standing out for the Bulldogs was junior middle hitter Alaina Olds, who had 17 kills, 12 digs and 10 blocks, two of which were solo. Also playing well for the Bulldogs were junior Stephanie Speed and seniors Emily Williams and Erin Minnis. The loss drops the Bulldogs to 13-9 overall and 6-5 in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Last Saturday, the Bulldogs played a spirited game against GLIAC rival Mercyhurst at Ewigleben Arena. The Bulldogs came out fast and furious as they took all three games to end the match remotely quick.

Mercyhurst never had a chance as the Bulldogs won the first game 30-23 and never looked back. The Bulldogs carried the momentum from the first game into a second game trouncing as they buried Mercyhurst 30-18 in game two. In the third game the Bulldogs put the finishing touches on the sweep winning a close battle 30-27.

Erin Minnis led the Bulldogs with 19 kills and five blocks, three of which were solo. Stephanie Speed and freshman Karla Fairbanks paced the defense with 14 digs apiece. Freshman Ashley Green added 28 assists, and Emily Williams added 11.

Junior Angie Desmarais added four service aces to help the Bulldogs to victory. The victory over Mercyhurst moved the Bulldogs to 13-8 for the year and 6-4 in the GLIAC.

On Oct. 2, the Bulldogs took the court at Bud Cooper Gymnasium to take on league rival Lake Superior State in a critical GLIAC conference game. Ferris State came out charged up as they took the initiative in the match taking the first game handily by a score of 30-18.

LSSU took the momentum right back as they stormed back to even the match at a game apiece with a 30-25 vicotry. In the pivotal third game, the Bulldogs played a spirited game as they broke down LSSU and took control of the match with a 30-23 game three victory. The Bulldogs finished off the Lakers in the fourth game trouncing them by the score of 30-18.

Stephanie Speed and Alaina Olds led the offensive atack with 19 and 18 kills respectively. Erin Minnis and junior Kate Pickvet chipped in with 11 kills each. Ashley Green helped set it all up with an astounding 50 assists for the match. Minnis also had three aces and three blocks to help the Bulldogs to victory.

Defensively, Speed and Desmarais had strong performances as Speed had 16 digs and Desmarais chipped in with 10. The win moved the Bulldogs to 12-8 overall and 5-4 in the GLIAC.

The women's volleyball team has a key game this Friday against league rival Hillsdale at 7 p.m. The game will be played at the Ewigleben Sports Arena.

Lacrosse ready for Action

By Jason Nelson
Assistant Sports Editor

If you were to poll American youths as to what the fastest growing sport in America is, chances are you would get many different answers. Girls would probably say soccer or tennis, guys might say baseball or football.

Neither would be correct. The fastest growing sport in America today is none other than lacrosse. Entering their third year of competition, the Ferris State men's lacrosse team is looking to make marked improvements. In the fall and spring of last year, the Bulldogs came away with a 4-5 record.

There are high expectations this year according to Anthony Stamatopoulos, one of the team's best scoring threats and original founders of the team.

"This year we are going to step everything up a notch. We are not going to be satisfied with merely competing this year. The team is definitely going to take it up a notch," Stamatopoulos said.

This year the Bulldogs are moving into a new conference called the Central Collegiate Lacrosse Association (C.C.L.A.). The conference boasts a wide variety of schools including big time schools such as; Nebraska, Michigan, Michigan State, Illinois State, Iowa, and Ball State.

In order for the Bulldogs to take their game to the next level, they need to play more consistently.

"We have a lack of experience. If we can keep our intensity up, and play to our potential, we could easily be above .500," Stamatopoulos said.

Lacrosse is an intriguing sport, with 10 players starting on each team. Each team has a goalie, three forwards, three midfielders, and three defensemen. Lacrosse is likened to hockey, because of its fast paced, in-your-face type action.

Lacrosse also throws in the physical aspect of hockey as the players often knock each other out of the way to get to the ball. Forwards and midfielders are the most offensively skilled players in the game.

Lacrosse is played at about the length of a football field with all the players using their feet instead of skates like in hockey. " In lacrosse their is a ton of action, it is very high scoring and free spirited, it is also a good form of exercise," Stamatopoulos said.

With so little experience on this year's team, the Bulldogs could be in for a long season, however, with the team they have put together, the Bulldogs could challenge for the top spot in the conference. The Bulldogs are returning 30 players form last year's squad including standouts Stamatopoulos, Mike Vanoverboke, Jason Bush, Keith McCall, and Justin Chambalin.

"If people came out to see the games I am sure that they would really enjoy it. Last year we started with small crowds and by the end of the year there were quite a few people attending," Stamatopoulos said.

There are seven rookies on this year's team, which shows that the lacrosse team is looking to get younger.

According to Stamatopoulos, this year's team is very athletic. "We have a lot of good athletes, not necessarily lacrosse players, but that will come in time."

Although lacrosse is not that well known to everybody in the area, given the chance the game could take off. Though lacrosse is widely regarded as an East Coast sport, the easiest way to describe the game of lacrosse to anyone who has never seen the sport would be for that person to combine soccer, hockey, and rugby all into one very competitive, passionate sport, and then you would get lacrosse.

The lacrosse team will play it's next game on Oct. 26 against Central Michigan at Top Taggart Field. Game time is set for 7 p.m.

Champions!

By Adam Gasper
Ferris State Torch

The top ranked doubles team of Jennifer Garvey and Barbora Jilkova advanced to the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) National Small College Tennis Championships by claiming the 2001 ITA Mid-American Regional doubles title on Sunday at the Indianapolis Tennis Center in Indianapolis, Ind.

Garvey and Jilkova defeated second-seeded Carina Kaempfer and Lisa Neugebauer of Northwood by a score of 6-3, 6-1 in the doubles championship match to advance to the ITA National Tournament.

In singles action, Garvey fell in the regional championship match on Sunday against top-seeded Kaempfer 6-1, 6-1. Kaempfer scored a 6-1, 6-1 win over Jilkova in the semifinal round while Garvey advanced to the singles title round with a 6-3, 6-1 win over fifth-seeded Vesselina Jeliazkova of Northern Michigan.

The weekend tournament started with Friday's first round singles action, where three of the four singles players advanced. Barbora Jilkova, seeded fourth in the tournament, defeated Allison Coats of Southern Illinois-Edwardsville 6-0, 6-0. Hulda Grin held off Annie Clark of Indianapolis 6-1, 6-2.

Number three seed Jennifer Garvey blanked Christi Brill of Indianapolis 6-0, 6-0. Suzanne Batten fell to fifth seeded Vesselina Jeliazkova of Northern Michigan in three sets, 6-3, 1-6, 6-3.

In doubles play it was Garvey and Jilkova defeating Missy Bachani and Tiffany Sadjera of Saint Joseph's 6-1, 6-0. The team earned the number one seed heading into the tournament.

Jilkova, Grin, and Garvey all advanced by winning their second round games. Jilkova won easily against Kat Davis of Southern Indiana in another 6-0, 6-0 match. Grin won a three setter over Laura Matzka of Michigan Tech by the score of 6-4, 3-6, 7-5. Garvey rolled over Kim VanSprange in straight sets 6-0, 6-1.

Garvey and Jilkova continued their success in the doubles draw with another easy win, this time over Rachel Riapel and Katie Stofcheck of Northern Michigan 6-1, 6-0.

On Saturday, Jilkova and Garvey each won two more matches to advance to the semifinals. Jilkova defeated Berenice Ferrer of Northwood despite dropping her first set 4-6. She came back to win the next two sets 6-3, 6-0. Her next victory came over the sixth seed Jamie O'Hara of Northern Kentucky 6-0, 6-2.

Garvey rolled through her third round match, defeating Sabina Van der Bor of Northern Michigan 6-1, 6-1, but struggled in her quarterfinal. Seventh seeded Kris Koopmann took her to three sets, where Garvey picked up the hard fought 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 victory. Koopmann had defeated Grin in the third round 4-6, 6-0, 6-1, eliminating her from the tournament.

Jilkova and Garvey's winning ways continued in doubles action on Saturday as they advanced to Sunday's final with two tough victories. Dana Morgan and Nikki Fairchild of Grand Valley State took the first set 6-2, but the rest of the match belonged to Jilkova and Garvey as they rolled into the semifinals, winning the next two sets 6-3, 6-4. O'Hara and Julianna Hite of Grand Valley State took the duo to a first set tie-break, which Jilkova and Garvey won 7-3. The pair won the second set by the score of 6-1.

With the doubles victory, Garvey and Jilkova will take part in the ITA National Small College Tennis Championships, which are slated for Oct. 18-21 at Collin County Community College in McKinney, Texas.

The event is presented by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and will feature the top players in the nation from NCAA Divisions II and II, NAIA and Junior/Community Colleges battling it out to determine the top small college players in the country.

The national winners will earn berths into the November 8-11 Omni Hotels National Intercollegiate Indoor Championships at the Brookhaven Country Club, located near Dallas, Texas.

Fear of the skies

By Mike Domerese
Ferris State Torch

I can't wait to fly! Ok, so you're probably looking at this and thinking "has this guy been drinking or using some sort of hallucinogenic drug?" The answer, amazingly enough, is no.

In the wake of the WTC tragedies people have opted not to travel as much, if at all. The simple fact being the ever-looming thought, wondering if it will happen again.

Friends and fellow students, this is one guy, who if he had the money and the time, would not hesitate to take to the friendly skies! The fact is, airport security is tighter now then ever. Also, there probably has never been a safer time to fly.

The FAA, along with the United States Government, has beefed up security like there is no tomorrow (no pun intended). With our national guard patrolling all airports heavily along with increased police officers and security personnel, I don't think it could get any safer. I don't care how crazy you are, you just aren't going to try anything. Not to mention, no longer is there any curbside check-in, you also are not allowed to park within 300 feet of the terminal.

A lot of you are probably sitting there and thinking, "Great, I can't wait until the weather turns crappy." You know something? So what. If that is what it takes to make airports safe again, so be it.

Also, you are going to see longer lines and longer check-ins. The fact that you may have to take that little extra time to prepare or whatever, that's just too bad. The idea of doing a better job at the little screener that you have to walk through is also great.

If you have ever flown, you know what I am talking about. It seems that they are so sensitive-at least the ones I have been through. They tend to go off on anything, such as that silly little filling you got at the dentist when you were eight years old.

I have no idea what, in the name of all that is holy, the airlines were thinking when they set some of their standards. I mean come on, a pocketknife with up to a four-inch blade is acceptable? A box cutter is acceptable? I just cannot justify what someone on a commercial or domestic flight would need a box cutter for. As for the pocketknife situation, I believe the same theory applies.

Recently, we were discussing this in one of my classes and my professor made a good point. He asked what if people tell the screeners that it's an heirloom from their grandmother, or great uncle or something? Who cares! Put it in your regular luggage.

I also blame the airlines for poor judgment in similar situations. Normally, they just want to get people through there as fast as they can so they can.

Flying is a privilege. I think America has forgotten that. Of course, common sense figures prominently into a lot of similar type decisions. Tragically, that does explain a lot of idiots who are always in a big hurry and don't really seem to care about anyone but themselves.

Despite lack of common sense in the past, flying is still safer the ever! I would gladly trade my guzzling four-by-four, the "Beast," anyday for a plane ticket, if it could get me to where I needed to go on a regular basis.

It's also a proven fact that AAA, along with other reputable safety regulators, have put out in many safety reports the fact that flying is still safer than most all other modes of transportation.

The lack of people flying has already impacted everyone, and you probably aren't even aware of it. The airlines, as of today, have laid off approximately 100,000 people. Now you may be thinking, "what does this have to do with me?" Well, airlines and their earnings account for 10% of the United States economy. Their projected losses while airports were shut down, was estimated in the millions of dollars per day, per airline.

Delta Airlines recently announced plans to give away, get this, 10,000 free trips. I also feel many of their competitors will be doing the same in order to fill planes to help with getting their employees back to work.

Most of them are for flying to New York, to try and help their economy out as well. My advice to all of you is, if you have the money, take a flight. I don't mean right now, but in the future don't be afraid.

Don't cancel spring break, vacations or flying to see the relatives for the holidays!

Hey, must be the money

Brian Van Steenkiste
Opinions Editor

In this litigious society it's a shame the greed and laziness of some has been allowed to affect the rest of us. While most of this country's descendants associated hard work with success and the attainment of the "American Dream," an unfortunately high percentage of our current society seeks the path of least resistance to their dream of riches.

Most would probably agree that shoplifting, commercial fraud and retail theft are a detriment to all of us because of the related rise in consumer prices that these "victimless" crimes result in. However, many people, especially the younger generations, see no problem with suing people for trivial matters in the hope that they will get rich quick. We have developed an unhealthy social attitude, and we expect our fragile legal system to arbitrate simple matters and award us for the mistakes of the rich.

The media isn't helping out any either. How many court shows are on TV nowadays? It used to be Judge Wapner was the only man to tip the scales of justice over the airwaves, but now a whole slew of magistrate mockeries compete with a Court TV channel for your daytime ratings. You can even watch the OG rap his gavel to the sound of moos and clucks in an animal court!

Then you've got your con-artist counselors masquerading as legitimate attorneys in late-night commercials. Lawyers have long been renowned as lecherous hustlers, but modern practitioners of this black art have accomplished a feat their predecessors could never have possibly imagined: the ambulance chasers have gotten cards to come calling on them!

Drive down the freeways of any major city and you're bound to see a sign beckoning the slothful to call 1-800-Law-Hoax. If you've been a victim of summertime slip-and-fall, drunken driving arrest, negligent homicide, shaken baby syndrome, pimp slapping, heartburn from spicy food or any other sueable offense, you need to CALL NOW! Everyone from our sports heroes (O.J.) to our leaders (Slick Willy) to our government representatives (the forgotten senator Con-Did-It) have proven to us that guilt is no longer a factor in our justice system; so why not skip on down the road to riches?

You've cordially been invited to take a number in our already overcrowded legal system, and if you can hire someone crafty enough to convince the judge not to throw out your worthless case, you might be the next contestant on "Who wants to sue a millionaire?"

Forget about the fact that entering the court room for long periods of time makes you an unproductive member of society. Forget about the fact that court is about as fun as receiving an un-anesthetized colostomy. Yes, forget all your common sense and focus on the greenbacks.

Subscription to this profitable new philosophy on life has destroyed our ability to use common sense. The obviously dangerous pastimes of skateboarding, aggressive in-lining and the like are virtually outlawed because practitioners of these activities have the legal right to sue the owner of the sidewalk they decided to bash their un-helmeted heads on.

In the wake of an alcohol-related tragedy, a university may enact oppressive policies that treat the young elite seeking an education like infantile mental-plegics. Who can blame them? If the school didn't take a hard-line stance, terrible parents who spent all those neglectful years "raising" their children might sue the pants off the statue of the institution's founder.

Why would anyone want to sue a school though? It probably has something to do with the depth of the "transgressor's" pockets. Only a fool would want to sue a wandering degenerate, an unemployed bum or the owner of a cracked and overlooked sidewalk.

No, if you want to strike it richer than the Beverly Hillbillies, you need to go where the money is. I'm sure the government, state or local, take your pick, has done you wrong somehow. Find out how to articulate that in legalese and take them to court! When you inevitably win, we'll all congratulate you and no one will complain when our tax dollars line your pockets.

We need more than just a judge to barricade our legal system from those wishing to take advantage of it. We need to change our social attitude. When kids on the playground threaten each other with "I'll sue you," something is wrong.

That's my opinion. If you don't like it, sue me.