News

Arts & Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Little-known station seeks AM help

WFSU's volunteers find many ways to contribute to the FSU community.

By Chris Miller
Editor in Chief

Scratch-masta
Junior Craig Rogghe practices scratching records
for WFSU upstairs in Masselink Hall.
Photo By: Dan Gellasch
Photo Editor

When it comes to local radio stations, most FSU students have the same question brewing in their minds: "Ferris has a radio station?"

The answer is yes. WFSU is located downstairs in Masselink Hall on FSU's campus. WFSU is 100 percent student-run. In fact, the station is a Registered Student Organization (RSO) at Ferris.

According to Jenni McDowell, WFSU's secretary and programming manager, the station has 19 members this year.

"Last year, there were roughly 10 students who worked for the station," McDowell said. "We are always looking for new talent."

WFSU runs 24 hours a day, but listeners can only hear the station on FSU's cable channel 22.

The RSO is looking to obtain an AM station by the end of the semester.

"Going into the year, getting a radio station was one of our top goals at WFSU," McDowell, a sophomore in biotechnology, said. "We have the capabilities of getting an FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license."

According to McDowell, WFSU has a transmitter, but it needs to upgrade some of its equipment. "We have been saving money to start the station on AM radio," she said.

"Us getting an AM station is long overdue," WFSU Vice President Mike Bonter said. "It is ridiculous for a campus this big not to have either an AM or FM radio station with the television and media majors available for students."

According to Bonter, a senior in pharmacy, the station needs better equipment. It has a stereo console and a transmitter, but WFSU still needs to obtain an antenna.

Also, the console it does have is old and either needs to be upgraded or rebuilt.

"It would be nice to have some electronic programming students either build us a new one or upgrade this old thing," Bonter said.

Ferris has been working with Assistant Professor James Vandenberghe, but according to McDowell, the progress has been going slow due to time constrictions.

"There have been times when we have set up meetings with him, and he didn't show up," McDowell said. "We figure that he just has a busy schedule. We are hoping to get more people/groups at Ferris involved in a joint-project."

WFSU is highly involved with community service work and activities at Ferris.

For every home football game, the station plays at tailgating festivities.

It also gets involved with the annual Ferris Fest in the spring.

"We were responsible for the second stage at Ferris Fest last year," McDowell said. "This stage showcased all local bands."

Upcoming events for WFSU include sponsoring Phat Tuesday, a cover band mostly popular in the Upper Peninsula. Phat Tuesday is playing in Merrill/Travis Hall on Nov. 8.

Another major event coming up for WFSU is "Walk for Warmth" in December.

The station is also going to DJ for Pickell Hall's Halloween Party tonight from 9 p.m.-midnight.

Besides these events, WFSU plans on teaching others the skills necessary to be a DJ. "DJ for a Day" will be held on Nov. 21 in Helen Ferris Hall from 8-9 p.m., and will teach anyone how to run a radio station.

"Hopefully, we will have classes to teach scratching record techniques available for students," McDowell said.

Anyone interesting in being a part of WFSU can come to its meetings every Monday at 7 p.m in FLITE 304.

In order to be a DJ for WFSU, a student must go through a training process first.

"We make applicants perform six hours of training sessions. They have to do at least one hour in our booth and the rest can be out helping out with various gigs," McDowell said.

The format for WFSU, according to both McDowell and Bonter, is simple: "Whatever you want to play, you can."

There are a total of 12 DJs at WFSU currently, and each person plays his/her own style of music. McDowell, for example, enjoys rock, so she puts together a rock show.

"We have people working there that bring in a wide variety of music. One student is even starting her own country show," McDowell said. "There is a student who does a news program as well. It is used to provide Ferris announcements."

For more information or to request a song, contact the radio station at either 591-2912 or check out the webpage at wfsu.tripod.com.

There are event applications for WFSU to DJ , along with information about the station on the website.

A way with her guitar
Another Ferris student will showcase her talents for the campus on Nov. 16.

By Chris Miller
Editor in Chief

Senior Patty Jean-Louis admits at times that she doesn't like to be the center of attention.

Jean-Louis will soon be the center of attention at the Rankin Center Art Gallery.

She will show off her guitar/singing skills to Ferris for her first ever CD release party on Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.

Songs from Jean-Louis' first CD "What Do You Have to Lose?" will be featured during the second half of the two-hour show.

"I am hoping to have a large crowd of people there," she said. "There will be some opening acts, and then I will take over for the rest of the show."

During her performance, Jean-Louis will have a band accompany her, but at times she will break off into an acoustic set.

Jean-Louis, a music industry management major from Farmington Hills, Mich., has been playing guitar since the age of 17.

"I taught myself how to play, and actually I was interested in learning from my church youth group," she said.

With musical influences like Out of Eden and Jennifer Knapp, Jean-Louis describes her music as a mixture of gospel/Christian music. It has elements of hip-hop, rock and R&B mixed together, according to Jean-Louis.

"I wanted people to get the positive messages my music has to offer. This is an album for more open-minded people," she said. "I also hope people will try to appreciate different kinds of music."

Jean-Louis wrote all of the songs on the album, but she had help from friend Razel Jones, who produced the album. Former Torch photo editor Mike Termini took the photo for the front cover. The album has a total of 10 songs on it.

Her favorite song on the album is "Freedom," which is being re-mixed by F.I.V.E. Mic.'s vocalist Aaron Charles, who will be assisting her during the Nov. 16 performance.

"Patty has a lot of talent. I am happy for her and glad to be able to work with her," Charles said.

Jean-Louis enjoys the song "Freedom" for its powerful message.

"The song has very powerful lyrics. It is very heart-touching, and I think everyone will be able to relate to this song," she said.

As for inspiration, Jean-Louis looks towards her family and beliefs. She credits God and Jesus for helping her understand her purpose in life.

"The title 'What Do You Have to Lose' reflects the concept that there is nothing I can lose living for God," she said. "God has blessed me so much."

Besides working on her album over the summer, Jean-Louis has been involved in other ways around campus. She used to be a part of FSU's Gospel Choir.

Jean-Louis also performed for the crowd that gathered at the Sept. 11 memorial service this year. Also, she was a former FSU Homecoming candidate in 2000.

She is also playing for "Youth Life," a youth group for high school students, in December.

"I enjoy anything that has to do with music. It is what I want to do the rest of my life," she said.

After college, Jean-Louis plans on continuing with her music. She hopes to become a full-time musician playing in larger cities such as Grand Rapids, the surrounding areas around Detroit and even Nashville.

She also hopes to sign a record deal with a major recording label and travel.

"I love to travel. I traveled to Costa Rica in 1997. It was very beautiful," she said. "I would love to go to Europe and the Caribbean someday."

Overall, Jean-Louis hopes that she can bring more people from a variety of backgrounds together for one purpose: music.

"It is time to bring people together who share the same interest. The more diverse I am with my music, the more diverse the audience will be. It is just a matter of getting people together in unity," she said.

Copies of her CD "What Do You Have to Lose?" will be available at the release party on Nov. 16.

Another hypnotizing act
Tom Deluca is back again on Nov. 5.

By Mary Gurnne
Ferris State Torch

"They did what?" is what many people will be asking after Tom Deluca's hypnotizing show on Tuesday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. in Williams Auditorium.

These questions and reactions are a part of the reason why Deluca has returned to Ferris State University each year for about 20 years.

Entertainment Unlimited brings Deluca every year. The show is free for everyone.

As usual for free shows, there will be a collection of canned food for Project Starburst and $1 donations for the United Way.

"Deluca is easy to work with and generates good word-of-mouth about his shows," Matt Eickhoff, a senior in music industry management, said.

Deluca does the same act every year, but he never never does the same show twice, as different people are hypnotized at each show.

Deluca during the shows, makes jokes but the most exciting part is watching people react under hypnosis.

"So many people go to the shows being skeptical," Eickhoff said. "Then they see their friends and people they've seen around campus do some crazy things on stage."

After a Deluca show, people generally leave as believers.

The crowd has a big impact on how the show will go. The more the crowd gets involved, the better the show will be.

Many students make signs so that they will get Deluca's attention and be chosen to go on stage.

"I encourage people to make signs," Eickhoff said. "If you do make signs, then get there early so that you can get a good seat up front and be seen."

Deluca started his career by attaining a Masters degree in psychology from the University of Illinois. From there he worked as a therapist.

During this work, Deluca performed for local civic groups and then took his hypnosis show to stages throughout the Midwest.

Deluca has helped employees at many companies, including AT&T Network Systems, Dateline NBC, Ford, BMW of North America and American Express.

"Simply outstanding…the show was extremely entertaining," the Ford Corporation said.

But Deluca is not only known for hypnotizing people. He has formed something called "power-napping."

This technique allows people in a short period of time to rapidly go into a deep state of rest.

The technique is used by business people in stressful environments, but college students could utilize it for test weeks. Deluca came across "power-napping" from his busy work traveling and performing.

Deluca has also spread his work to many newspapers and magazines, such as "Rolling Stone," "The Wall Street Journal," "Good Morning America," "People" and "New York Daily News."

"He [Deluca] knocked our socks off," the New York Daily News said.

Deluca entertains many people each year, yet it goes beyond the usual entertainment. He does this by demonstrating how powerful people's imagination can be. Deluca uses the power of suggestion and the volunteer's creativity to open the window of imagination.

Deluca is very well known all over the United States and especially at FSU. All students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend the show on Nov. 5.

More than cheese to live on
Vegetarians can speak with dining services about their dietary needs.

By Karen Langolf
Ferris State Torch

Salad galore
The salad bar pictured above is only part of the vegetarian items offered to students.
Photo By: Alicia LaFrance
Assistant Photo Editor

James Lear, a former Torch columnist, wrote an article weeks ago describing the lack of food available to vegetarians. The Torch has decided to perform a follow-up to his column.

In the article, Lear went into detail about his experience with FSU's food.

However, what he did not do was actually speak with the head of Center Ice food services, Tom Pizzo. Pizzo is also one of the few people who will walk up to students and ask them if they are vegetarian.

If they are, he encourages them to take the vegetarian tour of Center Ice with him. This tour also contains a sheet with the different food possibilities for vegetarians.

Although Pizzo tries his hardest to help these students, there is hardly anyone who steps up and tells him what they want.

"I'll buy you whatever," he said.

Pizzo encourages vegetarians to come forward and tell him what they want to see. Center Ice is located in the complex that contains Puterbaugh, Henderson, North and South Bond Halls.

"We are willing to work with them to get what they like," Pizzo said.

"We are always working to offer more things," Brenda Walton, a staff dietician, said. "We need to hear from you so we can better serve you."

For those students who are vegetarians, vegan, lactose intolerant or on any kind of special diet, Walton is there to help with your diet plans.

The consensus between these two is that these students need to make themselves known, because they cannot be served if they are not known.

All of Dining Services is willing to help students if they ask for what they want. Center Ice has made it very clear that no one is left without nutritious food.

Center Ice has a table sitting right by the entrance doors with all kinds of information available to students. On this table is a listing of the types of vegetarian foods available to all students, not just vegetarians.

According to Pizzo, in order to get the foods vegetarians want, students need to step forward and tell someone. They will order exactly what you want on your individual basis.

Last year, Center Ice bought soymilk, but no one purchased it. According to Pizzo, that is why it is not offered unless on individual basis.

What Pizzo would like to do is have all the vegetarians come together to talk about what they would like to have at the dining services, and also get together to see what else they would like to have.

Pizzo is basically looking for multiple sessions of getting to know what the locals want.

If students are interested in helping out with this, contact Pizzo at 591-2207. He is anxious to hear from students.

Some items on the vegetarian menu are all kinds of fresh sandwiches, meatless tacos and burritos, soups, fresh salads, waffles and omelets for those who eat eggs.

They also offer specials that change every five to six weeks: macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, vegetarian sausage, and make-your-own veggie stir-fry.

For those who would like to schedule an appointment with the dietician before making any decisions, Walton's number is 591-3747.

Her office is located in South Commons at Dining Services.

It is not just these two people who are willing to talk to vegetarians; Mike Langan from Mascar Grille is another person who will help students. Mascar Grille is located inside of Masselink Hall.

Pizzo and Walton stress how important it is that students speak with them about what foods they like.

Pizzo has had success in the past with another project involving International cuisine. These are available inside of Center Ice currently for students if they ask.

For the students who have told him once what they like, he also encourages them to come back and tell him again what they would like to see changed.

"You want more soup variety, more salads? Some students mentioned tofu and it will soon be available every day Center Ice is open," Pizzo said.

Students are asked to talk with someone in the dinning services to give their food preferences.

"When get requests, we're going to do it," Pizzo added. "We always get back to them."

Dispatch is "Under the Radar"
Dispatch is creeping into college campuses all over the U.S.

By Aaron Carriere
Copy Editor

Dispatch
Dispatch bassist Chad Urmston has been
with the band since it formed in 1995.
www.dispatchmusic.com

Another army of three? In a music industry that seems to revolve around MTV, Bomber Records' trio Dispatch is on deck to join the jam band greats of our generation.

Comparable to Dave Matthews, Jack Johnson and Sublime, Dispatch combines rock, funk and reggae to create its signature sound. Forming in 1995 in Boston, band members Brad Corrigan (vocals, drums), Pete Heimbold (guitar, vocals) and Chad Urmston (bass, vocals) have built an incredible following by playing sellout shows to universities and clubs up and down the East Coast.

Until recently, Dispatch's fan base has been mainly underground and concentrated, consisting mostly of college students. The band has always relied on its powerful live performances to spread the word.

No time to see Dispatch live? Don't worry, "Under the Radar," Dispatch's first DVD release, puts you in the middle of the action. The DVD features on-stage performances, backstage antics and more. "Under the Radar" hit stores on Oct. 15.

The DVD features Dispatch in their limelight, often switching instruments and playing impromptu jams while on stage. CDnow.com called Dispatch's live shows "thrilling." The band has six albums to date, including "Under the Radar." Don't have a DVD player? "Gut the Van," released in 2001, takes tracks from each of Dispatch's previous albums.

"Gut the Van" also displays the band's ability to hold a crowd captive at its live shows. The CD has become the most popular among Dispatch fans.

It is hard to believe that Dispatch has only three members. Lead guitarist Heimbold plays the guitar like he was born with one in his hands.

It's that good. All three members share the vocal duties, with Corrigan on lead vocals as well as percussion. Corrigan keeps the beat with bongos on many tracks. Urmstron's bass talents gives Dispatch a complete sound. Each song blends the members' talents to make the music unique.

Whatever style of music you're into, Dispatch serves up something for everyone. You probably won't find Dispatch on TRL anytime soon. The band takes music beyond today's norms of simple lyrics and pop-influenced one-hit wonders.

What can you expect from Dispatch? Just about everything. With roots extending from Bob Marley to Rage Against the Machine, the world has never experienced a band that sounds quite like this.

Each of the songs has a different feeling and emotion. "Open Up," a crowd favorite, features edgy guitar licks and reggae beats on top of smooth vocals and quick lyrics. "Elias" has a feel that is similar to Rusted Root, with acoustic guitar and bongos set beneath strong vocals and an innovative beat. The song "Time Served" from the album "Who Are We Living For?" digs into the harder aspect of the band. The song is more metal-rock influenced than most other Dispatch tunes.

If Dispatch does have a disadvantage, it's that the rest of the country hasn't discovered the band yet.

The band is just starting to gain national recognition. Dispatch traveled west last week and was featured on "The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn" on Oct. 18.

Dispatch has also gained a few notable friends on its journey. This summer, Dispatch played alongside acoustic musician Jack Johnson at a benefit concert at Central Park in New York City.

Curious? Visit Dispatch's website at www.dispatchmusic.com for mp3's, lyrics, videos and more.

Editor's note: www.dispatchmusic.com was used for reference in this article.

Bulldogs take out Saginaw Valley
FSU wins three in a row.

By Shannon Vesper
Assistant Sports Editor

Tackling fuel
Luke Piepkow (#5) is tied for the team lead in tackles with 76 total in seven games for Ferris State. He is shown here in action against Michigan Tech.
Photo By: Alicia LaFrance
Assistant Photo Editor

Ferris State University defeated number nine Saginaw Valley State University 24-3 this past weekend at Top Taggart Field.

Ferris was 2-3 in the GLIAC, while Saginaw was 5-1; its only loss was the previous week against Grand Valley State University.

"We had to put it together as a whole football team; we had a few misfires. Our special teams had to get us one, and they did. Emotionally we were in the ballgame. We got them on their heels and we never let them down," head coach Jeff Pierce said.

Quarterback Tom Marsan had some difficulty calling the plays, as he suffered from laryngitis, but the team was able to get around the problem.

Cornerback Justin Sherrod and safety Alvin Grier made a big tackle in the end zone to knock the ball out of SVSU's possession.

A pass from Marsan to Dennis Cartwright was good for 68 yards, but Cartwright was taken down just past the 50-yard line. Marsan threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Andy Thwaites a few plays later, and Tom Perez hit the extra point. Ferris had control of the game 7-0 at 3:45 in the first.

"Denny proved himself. He showed himself how fast he is. He's earned my trust," Marsan said.

Saginaw attempted to return the favor, but an interception by Vito Ciaramellano near the end zone; ended the drive and the quarter.

FSU was able to dominate the Cardinals in a scoreless second. The defense was dominant, blocking plays that threatened SVSU touchdowns.

In the third quarter, FSU was challenged by the Cardinals, but Carlton Brewster caught a punt return and ran it for an 89-yard touchdown at 10:53. With the extra point by Perez, the Bulldogs were two touchdowns up, 14-0.

Several successful running and passing contributions set up a field goal by Perez, adding three points to make the score 17-0.

In the fourth quarter, Rob Mida and Luke Piepkow were strong in keeping the Cardinals off the board, as they helped stop a threat from the one-yard line. A sack by Jason Feasel resulted in a field goal from the 25 at 12:45 for SVSU, bringing the score to 17-3.

Derek Fudge added another score on a two-yard run with 7:38 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Marsan finished the game with 17 completions for 262 yards on 38 attempts. He also had one touchdown and three interceptions.

"We're getting back; we're starting to become a lot more of a team. The last couple wins were overtime wins, it made us trust each other," Marsan said.

Ferris' defense was able to hold them off until the end of the game, and the team won its third straight game. Fudge led both teams in rushing with 115 yards on 31 attempts. Cartwright led in receiving with six catches for 133 yards, and Thwaites had one catch for 22 yards and a touchdown.

Defense was a strong power throughout the game, with Mida and Feasel each totaling nine tackles. Feasel recorded three sacks for 19 yards. Corey Scheick and DeRen Ellis each added six tackles.

Mike King, Whitney Bell and Bo Moore all totaled one sack apiece.

"We played terrible today. It's the worst game in four years," Randy Awrey, Saginaw Valley's head coach said. "You have to give credit to Ferris. The bottom line is they did a great job up front, being able to keep our quarterback off."

The Bulldogs will travel to Ohio next Saturday to take on Findlay at 1 p.m. They will return home on Nov. 9 to take on Ashland.

FSU shocks Notre Dame
The Bulldogs are ranked number one in the CCHA.

By Shannon Vesper
Assistant Sports Editor

Bulldog hockey took Notre Dame by surprise, sweeping the series this past weekend on the first road trip of the season. Ferris is now ranked number one in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association with a 5-0 overall record, 4-0 in the CCHA.

"It feels really good to be on top of the CCHA," head coach Bob Daniels said. "With that comes a sense of urgency or pressure. The more we win, the more we want to win. We enjoy winning."

On Friday night, the Fighting Irish couldn't hold back the Bulldogs, as they fired eight shots against the Irish's four. The Irish had one power play opportunity in the first to capitalize on, but were unsuccessful.

"Our penalty kills need to get better. We're not as sharp as we want to be," Coach Daniels said.

After a scoreless first period, the Bulldogs fired their first goal early into the second at 18:32 with a power play goal by Chris Kunitz, assisted by Derek Nesbitt and Troy Milam. The lone goal in the period was one of nine shots by FSU.

Ferris led 1-0 going into the third period of play, and the Bulldogs worked to advance on their lead. The game was tied by the Irish at 5:13, but nine seconds later Kunitz hit his second goal of the night, his seventh of the year, with help from Jeff Legue, breaking the tie 2-1.

Advancing on the lead at 10:29, Nesbitt hit in another goal with help from Kunitz, making the score 3-1. After Jeremy Scherlinck was called on hooking, the Irish connected on a power play, closing the gap to 3-2 at 12:43.

Minutes later, Legue put in his fifth goal of the year at 15:57, assisted by Kunitz and Milam, increasing the Bulldog lead to 4-2. With less than one minute left, the Irish pulled their goaltender and the Bulldogs put in their fifth goal of the night by Matt York, his first of the year, assisted by Milam and Phil Meyer.

Mike Brown had 23 saves on the night, as he recorded his fifth win of the year.

"I don't think that we dominated them, I thought that realistically that both teams were even. Friday night we carried the play, we out-played them. It was a combination of our forwards playing really well and scoring a lot of goals. The line of Kunitz and Legue is just phenomenal," Daniels said.

On Saturday night, the story continued as the Bulldogs won 4-1.

"Saturday I knew we had a better team than they did. We obviously have more goal scoring and goaltending than they did. We don't have the size of their team, but we're a lot quicker," Kunitz said. "We knew all weekend that we'd sweep them."

With a scoreless first period, the Bulldogs' scoring began early into the second with a pair of goals from Legue. The first was a power play goal at 1:47 after Notre Dame had been called on tripping.

The first goal was assisted by Milam and Kunitz, but for the second goal at 9:55, Kunitz had the only assist. In the third period, Kunitz put in a pair of goals, the first at 8:30 on a power play. Assists were handed out to Milam and Nesbitt. His second goal at 10:19 was shorthanded.

"The defense is awesome. They have exceeded my expectations. I think our freshman defensemen have stepped right in and played exceedingly well. There are some guys that aren't in the lineup and that are getting better and better everyday. I thought that the defense was going to be a problem, but now we have so many guys, I don't know who to put in. It's a great problem to have as a coach," Daniels said.

Brown, the CCHA defensive of the week for the third week in a row, saved 73 shots in both games; the only goal he let in came at 16:50 of the third, when the Bulldogs were up 4-0.

"I thought on Saturday that we leaned on Mike Brown pretty hard. I thought he was a major factor in the win for us. I'd like to see us lower the number of shots we give up, so he doesn't have to be the major factor in a game" Daniels said.

Kunitz, now named the CCHA offensive man of the week for the second week in a row, currently leads the team with 17 points on nine goals and eight assists. Legue is second with seven goals and four assists.

This weekend the Bulldogs will travel 16 hours to take on Alaska-Fairbanks and return on Nov. 8 and 9 to battle Wayne State.

"We match up good against them. They had a lot of forwards similar to our team. The goaltenders switch back and forth, so we have a better goaltender. We'll probably eat them up on defense, but expect big things this weekend," Kunitz said.

FSU GLIAC tourney champions
Ladies tennis team brings home trophy for 18th time.

By Adam Gasper
Ferris State Torch

Suzanne Batten
Senior Suzanne Batten defeated NMU's Lavina
Janssen 6-4, 6-4 in the final round of the GLIAC
Championship.
Photo By: Alicia LaFrance
Assistant Photo Editor

The women's tennis team couldn't have picked a better time to peak this season. The Bulldogs traveled to Midland, Mich., this past weekend to reclaim the GLIAC crown that has belonged to Ferris for 17 of the last 18 seasons; Northwood earned last year's title.

"It feels very good, especially after losing last year," top player Barbora Jilkova said of the championship, her second as a Bulldog. "Everyone played their best tennis and wanted it really bad!"

To earn the title back, Ferris had to go through top seed Northern Michigan, who beat the Bulldogs 8-1 earlier in the season. NMU was seeking their first conference tournament championship.

The top two doubles teams did their part in jumping out to a quick lead against the Wildcats on Saturday. Jilkova and Suzanne Batten shut out their opponents while Sarah Jane Johnston and Laura Schaefer stayed undefeated on the weekend with an 8-3 win.

Elena Blackman and Tessa Miller dropped a doubles match to NMU for the second time this season, losing by the score of 8-3.

In singles, Jilkova continued her winning ways with a 6-1, 6-0 win.

"I came on the court very focused and played my best tennis," Jilkova said of her successful weekend.

Batten took care of business at the second singles spot, winning 6-4, 6-4. Johnston was the only Bulldog to lose a singles match, dropping a 6-2, 6-2 decision.

Laura Schaefer was victorious in her match, winning 6-2, 6-1. Blackman and Miller were also winning their singles matches when the team clinched the 5-2 victory.

This year's championship marks the second time head coach Dave Ramos has led the team to GLIAC supremacy in his three years at the helm. Ramos, a former Bulldog himself, has received high praise from his pupils.

"He is a great coach, not only in tennis but also mental toughness," Jilkova said. "He is a good friend, a good coach, and a good person."

Despite his success, Ramos did not receive this year's GLIAC Coach of the Year Award. That title went to NMU's Troy Matt, who led the Wildcats to their first ever regular season conference title.

Friday's first-round match against Michigan Tech, a team they defeated 8-1 during the regular season, ended quickly after the Bulldogs won all three doubles matches and a pair of singles matchups.

Jilkova and Batten played the closest match of the three, but they eventually won 8-5. Johnston and Schaefer took care of the two doubles spot, 8-2, while Miller and Blackman won their match at three doubles by the same score.

Schaefer and Blackman clinched the Bulldogs' first-round victory with quick singles wins. Schaefer shut out her opponent and Blackman defeated hers, 6-2, 6-0.

FSU faced the third seeded Grand Valley State Lakers in their second match of the day.

Ferris had defeated the Lakers 7-2 in the regular season and advanced to the finals of the conference tournament with a 6-1 victory. Jilkova and Batten were victorious at one doubles, 8-2. Schaefer and Johnston avenged an 8-5 loss to their Laker opponents from earlier in the season with an 8-6 victory on Friday.

Blackman and Miller lost for only the fourth time this season, dropping an 8-4 decision at three doubles.

Ferris clinched the victory and a trip to the finals with four singles wins. Jilkova held her ground at the top spot, winning 6-2, 6-0. In another straight set singles victory, it was Batten with a win, 6-2, 6-2. Johnston beat Koopsen in a three-set thriller, 7-5, 4-6, 7-5. Elena Blackman also won a three-set match, defeating her opponent, 6-4, 3-6, 6-1.

FSU now boasts a 13-1 record on the season and will take some time off before returning to action in May to play for the NCAA Division II Regional and National Titles.

Main man in the backfield
Derek Fudge has been an integral part of the Bulldog offense this season and in the past.

By Shannon Vesper
Assistant Sports Editor

After taking his first step onto the field at the young age of eight as an offensive lineman, Derek Fudge now finds himself at Ferris State University in the tailback/running back position.

Overlooked by Division I schools, this Tampa, Fla., native made his way to Big Rapids as his last choice to fulfill his dream of playing college football.

Moving to Michigan wasn't an easy task for Fudge. He left behind his mother, Sheryl, stepdad Vincent and three siblings.

"The weather is bad; I hate the cold. I had never seen four seasons before. It was a culture shock," Fudge said.

With an extensive football background, Fudge has won several awards. He was a member of the Tampa Eagles Little Team, and won two Gulf Bowl Championships.

A high school MVP his junior year, Fudge came to FSU and was named 2000 GLIAC Freshman of the Year after breaking the conference freshman rushing mark with 1,161 yards.

He was also named All-GLIAC Second Team and GLIAC All-Academic.

"My greatest memory was defeating the number-one ranked team in the state of Florida, Kissimmee Osceola," Fudge said.

This year, after seven games, Fudge leads the team in rushing yards with 163 attempts for 606 yards and seven touchdowns, the fifth highest in FSU history.

He has caught 31 passes for 259 yards, ranking first on the team in both receiving and scoring, with 42 points on seven touchdowns. Last year Fudge rushed for 549 yards, including a season-high 138 against Findlay and 111 at Saginaw Valley State.

In his third year with the Bulldogs, winning is a dominant part of what Fudge wants to see. Playing to his potential has shown with encouragement by his coaches.

"Coach Pierce let me start. He saw the potential in me. My freshman year I started over a junior and I've been starting ever since," Fudge said.

This year, Fudge marks the win against Mercyhurst as a great victory for himself and the team. It was the Bulldogs' first win against Mercyhurst in two years. "They were just a pain in our side," Fudge said.

Beating Saginaw Valley on Saturday also ranked as one of Fudge's goals.

"We gained a lot of respect from them. It feels good," Fudge said.

Settling his mind on gameday, Fudge, unlike most football players, has no superstitions or pre-game rituals.

"I just think what you do in a week reflects on gameday. If I were to talk bad about one person's playing habits, I'm in the conscience of doing that, because I don't want it to bite me," Fudge said.

Fudge's younger brotherSammy played football with him.

"It was a way to get us out of the house; something for us to do. My mom made us play. We don't live in a good neighborhood, so it was a way to pass time," Fudge said. Admiring his mom, Fudge refers to her as his support unit.

"I can call my mom for anything that I need, or I can write and mail her a letter," Fudge said.

Fudge spends the summers working at the Motor Pool, enjoys hip hop music-his favorite artist is Ludacris-and prefers Crest Multi-Whitening toothpaste over all others.

Eighth place all around for Bulldogs
Men's and women's cross country teams finish eighth overall at GLIAC Championships.

By Mike Potter
Sports Editor

The Ferris State men's and women's cross country teams each placed eighth at the 2002 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championships, held Saturday, Oct. 26 in Milford, Mich.

"We were hoping to finish a little higher. We're never really satisfied, but the runners ran hard and did the best that they could," head coach Jeff Kavalunas said.

With a total of 221 team points, the men's team was led by senior Steve Picucci, who placed 14th overall in a time of 25:41.6.

Picucci had previously earned accolades as GLIAC Men's Runner of the Week for the weeks of Oct. 16 and Sept. 10.

Junior Joe Every placed 29th in 26:35.8, while senior Pat Wehrman clocked in seconds later at 26:49.4 to place 36th.

Rounding out the Bulldogs' lineup were sophomores Ben Baldwin and Kurt Kramer. Baldwin placed 66th with a time of 28:41.0 and Kramer finished 76th in 30:40.7.

In the two previous years, the men had finished sixth (2001) and ninth (2000) in the GLIAC Championships, with the highest finishers in ninth and 22nd respectively for those years.

The women's team totaled 247 points to also finish eighth overall.

Freshman Jenny Irwin paced the Bulldog squad with her 52nd place finish, in a time of 24:09.

Irwin was followed by three other newcomers in their attempt to win the conference crown.

Crystal Flutur finished 55th, clocking in just one second later than Irwin, while Kristen Balla clocked in at 24:35 to place 67th. Leanna Wolf placed 72nd with a time of 24:47.

Sophomore Mary Miller finished 78th in 25:00, while teammates Geneva Jones, a freshman, finished 89th in 25:29 and sophomore Stefanie DeLong placed 97th in 25:49.

Junior Angela Herzog finished 108th in 26:43, while freshman Katie Lange placed 111th at 26:50.

The women had previously finished ninth in 2001 and fourth in 2000, with the highest finishers in 22nd place and fifth in those years respectively.

Grand Valley State will play host to the Great Lakes Regional on Nov. 9 in Allendale, Mich.

"Our goal will be to come back and beat the schools that finished a few points ahead of us in the conference championships," Kavalunas added.

The top two individuals of both the men's and women's races will automatically qualify for the 45th Annual NCAA Championships.

The top five women's teams, as well as the top two men's teams, also qualify for the NCAA finals.

Erie soccer trip
Soccer team splits with conference foes in weekend trip to Pennsylvania.

By Mike Potter
Sports Editor

The Ferris State women's soccer team traveled to Erie, Pa., this past weekend and defeated Gannon University 6-3 on Saturday, but lost the next day to Mercyhurst College 1-3.

Ferris was down 2-0 to the Knights of Gannon until Andrea Moma scored her sixth goal of the season at the 41-minute mark, assisted by Britta Dahlberg.

Moma's goal was just one of five straight for the Bulldogs in that game. The score was followed by Kristin Aukeman's first career goal, off a pass from Ashley Brawley at 46:45.

Emily Rogers continued her scoring streak with her seventh goal of the season at 55:00, off a pass from Jen Gaylor. Julia Hitchingham, assisted by Rogers, notched her first goal of the season at the 64-minute mark.

Rogers followed that with another goal of her own, this time off a penalty kick at the 80-minute mark.

"Individually, Emily isn't really doing anything different than earlier in the year," head coach Pete Watkins said. "It is more that the shots she has been hitting lately have been finding the goal, instead of hitting the post or bringing out a great save from the keeper."

After the third and final goal by the Knights, Brawley capped the game off with her second goal of the season, assisted by Gaylor.

Alana Dombrowski made eight saves in the contest, which resulted in her fifth win of the season.

Mercyhurst lived up to its billing as a 2001 conference co-champion by scoring the first three goals of the match, until Rogers made the game a little more respectable with her ninth goal of the season, coming at 83:26 on a pass from Gaylor.

Dombrowski suffered the loss, but managed to make nine saves in the effort, moving her save total on the season to 156.

Ferris is now 6-8-2 overall, and 2-2-1 in GLIAC play. The Bulldogs are ranked tied for fifth place with Findlay in the GLIAC as of Oct. 27.

The final four games of the season for FSU are all home and against GLIAC foes that are currently ranked ahead of the Bulldogs, leaving plenty of room to move up in the ranks.

"We are looking forward to playing at home the rest of the way. Probably even more so, because the last four games are probably the best four teams in the league," Watkins said. "We will need to play well in each of the four remaining games, but we have proven we can do that."

On Saturday, Nov. 2, Ferris hosts defending conference co-champion Ashland University at 2 p.m., while on Sunday, Nov. 3, the University of Findlay will travel to Big Rapids for a 12 p.m. match.

"The team is starting to come together; we have been getting solid performances from all elements of the team, defense, goalkeeping, and midfield. It has been good to see balance to our scoring as well; we have gotten goals from our starters and players coming in off the bench," Watkins added.





New England gets another taste of Drew
This week is full of key division matchups.

By Aaron Carriere
Copy Editor

First of all, congratulations to Emmitt Smith on breaking Walter Payton's all-time rushing record. Now the debate is on to determine who the greatest running back of all time is. Is it Emmitt? Payton? Sanders? Brown?

By the numbers, you might have to go with Smith. But think about the monster offensive line he ran behind for so many years. I'm going to have to cast my vote for Barry on this one. Hopefully this week's picks will be better than the last.

Baltimore at Atlanta - The Ravens are plagued with injuries with their season hanging in balance. Both Ray Lewis and Chris Redman will be on the sidelines in this one. Atlanta and Vick are playing well in a difficult NFC South division. Look for Vick to shine again this week.

Atlanta 24, Baltimore 17

New England at Buffalo - Drew Bledsoe returns to New England on Sunday. A year removed from the Super Bowl, the Patriots have dropped four straight games and are in third place in the AFC East. The man they let go, Drew Bledsoe, has led the Bills to a 5-3 record after going 3-13 last season. Bledsoe has revenge on his mind.

Buffalo 27, New England 21

Philadelphia at Chicago - The Eagles are looking to take over the NFC East. I didn't think Chicago would lose four straight games. Then the Bears lost their fifth straight. Donovan delivers number six.

Philadelphia 31, Chicago 10

Pittsburgh at Cleveland - The Steelers and former XFL champion Tommy Maddox have risen to the top in the AFC North division. Former Spartan Plaxico Burress is starting to see the ball more often in the Steelers offense. The Browns can tie the division up with a victory on Sunday. Look for Maddox to keep the Steelers rolling.

Pittsburgh 24, Cleveland 21

Dallas at Detroit - The NFL's all-time rushing leader comes into Ford Field to face the Lions, which fell inches short of victory on Sunday against the Bills. The Lions, Vikings and Bears are all notched up in the NFC North with stellar 2-5 records. I like the Lions in this one.

Detroit 24, Dallas 17

Tennessee at Indianapolis - The Titans were almost the Bengals' first victim of the season last week. Indianapolis was upset by the Redskins on Sunday night football. The Colts might have a slight edge in this one.

Indianapolis 28, Tennessee 24

Minnesota at Tampa Bay - The Vikings beat up the struggling Bears on Sunday. Tampa Bay just barely squeezed past the Panthers without quarterback Brad Johnson. Both Johnson quarterbacks are questionable for Sunday's game. This is an old NFC rivalry.

Tampa Bay 17, Minnesota 13

Cincinnati at Houston - This could be it for the Bengals! Cincinnati might be able to break its season-plong funk against the Texans. They need to respond to the kid on television who says that the Miami Hurricanes could beat them. I wouldn't be surprised if they did.

Cincinnati 13, Houston 10

N.Y. Jets at San Diego - The Jets fell apart in the second half in their loss against the Browns. The Chargers have had a week to rest. LaDainian Tomlinson and Drew Brees will light up the scoreboard in this one.

San Diego 35, N.Y. Jets 17

Washington at Seattle - The Redskins claim that the quarterback controversy is over in Washington. The team played strong in a victory over the Colts on Sunday night. The Seahawks spoiled Emmitt's record breaking day.

Washington 24, Seattle 17

St. Louis at Arizona - The Rams had the week off to rest. I think they are going to play a lot better for the rest of the season. The Cardinals played decent against the 49ers on Sunday. Watch out for Marshall Faulk.

St. Louis 25, Arizona 21

San Francisco at Oakland - A battle of the Bay. The 49ers put up big points and fought off a late rally against the Cardinals on Sunday. Oakland has dropped three straight and players are crying for the ball. Jerry Rice gets the ball against his former team.

Oakland 31, San Francisco 20

Jacksonville at N.Y. Giants - The Jags have been disappointing lately, losing three straight, including a loss to the expansion Texans on Sunday. The Giants aren't all that spectacular either.

Jacksonville 23, N.Y. Giants 20

Miami at Green Bay - This game is a great Monday night match up. Cris Carter comes back from retirement in search of the Super Bowl ring to face his old rivals at Lambeau Field. Brett Favre is back. The Packers will be looking for Carter.

Green Bay 27, Miami 17

Record last week: 5-8 (not including Monday Night)

Season Record: 48-33 (59 percent)

Editor's Note: ESPN.com was used for standings and statistics in this article.



Volleyball still in Top 25 in the NCAA
Success this past weekend means preparation for this weekend.

By Matt Lauckner
Ferris State Torch

Olds and Fairbanks
Senior Alaina Olds and Karla Fairbanks team
up against MTU to attempt a block in Friday's
match.
Photo By: Dan Gellasch
Photo Editor

Ferris State's volleyball team sweeps three games this past weekend at Wink Arena, still holding on to the 21st spot in the NCAA Top 25.

The first matchup came Friday evening against Michigan Tech. The Bulldogs were able to take the first two games, and finish Tech in the fourth game.

Ferris took game one 30-25, with 18 kills on 50 total attacks. In game two, Tech began to bring heat, losing 30-28. Game three was won by Tech with a score of 31-29.

Ferris took charge in game four and won the match with a final score 30-20. Ferris finished the final game with 15 kills and only three errors.

Leading the Bulldogs against Tech was Alaina Olds, with 24 kills and 16 digs.

Angie Desmarais also produced 17 digs for the Bulldog defense, and Stephanie Speed picked up 16 kills on 36 total attacks.

On Saturday, the Bulldogs were able to shut out the Lakers of Lake Superior State in three games.

The team's explosive performance led to the Lakers' .000 team attack percentage in the first game, as well as a negative .029 in game two.

Ferris produced 21 kills in game one on 44 total attacks for a 30-21 victory. The Bulldogs picked up a 30-14 victory in game two, with 18 kills.

Game three finished the match off when Ferris notched 23 kills on 52 total attacks for the 30-27 victory.

Leading the way were Karla Fairbanks with 14 kills on 28 attacks, Olds with 12 kills and 15 digs on defense. Stephanie Speed also picked up 17 digs.

Ferris' matchup against Northern Michigan showed a Ferris defense that produced 102 team digs. Games one and two were both awarded to Ferris with matching scores of 30-27. Game three was awarded to Northern 30-26, but Ferris was quick to catch up, winning game four 30-19.

Leading the Bulldogs to victory against NMU was Speed with 17 kills, 17 digs on defense, while only committing four errors. Olds also managed to contribute 22 digs on defense as well as 22 kills.

The Ferris defense was the best it had been all weekend versus Northern. Along with Speed and Olds' contributions, Brittany Godlewski produced 18 digs, Ashley Green had 16, and Desmarais made 14.

"Our defense was important in the victory over Northern this weekend," Fairbanks explained.

The Bulldogs will travel this weekend to see their GLIAC nemesis Grand Valley State in Allendale, Mich. GVSU is currently ahead of Ferris in the GLIAC rankings and is 6 in the nation. Upon arrival, Ferris doesn't expect preferential treatment.

"We are expecting a hostile environment from GVSU," Olds, who was named GLIAC North Division's Player of the Week, explained. "After beating them at home last month, we really are expecting the worst from them."

Ferris was able to beat the top 10 team in five games. A victory at GVSU would mean the Bulldogs would be alone in first place in the GLIAC.

"Grand Valley will be looking for revenge, and they especially don't want to be embarrassed in front of the home crowd," Olds concluded. "If we can pass and serve well, we can certainly beat them."