Photo by James Bednarick, Photo Editor

Students joined together in the Rankin Quad at an emergency prayer meeting that was announced after the terrorist attacks in New York & Washington D.C.

Campus reacts to tragedy

By Laura Chene
Assistant News Editor

Since last week’s terrorist attacks, students, faculty, staff and administration have joined together on different occasions to comfort each other and remember the victims.

The unexpected attacks in New York and Washington left the nation with a sense of insecurity. Three buildings, the World Trade Center towers and the Pentagon, were ruined the day terrorists overtook airplanes and crashed into the buildings. Although information continues to unfold, many questions remain unanswered.

Mixed emotions and confusion still linger on campus one week after the event. "I think we're all doing quite well," President William Sederburg said. "I think that a lot of it is just starting to sink in."
Sederburg provided two reasons behind continuing with classes on the day of the crashes. "[First,] there wasn't really a security issue," Sederburg said. Second, it seemed wiser to use class time to join people and promote discussion rather than separate people.

“It was a toss-up of whether to cancel class. Of course it’s not going to please everyone,” Student Government President Rocky Byington said.

President Sederburg decided to cancel classes between noon and 1 p.m. last Friday, allowing time to join the nation in prayer and remembrance. “I did so to have our campus be part of the national observance,” Sederburg said.

Alpha Omega Co-ed Christian Fraternity held an emergency prayer meeting last Tuesday at 10 p.m. Prayer and worship went on for approximately one hour. “By God’s grace it was an excellent turnout,” Dawan Wallace, the organization’s president, said.

“The purpose [of the gathering] was just to pray on the event that occurred. Prayer changes everything, and [prayer] is what we did that night.”

At least 100 students gathered in prayer and remembrance on Sept. 12 at 9 p.m. in the quad. They began with a moment of silence and proceeded to walk through campus with a raised American flag at the front of the line. Students marched up State Street towards Taggart Hall and rejoined in the quad. The event, ending with the Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem, lasted approximately 45 minutes.

A Peace and Unity Gathering occurred last Thursday at 11:00 a.m. in the campus quad. Students, faculty and staff participated in the service with song, prayer, and words from different individuals. Speakers included Sederburg, Director of Student Minority Affairs Raymond Gant and Student Government President Rocky Byington.

Sederburg spoke to the crowd, “ .. I am also proud of the way our students have responded. We have not had a negative incident on campus. Like the rest of America, we are concerned, angry and feel less safe.” He went on to say, “It is my hope that our society and FSU, as a subset of society, recognize the tragedy for what it is: an act of evil perpetuated by terrorists.”

“I think we all are taking a second look at our lives and a second look at how quickly things can happen, and [are trying] not to make enemies,” Byington said.
LaTonya Wills, the women’s president of the Alpha Omega Co-ed Christian Fraternity, said, “I think people will be more cautious of America. I think more people are aware of what’s going on because this took everyone by kind of surprise.”

“This is involving everyone here,” Wills said. “I think the student body really came together.” Wills hoped that the collaboration between students remains as a long-term, permanent effect.

Wallace agreed, stating that RSOs should always be supportive towards each other whether or not any emergency takes place. “We should come together at all times,” Wallace said. “We need to stick together. I just thank God that we’re still able to live through this. It’s definitely about support.”

Lisa Zelt, the president of the American Red Cross Student Chapter for Ferris State University, stated that many people have expressed interest in an upcoming blood drive that was planned six months before the national incident. "Our main goal as an organization has always been blood services," Zelt said. "This is our reason for existence."

"I’d really like to stress that, ‘yes,’ we are waiting two and a half weeks after this event, but blood will be needed just as bad,” Zelt said. One donated pint can save as many as four lives. It is also important to give blood because plasma only survives three to four days. We will be able to replenish that."

Eighty-four people alone signed up to help with the blood drive at the Bulldog Bonanza. "They just wanted to help volunteer," Zelt said. "We're expecting three times as many donors.”

A blood drive will be held on Sept. 26 from 12 - 6 p.m. at the student recreation center. The Mecosta County General Hospital will also have a blood drive on Sept. 21.

For further information, contact the local Mecosta County Chapter at 796-6562 or the Ferris Chapter at 796-1162.

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University Photo Services

The Ferris rope course was designed to meet both physical and mental challenges to all who participate.

Rope course challenges students

By Amy McElmurray
Assistant News Editor

“Challenge by choice” is a hot phrase this fall at the Ferris State University Ropes/Challenge Course.

Participants have the option of trying the high and/or low elements of the course, which are located on University property in the Rogers Heights area. The Challenge Course will remain open for a few more months, and students in groups of 10 or more are encouraged to try it. Students are charged a discounted rate of $10 per person for three and a half hours.

“[The course] builds a group into a team,” Chuck Bonning, the Ropes Course Coordinator, stated. Groups ranging from RSO’s to classes to small businesses have been using the course as a teambuilding activity in past months. The course is also a way to build communication and achieve personal goals.

A new project at the site will be underway tomorrow, Sept. 20, according to Bonning. A pavilion is going to be constructed in the northwest corner of the course to provide shelter from the sun and rain.

Students from the Construction Technology group will be laboring for four days to complete the project. Various groups have donated funds for the pavilion, but at this point, more donations are needed to complete the project. Anyone wishing to contribute can contact Bonning at 591-5989.

Students in the Recreation Leadership and Management (RLM) program are frequent users of the Challenge course. They must complete RMLS 318, Ropes Course Facilitations Skills, as a part of their curriculum.

In the class, students learn how to facilitate the high and low elements, as well as safety procedures for participants. RLM majors are also instructed on maintenance and administration of courses such as this one. The course gives the students a chance for practical application of what they are learning in the classroom, according to the course description.

When a group signs up for a session at the FSU Ropes/Challenge Course, the first thing it does is a basic orientation of the course, as well as perform some stretching and learn spotting techniques.

Participants are asked to sign a medical release form, for liability reasons, before they are able to start on the ropes. Each group will be assigned an instructor, who will lead them through the different elements that they choose to complete.

Students are then instructed to try the “trust fall.” This is the first activity that involves trust and communication among group members. One at a time, each member closes his eyes, falls backwards and lets his teammates catch him.

Once this task is completed, which at times can take awhile, the groups can move to either the high or low ropes with their instructor. They must work together to complete the tasks and overcome their personal fears for the rest of the time at the course.

After the session at the course, many participants have a different outlook on teamwork. “Everybody helped each other out,” Catherine Badrak, a junior in human resource management, who attended a session at the FSU course two summers ago.

“They (my group) were all clapping and cheering whenever somebody needed encouragement.”

The FSU Ropes/Challenge was built in 1998 with the leadership of a former faculty member, Scott Wurdinger. It is typically open from April 1 to Nov. 1, from dusk until dawn, seven days a week. An appointment must be made to use the course. Contact Susan Weaver at 591-3808 to schedule a time.

Question over nuisance ordinance

By Laura Chene
News Editor

A nuisance padlock ordinance, effective Aug. 29, allows three warnings before the city has the authority to padlock a property site for up to one year.

As part of the ordinance, which passed on Aug. 6, a landlord is notified whenever a tenant is ticketed for receiving noise complaints. Landlords are then able to take action to correct the problem and hopefully prevent future tickets. If there are three or more complaints within nine months, the city has the right to padlock the site.

As stated in the ordinance, “The Public Safety Director will file a complaint with the city commission if a property records three or more complaints. The property owner is allowed to present evidence and witnesses at the hearing. The city commission will take this into account when deciding whether to padlock the property.”

The nuisance padlock ordinance will barely affect the vast majority of Ferris students, according to Director of Big Rapids Public Safety Kevin Courtney. “First of all, there's a positive effect on students,” Courtney said. “The majority of Ferris students are up here to get an education.”

“Most of our noise complaints are called in by students,” Courtney said. Neighbors should not be disrupted by loud noises. “Students can understand they can have a party, but they have to be reasonable.”

“For the average student, 80-90 percent, this ordinance means nothing,” Courtney said. “They already know how to act.” Individuals who ignore the ordinance will be affected the most.

According to Justin Kulevicz, a senior in Applied Speech Television Production, the ordinance does, in fact, greatly affect a student. A student who receives a padlock on his house may even be forced to leave school do to difficulty in finding a house in the middle of the year and coming up with money to pay for it. Also, the ordinance does not provide a guaranteed assurance that the nuisance will end. The same person could rent another house within the city and pose the same problems.

“I just have some great concern with who, what, where, when and why this ordinance is going to affect,” Kulevicz said. “I also think the long-term affects are going to build a lot of animosity.”

Alyssa Fuller, the Student Government Vice President of Student Life, agreed that the ordinance is not in the students’ best interest partly because it is defined too broadly and is unnecessary. “The way the ordinance is written and with the stuff that follows pretty much will outline the people, and those people won't have place to live,” Fuller said.

“You’ve got to look at what constitutes a nuisance,” Kulevicz said. “To me, that’s an opinion.” Certain sounds that most people have adapted to, such as construction and church bells, may be considered nuisances to some people.

Fuller commented that other cities have the ordinance; however, those cities have problems different from Big Rapids, such as prostitution. “It could have been easily dictated differently,” Fuller said.

The city could have constructed a similar ordinance more compatible to the city and its problems. “I just think there are ways to come up with a common solution,” Kulevicz said. “I’m just concerned it’s just geared too much [toward] students over landlords.”

“I feel that this ordinance is a socially accepted ordinance to the people in power,” Kulevicz said. There are other ways to promote better communication between landlords and tenant.

The city commission makes the ultimate decision to padlock a site and can choose to for up to one year or not at all. Courtney hopes that the ordinance is never used.
Kulevicz encourages students to become involved in city issues. “Students need to stand up and take notice,” Kulevicz said. “It’s time Ferris students take stand.”

A copy of the ordinance can be obtained at the City Clerks office in City Hall located at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Pine Street.

As stated in the ordinance, the city commission decided to pass the ordinance after “reviewing the issue for three years.”

On the Record

By Chris Miller
Editor in Chief

Drink the night away

On Sept. 6, officers observed a subject fall down in the Rankin Quad. Officers confronted the suspect at 10:45 p.m. and found that student was intoxicated. A Minor in Possession (MIP) was issued to the suspect.

A smoking complaint in Taggart Hall lead to the arrest to of three students drinking on Sept. 7 Officers responded to the complaint at 6:01 a.m.

Subject had a can of beer in Lot 47 on Sept. 7 at 6:01 a.m. Officers responded to a report and subject was issued an MIP.

During “Fireworks Night” after the Ferris/Findlay football game on Sept. 8, officers observed a suspect urinating in public in Lot 37. The suspect was identified and a MIP was issued around 10 p.m.

On Sept. 8 at 10:30 p.m., officers reported disturbing behavior in Lot 37. A fight was broken up and one suspect was issued a MIP.

Officers responded to a report of drinking in Lot 47 on Sept. 8 at 6:01 a.m. A suspect was found holding a beer can and was given a MIP.

Drinking and engines

Officers responded to a complaint Sept. 8 at 8:45 p.m. Suspect was revving up a vehicle’s engine. DPS made contact with the driver and suspect was arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence. One passenger was cited for an open alcohol container violation.

Stealing some stuff

A bike was stolen on Sept. 8 near Puterbaugh Hall. The victim locked the bike to a rack and found it missing the next day. There are no suspects and investigation is continuing.

Victim reported a bookbag was taken from Rankin Center lobby on Sept. 10. After accidentally leaving the bag in the lobby, the victim returned to find it missing around 2:30 p.m. Officers are continuing investigation.

A Prakken Building employee found purse missing on Sept. 11. A wallet was stolen, but later found with money missing. Investigation continues for the stolen money.

Damage of property

Betweem 9 p.m. on Sept. 9 and 11 a.m. on Sept. 10, a car was scratched in Lot 43. Victim reported incident to police saying that it took place within the past 24 hours. There are no suspects and investigation continues.

Disorderly conduct

Campus police investigation a complaint from the Student Recreation Center on Sept. 10 at 8:15 p.m. A suspect was harassing an employee at the recreation center. The subject was detained, and officers are continuing the investigation.

Several fights broke out at the Sports Complex on Sept. 8 at 3:15 a.m. Officers were called to break up the fights and no arrests were made.

Photo by Brian Van Steenkiste, Opinions Editor

The riding stable at the Outback Ranch offers horse rides, sleigh rides, hay rides and horse drawn wagon rides in their old-fashioned beer wagon.

It’s about time to “Giddy-Up” pardners!

By Brian Van Steenkiste
Opinions Editor

For all those residing in Big Rapids complaining about a lack of things to do, the Torch says, “Whoa pardner!” There’s a (relatively) new sheriff in town, and he’s telling all bored buckaroos about something new to do.

The family-run Outback Lodge in Stanwood provides a number of activities for both FSU students and members of the local community. The fun for all ages activities include horseback riding, Western riding lessons, hay rides, sleigh rides, nature rides, wagon rides, cookouts, group parties, team driving lessons and there’s even a bed and breakfast for cowboys and cowgirls with that special twinkle in their eyes.

“We like having Ferris students,” Sue Parker, one of the Outback Lodge’s owners, said. “It’s a lot of fun. They can come out here and unwind. They love our horses and treat them well.”

Besides helping students unwind, horseback riding is also a good form of exercise. Reasonably priced one hour and two hour rides are offered throughout the day, seven days a week for most of the year. A desperado ride that leaves at 6 p.m. and returns at dark to eat smores is also offered.

Children (nine years and older), adults and seniors can all ride. Beginners need not fear because instruction is provided whenever necessary by the wrangler that accompanies every ride. Long pants such as blue jeans and shoes with closed toes (tennis shoes) are recommended for riding.

“People can ride here who have never ridden before, or experienced riders (can too),” Sue Parker said. The Outback has both spirited and very calm horses available to its riders, in a variety of breeds. Quarter horses, Arabian, Percheron, Welsh ponies, Tennessee Walkers and Appaloosa all inhabit the Outback Lodge’s stables.

The horses are outfitted with special cork shoes to insulate their hooves in the winter. Snowy rides and rides during the fall color change are both unique ways to enjoy the outdoors during those special times of the year. “It’s gorgeous,” Kent Parker said about the fall color rides. “The colors are fantastic.”

The horse rides take advantage of over 700, mostly wooded, acres of riding including land in the nearby Pierre Marquette State Forest. Riders can see wildlife on their trips and fox, porcupines, turkeys, geese, partridge and deer are seen regularly.

Horse rides do shut down from Nov. 15 through Dec. 1 for deer hunting season. Rides are also halted on icy days, particularly in the month of March.

In addition to the horse rides, the Outback Lodge also offers other rides for larger groups. Tractor-pulled hayrides, horse-drawn wagon rides in a high-sided, antique beer wagon and horse-drawn winter sleigh rides are all offered by the Outback. The Lodge has a large fire pit, cooking facilities and a three-sided barn for dances, parties and other after-ride festivities.

In addition to all the outside activities, the Outback Lodge also has indoor activities too. A six room bed and breakfast is available, and guests there receive discounted rates on all activities. The bed and breakfast is unique because it’s not just for adults; families are welcome there too.

The bed and breakfast is decorated in a Western motif. Amish furniture, private and shared baths, a Jacuzzi suite, a full Martha Stewart-style kitchen, mahogany bedroom furniture, including a sleigh bed and plush common areas are all at guest’s disposal.

“We’ve had people from all over the world stay here,” Kent Parker said. Visitors from Japan, Russia, England, China and South Africa have all been to the Outback Lodge. In the one and a half years the bed and breakfast has been open, one couple has returned three times, and return visitors are not uncommon.

Reservations are required for rides and stays, so interested parties will want to call the Lodge toll free at 866-625-6343 for more information. Group rates are available for all the activities, so inquiries about discounts can be made at the same number.

The Outback Lodge in Stanwood is a short 15-minute drive from Big Rapids. To get there, just hit the dusty trail going East on M-20 and turn right on 150th Avenue. Follow 150th until it dead-ends into Buchanan and take a left. The Outback Lodge is down about a mile and a half on the left. Don’t be shy, mosey on up to the house and tell ‘em the Torch sent ya.

Photo by Brian Van Steenkiste, Opinions Editor

The Outback Ranch has a bed and breakfast with fine accomodations, including common areas such as the living room pictured above.

Publicity Photo

Star of "The Hughley's," comedian D.L. Hugley recently finished his new film "The Brothers." Hughley is playing FSU's Homecoming act.

Hughley fills the void

By Matt Cherry
Assistant A&E Editor

The decision is final now. Comedian D.L. Hughley will be the lead act for this year’s Homecoming celebration.

After the fiasco concerning scheduling for Wayne Brady, the Homecoming Committee and Entertainment Unlimited rushed to find an act to replace him. As was reported last week, some of the other possibilities included comedians Kathy Griffin, Jay Mohr and Jim Breuer. However, it was Hughley who ultimately got the choice.

The show has been moved from Oct. 18 to the next day, Friday, Oct. 19. It will still be held in Williams Auditorium.

“After finding out about Brady, we were excited once Hughley signed. It was a relief after all the hard work that we have put into making this show happen,” President of Entertainment Unlimited Jason Johnson said.

Hughley, with his third-year sitcom named “The Hughleys,” is considered to be one of the most popular comedians on the circuit today. The son of an airline maintenance worker and a homemaker, Hughley grew up in Los Angeles’ South Central district.

After a hard childhood, which included belonging to a gang after getting kicked out of school, Hughley changed his life around when his cousin was shot. It was his wife who encouraged Hughley to get into the entertainment business and perform stand-up comedy.

After years on the club scene, Hughley caught his first break when he tried out for HBO’s “One Night Stand” series. Later, Hughley had also appeared on HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam.”

Following those performances, and a series of cable appearances Hughley’s first attempt at sitcoms came with the CBS flop “Double Rush” in 1995. It was because of this show that Hughley first started tossing the idea for “The Hughleys” around in his head.

Hughley really hit it big, however, when ABC decided to run his new sitcom. In its first year, the show was ABC’s highest rated new show, and received a nomination for a “People’s Choice Award.” Hughley was also nominated for an NAACP Image Award for “Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series” in 1998. In 1999, he was again nominated for the same Image Award, and his show was nominated for “Outstanding Comedy Series.”

When asked why he loves to make people laugh, Hughley said, “One of the most beautiful things in the world I’ve ever seen or heard is people laughing, even when there seems to be so little reason for them to laugh.That’s a great thing to me.”

Director Spike Lee also jumped on the bandwagon, and documented the tour for MTV Films. The film, called “The Original Kings of Comedy,” was released on Aug. 18 last year.

Hughley has also recently finished production on the film “The Brothers,” in which he stars alongside Bill Bellamy, Shemar Moore and Morris Chestnut. The movie is about three black professionals facing the impending marriage of a longtime friend and converted playboy.

When one looks at the accomplishments Hughley has made, one can only be awed. Here is a man that has seen the worst of life, and has made the best of everything.

“Hughley will fit the bill just nicely with his comic style. We are glad that things have been resolved,” Johnson said.

The importance of becoming a Mentor

By Oshotayo Adedeji
Ferris State Torch

Mentoring is a focused and selected activity that seeks to enhance and enrich student opportunities to successfully persist at Ferris State University through goal attainment and graduation.

Mentoring activities link students with a concerned person, a mentor, who listens, understands, negotiates and encourages students to utilize all resources available to achieve academic success.

Mentors are experienced students who have volunteered to assist in the Peer Mentor Program because of their genuine interest in the educational and personal advancement of students. They function as coaches, friends and positive role models.

There are two kinds of mentor programs on campus. The first is the SCHOLAR Program, and the second is the Ferris Links Freshman Mentor Program.

The SCHOLAR Program, within the University College, is an academic support program that aids in the student’s academic progress by offering a peer mentor program and a student academic advisory committee.

Students who take advantage of the program experience a positive transition to college, improved academic performance and memorable relationships with peers, as well as with FSU faculty and staff.

The Peer Mentor Program teams sophomore, junior and senior student volunteers, who serve as positive role models, with first-year students.

According to a survey conducted by staff members of the SCHOLAR Program, it is known that if first-year students have meaningful interactions with a positive mentor, their motivation and academic performance are significantly increased.

The program strengthens and sustains students in meeting their educational goals and in helping make the college experience exciting, fulfilling and successful.

“I am very pleased with the efforts of the students that serve as mentors. This semester there are 20 mentors and 45 freshmen. The program has scheduled events throughout the semester that will aid in the bonding process and a student’s academic achievements,” Karen GreenBay, SCHOLAR Coordinator, said.

“Freshmen students who decide to participate in the SCHOLAR Mentor Program have more positive experiences during their first year in college,” GreenBay said.

“This is my first year in the mentor program, and I am enjoying the students and staff. I have two mentees who have totally different backgrounds and personalities. Even though I am a mentor I am learning a lot from my mentees,” Brandi Willis, a senior in accounting, said.

In addition, Willis said, “I would recommend being a mentor at Ferris State University as a great idea for anyone who has the skills and abilities.”

Currently enrolled students who may be interested in serving as a mentor should contact the SCHOLAR Program Office at 591-5034 or visit ASC 1025 for assistance.

The Ferris Links Freshman Mentor Program is designed for six weeks to provide first-year students with alcohol-free activities and incentives during their first months of school so they can learn how to have fun without using alcohol.

Activities included in the program are movie nights, bowling, dance parties and alcohol-free tailgate events prior to home football games. Current Ferris students serve as mentors to groups of freshmen, and they provide support and encouragement for new students to socialize without alcohol.

Mentors agree to a adhere to ZERO-ONE-THREE guidelines for low-risk alcohol use: ZERO drinks for anyone under 21 or anyone who is driving a vehicle, ONE drink per hour sets the pace for moderate drinking by those of legal drinking age, THREE drinks per social occasion is the maximum for legal drinkers, and it is always OK not to drink.

Heather Crossman, a senior in education here at Ferris, thoroughly enjoys being a freshman mentor and meeting all the incoming students. She encourages more students to volunteer to be a freshman mentor next year; it’s a very rewarding experience.

“I would advise the freshmen to take advantage of the program because it gives them the opportunity to get comfortable with the university and to get to know other incoming freshman through the Ferris Links Program,” Martwaun Owens, a senior in public relations said.

“Overall, I think that the Mentor Program is excellent because it gives incoming students the opportunity to have someone guide them through the difficult college transition,” Kenneth Dandridge, a senior in public administration said.

The upperclass mentors are usually selected and trained every fall semester; and the faculty and staff are encouraged to nominate students to participate in the program by calling Cara Baker, coordinator of Student Activities, at 591-5342 or email her at cara_baker@ferris.edu.

Laughing matter

By Shannon Vesper
Ferris State Torch

The Fall 2001 Comedy Series, presented by Entertainment Unlimited, presents Eric Nieves this evening at 7:30 in the Rankin Art Gallery. Nieves is a Bronx native who made his comic debut in New York in 1994. Nieves is also considered to be one of the best Latino comics on the circuit today.

Nieves has done a performance in a comedy group called “Nuyorican Rule,” other roles have included guest-starring on “NYPD Blue,” “Showtime at the Apollo” and BET’s “Comic View.” Nieve’s style of comedy keeps his audiences laughing. Every show is different and he uses current events in his material.

“Nieves is one of the best Latino comics who originated in New York, the Mecca of comedy. His show will be great; the Art Gallery will be set up in comedy-club-style atmosphere. Everyone should stop by and see him,” Jason Johnson, president of Entertainment Unlimited, said.

Taylor Mason, a ventriloquist who combines comedy, music, magic and participation into his works, was the last performer from the Comedy Series. His humorous performances brought in about 50 people. Mason has done more than 1,000 great college shows.

“It was real funny. Everybody there enjoyed it. His puppets were great, you couldn’t see his mouth move or anything,” Tony Dixon, Entertainment Unlimited staff member, said.

This is the second time FSU has had a comedy series. During the first series, comedians such as Adam Sandler and Carrot Top appeared at Ferris before they were famous. Coming up this fall will be several more great comedians.

On Wednesday, Oct. 31, Jason Stuart will be taking the stage. Stuart was born in the Bronx and raised in Los Angeles. Some of his performances include spots on “Will & Grace,” “Norm,” “Providence” and “The Drew Carey Show.” Currently, he has finished filming a Disney comedy “Ghost of A Chance.”

Buzz Sutherland will bring his genuine performance right to the Rankin Center Dome room, on Oct. 14. Sutherland is also a speaker for the ACPA and NACA. His performances are real, no façade, and no pretense.

Finally on Nov. 28, Alexandra McHale, a member for the Actor’s Studio in New York City will bring laughter and humor to FSU. McHale has acted with great actors such as Paul Newman, Sally Field and Robert Redford.

Comical performances included “The Comic Strip,” “Catch a Rising Star” and “Caroline’s” along with several improvisational circles in various cities. Her most recent performance was at New Joke City with Robert Klein in New York City.

All students are encouraged to attend the comedy sessions, located at the Rankin Center Dome Room. The shows are free and begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. If anyone has any questions or students that have disabilities needing assistance, call 591-2606.

Photo by Mike Termini, Assistant Photo Editor

Jen Gaylor (#17) moves past an Aquinas defender in last Wednesday's 3-1 win. Gaylor scored all three goals to lead the Bulldogs.

Women’s Soccer heating up

By Jason Nelson
Assistant Sports Editor

The cold weather sweeping across the state has been a blessing in disguise for the Ferris State Women’s Soccer team.

The Bulldogs concluded a winning week on Saturday with a 4-2 win over Olivet Nazarene. The win comes off the heels of a 3-1 victory the Bulldogs posted over Aquinas on Wednesday, Sept. 12.

In the win over Olivet on Saturday, Ferris sophomore Emily Rogers paced the Bulldogs with two goals and two assists.

The Bulldogs fell behind early in the game, surrendering two goals in the opening 45 minutes of play as Olivet peppered Ferris State goalie Laura Myszka. Erin Kring and Emily Ouimette scored for Olivet as they took control early in the first half.

Myszka had seven saves in the first half to keep the Bulldogs around.

Olivet awoke the sleeping giants in the second half, as the Bulldogs came out with a vengeance and tallied four goals. Scoring for the Bulldogs were Rogers (2 goals, 2 assists), senior forward Christy White and sophomore defender Amanda Kirkwood.

Sophomore goaltender Connie Bigott relieved Myszka in-goal and collected the win, making four saves in the second half. For the game, Ferris State outshot Olivet 22-18. Rogers, sophomore forward Kristen Bator, and Kirkwood paced the offense for the Bulldogs. Ferris State goaltenders collected 11 saves for the game compared to six shots saved by the Olivet keeper.

The victory over Olivet evens the Bulldogs’ record this year to 3-3-2.

Last Wednesday, the Bulldogs battled league rival Aquinas in a home game that saw both teams have strong first halves. The score was tied 0-0 at the half, thanks in large part to the goaltending prowess of Bulldog goalkeeper Myszka, and Aquinas goalkeeper Erica Delongpre.

Each team scorched a fair amount of shots at each others goal, with Ferris State blasting 13 shots while Aquinas had nine shots. Each goaltender was forced to make six saves apiece in the first half to keep their teams in the scoreless struggle.

The game took a dramatic turn in the second half as the offense for each team turned their play up a notch. Aquinas got on the board early in the second half when forward Kalee Schwarz took a feed from Melissa Bauer an rifled a shot past helpless goaltender Laura Myszka to put Aquinas in the lead 1-0.

Soon after Aquinas scored, the “Jen Gaylor Show” began as Ferris State’s offense took control of the game. Gaylor, a freshman forward, put on a clinic. She seemed to score at will as she single-handedly brought the team to victory.

Gaylor scored the next three goals of the game to put Ferris State ahead 3-1 and in control of the contest. Myszka continued her strong performance, making two more saves in the second half and thwarting any chance for an Aquinas comeback. Myszka ended her strong performance in the game, making a total of eight saves.

For the game, Ferris State outshot Aquinas 21-19 with Gaylor pacing the attack with five shots, three of them on goal. All Gaylor’s shot on goal found the twine for a sterling shooting percentage of 100. Other leaders for the Ferris State offense include; sophomore forward Sara Idersan, and senior defender Sarah Hyde. The win pushed Ferris State’s mark to 2-3-2.

Ferris takes on Concordia today at 4 p.m. in a non-conference match.

Former Bulldog missing in attack

By Nicholas Wasmiller
Sports Editor

The Ferris State University Athletics Department has been touched by both sides of the recent attack on the World Trade Center in New York City.

As of press time, the whereabouts of former Bulldog football player Eric Bennett (1989-92) remain unknown. A two-year starter at center, Bennett served as Executive Vice President of the Alliance Consulting Group, which was located on the 102nd floor of the first World Trade Center tower, struck by terrorists in Tuesday’s (Sept. 11) attack.

Bennett, who had lived and worked in the New York area for nearly eight years, was last heard from while attempting to evacuate the building.

“Our hearts and prayers go out to Eric Bennett and his family,” said Tom Kirinovic, FSU Athletics Director. “We hope, as the rescue attempts go on, that Eric will be a survivor and not a casualty of this tragic attack.”

A three-year letterwinner, Bennett earned 1992 All-Midwest Intercollegiate Football Conference (MIFC) Honorable Mention honors before graduating from the Ferris State University College of Business in 1993 with a degree in computer information systems.

“This is a tremendous tragedy and puts reality back into the importance of football and life,” FSU football coach Jeff Pierce said. “Eric was a great person who had really moved up in the business world because of his hard-working approach.”

The 6-1, 185-pound Bennett helped Ferris State finish 10-3 overall and win the MIFC Championship during the 1992 campaign after joining the program as a walk-on. The 29-year-old Bennett still has a Ferris State Bulldog tattoo on his upper right forearm.

“Eric was a part of our Bulldog family,” Pierce said. “When something like this happens, it really hits close to home for a lot of people. Sometimes it doesn't sink in until you realize how many people have been affected by a situation like this.”

While a large number of missing individuals remain, the attack has also produced countless numbers of heroic stories involving rescue efforts.

Former Ferris State basketball player Jeff Hephner (1997-99) recently volunteered to aid in the mission on behalf of the Ferris State University Athletics Department. An actor in New York City, Hephner lives approximately eight to 10 blocks from the World Trade Center. Although he hasn’t been activated into duty as of this time, Hephner expects to receive a call today.

“His willingness to help out in this situation speaks volumes for the type of human beings we have coming through our programs,” Kirinovic said. “There are great stories of both heroism and tragedy that have come out of this disaster. It appears we are seeing both sides of it.”

A team captain during the 1998-99 campaign, Hephner appeared in 42 games during his three-year FSU career.

“To have one of our Bulldogs volunteer in the rescue effort is quite an honor,” FSU Men’s Basketball Head Coach Edgar Wilson said. “It’s a tribute to him and exemplifies the type of character we have in our programs and our institution.”

“This tragedy has made it tough to prepare for this game and remain focused,” Pierce said. “It’s sad to think that someone would come after us in our homeland. There’s no doubt that many lives have been touched by this.”

* The Ferris State University Sports Info Department contributed to this report.

Interception kills Bulldogs’ chances

By Nicholas Wasmiller
Sports Editor

For the second straight week, the Bulldog offense jumped out to a big lead. The only difference this week was that the lead wasn't enough as Ferris State dropped a 33-20 decision to Saginaw Valley State University.

Leading 20-6 midway through the second quarter, the Bulldogs surrendered 27 unanswered points to SVSU the rest of the way.

After moving the score to 20-6 on a fourth-down option run by backup quarterback Tom Marsan, SVSU started the comeback by closing out the first half with a 14 play drive that covered 85 yards and ended in a one-yard touchdown run with only 30 seconds remaining. The TD moved the Cardinals to within seven points, with the Bulldogs still in front 20-13.

Although the score was close at the half, the Bulldogs dominated almost all of the statistical categories. Senior quarterback Kyle Park completed 11 of 15 passes for 93 yards and one touchdown, while also throwing an interception that was returned 97 yards by SVSU for the Cardinals’ first score of the game.

Senior wideout Clarence Coleman already had six catches at the half, including two touchdown grabs. Coleman also had 56 receiving yards at halftime. Sophomore tailback Derek Fudge led the Bulldogs ground game with 46 halftime rushing yards.

In the second half, the Cardinals came out on fire, scoring touchdowns on three of their first four possessions. The scoring started with a 47-yard pass on SVSU's opening drive, continued with a one-yard touchdown run after a Park interception, and ended with another one yard score after Park's third interception.

Meanwhile, the Bulldogs were struggling on both sides of the ball. Besides Park's two interceptions in the first four drives of the first half, Ferris State also punted twice and never seemed to regain the momentum of the first half. All three of Park’s interceptions on the day were eventually turned into touchdowns by the Cardinals.

The drive which would have put Ferris State back in the lead had made its way down to the one-yard line with just under 12 minutes remaining in the game and the Bulldogs down 25-20. After a substitution penalty for having too many men in the huddle moved Ferris State back to the six, the offense could only manage one yard in their next two plays, setting up a third and goal from the five yard line.

SVSU cornerback Demons Bryan intercepted the Park pass that was intended for Coleman and returned it 92 yards to the Bulldog’s five-yard line.

“We watched film all week and we saw the quarterback (Park) keying on one receiver,” Bryan told the Saginaw News. “I saw him keying on my receiver so I went to the ball.”

With that interception, Bryan essentially snatched the Bulldogs’ chances out of thin air. Ferris never was in scoring position again, and the defense seemed to tire as the game progressed throughout the fourth quarter.

Later in the fourth, the Bulldogs changed quarterbacks in an attempt to find a spark for the offense, but with no luck.

Ferris finished the game with only 179 yards of passing, while surrendering 233 yards in the air to the Cardinals. This was the first game this season that the Bulldogs were outgained in the air.

Derek Fudge led the Bulldogs offense with 119 rushing yards on 26 carries, while catching two passes for seven yards. Park completed 18 of 27 passes on the day for 157 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions.

Coleman ended the game with seven receptions for 74 yards and two touchdowns, while senior Lamar Patterson caught six passes for 36 yards.

This Saturday, the Bulldogs travel to Wayne State to take on the Warriors at noon. The Warriors have a 1-1 record, with a 1-0 mark in the GLIAC conference.

Wayne State took last weekend off to mourn the tragedy on the East Coast. The GLIAC conference said in a statement that the board of governor, will meet later this week to discuss the rescheduling of games and the possiblity of moving back the NCAA Division II playoffs one week.

BACK TO THE TOP

Photo by Mike Termini, Assistant Photo Editor

Freshman Annie Foster spikes the ball over the net during this past weekend. Ferris improved to 9-5 this season, 2-1 in GLIAC play.

Bulldogs can’t dig out sweep

By Nicholas Wasmiller
Sports Editor

Looking for a sweep of this weekend’s home opening series, Ferris State took the first two matches, but came up just short, losing Sunday to Northern Michigan.

Ferris opened their home conference schedule Friday, defeating Lake Superior State 3-0. The Lakers had entered the contest with an 11-1 overall mark.

“It was a very balanced match as a whole,” Bulldog Head Coach Tia Brandel said. “We stayed very focused as a team today.”

Senior Erin Minnis recorded her 600th career dig in Friday’s match. Minnis currently ranks second on the team in digs.

“We had great team effort today,” junior Alaina Olds said. “We came together with strong offensive and defensive play. It was a nice way to start off the weekend.”

The Bulldogs then upset 24th-ranked Michigan Tech 3-2 on Saturday, with Ferris State claiming the deciding game 16-14.

Olds recorded her first career triple-double in the win over Tech, totaling 20 kills, 16 digs and ten total blocks. She currently leads Ferris State with 182 kills and 69 total blocks this season.

“The team played together and was having fun, it was an all-around good day,” junior Angie Desmarais said.

On Sunday, the Bulldogs fell to 16th-ranked Northern Michigan 3-1. After winning the first game of Sunday’s match, Ferris dropped the next three games to kill any chances of a sweep of this weekend’s matches.

The Bulldogs continue with GLIAC conference play this weekend, traveling to Midland on Friday to play Northwood at 7 p.m. On Saturday, Ferris travels to Saginaw Valley to take on the Cardinals. The match is scheduled for 2 p.m.

Photo by Mike Termini, Assistant Photo Editor

Ferris State was stuck in the sand after one day of play, but moved up three spots on day two to place second behind GVSU.

Men’s Golf takes secon

By Jason Nelson
Assistant Sports Editor

The Ferris State men’s golf team final-day charge came up just short in this past weekend’s Bulldogs Invitational, held at Katke Golf Course. Despite the team’s poor play on the first day of the tournament, the Bulldogs finished second in the eleven-team field.

Shooting a two-day combined score of 601 on the par 72 course, Ferris finished a distant second behind eventual winner Grand Valley State University. The Bulldogs shot a 292 combined score on the second day, one better than the Lakers 293 (who won the tournament by 11 strokes), but the hole they had dug themselves into after the first day with a combined score of 309 compared to GVSU’s 297 proved too much to overcome.

“We played much better on the second day, it was much more indicative of how we can play,” said Bulldog Head Coach Brad Bedortha. “This was a tournament we very easily could have won, if not for the terrible first day.”

GVSU had the top two spots in the tournament led by Eric Cowles 4-under par 140. Standing out for the Bulldogs this weekend was Senior Tyler Averdick who fired a 74-73 to finish third overall in the tourney.

Also having strong performances for the Bulldogs was senior Dustin Akers 71-77, juniors Chris Griffin 77-72 and Mitch Flemming 79-72.

“Griffin and Flemming, along with Averdick really had strong performances on the second day,” Bedortha said.

Senior Captain Chad Tate chipped in with a 79-75 to round out the Bulldog scoring. The men take to the links this weekend in Coldwater on Sunday and Monday in the Great Lakes Region Tournament.

Paw Prints

Winning Streak Hits 155 for Women’s Tennis

The Bulldogs moved their winning streak over GLIAC opponents to 155 straight matches, with a 7-2 win over Grand Valley State University on Saturday.

Looking for Ferris State’s 18th straight women’s tennis GLIAC title, the Bulldogs won four of six singles matches and swept the three doubles matches.

“It was a good early season match and will prepare us for the rest of our schedule,” senior Kari Sederburg said. “This was the best competition we’ve seen so far, but there is still stronger competition out there and that we as a team need to prepare for.”

Jennifer Garvey took the number one singles match 6-1, 6-2, while Barbara Jillgova won the second ranked match 1-6, 6-4, 6-4. “Barbara had a great match,” Sederburg said. “She was down one to four in the second match and came back for a 6-4 win. It set the tone for the rest of the team and the match.”

Grand Valley took the third and fourth matches with wins over Suzanne Batten and Hulda Grin. Batten won the first set of her match, but dropped the next two for the loss.

Sederburg won the fifth ranked match 6-1, 6-2. Tessa Miller finished the match out for the Bulldogs with a 6-1, 6-3 win.

In doubles action, the Bulldogs swept the Lakers with the closest match coming at one ranked doubles. In the number one ranked doubles match, the team of Garvey and Jilkova won 8-3. In the other two doubles matches, each were won by the Bulldogs 8-1. The team of Batten and Grin took the first match, while Miller and Elena Blackman took the number three doubles match.

“We were really strong in doubles today and the match will help us prepare for tougher matches coming up in the next two weeks,” Grin said.

Ferris State moved its season record to 3-0, while GVSU dropped to 2-1.

“This week the team found some more areas that need improvement. Our court movement, overhead play and single’s strategy,” Sederburg said.

The Bulldogs play their first three home matches of the season this weekend. On Friday, the Dawgs take on the Findlay Oilers at 3 p.m. Ferris State then will play Wayne State on Saturday at 10 a.m. and on Sunday will take on Hillsdale. The match also begins at 10 a.m.

Bulldog Cross Country Runs Wild

The men’s and women’s Cross Country teams were in action this weekend at the Katke Golf Course in Big Rapids.

The Ferris State women’s cross country squad finished fourth out of 11 teams in the 5,000 Meter Run with an average of 20 minutes and 48 seconds. Aquinas took home top honors in the event with 46 points, Ferris State ended the meet with 79.

Senior April Smith enjoyed the best finish for the Bulldogs finishing third with a time of 19:47. Freshman Mary Miller also had a strong race, finishing eighth with a time of 20:23.

The men’s cross country team enjoyed a fine weekend, finishing second out of the six team field in the men’s 8,000 meter run. The men averaged 26:44 for the event, which saw Aquinas narrowly edge the Bulldogs.

Freshman Joe Swendrowski led the Bulldogs with a second place finish of 26:14. Other top ten finishers for the Bulldogs were seniors Josh Wittenbach (26:43) and Steve Picucci (26:45). Ferris State ended the meet with 41 points, 20 behind winner Aquinas’s 21.

Both Cross Country teams were in action on Friday Sept. 7, at the Aquinas College Invitational in Grand Rapids. The meet saw both Ferris State teams finish third.

For the men’s meet, freshman Joe Swendroski paced the Bulldogs with a 13th place finish in the 8,000 meter run with a time of 27:52.

Other Bulldogs in the top 30 were: Wittenbach (28:21), Picucci (28:28) and junior Pat Wehrman (28:46). The Bulldogs finished with 81 points, champion Grand Valley State University had 23.

The women’s team finished third out of the five team field in the 5,000 meter run.

Smith led the Bulldogs with a time of 20:40, good enough for 13th place.

Other Lady Bulldogs breaking the top thirty were freshman Stephanie DeLong (21:12) and Miller (21:29), while Sophmore Angela Herzog finished with a time of 21:42. The Lady Bulldogs finished with 82 points, 65 behind winner Grand Valley State University.

Responding to terrorism

By Aaron Hatfield
Ferris State Torch

As the aftermath settles upon me I cannot help but to be affected by Sept. 11, 2001. I cannot help but to be an American. People like me, people like all of us, are experiencing the same thing all around the world. Not all of us lost loved ones, but we all lost two pieces of American history, two American icons.

It has been said that the attack America suffered on Sept. 11 is comparable to Pearl Harbor, but this is more. We are fighting an enemy that has no capital, an enemy without a face. We are fighting terrorism.

The fall of the World Trade Center and parts of the Pentagon brought the death of thousands and the death of many of America’s heroes. Firemen, police officers, and military personnel have all been casualties of hatred. These are the people that ran toward danger to save the lives of many, only to lose their own.

It makes me sick to know that there are people in the world that could commit such acts of violence. It is now time for America and the world to step up and put a permanent end to terrorism. This was not only an “attack on America,” but this was an attack on innocence, an attack on the world.

As Tuesday unfolded, I could not help but to be overwhelmed with emotion. First, my stomach hit the floor followed by everything else in my being. I, like many Americans, was in shock. “This can’t be real. This is a dream.” This personally offended me. I felt as if someone had insulted me right to my face. This was an insult to all Americans.

Whoever is responsible for this action needs a severe punishment, as well as those with any connection, however insignificant, to them. I fully approve of President Bush’s actions. I believe he has handled this situation with the utmost responsibility and will continue to do so in the future. I stand behind the President in whatever he chooses. After all, that is why we elected him.

Being a part of our nation’s military, I fully support any type of military action that the President deems necessary, even if it means a need for myself. That is my job, to serve and die for my country and state in any situation. I feel that it is now the only way necessary to combat and end terrorism.

According to news channels, as of Thursday, Sept. 13, approximately 2,900 people have been treated and discharged by hospitals. In relation to the World Trade Center’s fall, 4,763 people were still missing including about 370 firemen and police officers. The four plane hijackings resulted in the death of 266 people, and countless Americans grieve as this horrid event unfolds in front of our eyes.

I would like to send my prayers and hopes to all of those in New York and Washington D.C. I would also like to thank the other countries that have offered their comforting words and support. We are Americans and we will prevail. We will stand tall and lead the way to a world without terrorism, a world without profound hatred.

I end with the Star Spangled Banner. Review the past days events in your mind as you read our nation’s anthem. “O say, can you see, by the dawn's early light, what so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming? Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight, O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming? And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?” God bless America.

Just hold on for one minute

By Brian Van Steenskiste
Opinions Editor

If you’re sitting down reading this, then you’re taking time out of your busy schedule to engage in a somewhat leisurely activity. For many Americans, breaks like this are too few and far between.

As a people, we Americans are one of the hardest, and longest working, citizens of any country on the planet. A common sentiment amongst us is “there’s not enough time in the day.” For most of us older than the age of 15, this is all too true.

We work hard, and we play hard. We don’t get as much vacation time as many other nationalities do, so we have to pack all our fun into a short period of time. We get up early, pack everything into the car and rush off to a day of fun at any one of a number of attractions, including the amusement park with its myriad of amusements. More often than not, many bring with them a strict itinerary to follow so they ensure the most bang for their buck.

Once you get to any of these places, you’re assaulted by countless other Americans all trying to do the same thing, and you’re forced to wait. You have to wait to go to the bathroom, you have to wait to get on the ride/in the show. All of this makes you hungry, and then you have to wait in line once again just to get something to eat.

Many reading this are probably getting their blood boiling just by reliving the memory of their last public vacationing experience. Why? Because we don’t have any patience. Our lack of patience has many negative side effects, including causing us to forget our manners, pollute the earth, attack our fellow man and decrease the quality of life for ourselves and our neighbors.

We’re lucky to be able to go on vacation. People in our own country should only be so fortunate, not to mention all those abroad who can’t even dream of our lifestyles. “But I earned it! I’m American and I work hard.” This may be so, but hard work doesn’t always come with rewards, as too many denizens of planet Earth can attest to.

Road rage definitely stems from a lack of patience. I suffer from road rage too, but I hope I never cross the line and throw someone’s pet into traffic because I let my eagerness get the better of me.

Another characteristic of those lacking patience is a lack of manners, commonly manifested by people who never hold the door for others. Sure, it takes an extra 10 seconds out of your day to hold the door and wait, but forget common courtesy. Who needs that crap?

A lack of patience has also bred a cult of convenience. The American mantra could be “give me convenience or give me death.” Fast food has replaced good food, ski resorts advertise based on the speed of their lifts, the roadside oasis will soon crush the competition lying more than 10 blocks from a major thoroughfare, snack packs overflow from landfills because we can’t wait half an hour for our pudding, and the list goes on and on and on...

Before its widely publicized failures, the Concord was the king of the passenger planes. The rich and affluent laughed at us as we sat on our long intercontinental flights. We looked up to them and their lack of a need to wait for things, and we idolized their impatience. It became a symbol of success not to have to wait.

While a plane ride is arguably not the most enjoyable thing in the world (it’s no Sunday drive in the country), I think it’s an effective analogy. One of the things that has allowed this elevation of impatience and has put it on a pedestal for us is the rapid increase of technology we have seen.

Polaroid wet our taste buds, but nothing is like a digital camera for the must-haves and those who stress the word immediately. Cell phones have all but replaced traditional pay phones. I was shocked to see public phones trying to get 50 cents a call, but it makes sense; phone companies are losing money on them.

If you still don’t think you’re guilty, ask yourself if you’ve ever gotten mad at a waitress for tardiness. No? How about internet connection; you pay for it, but now that you’re spoiled, could you live with a gang of 56k modems in the FLITE instead of the T3 connection we enjoy? Probably not.

Most recently, the entire country plopped down in front of their boob tubes and waited to see what would happen next with our nation’s defense. We wanted our news now, we wanted an immediate response from our leaders, live wasn’t quick enough, why are these updates taking so long and so on and so forth. In an age of instant access, one only wonders what the next frontier will be. Maybe that’s why psychics are so popular on TV ads.

At times I’m just as, if not more than most, guilty of not having patience. I find myself feeling like I should/need to be running everywhere I go. I’m just as guilty as anyone else. I too find myself being pushed and rushed into a frantic frenzy of living.

I’m not making broad accusations, simply general observations. As a whole, I think we should “stop and smell the roses” more often. The world is getting smaller and the pace of life is picking up, but that doesn’t mean we have to give in and let it get the better of us. The first step in dealing with our problem is admitting we have one.

I apologize for I forget to hold the door for you, I’m just in a hurry.

Voices

No Class Decision

I would like to express my extreme discontent with Ferris' actions or lack there of on, Sept. 11, 2001. My discontent stems from the major crisis that our nation is experiencing and what the school has done about it. Whereas, our nation’s capital, Washington D.C., and perhaps the world’s capital, New York, New York, were under direct terrorist attack and most of the nation shut down. However, Ferris deemed it was unnecessary to cease the procession of the day’s classes for its many students. This day of leave would allow students to mourn with the rest of the nation and be informed of the latest developments in the crisis.

Ferris’ stance, leaving school open as not to insight panic, is understandable but I strongly disagree with it. If the school thought that we were going to relive the events that took place the last time school was closed, and the students “Drank the town dry!” they were sadly mistaken. Though few students of the University were directly affected by the events of the day all of us were indirectly affected. All Americans, all people across the world, mourned these serious tragedies. Yet, Ferris students felt obligated to attend class, altering the way we can express our mourning.

Apologies are due. Other universities, schools, and employers released their students and employees to grieve. Yet, Ferris has restricted our ability to share this empathy with the rest of the nation.

Sincerely,
Marcel M. Marecki

To the Editor:

I wanted to write a letter to share my disappointment with many of the Ferris students during last week’s tragedy. Countless times on both Tuesday and Friday, I overheard students complain that our University did not cancel classes, like “all the other universities” did. I was upset to realize just how selfish people can be. They should have been thankful they didn’t have a reason to miss class. They could have been on their way home to be with family after a relative was involved in the accident. Even worse, it could have been them in one of the buildings or in one of the airplanes.

In heartbreaking times such as these we should be mourning those lost, and doing what we can do to help others affected by the incidents, not putting ourselves first. So instead of wasting the breath to complain about something as petty as the University not canceling classes, be thankful to still be breathing.

Sincerely,
Mathew J. Eickhoff

Hi, I’m a resident in Travis Hall, and I’d like to see a story about the five different FIRE ALARM “disturbances” in the middle of the night for the past 2 weeks. I’m a little upset at how people can get away with this child-like prank that seriously disturbs not only Travis hall, but also in Merril. Every time it’s pulled, everyone has to stand outside for at least 30 minutes per pull. This is ridiculous, please print a story about this crap so it may have attention called to it.

Thanks.
Dan McMracken

I like the article about the empty beer bottles. I agree with everything you said there. It’s stupid how we pay $10,000 to come to a school but have to follow such lame rules that they give. A friend of mine, who is 21, has two beer bottles, which are shaped like bowling pins, sitting out in his room. Both bottles are full of beer and he was told that he can not have them sitting out.

I also like Ferris a lot, and I enjoy living in the dorms (still as a sophomore) but I think we shouldn’t have to follow such stupid rules. Quiet hour on weekends is especially a dumb rule, because no one studies on weekends (and from what I have seen so far, most the people on my floor don’t study at all).

The two years I have been at Ferris, I have gotten lucky enough to have RA’s who let us “underaged” students get away with certain things we shouldn’t be doing, which is one of the reasons we come to college. Most of us want to be on our own, but we have to listen to an RA yell at us for having our music up too loud past 10 o’clock on a Friday night, that basically defeats the feeling of freedom.

Students should make a list of rules up and present them to whoever makes the student handbook. Let the students make our own rules because that’s what you follow when you’re an adult, isn’t it?

Kreg