The Ferris State Torch NINETY YEARS OF ILLUMINATING THE TRUTH

Big Rapids, Michigan Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 www.fsutorch.com Examining Ferris’ Black history The story of the riots of 1969 and racism that led up to them

Editor’s Note: The Ferris State University campus except a couple” and at 9 p.m., the claims about “the inferiority of African Amer- Ferris’ increased effort to enroll archives were searched for photos from the protestors were met by state police who ar- icans,” according to Huey. more Black students. riots on campus in 1969. There are no offi- rested all of them on the charge of trespass- The overall curriculum at the time lacked “I think where we need to see more cial photos, according to University Archivist ing, loaded them onto a Ferris bus and took Black culture, which was another reason for change is continuing to look to the minority Melinda Isler, who speculated none were al- them to the local Armory. tension between the students of color and students to bring them into campus here,” lowed to be taken by the administration at According to Matlock, University of Mich- the administration. Huey said. “And you know, it’s a tough sell the time, for fear of bad press. igan professor and head of the Michigan The physical abuse was “standard prac- sometimes when you come to a predomi- NAACP Albert Wheeler contacted the then tice” according to Huey. In one instance, a nantly white, rural area in the state of Mich- Jerry Gaytan President of Ferris the next morning and con- Black couple was coming back to the dorms, igan. But I think what we can do to make Freelance Reporter vinced him of how bad this would look for the which were separated by men and women at things better, is [hire] more Black faculty and university. The protesters were then released. that time. After dropping his date off, the man more Black administrators.” During the spring of 1969, Ferris State “This was a major sense of empowerment was sprayed with an early version of mace, As a Black faculty member, business University was not exempt from the racial for students, it was recognition that there for no reason “other than that the young man professor Kasey Thompson said in order tensions that raged nationwide. were some problems and it put them on the was Black,” Huey stated. to be sensitive to issues of race, Ferris White students carried signs that read table,” Matlock said. “They would push black students off side- has to be intentional. “White Power” while shouting, “We shall over- Huey is currently conducting research on walks, they would follow young women down “It’s something that not just Ferris State come.” This was the boiling point on campus, the racial unrest at Ferris in 1969 with history the hall and they would raise their skirts with University, but all of us, bringing this acknowl- and riots broke out soon after. It was believed professor Christian Peterson and English pro- a broomstick handle just again, just things edgment that racial injustices still occur,” they started right outside of Miller Hall during fessor Sarah Rescoe — though this has been such as that, which ultimately led to a great Thompson said. “So, from my perspective, I a fire drill, when about 75 policemen from stalled due to COVID-19 deal of violence,” Huey said. “I think the main think it’s first having a universal acceptance four organizations swarmed campus. At the In their research thus far, they have de- takeaway was the students finally stood up, I and acknowledgment of the fact that, you time Ferris had an enrollment of 8,200 stu- tailed many instances of racism on campus think the Black students finally stood up and know, there are racial injustices that occur in dents, including 300 students identifying as leading up to the riots. took the stance, and that they just simply this country. people of color. “My thoughts are I am surprised it didn’t were not going to be willing to take this kind “And from that acceptance, also taking ac- These actions were a cry for help and to happen sooner, I am,” Huey said. “All three of treatment anymore. countability, and what we can do personally show there was change needed, and ac- of us were shocked by the level of racism, I “They were putting pressure on the admin- to address it, what Ferris can do to overtly put cording to history professor Gary Huey the guess maybe we shouldn’t have been. I think istration to do something about the racism forth effort in saying that there is an intoler- riot made national news. what was maybe most disturbing, was the that existed.” ance of racial injustices and setting forth an Racial tensions were rising much before level of racism among some of the adminis- Part of the escalation was due to a reac- intentional effort in ensuring that all of the that, though. tration at Ferris. And those I think, are very tionary administration at the time, accord- staff, all of the faculty, all of the students feel Two weeks prior to the riot, a group of 70 troubling aspects. Then just the harassment, ing to Huey. He believes that some of the safe, they feel welcomed, and they feel as if Black students set up a sit-in at the student that the Black students were forced to put up violence could have been avoided, had the they’re an equal part of the Ferris State Uni- center, which rose tensions on campus. This with on a daily basis, both men and women.” administration been more proactive about versity community.” sit-in was to protest the administration han- Huey said in their research they found addressing the racism on campus. dling of a situation involving a Black student the racism on campus was “obvious” in When Huey was hired at Ferris in 1986, Cora Hall contributed to the reporting of and a resident advisor in a dorm. both verbal and physical harassment. One he said there were still very few Black stu- this story. Former Ferris student John Matlock re- English class had a required reading of an dents. This is something he has seen change counted one of the sit-ins that took place on article that was “blatantly racist” and made over his years, and part of that was due to For a profile on John Matlock, check out our campus. He said that they took over Starr au- Black History Month insert in this edition. ditorium with “all of the Black students from Ferris approves $29.5 million virtual learning center Ferris State University’s Center December 2022. The Center for Vir- for Virtual Learning is another major tual Learning is expected to be ready step closer to reality. At its regular for occupancy in January 2023. meeting on Friday, Feb. 19, the uni- Board members also approved a versity’s Board of Trustees approved new Bachelor of Science in Artificial proceeding with the construction Intelligence in the College of Busi- of the $29.5 million main campus ness. Ferris envisions itself as being building. at the front of artificial intelligence Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, on Dec. degree-granting, where job growth 29, signed into law Public Act 257 has been 74 percent annually, rank- of 2020 to grant full authorization to ing it first among the top 15 emerging proceed with Ferris’ state of Michigan jobs in the U.S., according to a Linke- capital outlay project. The future Cen- dIn report. Primary areas of focus for ter for Virtual Learning will serve as a the new Artificial Intelligence degree centralized location to host the Infor- will be cybersecurity, the Internet of mation Security and Intelligence pro- Things, health care, business and gram, the School of Digital Media, the educational applications. Industry School of Education and eLearning at experts see AI as a necessary com- Ferris. The CVL will stand next to the plement to cybersecurity, thanks to FLITE library, at the current site of automation and general efforts to ad- Vandercook Hall, which will be razed. dress the increasing sophistication Construction is scheduled to begin and high volume of cyber-attacks. in May 2021 and continuing through Photo courtesy of Ferris State University

Got news? Let us know. Like us on facebook Follow us on Twitter Add us on instagram Follow us on tiktok Email: [email protected] Ferris state Torch @fsutorch fsutorch FsuTorch Phone: 231.591.5978 Connect with us on social media - Read articles online at www.fsutorch.com 2 News Week of Feb. 24 - March 2 ,2021 Ferris State Torch NEWS Noah Kurkjian | News Editor | [email protected] Expressing our deepest sympathies

Photo courtesy of Will Holden Photo courtesy of Phi Sigma Kappa Alisha Jaynes was on the Ferris State cheer team. Malik Kingsby was a member of Phi Sigma Kappa on campus.

Cora Hall, Noah Kurkjian selves at this very moment, we want to handle this in a way cherished memories and find the best way to remember Editor in Chief, News Editor that honors these students and their memory. Current and them as students, people and friends. former Torch staff members knew these students, and we The Personal Counseling Center is offering an informal The Ferris community is hurting right now, and the staff grieve their passing. grieving session for students on Thursday Feb. 26 at 11 a.m. of the Torch would like to extend our deepest sympathies to In the interest of remembering these students and pre- via zoom and personal appointments by request. Students the families and friends of Alisha Jaynes and Malik Kingsby. serving their dignity, we did not think it appropriate to rush who would like a personal appointment can reach out to As student journalists, we hope we never need to write to write stories about Alisha and Malik. Instead, we will com- the Personal Counseling Center at [email protected] or by about the death of fellow students. However, as we find our mit time and care to speaking with their friends to listen to phone (231) 591-5968.

NewsNews 3 Ferris State TorchFerris State Torch Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 THIS WEEK IN MICHIGAN NEWS Catch up on news around the state Noah Kurkjian News Editor

Sports shots. The Wolverines were able help propel their case in both the to keep up with the Buckeye Big Ten and National standings. ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The No. 3 high powered three-point attack, They were able to achieve this ranked Michigan Wolverines bas- shooting 48% on the night. with a big game from junior for- Capitol Update Arbor. Shortly after her trans- ketball team took on archrival No. Grand Rapids native Duane ward Aaron Henry, who scored 27 plant, it was discovered that the 4 Ohio State in arguably the game Washington led both teams in points in the contest. LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Whitmore lungs she received were infected of the year. The Wolverines were scoring, putting up 30 points on At multiple points in the game is set to appear before the U.S. with COVID-19. The surgeon also successfully in their arena take 12/18 shooting for Ohio State. the Hoosiers were able to go up Senate committee hearing on tested positive after the proce- over against the Buckeyes, beat- E.J. Liddell was second in scoring by as much as nine points, earn- infrastructure. The topic for the dure. ing Ohio State 92 - 87. with 23 points on 7 - 15 shooting. ing an 88.9%-win probability with hearing is “Building Back Better: Freshman center Hunter Dick- This win practically solidifies 12:59 left in the second half after Investing in Transportation while Mich. – Michigan’s secretary of inson led the Wolverines in scor- the No. 1 seed for the Wolverines taking a 48 - 39 lead on Michigan Addressing Climate Change, Im- state will begin offering easier ing with 22 points. He also led as they close the season against State. proving Equity, and Fostering license and state ID renew ser- the team in rebounds with nine. Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, and two Sophomore guard Joshua Economic Growth and Innova- vices starting in March. They Senior guard Eli Brooks was sec- games against Michigan State. Langford was the second leading tion." This comes as Biden is plan to expand their online ond in scoring with 17 points off scorer for the Spartans, putting expected to unveil a large plan self-service portal and allow for of nine shots, hitting three out EAST LANSING, Mich. – The Spar- up 14 points off of 5 - 6 shooting. for infrastructure in the coming renewals at their 135 Meijer of four three pointers. Senior tans tried to make their case Junior forward Gabe Brown also weeks. and Kroger registration renew- guard Chaundee Brown was the for postseason play with a win scored 14 points, shooting 5 - 11 al kiosks. The original renewal lead scorer off the bench with 15 against Indiana, beating the Hoo- from the field. ANN ARBOR, Mich. – A woman by mail service is still available, points off of 23 minutes played. siers in Indiana 78 - 71. died after she received a double however, a spokesperson for The Wolverines were efficient On the outside looking in for lung transplant at University of SOS advised that those renew- scoring, notching a field goal per- the NCAA Tournament in March, Michigan Medical School in Ann ing by mail should expect delays. centage of 53%, hitting 31/58 the Spartans needed a win to

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- ON THE RECORD - WANTED A roundup of this week’s crime at Ferris State University EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Identity theft is not a joke, Jim

Ferris State Torch Noah Kurkjian fraud department of the Unemploy- 2021 - 2022 SCHOOL YEAR: News Editor ment Insurance Agency’s fraud de- We are seeking an organized student (enrolled in at least six credit hours) for the Edi- partment for further investigation. tor-in-Chief position during the 2021 - 22 school year. Candidates must write well, possess Identity theft excellent leadership skills and be prepared to work the entire school year. Candidates should Feb. 18, 9:22 a.m., a suspect Update on “Pending Charges on be familiar with basic journalistic principles, as well as printed and digital publishing tech- was caught stealing the personal Big Rapids racist stalker” niques. Qualified students can receive competitive wages for up to 20 hours per week. Ability information of two Ferris employ- According to Ferris DPS, warrants ees in an attempt to submit unem- have been issued for the arrest of to work and train in April and August of 2021 is necessary. Prior journalism experience or ployment claims in their names. the suspect in the investigation. training required. This case was handed off to the

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Certified Mechanics on Staff SEND RESUME, ESSAY AND CLIPPINGS TO: Locally Owned and Operated Garrett Stack at [email protected] FREE ESTIMATES North End of Town DEADLINE: Wednesday, March 10, 2021 1204 N. State St. Big Rapids, MI 592-1204 4 News Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Ferris State Torch A failover fail Pharmacy students give back What happened with the campus-wide network outage?

Jessica Oakes campus, it was difficult for News Reporter members inside the network to send updates, and mem- Ferris’ main campus expe- bers outside to receive them. rienced a network blackout “We monitor our networks from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm on and systems. We received text Feb. 2. To prevent future out- messages that the main cam- ages, the IT department is pus network was down, and working with technology ven- this helped us start work on dor Merit Network on future the issue immediately,” Kone- fail-safes. ru said. “Students, faculty and Merit Network is an Ann Ar- staff working from home didn't bor based nonprofit organiza- see that we were down imme- tion that provides Ferris with diately.” fiber pipelines. High speed Even in intense situations network connection known as such as this one, Koneru en- broadband is carried through sures that there is no “panic Photo Spectrum Health Big Rapids these pipelines all over the mode.” All the workers of IT re- Spectrum Health RN Tina Malcolm administers a vaccine to Sandy May at Spectrum’s COVID-19 vaccine clinic. university. main calm and follow specific Bhavani Koneru, Chief protocol. Technology Officer of Ferris’ “When IT gets this kind of Students volunteer to help administer the 27,335 IT department, has explained critical stuff, we know exact- that the incident can be at- ly who should be getting it,” vaccines given in Mecosta County tributed to a router error. Koneru said. “There was a problem with She received reports from Rebecca VanderKooi at vaccine clinics. She has worked in both a first and sec- one of the pipelines that the Merit every ten minutes with- News Reporter ond dose clinic. vendor was fixing. But, at that in the span of four hours and After the first dose she observed that some patients critical point, the main cam- provided regular updates. Ferris pharmacy students have been volunteering at had arm soreness, which is common with all intramuscu- the District Health Department’s COVID-19 vaccine clin- lar injections including the flu shot. pus was supposed to be failed To Koneru, the most import- ics. “With second doses [the reaction is] like 50/50. Some over to a different pipeline,” ant thing to maintain in an Bethanie Dean is the immunization coordinator with people will have mild headache, tiredness, fatigue a little Koneru said. emergency is communication District Health Department No. 10, which includes the bit of soreness, maybe a sore throat,” Aljajawi said. In computing, a router is with the university. IT provid- Crawford, Kalkaska, Lake, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Despite a few mild adverse effects, Aljajawi explained used to failover the network ed recurring messages to the Missaukee, Newaygo, Oceana and Wexford counties. that overall, most patients getting the vaccines were in- connection to a secondary one Ferris community through Fer- She explained that Ferris houses the vaccines for these credibly appreciative. in case of primary connection ris IT Alerts during the outage. 10 counties, and 27,335 vaccines have been adminis- Aljajawi was also quick to point out that often the ef- fails. When the primary con- One of the IT employees re- tered to date. fects she’s witnessed are signs that the vaccine is doing nection fails for any reason, sponsible for the network sent “Students and volunteers have been a huge help and its job. a wonderful addition to our clinics. We appreciate having “It’s just your immune response, so your body is say- the network is to be automati- hourly university updates from them work with us and be a part of this historical time,” ing, ‘I’ve seen this before, and I’m going to get it this cally failed over, or toggled, to his cell phone hot spot. Dean said. time,’ so really it tells us that the vaccine [is] working,” a backup connection. By 1:30 pm, the system One of the students who has been involved with vac- Aljajawi said. “Even if you don’t have that reaction, it Despite thorough testing, had successfully failed over cine distribution is Veronica Mills, who is in her second doesn’t mean the vaccine isn’t working. It just means the failover did not take place from the primary to the sec- year of pharmacy school. She explained that it’s manda- that your body didn’t have that immune response.” automatically on Feb. 2. En- ondary line. tory to get certified to administer vaccines when enrolled Aljajawi emphasized the importance of continued gineers from Merit Network After the system had been in the pharmacy program. mask and social distancing protocols even as more peo- and IT had to work together fixed, engineers performed “There’s like 6 hours of pre-work, then an 8-hour live ple get vaccinated. One reason for this is because scien- to identify and solve the issue several more tests. Koneru session and, at the end, you have to show the preceptors tists don’t yet know if the virus can be carried by people 3 intramuscular and 1 subcutaneous injection,” Mills who have been vaccinated. while they manually routed stated that plans for further said. “If we get everyone vaccinated faster, then we can the connection. testing are in the works, as Because she was already certified, it made sense for slowly move back to normal life, which I think everyone “The router was corrupt- well as a joint effort with Merit her to give back to the community by volunteering at the wants to get back to,” Aljajawi said. ed during the outage, so [IT to ensure a stable connection. vaccine clinics. Both Aljajawi and Mills intend to continue volunteering worked with] the vendor in “As a contingency plan, I “I’ve worked both a first dose and a second dose clinic at vaccine clinics. According to the Health Department, solving and fixing the issue have asked my engineers to and used the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine. Both of the the clinics will continue at least through the summer. with the router,” Koneru said. put in periodic testing and clinics went very smoothly, and all the patients were very “Based on the state's prediction, the general popula- Because the outage affected toggling of the signal,” Koneru thankful,” Mills said. tion could expect to start getting vaccinated towards the the network across the entire said. Sarah Aljajawi is another second-year pharmacy stu- end of summer. This all depends on... how fast the state dent who has been volunteering her time on weekends can vaccinate other priority groups,” Dean said.

2021 MAY Saturday, May 1, 2021 COMMENCEMENT Virtual Commencement College Contact Phone # Location Saturday, May 1, 2021 at 9:00am Health Professions Richelle Williams (231) 591-2263 VFS 210 Arts, Sciences & Education Gayle Driggers (231) 591-3666 ASC 3052 Ceremony 1 Michigan College of Optometry Business (Undergrad Students) Carri Griffis (231) 591-2493 BUS 200 College of Health Professions Business (Graduate Students) Shannon Yost (231) 591-2168 BUS 200E Engineering Technology Joyce Mudel (231) 591-3983 JHN 200 Ceremony 2 College of Pharmacy General Studies Graduates Shelly VandePanne (231) 591-2360 ASC 1017 Doctorate in Community College Leadership Optometry Michelle Balliet (231) 591-3700 MCO 231 College of Arts, Sciences and Education Pharmacy Karen Ottobre (231) 591-2252 PHR 201 University College DCCL Megan Biller (231) 591-2710 ALU 113 Ceremony 3 College of Business like us on Note: You must satisfy all of your degree requirements before you officially graduate and receive your diploma. Caps and Gowns, may be purchased at the Ferris State University Bookstore (located in the University Center , 805 Campus Drive, Ceremony 4 College of Engineering Technology facebook at Big Rapids MI 49307) or online at https://ferris.shopoakhalli.com and have it shipped to you (a shipping fee will be charged). Diploma Cover & Alumni Pin Pick up – For those Graduate who selected yes to The deadline to order for Undergraduate and Graduate degrees shipping through the website is April 16th. walk you may pick up your diploma cover and Alumni Pin during the following Commencement Electronic Program – Graduates must complete their online graduation application by Friday, February 19, times in the University Center on main campus in Room 123. Ferris State 2021 for their names to appear in the Spring 2021 Commencement Program or their name will not appear in the 3/2 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 3/9 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Commencement Program. 3/4 10:00 am – 4:00 pm 3/11 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Virtual Commencement Slide – To personalize your slide please visit Virtual Commencement at https://www.ferris.edu/HTMLS/current/Commencement/virtualcommencement.htm. An Online Graduation Application For special accommodations or for more information regarding Torch must be completed in order for your name to appear in the virtual ceremony. Information for personalizing your slide must be the Commencement ceremony, please visit the Commencement submitted by the end of the day on Wednesday, March 10th. website www.ferris.edu/commencement or call (231) 591-3803. Opinions 56 Ferris State Torch Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 OPINIONS Cora Hall| Editor in Chief | [email protected] The Ferris State Torch is published on 27 Wednesdays throughout the academic year. This student-run newspaper EDITOR’S COLUMN: Taking a hard look at ourselves is printed by The Pioneer Group. By Cora Hall OUR LOCATION Alumni Building 013 410 Oak Street Ever since I took over as Editor in Chief, I think some of the important questions we my staff to. I am not saying we are perfect, but Ferris State University Big Rapids, MI 49307 increasing the diversity in our coverage has could ask ourselves are: whose voices are we I am saying that this is an expectation I hold fsutorch.com/letter-to-the-editor/ been at the forefront of my mind. giving a platform to and should we be giving a for our paper and this is something we think I’ve been working for this newspaper since platform to who we are? Who are we choosing about now. The Ferris State Torch I was a freshman in the fall of 2017. When I to interview for certain stories and why? Are The other part of this is making sure we are welcomes comments on topics of joined, there was only two other students of there efforts being made to meaningfully tell not tokenizing people of color in our coverage. interest to the general readership. Letters should not exceed 300 words color besides myself, and neither of them were the stories and uplift the voices of our students We shouldn’t just be interviewing people of in length and The Torch reserves the in editorial positions. One of them went on to of color? color for stories we think pertain to them—we right to edit for length. Letters will not eventually be our multimedia editor and is still I think that’s an area we have fallen short in, should be interviewing them in all different be edited for grammar, punctuation one of my good friends. in the past, asking ourselves these questions kinds of contexts. We cannot only interview or spelling. The Torch will not print But, while I didn’t notice it then, there and making a conscious effort as a result our Black students about the Black Lives letters deemed to be libelous or obscene. All letters must be signed was very little intentional effort made towards of our answers. And it’s not as though the Matter movement. We should be interviewing by their authors and include his or increasing diversity in our coverage. We had intention was the opposite, or we had racist them about their thoughts on politics, univer- her phone number. the practice of taking headshots of the people staff members. But I don’t think there was a sity news and lifestyle pieces. Do you see the Unsigned editorials appearing we interviewed back then, and let me tell you, concerted effort towards diversity and it just difference? on this page are the opinion of The a lot of them were white. perpetuated the same coverage of white stu- Representation matters so deeply, and if Torch and do not necessarily repre- sent the opinion of the university’s And I get it, the Ferris community is predom- dents and mainly white student voices in the all of our students cannot see themselves in administration, faculty or staff. inantly white, no matter how much the univer- newspaper. our paper, are we really a student newspaper Signed columns represent the opin- sity pushes for greater diversity. That’s part of the reason why I pushed for us that represents the student body? I don’t think ion of the writer. Inquiries regarding But as a student newspaper, we have to to dedicate our monthly insert to Black History we are. editorial content should be directed examine our intentions and how our coverage Month and delegate four full pages to Ferris’ If there is one lasting impression I can leave to the Editor in Chief at (231) 591-5978. impacts our audience, especially those in Black history and students. It’s why I focused on my staff, it is the importance of making marginalized communities. We have to take on stories to elevate our Black athletes’ voices conscious efforts towards increasing represen- To advertise with the Torch, contact a hard look at who we hire and promote and whenever I contribute to our sports section. tation in our staff and our coverage as a whole. Danette Doyle at the Pioneer Group: how diversity in the newsroom impacts our To me, this is not an option — it’s a stan- (231) 592-8391. coverage. dard, and one I put every effort into holding [email protected]

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BigRapids, Rapids, MI MI 49307, 49307 or or by c alltelephone/email (231) 591-2150. at (231) 591-2088 KaitlinZies@ Cassidy Jessup Alyssa Myers ferris.edu or to a Deputy Title IX Coordinator, including the Director of Equal Brandon Newman Opportunity, as above; the Extended and International Operations Director of Social Media Hannah Kinlaw Inquiries or complaints of discrimination may be addressed to Manager Student Services, 151 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or by telephone/ Veronica Mascorro Distributor 4. Email your opinion to the editor for a chance emailthe at Direc (616)tor 643-5741 of Equal [email protected]; Opportunity, 120 Eas andt Cedarthe KCAD St., Dean Big of Rebecca Vanderkooi to have your work published in our next issue! StudentRapids Success,, MI 49307, 17 Fountain or by St. telephone NW, Grand Rapids,at (231) MI 591-2152;49503 or by telephone/or Title Podcast Manager Marissa Russell Adviser emailIX Coordinator, at (616) 259-1113 805 [email protected]. Campus Dr., Big Rapids, MI 49307, or by Garrett Stack telephone at (231) 591-2088. On the KCAD Grand Rapids Visual Content (231) 591 - 5869 Other inquiries or complaints of discrimination may be addressed to the Director Dylan Bowden ofc Equalampus, Opportunity, contact asthe above. Title IX Deputy Coordinator, 17 Fountain Becca Witkowski Deadline for submissions every Friday by 5 p.m. UpdatedSt., Grand August Rapids, 13, 2020 MI 49503, (616) 451-2787 ext. 1113. Special Editions Cora Hall | Editor-in-Chief | Email: [email protected] Editor Noah Kurkjian 6 Opinions Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Ferris State Torch He loves me, he loves me not Is it better to have loved and lost, or to have not loved at all?

realize that Tennyson raises a good point: matic love, puppy love, or true love, all are You mustn’t expect to find lasting love failed relationships improve us more than versions of life-shaping epiphanies. the first time around -- it takes practice. Melina Talentino Freelance Reporter we’d like to admit. What happens when you really get to Losing a love may feel like losing a piece of According to a study published by Sage know someone and you begin to see all yourself, when in reality, you will gain undis- Journals in 2011, the biggest regret on their flaws? Are these flaws things you covered fragments of your personality and I think most people have been there, most Americans’ minds is actually romantic. can accept, like not closing the cap on the expectations that you didn’t even realize sobbing into their Ben & Jerry’s, watching This study was conducted by University of toothpaste? Or are they more serious, like were there. Once you grasp the idea that “Pride and Prejudice” after getting dumped Illinois' Mike Morrison and Northwestern being told you can’t talk to the opposite sex settling is unnecessary on a planet with for the third time in your twenties (not that University's Neal Roese. They surveyed 370 without your partner getting really jealous? nearly 8 billion people, the world is your it’s happened to me). You can’t help but adults who were asked to detail their big- I believe that devastations are the prelimi- oyster. You cannot expect the wrong people wonder when you will find your Mr. Darcy gest regret. Almost 20 percent of those nary experience to contentment. You must to love you the right way. Do not give up on while you continue to get your heart broken surveyed cited romantic regret as their endure what you don’t want in order to dis- love, even if the love you thought was forev- by men you lowered your standards for then primary regret, the largest of all categories. cover what you do. er is over. Be vulnerable. Give your heart the fell in love with anyway. The most interesting aspect of this study In doing this, you are given the opportu- chance to try again. Is the well-known quote from Alfred, Lord is that most said their romantic regret had nity to decide what you accept and expect So, is it better to have loved and lost than Tennyson, "'Tis better to have loved and lost something to do with what they didn’t do as from the people in your life. No failed rela- never to have loved at all? Yes, that I am than never to have loved at all" just some- opposed to what they did. tionship is a failure because we learn from absolutely certain of. Healthy love exists. thing people say to make the broken-heart- We must ask ourselves, was the heart- them what we are willing to compromise on The pain of loss does not overshadow the ed feel better? break worth the momentary happiness? and when something strays too far from our gratification of love, it instead makes it all My instinct used to call bullshit on this. Although amorous despair is difficult to get own core values. Time will bring clarity on the more valuable. How could romantic sorrow possibly be past, it’s important when moving onto future this, as it may be impossible to recognize He was not your Darcy, he was just anoth- better than a blissfully ignorant heart? But relationships. Whether you’ve endured trau- this in the moment. er Wickham. with time and understanding, I’ve come to We can be upset about cultural appropriation Find something to love within your own culture

those same parts. Self hatred is prevalent in the Black believe, AAVE is not a form of internet slang. AAVE goes back community. to the Atlantic slave trade. A popular theory is that AAVE is Alyssa Myers Don’t you wonder why that is? It’s because American the result of the contact between enslaved Africans, inden- Copy Editor society conditions people into believing that there is one tured servants and slave owners. A common misconception way to be and if you don’t fit inside that mold then you’re is that AAVE speakers are uneducated. defective, unattractive and unwanted. Not everyone is What I’m trying to say is that today many non-Black Black culture is beautiful and it has slowly evolved into secure with themselves and their differences, so they fall people on the internet adopt and integrate AAVE words and what it is today. Some parts developed out of necessity victim to this flawed ideology. phrases into their vocabulary and think nothing of it. It’s and some out of sheer creativity. It is something that I am That is why you cannot appropriate someone else’s cul- “trendy” now. While there is a whole group of Black people proud of. Which makes it all the more upsetting when I see ture. If you don’t belong to that group than it’s a costume who speak AAVE because that’s natural for them and they non-Black people take it, manipulate it and try to pass it off that you can put on and take off whenever you please. But get labeled as “ghetto” or “unintelligent”. In fact, it is very as their own. I’m not saying that you can’t be interested in to the people in that group it can be both a source of pride common for AAVE users to switch to standard English, or Black culture or see it as beautiful. You can appreciate a and a liability. You don’t get to pick and choose because code switch, when speaking to someone outside of their culture without appropriating it. I do it all the time. we don’t. minority group in order to avoid these judgements and have One of the things I find most frustrating about the appro- Take African American Vernacular English (AAVE) for equal opportunities. priation of Black culture is the fact that non-Black people example. There are arguments over whether it’s a dialect or The line between appreciation and appropriation can will embrace certain parts of the Black experience, while a language, but many agree that AAVE cannot be classified be hard to discern at times, but that doesn’t excuse your there are Black people who hate themselves because of as a form of broken standard English because it isn’t stan- ignorance when you engage in behaviors that are blatant- dard English at all. Contrary to what many on the internet ly disrespectful.

Want to write for the Torch but don’t have the time every week? The Torch is now accepting freelance articles! Pitch your story idea to our Editor in Chief, Cora Ferris State University TORCH Hall. If we like your story we’ll send you out to Truth, fairness and accuracy since 1931 report and write, and if we publish it, you’ll get paid.

Email [email protected] for more information or to pitch at story! A Ferris State Torch special edition

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH A lifelong commitment John Matlock speaks on social justice, his time at Ferris & working with Rosa Parks

Alyssa Myers state police came in, loaded them onto a Copy Editor Ferris State University bus and took them to the Lake Guard armory. The next day, Albert Detroit native John Matlock boasts an ex- Wheeler, the state president of the National pansive repertoire of knowledge, work and Association for the Advancement of Colored life experiences, but it didn’t always look like People, came and cautioned that suspend- he was going to live the life he has. ing all the Black students would be a bad When Matlock was 16 years old, he look. The charges against them were soon dropped out of high school and found him- dropped. self working in a Detroit auto factory for four “I remember [John] McNamara saying, years. While he was there, he connected ‘You guys think you accomplished some- with laborers who had been there for de- thing, but now what do you do?' And that cades. They called him “young blood” and remained with me,” Matlock said, regarding encouraged him to go to college so that he the advisor for the Torch at the time. didn’t follow their path. Matlock notes that the civil rights move- This got Matlock thinking, and he decid- ment empowered Black students on cam- ed that he wanted to do something better. pus. There was a proliferation of student In response, he got his GED, applied to Fer- organizations. He himself went on to be- ris State University and was accepted and come president of Alpha Phi Alpha and the enrolled in the spring of 1968. When he first Black Editor-In-Chief of the Ferris State stepped off the bus at Brophy Hall, all he Torch. It also opened their eyes to the reality had with him was a footlocker that carried that there were problems at the university. his life's possessions. After Matlock graduated with his Bache- Leading up to this moment, Matlock had lor's in business administration from Ferris, grown up and come of age under the civil he secured an internship with the Detroit rights movement, and it would continue to Free Press. He then completed a Master's impact him for the rest of his life. degree in journalism and a PhD in higher “Another reason why I left Detroit — it was education administration from the Universi- after the riots. And I said, ‘Man I got to get ty of Michigan. out of here.' Because I knew that if I hung He spent a decade serving as chief of staff around there, I would probably get in a lot of for U.S. Representative John Conyers Sr. of trouble,” Matlock said. Detroit and U.S. Representative Harold Ford One of the first activities Matlock got ac- Sr. of Tennessee. He started out working for tive in at Ferris was the Torch. He started Ford, but a desire to get back and connect out in the sports section, and one of his first with Detroit brought him to Conyers. assignments was to cover a football game. While he ran Conyers' office, he worked “I didn’t know how to type or anything; I with civil rights activist Rosa Parks. just wrote everything out longhand. [I] violat- “I was so fascinated with Ms. Parks. Ms. ed every principle of journalism, because I Parks would ask me, ‘Is it okay if I don’t had never had a journalism course or any- come into work tomorrow, because I have thing. And lo and behold, after they pub- something to do?' And I’d sit there and say, lished the story, they asked me if I wanted ‘Why is Ms. Parks asking me? Ms. Parks Photo courtesy of John Matlock to become sports editor,” Matlock said. could do whatever she wanted,'” Matlock John Matlock started his journey at Ferris in 1968 and participated in the sit-ins on campus. 1968 was the year Martin Luther King Jr. said. was killed. Around that time, there were a He remembers that everyone in the of- “I think one of the things COVID-19 has arrested and being loaded on the bus. All few protests taking place at the University fice had a deep respect and admiration for demonstrated is that there are still vast dif- of that accumulates, and it's something you of Michigan, so the students at Ferris decid- Parks and describes her as a soft-spoken ferences in terms of economic ratio, racial have to be fully committed to at all times.” ed to have their own. They took over Starr person who could speak no words and still inequality, health and education,” Matlock Though he has now retired, Matlock is auditorium. make an impact. said. “It’s a never ending story. I always still devoted to this duty. Once the building closed at 9 p.m., they During their time together, Parks taught used to tell students, 'You're actually in this Matlock will be hosting a conversation on were officially labeled as trespassers, and Matlock valuable lessons. She had a life- for life. You may do things differently, but you over zoom through the Office of Multicultural they were arrested. The entire Black student long commitment to social change, and she still have to have a commitment to social Student Services 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 25. population of around 230 at Ferris — with always found a way to be involved. justice and social change.' All those accu- See our online version for the zoom link. the exception of a few — were still there. The mulate ... Starting at Ferris, with us getting

What’s inside Delta Sigma Theta becomes ‘Still we climb’: comparing Biden makes promises for ra- Black exellence in Ferris active on campus again Amanda Gorman and Maya cial equity in executive order athletics’ history Angelou’s poetry pg. 2 pg. 3 pg. 3 pg. 4 2 Black History Month Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Ferris State Torch Delta’s return to campus after seven years

Photo courtesy of Kalisa Williams Photo courtesy of Adrienne Anderson Photo courtesy of Ellyse Ghoston Pre-pharmacy senior Kalisa Williams is the president of Delta Adrienne Anderson poses with her father, who is a member of Delta Sigma Theta vice president Ellyse Ghoston joined because of Sigma Theta. Kappa Alpha Psi, another Divine Nine organization. her family ties to Divine Nine organizations.

Women of Delta Sigma Theta reflect on family ties, sorority history

Cora Hall knew that that was something that I wanted “I think it's good for us to see how our will always be a part of it and our history Editor in Chief to be part of,” Ghoston said. mentors, what they did and how they men- stands on it.” For pre-pharmacy senior Kalisa Williams, tor us for when it's time for us to do it again,” Delta Sigma Theta was founded on Jan. When Adrienne Anderson walked onto the sorority has given her sisters that she Ghoston said. “I definitely think that all of 13, 1913 at Howard University by 22 wom- Ferris’ campus in 2017, Delta Sigma Theta never had growing up. Williams, whose fam- us want to have that impact on someone. en. According to the official Delta Sigma had been inactive since 2013. ily didn’t grow up going to college, didn’t Even if it's a person who's older than us, or Theta website, these women aimed to “use It was a reality that scared her, not having know anything about someone who's younger their collective strength to promote academ- a Divine Nine sorority active on campus for Greek life until Ander- than us. To just have ic excellence and to provide assistance to her to join. It’s a part of her family history, son approached her that impact, that those in need.” according to the nursing senior. Growing up, about joining Delta positive impact Delta is one of the Black Greek Letter Anderson had seen her father continue to Sigma Theta. for them, even Organizations in the Divine Nine, several of be a part of and make impacts through his “Going if they de- which were founded at Howard University. fraternity, and it was something she knew i n t o c i d e BLGO’s were founded “due to the trials and she wanted to be a part of. tribulations that many Black people were “When I heard the first whiff of wind that facing,” according to the NAACP Connect Delta Sigma Theta was coming back — and website. Black students were often banned that's the sorority I knew I wanted to do — from joining social organizations, and so I was so excited and I jumped right on it throughout the beginning of the 1900s, and did what I had to do and here I am,” the Divine Nine were founded. Anderson said. Williams, Ghoston and Anderson all Anderson’s line, named “Waiting to ex- feel a sense of pride being associated with cel,” has eight members and reactivated the a Divine Nine organization and its famous sorority on campus for the first time in seven alumni, such as poet Maya Angelou, Vice years. The process of picking members for President Kamala Harris and the late ac- new lines of sisters, while Anderson could this, not to tress Cicely Tyson. not go into detail, involves picking women I did join Del- “Even though I'm not an AKA, seeing how who are representative of the values of Del- not know ta, to just to far Kamala (Harris) went and her goals, be- ta Sigma Theta and carry on the traditions anybody, only have that impact cause she's (Divine Nine), we're all proud,” the founders envisioned. person that I knew on them that you Anderson said. “It is a very much so a sense For Anderson, joining Delta Sigma Theta was Adrienne because know you can do this, of pride, because we all share pretty much has given her a deeper bond with her father, we had played basket- you can get through the same history … So, to see somebody who is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi. ball together,” Williams college. You know that go through different struggles that African “I'm finally in a position where I can tru- said. “So it was just lit- there's somebody be- Americans typically go through, be able to ly understand what it's like, because now I erally me and her in the hind you at all times reach office, a high level of office, and then have the experience. I mean, granted not beginning and from then you're not alone.” be the first African American woman to do as many years as he does,” Anderson said. on, once we first met each Another significant part of that? Oh, I can do that too and she's a men- “But now, I can see firsthand what he has other, everybody kind of Delta for Ghoston is the history tor to me, even though she's not Delta.” experienced and what he goes through and connected on a level that I was of the sorority and Divine Nine orga- Anderson said Black History Month is al- it's an amazing experience. It brings us – I like ‘alright, we got this, this nizations. Ghoston’s favorite piece of ways a time of reflection, and now it’s a time mean, that's my father, so we're already my sister.’ And from then on, Delta history is their involvement for her to dive into her sorority’s history. close – but definitely closer because we can it's been great, all the relation- in the women’s suffrage move- “We're about to do this event where all have those conversations about what our ships that I have in my sisters is ment. The sorority’s first public my sorority sisters that are on campus are history was, or how our organization or fra- amazing.” act after its founding was par- going to pretend to be a famous delta,” An- ternity started, or anything along those lines Williams, now the president of ticipating in the Women’s Suf- derson said. “So that gives us an opportu- is definitely giving me an inside look as to the sorority, was unsure of taking on frage March in Washington D.C. in nity to learn about somebody we typically what like greek life brings.” the responsibility at first. She credits March of 1913. haven't known or seen in the history books The values of sisterhood, scholarship and her sisters and prophytes for their support “I think our history is a main part of who or there's a movie on, but that gives us a service were ones that were modeled for as she learned her new position. Prophytes, we are and will always be a part of who we chance to enhance our knowledge on peo- elementary education senior and vice presi- the Delta alumni, act as mentors to many are as an organization,” Ghoston said. “We ple that have come before us. I think that dent Ellyse Ghoston by her aunts, who were current Deltas. Mentorship is an important stand on sisterhood, scholarship and ser- it really gives us an opportunity to just dive in Delta Sigma Theta as well. function for the sorority, according to Ghos- vice. Those are some of our main things and deeper into our history.” “I kind of grew up, just watching my aunts ton and Williams. that is something that we will always do, we all that they did through Delta, and I just Graphic by: Charlie Zitta | Production Manager Black History MonthBlack History Month 3 Ferris State TorchFerris State Torch Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Still we climb

Graphic by: Charlie Zitta | Production Manager The poetic excellence of Amanda Gorman and Maya Angelou

As great artists do, Gorman offers respite from the harsh- “Still I Rise” is about being personally resilient against all ness of life in her work. This practice did not come easy, odds. Angelou embodied this all throughout her life, using Jessica Oakes News Reporter however. While it may be hard to believe, Gorman was born literature as a vehicle through hardship. with a speech disorder and related auditory processing According to respectability.org, Angelou was selectively issues. This made it difficult for her to pronounce certain mute for five years of her childhood following a traumatic sounds, such as the letter ‘R.’ To overcome this, Gorman sexual assault, and subsequent murder of the assailant. “We will rise from the gold-limbed hills of the west. would recite the song “Aaron Burr, Sir,” a piece filled with the She believed her voice was a weapon and refused to use We will rise from the windswept northeast, sound, from the musical Hamilton. it. During this time, Angelou absorbed and memorized lit- where our forefathers first realized revolution. Gorman’s passionate, colorful, and melodic recitation of erature. We will rise from the lake-rimmed cities of the midwestern “The Hill We Climb” was reminiscent of another poetic work Both Angelou and Gorman show exceptional artistry in states. of art: “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou. their words, and they both have addressed the nation as We will rise from the sunbaked south. inaugural poets. For President Bill Clinton’s 1993 inaugu- We will rebuild, reconcile and recover.” “Leaving behind nights of terror and fear, ration, Angelou recited “On the Pulse of Morning.” She was I rise. not only the first Black person to do the honors, but the first “The Hill We Climb” by Amanda Gorman Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear, woman as well. This type of representation is important to I rise. young artists. The sentiment of 22-year-old poet Amanda Gorman Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, “Seeing Angelou’s star in the sky made my faraway echoed through both the streets of the United States Cap- I am the dream and the hope of the slave. dreams seem all the less remote,” Gorman said to NBC itol, and the hearts of listeners. On Jan. 20, Gorman per- I rise News. formed “The Hill We Climb” as the inaugural poet for Presi- I rise As a writer and a woman myself, I admire both of these dent Joe Biden. I rise.” poets. Their commitment to language, and ability to inspire Inspired by a desire for peace and unity following the others is remarkable. I believe Black History Month is a won- 2021 storming of the United States Capitol, Gorman wrote “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou derful time to direct the spotlight to these women, among this poem in only one week. Themes of hope, endurance, many other influential figures. As a white person, I believe and, most importantly, rising saturated every line. Published in the 1978 book And Still I Rise, this poem de- there is importance in cementing their voices into the con- “I think a lot of times in cultures, we think of the ways in tails a different sort of rising. Independence. While Gorman versation year-round. which we can cleanse ourselves with water. I think of the wrote to rally the masses in the name of harmony towards After a year of potent suffering felt around the world, may ways that we can cleanse ourselves with words,” Gorman a bright future, Angelou puts this power into walking alone Gorman and Angelou’s words be a reminder of strength and said to Daily Show host Trevor Noah. towards a future so uncertain. light to us all.

President Joe Biden signs executive Looking forward federally orders for racial equity

Rebecca VanderKooi 1. The first of these orders is for the De- “To decrease incarceration levels, we 4. The fourth order is to “combat Xeno- News Reporter partment of Housing and Urban Develop- must reduce profit-based incentives to in- phobia Against Asian American and Pacific ment to advance fair housing. In the order carcerate by phasing out the federal govern- Islanders.” The intent of this order is to com- On Jan. 20, Joe Biden was inaugurated Biden explained that the goal of this order is ment's reliance on privately operated crimi- bat anti-Asian discrimination, bullying and as the 46th president of the United States. to stop discrimination for any reason regard- nal detention facilities,” Biden wrote. harassment that has increased in this past Since taking office he’s signed dozens of ex- ing housing and "to take steps necessary to year due to the pandemic. ecutive orders, including some dealing with redress racially discriminatory federal hous- 3. The third order is to reaffirm the fed- racial equity. ing policies.” eral government’s "commitment to tribal “It also directs the Department of Justice “Equal opportunity is the fundamental sovereignty and consultation." In this order, to partner with AAPI communities to pre- promise of America. But systemic racism 2. Another order is for the Department of Biden plans for the Federal Government to vent hate crimes and harassment against and discrimination in our economy, laws Justice to end its use of private prisons. This communicate with tribal leaders in commu- AAPIs,” the White House website said. and institutions have put the promise of is a step towards police reform after the kill- nities such as American Indian and Alaskan America out of reach for too many families ing of George Floyd in May of 2020 and the Native Tribes. The goal of this order is “em- of color,” the White House website said be- subsequent protests to end police brutality powering self-determination, and advancing fore listing four of the orders Biden signed. and systemic racism. racial justice for Native communities,” wrote Biden. 4 Black History Month Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Ferris State Torch Black excellence in Ferris athletics Read about five of Ferris’ most decorated Black athletes in the Hall of Fame

Brendan Sanders mark (528). A three-time NAIA Bills in 1994. He also started as Sports Editor All-District 23 pick, Johnson was a an inside linebacker for the New three-time Bulldog Most Valuable England Patriots in 1996. Some of Ferris States' greatest Player. After his career in the NFL end- athletes are Black, with 19 players Johnson was drafted by the ed, Brown became known for his listed in the Bulldog Hall of Fame NBA's Detroit Pistons and the time with both WWE ECW brand, being Black. It is great to look back ABA's Utah Stars upon concluding where he wrestled under the ring and appreciate some of these his collegiate career. name Marcus Cor Von and, prior amazing accomplishments these to that, Total Nonstop Action Wres- players were able to make while Sherri Jones tling, where he wrestled under his spending their collegiate careers given name. In both arenas, he as Bulldogs. Here is a compre- A three-time NCAA Division II utilized the nickname "The Alpha hensive list of five of the greatest Track and Field All-American, Sher- Male." Brown also has wrestled Black Ferris athletes of all time. ri Jones ranks among the school's for a number of independent pro- Data from this article was col- premier women's track and field motions, including Blood, Sweat lected from Ferris State's sports athletes of all-time. She attained and Ears, Juggalo Championship Hall of Fame page, with other data NCAA-II Indoor All-America kudos Wrestling, and the Universal Wres- coming from NCAA record books with a sixth-place finish in the 4 x tling Alliance. He even had his own and other historical outlets. 400-meter relay in 1987. The ver- action figure. satile Jones also attained NCAA-II Corey Bouyer Outdoor All-America accolades in Clarence Coleman both 1987 and 1988 by placing Corey Bouyer may not be a seventh and sixth, respectively, at Clarence Coleman often goes name that many students may the national meet. unnoticed when talking about the know but playing for Ferris from Jones, who continues to hold greatest Bulldog football players of 1968 to 1970, but he is consid- the school's all-time outdoor all-time, especially with the recent Photo courtesy of Ferris State Hall of Fame ered to be the greatest athlete 400-meter hurdle record with a successes on the field by the like Corey Bouyer of all time for the Bulldogs. He is time of 1:00.15, is listed among of Jayru Campbell, who very near- the only NAIA champion in school FSU's top five all-time leaders to ly made this list after his massive history. The Georgia native set an date in two indoor and four outdoor 2018 season. But Clarence Cole- NAIA record with a time of 50.74 in events. She also ranks tied for first man had a career that still lives on the 440-yard intermediate hurdles among the Bulldogs' all-time 600- in both Ferris State's and NCAA's in 1970 and was a three-time NAIA yard run performers after clocking record books. track All-American. He was a two- a finish of 1:28.04 in 1986. The Coleman was a three-time time (1969-70) NAIA runner-up in Muskegon West Shore Christian (1999-01) All-American and in the 120-yard high hurdles as the Academy standout earned the 2001 finished fifth as a national Bulldogs placed 11th nationally in 1986 outdoor track and field Most finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy. the 1970 Championship on his 18 Valuable Player honor at Ferris and Coleman completed his four-year points alone. He once set a school was a two-time recipient of the career that spanned from 1998- record by scoring 34.5 points at Bulldogs' indoor MVP award. Her 2001 ranking second all-time in the 1970 Ferris Invitational. eight individual GLIAC champion- all NCAA divisions with 323 recep- Bouyer held 10 indoor and out- ships currently are listed tied for tions and tops in NCAA Division II, door Ferris hurdles records and fourth on the school's all-time list. a record that still stands today. won 28 of 30 indoor individual Jones, is also known to have In his 2001 senior season, Cole- events in 1969. He set an indoor held more school records following man received first-team All-Amer- 440 record of 50.2 seconds the her career than any other previous ica honors from the American only time he competed in that FSU performer with ten records to Football Coaches Association, As- event. Bouyer, who earned 10 var- her name by the time her career sociated Press, Daktronics, Foot- sity letters, was a defensive back here at Ferris ended. ball Gazette and D2Football.com, for Ferris' first undefeated football along with being tabbed as the team in 1968. Monty Brown Football Gazette's Receiver of the Year for the second season in a Dennis Johnson Monty Brown, a linebacker for row. He was named to the Football the Bulldogs in the early 1990s, Gazette's All-America Honorable Dennis Johnson is another ath- was the first Bulldog athlete in Mention Team as a sophomore in Photo courtesy of Ferris State Hall of Fame lete that many current students school history to be named both a 1999 before attaining first-team Sherri Jones may not know about, playing for first-team All-American and a first- laurels in 2000. Coleman earned Ferris from 1969 through 1973. team Academic All-American. The All-America plaudits in 2000 from He continues to rank as the linebacker went on to play for five the Associated Press, D2Football. school's all-time leading scorer af- years in the NFL and was a mem- com and Daktronics. ter compiling 2,312 career points. ber of two different Super Bowl A two-time team Most Valuable Standing at six feet six inches, he teams before beginning a career Player, Coleman is the Bulldogs' also holds FSU's career rebound- in professional wrestling. current career record holder in ing mark with 1,156 boards and Brown placed fifth as a national receptions (323), receiving yards set the school's all-time record by finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy (4,983), touchdown catches (42), converting 892 career field goals. awarded to the NCAA Division II all-purpose yards (8,009), consec- Johnson led the Bulldogs to their Player of the Year in 1992 after utive games with a reception (42), first-ever GLIAC championship as a twice receiving first-team all-con- punt returns (103) and punt return senior in 1972-73. In his four-year ference accolades. The three-time yards (1,494). He holds school sin- career, Ferris registered an 80-28 first-team league all-academic gle-season marks for receptions (.741) overall record, highlighted team pick was the conference (97 in 2000), receiving yardage by its 26-4 mark in his final season co-player of the year in 1992 and (1,519 in 2000), touchdown re- under head coach Jim Wink. the school's MVP as a senior. ceptions (15 in 2000), all-purpose An All-GLIAC honoree, Johnson Brown continues to hold the yards (2,618 in 2001) and receiv- posted team season-bests in both school record for fumble recover- ing yards by a freshman (994 in scoring and rebounding each of ies in his career and ranks second 1998). his final three campaigns. His 698 with 584 total tackles and 12th in Coleman went on to play profes- points and 279 field goals as a ju- sacks (17.5). In addition, his 16 ca- sionally for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills nior (1971-72) presently rank first reer interceptions are also second (2003-04), along with the Grand among the school's single-season in Bulldog history and he led Ferris Rapids Rampage (2007) and the leaders. The Detroit Redford High in tackles three consecutive sea- British Columbia Lions (2008-09) School product holds three of sons (1990-92). of the Arena Football League and FSU's top five individual single-sea- Brown played football profes- the Canadian Football League. son scoring performances as well sionally for five years, competing as Ferris' career made free throw in Super Bowl XXVIII for the Buffalo Photo courtesy of Bulldog Athletics Clarence Coleman Lifestyles 7 Ferris State Torch Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 LIFESTYLES Marissa Russell | Lifestyles Editor | [email protected] The power of imagination How Dungeons & Dragons creates a fun escape from reality

Alyssa Hubbard Lifestyles Reporter

The popular roleplaying game Dungeons & Dragons has been a source of entertain- ment for decades and has especially helped some people forget about their troubles right now. The year was 1972 in the town of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin when D&D was creat- ed in a basement by Gary Gygax and Dave Anderson. In order to get this newly created game published, Gygax developed his own company called Tactical Rules Studies Inc. D&D quickly rose to popularity and became the adventurous ever-evolving game people know it as today. According to the official D&D website, "the core of D&D is storytelling. You and your friends tell a story together, guiding your heroes through quests for treasure, battles with deadly foes, daring rescues, courtly in- trigue, and much more." Players create their own characters to use throughout the game, each with vary- ing strength, intelligence, dexterity, wisdom and constitution. Game Masters or Dungeon Masters build and lead the story lines for the players' quests. People can play D&D in small or large groups and the game can last as long as the group wants. Technical and professonional commu- nication professor Zoe Wendler was intro- duced to D&D in 1997 when she was 12 years old at Tomahawk Boy Scout Camp in Wisconsin. Wendler has been enjoy- ing playing D&D for the past 24 years and says she grows more in love with it every time she plays. “What I love about the game is that, fun- damentally, it’s about social cooperative storytelling," Wendler said. "You can have a roleplaying game for everything, but it’s all about sitting down with people and telling a story together that’s fun and gives every- body a chance for self-expression, to con- tribute equally to the creation of something that is much greater than the sum of any of the parts. That’s the thing I love most, by far, about D&D." An important quality of D&D that sets it apart from other games is the amount of creative freedom people have when planning and while playing the game. In a sense, play- ers can be or do anything they'd like to, given Photo by: Cassidy Jessup | Multimedia Editor the Game or Dungeon Master allows it. Dungeons & Dragons is a popular storytelling game that allows players to create their own characters to use throughout the game. "I love the fact that you can do whatever you want," manufactory engineering technol- ogy senior Jacob Webster said. "Like if you For many players, D&D is a chance to After playing D&D for a few years now, Ze- and her father hand built a custom-made want to have a dwarf who plays a whistle step away from reality and all its hardships nder realized something about himself that gaming table, which folds up into a dinner that makes a cat dance, you can do that. for a few hours. he never noticed before. table or opens into little desks where people The world is open to what ever you can think Biochemistry junior Keegan Zender start- "I truly aspire to be chaotic," Zender said. can set up their areas for a D&D session. of and I really like that. I additionally like to ed playing D&D in 2015. Zender began to "There are a lot of really chaotic things that Wendler said this is her "pride and joy piece play with my buddies because seeing them appreciate it more recently because of the I wish I could do but don’t because I know of furniture right now." deal with the problems that we face is really personal stresses caused by the COVID-19 they’ll have repercussions.” Some devoted D&D fans have even trav- fun." pandemic. Zender, Webster, and Wendler get togeth- eled to creator Gary Gygax's memorial in Ge- Webster pointed out that players can “It gives me an outlet to do something er with their respective D&D groups on a neva, Wisconsin. Fans place their game dice choose to have themed adventures based that I actually enjoy, especially after being weekly or bi-weekly basis to continue their onto the memorial's stone to be "blessed" by in existing worlds like Star Wars. Conversely, cooped up inside all the time now," Zender characters' journeys or begin new ones. It's Gary Gygax. players can even go on average, non-magic said. "It lets you forget all the stuff going on a tradition they've found a lot of joy in doing adventures like searching for a missing per- right now like politics, the pandemic and ev- with their friends. son or treasure. erything. It just lets you jump into a different They also said that the D&D fanbase is mind set and you can have fun.” a dedicated and passionate group. Wendler 8 8 Lifestyles Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Ferris State Torch Events calendar Media WEDNESDAY Feb. 24

Leadership Academy RSO Minute Essentials: Risk Management Kendall Rooks There is a high expectation of mascu- and Event Planning Freelance Reporter linity in society, specifically for Black men. Contact: Sydney Starmer “Moonlight” is an examination of the fragil- [email protected] In honor of Black History Month, I would ity of Black masculinity. According to a One Location: Virtual like to shine a light on not only my favorite Room with a View article, “as Chiron grows movie but a movie that aided in the break- older, he recognizes the need to conform to Time: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. through of Black filmmaking. “Moonlight” this heteronormative idea of Black mascu- directed by Barry Jenkins is a remarkable linity. He has two choices: embrace his sex- LGBTQ+ Resource Center 2017 Oscar-winning coming-of-age drama. uality in the knowledge it will open him up to Coffee House In my personal opinion, this film deserves abuse and hatred or perform the identity of Contact: Sarah Doherty all the hype. a straight Black male and live a quieter life.” [email protected] “Moonlight” is an adaptation of Tarell Jenkins includes scenes where the charac- McCraney’s unproduced play, “In Moonlight ters ‘break the third wall’ and look directly Location: Virtual Black Boys Look Blue”. The movie has a into the camera. He makes the audience re- Time: 4 - 6 p.m. three-act structure and takes place in the sponsible for examining the body language 1980s. Each act is titled for what the main of the character. Prevent, Treat, Recover: An Inter- character, Chiron, is called at the time the The film is very subtle, it is not made to professional Approach to act takes place: Little, Chiron and Black. In be showy. You have to look for the beauty each act, Chiron is in vastly different stag- inside the film on your own. The movie is Substance Use Disorde es of life. There are three separate actors told almost through color and I find that very Contact: Cassandra Falk playing Chiron in each of these stages. In- beautiful. For example, in the movie red in- [email protected] terestingly enough, the three actors never dicates evil and bad things to come. Often Location: Virtual met during “Moonlight’s” production. Some- in the film antagonists will appear wearing Time: 6 - 8 p.m. how still, their characters flow and grow so red or in front of red doors. Yellow indicates seamlessly. This seamless acting can be cowardice and fear, white indicates friend- traced to the skill and sensibility of Jenkins. ship and trust and black indicates tough- Virtual Games The film follows Chiron’s fight to simply ness. These colors are not even the end Contact: CLACS become himself. According to a SPIN arti- of the color symbolism used in the movie. [email protected] cle, “Moonlight is a film conscious of how Jenkins is masterful in his use of colors to failing institutions destroy the Black com- set mood and tone and tell a story. It is very Location: Virtual munity: Institutionalized Black men replace clear why the film was awarded Best Picture Time: 8:30 - 9:935 p.m. drug dealers, and a surrogate father (Juan, at the Oscars. played compassionately by Mahershala Ali) The film has racked up a ridiculous num- can only do so much good if he’s also mak- ber of awards from multiple different organi- ing a living by selling crack to a mother…But zations. Some of the most notable include THURSDAY these cycles are mentioned in passing as Best Picture and Best Supporting Actor, Ma- Feb. 25 checkpoints in a brutal reality. What makes hershala Ali, at the Oscars. $1.5 million was this film a frontrunner for film of the year spent to make the film and it unsurprisingly [2017] is its central, the process of estab- achieved significant financial success earn- Leadership Academy Group lishing identity-that queerness and race are ing $75 million opening in the US alone. The Leadership: Equitable not biological traits, but rather sociological success of the film demonstrates the vitality Leadership ideas.” The film shows how as we grow and of having people of color behind and in front Contact: Sydney Starmer interact with society, our identity evolves of the camera telling their stories. Moonlight [email protected] along with us and we will be forced to fight can be streamed on Netflix. the perceptions and burdens. Location: Zoom Time: 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Spring Book Club: Wisdom of the Animals Contact: Christine Labby [email protected] Tune in to our Podcast: Location: Zoom Time: 12 - 1 p.m. the fire pit FRIDAY hosted by: Feb. 26 Virtual Study Abroad Workshop Marissa Russell, Brendan Contact: Megan Hauser-Tran [email protected] Location: Virtual Sanders & Noah Kurkjian Time: 1 - 2 p.m.

Virtual Concert - John Rush, The Human iPod Scan the Spotify link t0 Contact: Lane Steffke [email protected] Location: Virtual listen to our Podcast Time: 7 - 8 p.m.

For more events, check out calendar.ferris.edu

Graphics made by Production Manager Charlie Zitta Lifestyles 9 Ferris State Torch Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 A few things to keep in mind when Proper mask etiquette wearing your mask in public

Meghan Harley honestly, it doesn’t get much deeper mask so that you can be considerate Freelance Reporter than that.” of others and have a sense of good Gentry also mentioned how inter- etiquette with your facial covering. Similar to how we have etiquette esting it is that some people coming Another important aspect of mask for dinner and online, it’s become a into Jimmy Johns simply refuse to etiquette is to keep in mind to not new normal to understand etiquette wear a mask and will throw a fit when touch your mask once it is on and to with your mask. asked to do so. keep it over your nose and mouth. At this point, it is generally un- For some people, it is believed After having your mask on out in derstood that people need to wear that being asked to wear a mask has public touching it could be spread- a mask when out in public, indoors taken away their right as a person. ing germs onto your hands and then and in spaces with a large group of One man even went as far as yelling onto anything you touch. people, but there are still differing at Gentry’s manager that he would If you do decide to touch your ideas on whether people should be not wear a mask and that they need- mask make sure that your hands are wearing their masks outside of the ed to serve him anyways. clean before and after touching any- generally expected places. While some people think that it is thing. This method also goes along Etiquette is defined as “the cus- not necessary with when you take your mask off for tomary code of polite behavior in According to Doordash’s Mask the day. society or among members of a par- Policy on their website, “In order to Another method of good mask eti- ticular profession or group.” protect the safety of all users of the quette can be in the form of commu- It is also defined as something DoorDash platform, as of August 31, nication. used to create personal security. all Dashers, Merchants, and Con- “Being patient to those you are Knowing expectations can make you sumers who use the DoorDash plat- talking to,” Lucy Arbanas, a fresh- feel comfortable in new situations. form must wear a face cover or mask man working at the Optometry center Many people have opinions on while they are interacting with other as a secretary said. “The mask may what good practices of mask eti- platform users. This includes while cause misunderstandings and pre- quette entails. Ferris junior Zay Gen- deliveries are handed off from Mer- vent the other person from hearing try, who works at Jimmy Johns, said a chants to Dashers or to Customers, you. This also means you should be good practice is to just put your mask and while deliveries are handed off doing your part by speaking loudly, on any time you leave the house. from Dashers to Customers.” clearly, and using diction to make “When you are about to walk into Many workers say they are simply your point across.” a building just throw your mask on trying to do their job and don’t wish to It’s important to be able to still above your nose and below your cause any trouble with the customer have clear communication with chin,” Gentry said. “This mask is for trying their best to keep everyone others around you even if there is literally here to protect you. Just in the building as safe as possible. a slight boundary between reading Photo by: Becca Witkowski | Torch Photographer sneeze into your mask, cough into When it comes to entering a place each other's expressions. DoorDash’s mask policy states that Dashers and customers should wear your mask. Just for your own safety, it takes only seconds to put on a masks when deliveries are handed off. Let’s talk about leadership — in animals Professor releases book, “Wisdom of Animals,” sparking book club on campus

Melina Talentino got permission from Rohr himself to use this Freelance Reporter structure, he even attained a positive quote of review from Rohr that is now displayed on In 2012 after wrapping up his keynote the back of his book. speech on animals and leadership for the It's not every day that a Ferris professor Ferris Honors RSO, he had an epiphany. publishes a book, so the Center for Leader- “This could be a book,” he thought to him- ship, Activities, and Career Services (CLACS) self, and so the 10-year process of research decided to start a book club displaying Bish- and digging through the heart of adversity op’s work and offer a free copy to any stu- had begun. dents who choose to join. Patrick Bishop is a professor in the Col- Public relations senior, Zach Schildhouse, lege of Business and has been at Ferris for is among one of those who grew curious to 14 years. He is currently the program cham- experience the message of the book. Having pion and a professor for public relations, known Bishop for a few years now through he is also the advisor for the on-campus the public relations program, Schildhouse RSO, PRSSA. On Sept. 18, 2020, Bishop re- stated “I would expect the book to be well leased his first ever book, “Wisdom of the written/thought out. As well as opening the Animals”: a nature-led journey into the heart reader up to new ways for self-examination. of transformational leadership. In his book, It'd quite honestly be like having a con- he discusses over 21 animals from all over densed version of one of his classes to take the world, intertwining their characteristics with you anywhere.” with those of all-encompassing leadership If someone were to ask you for an exam- ideologies. ple of a good leader, who would you say? But “I was finishing up my doctorate, which Bishop believes that there is a huge misun- is in leadership, and I was also doing a lot derstanding of what leadership is. Bishop of soul-searching at the time too and go- explained in reference to those few who ing through a little bit of a rough period,” would choose Hitler. His goal was to write a Photo courtesy of Patrick Bishop Bishop admitted when referring to the root book displaying a new framework for leader- Public relations professor Patrick Bishop released his book last fall called “Wisdom of Animals.” of his inspiration for writing “Wisdom of ship and how we look at it, measure it, and the Animals.” “I was trying to bring togeth- what we strive to be. respect the philosophies that he presents. He’s already received numerous encour- er leadership, psychology, and spirituality.” “A leader should be holistic in what they That’s why public relations senior Katie Gilli- aging reviews from readers. He gained a lot of muse from a structure by do. It is about the metrics of succeeding, but gan decided to join the book club. “It's framed as a book of tools you can Richard Rohr which is a progression of order, it’s also about compassion and respect, ser- “When I think of Dr. B, I instantly think of use to become a better leader, but the facts disorder, and reorder. “It’s kind of a growth vice and sacrifice. We’ve really forgotten the leadership and creativity,” said Gilligan. Dr. Patrick Bishop presents also apply to of leadership, like a maturation of people humanity side of the equation in my opin- He also offers extra credit to students being a better person in general,” Natalie B. as they get older and as they get wiser they ion.” who post blogs regarding his book, so that’s wrote in a review from Amazon. go through these stages of growth of order, By being a public relations student, Bish- an added advantage. Bishop’s book is available on Amazon, disorder, and reorder,” Bishop explained. He op’s pupils know the basis of his values and Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and Schuler. 10 Sports Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Ferris State Torch SPORTS Brendan Sanders| Sports Editor | [email protected] Greatness in her DNA Assistant coach Jasmyn Walker product of historic Ferris basketball family

Cora Hall big of a deal it was until the we got older,” Editor in Chief Jasmyn said. “Because it’s not an everyday thing and it’s not a common thing. Growing Swish. up with two Hall of Famers in the home, I’m The sound of a basketball falling seam- like OK, yeah, all right… But it’s such a big lessly through the net of the Walker fami- deal. Because I go everywhere, and I see ly’s driveway hoop was a familiar sound for their names, or I see pictures of them.” Jasmyn and her younger siblings, Jordan In a family full of basketball players, ca- (Jordy) and Jarvis II (Jay). Especially when sual trash talking is the norm and Jasmyn they played with their parents—Ferris Hall of said the kids would often joke with their Famers Jarvis and Danielle (Smith) Walker. parents about who the best hoopers are in Whether it was early mornings spent get- the family: “Hey, you guys, you thought you ting shots up or a casual game of 21 — well, were hooping, but you’re not hoopin’ like we as casual as it gets with a family full of hoop- were,” Jasmyn said. “When in reality, they ers — the driveway at the Walker’s home in were drastically better than we were.” Muskegon holds a wealth of memories for That competitive spirit was inherited from Jasmyn. their parents, no doubt. In a zoom call with Jar- “It's funny, because even still, to this day, vis and Danielle, when the timing of their Hall we go out when all of us are home — which of Fame inductions was brought up, there was is extremely rare now — but when all of us immediate banter about who was first. are home together, we'll go outside, play “He was first,” Danielle said begrudgingly. around the world or whatever," Jasmyn said. “Even though I don’t want to admit it, but he “And my dad comes and plays and he [asks] was first.” ‘what’s the motto?’ and we’re like ‘daddy According to both parents, Jasmyn and doesn't miss,’ and he’s just bottom of the Jay talk the most trash in games of HORSE net, always — really, he doesn't miss.” or 1-on-1 in the driveway—though they were Now, the Walker family history at Ferris sure to mention in serious settings, their Photo by: Cora Hall | Editor in Chief has come full circle with Jasmyn stepping kids weren’t really trash talkers. After a min- Jasmyn Walker poses with her mother, Danielle (Smith) Walker’s plaque in Ferris’ Hall of Fame in Wink Arena. into the assistant coaching position for the ute or two of deliberation, however, Danielle women’s basketball team. In one sense, all rescinded her votes for biggest trash talker “The biggest thing we had was, don’t Kurth said the same of her when she was the pieces fell into place for her to coach at in favor of Jarvis Sr., who didn’t deny the waste our time,” Jarvis said. “If you’re not a freshman four years prior. her parents’ alma mater, but in another, her statement, just laughing at the claim. “He going to give 110% when you go out there, “She won an opportunity to play varsity whole life had been leading up to this. talks the most trash,” Danielle said. “But, don’t waste our time, let’s not do this. Be- as a freshman, and we really didn’t know Jasmyn was a standout on Mona Shores’ then he wins, and so there’s nothing else to cause we don’t have the time, you know. where, what level she would compete, how varsity basketball team from the time she say, right?” Money, we can make—but time, we cannot many minutes or anything like that,” Kurth was a freshman. It was there she made a When it comes down to talent, though, the make, so that was the biggest thing.” said. “But she just kept making a difference future Ferris connection in head coach Brad younger Walker siblings certainly did not miss Along with the high level of competition on the floor and we had a hard time keeping Kurth, who would go on to serve as assis- out. Jordy, who was Michigan Miss Basket- and commitment, though, there were still her off the floor.” tant coach to former head coach Kendra ball in 2017, graduated from Western Mich- relaxed, more playful moments of basket- There was no question who the hardest Faustin for three years. Walker was four- igan in three years and is a graduate transfer ball, too. Countless pickup games in the worker on the team was in Kurth’s eyes af- time All-State and MLive’s player of the year at Tennessee. Jay graduated from Muskegon driveway, queen of the court and around the ter Jasmyn’s freshman year, and it was her her senior year, when she averaged 18.6 High School in 2020 and is at Division I Pur- world are fond memories in her mind. Natu- work ethic that set the tone for the whole points and 8.6 rebounds per game. due-Fort Wayne to play basketball. rally, the trash talk is still present. team. Western Michigan head coach Shane She then went on to Valparaiso University, One of the game day traditions was the Despite the days in the driveway “beating Clipfell called Jasmyn a blue collar player where she played under Kurt Westendorp, pregame meal—and if any of the kids were up on each other,” there’s an understanding who was not only consistent, but resilient who is the current women’s basketball head with their dad, they knew what to expect: between the siblings of wanting the best for during her junior and senior year. coach — Ferris connection number two. As a gordita crunch from Taco Bell. Don’t each other and playing a part in each other’s “She just put her work clothes on and a 5-foot-10 forward, Jasmyn was named to ask him why, though, because he’s not success, like when Jordy won Miss Basket- came to work every day,” Clipfell said. “She the All-Freshman team as a true freshman, quite sure himself. ball. was a good leader, both by example and ver- setting the rebounding record for freshman “They just brought it up a couple weeks “Those days where we’re getting up ear- bally. So she had it working on both sides with 250 boards. After her sophomore year, ago,” Jarvis said, chuckling. “It was just like ly in the morning to go shoot before school, of that. I think that’s when you have some she decided to transfer to Western Michigan a ritual…nine times out of 10, it was Taco and then shooting after school and before of your best, capable leaders, is when they University, where she played under Shane Bell, I don’t know why, I was just going to get practice and after practice, or putting in the walk it and talk it, and she did.” Clipfell. She surpassed 1,000 career points a gordita for them and they get a pop and work where I’m like, that’s where she earned In the end of January of 2018, Jasmyn while playing for the Broncos. that was their pregame meal, but they will that,” Jasmyn said. “That’s the time that she tore her ACL in a fluke injury. She felt her- But her connections to Ferris have been go out and play and have good games, and put in and you know, Jay and I, we know we self pulling away from her team, stuck in there her whole life — they’re in her blood. then they brought it up last weekend, ‘why helped on that. So it was never pressure to her frustrations about an injury that should what would you get us that for [pregame]?’” do anything, but it was always like, I want have been preventable. Jasmyn always prid- A family of hoopers There was never pressure from their par- them to be proud of me.” ed herself in her consistent lifting, yet she ents to even play at all, but there was a natu- still suffered one of the most brutal injuries Having one parent in their university’s ral love of the game in all three kids. The only From player to coach in sports. One of her coaches noticed her Hall of Fame is one thing, but having both condition was, “if there’s something you want distance from the team and challenged her: parents’ names on plaques on the wall? It’s to do, be committed to it, and once we start It was that very work ethic that stood out her season was over, but the team’s wasn’t. nearly unheard of. Jarvis and Danielle were something, we don’t quit,” Jasmyn said. to all of Jasmyn’s former coaches. West- “What can you do for the team, besides inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004 and Jarvis explained another part of the no endorp had known the Walker family since sitting on the sideline, kind of pouting?” 2007, respectively. Those ceremonies are quitting policy was, more importantly, never Jasmyn was young and knew when recruit- Jasmyn said she was asked. “And I was like, moments Jasmyn remembers vividly, though quitting on themselves. And as parents, they ing her that he was getting a “really hard you know, okay, you’re 100%, right. That’s she wouldn’t fully realize the significance of made it clear that if the kids wanted to play, worker” and “really high character player.” selfish of me to feel like that.” the honor until her own collegiate career. they would do everything they could to help The opportunities she got right away at Val- “You know, I laugh with my mom and dad them, on one condition. po she made the most of, a quality that was Walker| see page 12 and my siblings, we didn’t understand how already ingrained in her from high school.

Volleyball Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball WEEKEND Feb. 19 - Ferris 3, Northern Feb. 19 - Ferris 89, Purdue Feb. 19 - Ferris 60, Purdue North- Michigan 2 Northwest 75 west 63 Feb. 20 - Ferris 1, Northern Feb. 20 - Ferris 77, Purdue Feb. 20 - Ferris 84, Purdue North- SCORECARD Michigan 3 Northwest 80 west 49 SportsSports 11 Ferris State TorchFerris State Torch Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 COVID-19 policies have Ferris track New Rules athletes ‘scratching their heads’

Brody Keiser accustomed to running with Sports Reporter her mask on. “I’ve gotten used to it, so it Members of the Ferris track really hasn’t been that big of a team are upset about the impact deal,” Wilkinson said. “Since we COVID-19 rules and regulations run outside, it’s actually been nice have on their season. because my face stays warm. I The GLIAC is allowing spring ath- have had opportunities, like when letics to take place in 2021, but I’m at home running by myself, to the rules regarding COVID-19 and run without a mask and I almost how players must handle the situa- get too much oxygen, so it kind of tion with the virus have multiple of throws me off.” Ferris’s track runners frustrated. Right now, Hamilton is not rac- Junior runner Travis Feldpaush has ing because of a heart condition a different mentality this year than caused by his COVID-19 diagnosis in his previous seasons. last summer, preventing him from “I don’t have much motivation joining his teammates. However, to get out and do something,” Feld- he is frustrated that he cannot paush said. “For so long, they took even attend meets to support his away the team aspect of training teammates. and we had to do it on our own. We “If you’re not racing, you’re not weren’t able to connect with each allowed to go to the meets,” Hamil- other, and I really did not want to Photo by: Brendan Sanders | Sports Editor ton said. “They don’t allow specta- train by myself. I’m not doing the Brendan Cairney, Casey Bouman, Weston Rackley and Donis Harris train early in the morning after their latest indoor meet. tors or fill-ins. It’s bad for us guys things I should be doing.” that don’t race because we want That mentality bled into Feld- While the Bulldogs must race in Feldpaush said officials will Feldpaush said. “We are supposed to be there for our team to cheer paush’s first two meets this year, as meets with their masks on, other not stop the race if a competitor’s to wear the masks when we’re do- them on. We usually have to watch he acknowledged that those meets schools like Grand Valley State mask falls down while racing. How- ing anything. If we’re at the meets the meet by paying a $3 stream did not go as well as he had hoped. University have raced without their ever, the officials tell the runners by ourselves, we have to wear it. If fee and watch from our houses.” For Feldpaush and his team- masks. Feldpaush said this is be- immediately after the race to put we’re at practice by ourselves, we Feldpaush is racing this season, mates to even compete in meets, cause Grand Valley has the funds the mask back on. have to wear it. It’s definitely not and he looks forward to seeing they must test negative for to test their athletes six times “When we get done, they tell my favorite thing in the world.” people at a sporting contest again. COVID-19 a minimum of three a week. Both he and freshman us we have to put it back on,” Hamilton echoed similar frus- COVID-19 has disrupted sports times a week to be eligible to com- runner Claudia Wilkinson believe Feldpaush said. “It’s kind of a trations regarding mask wearing for nearly a year now, and a track pete. According to Feldpaush, Fer- the Lakers who were not wearing pain in the ass, I mean, who’s go- during training. meet feels like a small sense of ris athletes are tested three times masks had a competitive advan- ing to be able to keep their mask “We have to wear masks run- normalcy for Feldpaush. a week; however, if they could tage over runners with masks up while racing?” ning around campus, during work- Without any national champion- test negative six times in a week, during races. Outside of the mask falling off outs, and pretty much everything,” ships this season, Wilkinson is fo- they could race in meets without a “You look at them and see they during a race, Hamilton said the Hamilton said. “It’s mandatory. We cused on making conference and mask on. don’t have a mask and just think most severe consequence for vol- had a few complaints early in fall preparing for the outdoor season. “For right now, I don’t think Fer- ‘oh my God,’” Feldpaush said. untarily taking the mask off at a semester with people telling us to COVID-19 makes this season ris can afford to test us six times “You’re already digging yourself a meet is disqualification. He add- wear our masks while training, so different from past seasons and a week, so we’re just doing the hole when you see that, and it just ed that the precautions taken at we’re pretty strict on that. It makes has frustrated runners, but the three times a week, so we have to feels like a lot of mental games.” meets are “pretty insane.” running a little bit more difficult, season will go on. As Feldpaush wear masks while racing,” soph- In terms of the difference between Despite being tested multiple especially with thicker masks and said, he must focus on the small omore runner Ethan Hamilton three and six negative COVID-19 times a week, the Bulldogs are re- when it [was] hot out. It’s really not victories he can get this season, said. “We also have to fill out the tests in a week and how the three ad- quired to wear masks while train- a fun time.” and one of those small victories symptom checker every day. It’s ditional negative tests allow athletes ing on campus as well. Wilkinson views training in the for him is simply that track is back. pretty crazy stuff.” to compete without masks, Feld- “I get tested three times a week mask differently than Hamilton Ferris athletics did not respond to paush said everyone is “scratching and all those tests are negative, and Feldpaush. She has become an email inquiring about COVID-19 their heads about that one.” but I still have to wear a mask,” testing funds and policies. The arrival of aces Bulldogs officially begin 2021 volleyball campaign

Brandon Wirth year,” Brandel-Wilhelm said. “We knew they In the opening set, both teams came out and 15 digs respectfully. Maat also had two Freelance Reporter would be this good.” firing with a combined 28 kills. Northern service aces to go with her 43 assists. After trading wins in the third and fourth Michigan’s finesse tactic of soft kills gave the When asked about the differences in After over a year since their last match, sets, the match came down to a fifth set. Wildcats a 25 - 16 opening set advantage. game 2, Hermann felt they had an “off day” Ferris volleyball finally took the court this The Bulldogs took multiple commanding “We started off pretty slow,” Brandel-Wil- compared to Friday’s opener. weekend with a season-opening split leads, but the Wildcats fought back to tie helm said. “We just weren’t doing things we “(Friday) we got the nervous ‘jitters’ out against Northern Michigan. the set twice, including at 15 - 15. With a kill normally do.” of the way,” Hermann said. “(Saturday) was Friday’s opening contest was a very close by Kira Merkle and a service ace by Katie O’ Northern continued their strong start, kind of ‘one of those days,’. It was a learning call, with the Bulldogs needing five sets to Connell, the Bulldogs prevailed to their first winning 11 of the first 16 points in set num- experience for sure.” pull off the victory, 25 - 8, 32 - 34, 25 - 23, win of the season. ber two. The Wildcats went on to take the Despite the 1 - 1 start, Brandel-Wilhelm 23 - 25, 17 - 15. When asked on how the Bulldogs came set 25 - 18. The Bulldogs then came back and Hermann were glad to be able to finally “We are super excited to win against a out with the win, Brandel-Wilhelm said they with a vengeance, winning three of the final take the floor again. good team like (Northern),” head coach were able to make the runs at the right time. four points to come back and take set three “I’m, more than anything, excited to be Tia Brandel-Wilhelm said in her post-game “We knew it would be a little bit jerky, not 25 - 23. playing volleyball,” Brandel-Wilhelm said. press conference. necessarily clean volleyball,” Brandel-Wil- “We started to do some of the things we “(We’re) seeing the ways we can get better The Bulldogs came out red hot in the helm said. “I thought we kept our heads were trying to do offensively and defensive- and seeing the ways we are getting better.” opening set, scoring 12 of the first 14 about ourselves and we worked to make the ly,” Brandel-Wilhelm said regarding set three. “It was a surreal experience,” Hermann points. This came with help of three service changes we needed to make.” “We forced Northern to do different things.” said. “It felt really good to be back on the aces from junior Samantha Hermann. Senior Katie O’ Connell led the Bulldogs Although both teams traded hot streaks court again.” “Serving is one of our main things with 19 kills, followed by sophomore Kira in set four, it was Northern Michigan’s turn With their seventh-straight GLIAC title in we practice,” Hermann said. “I definitely Merkle with 12 and junior Samantha Her- to “get hot” at right time. After trailing 16 - sight, Hermann said this match brought the couldn’t do it without the help of everyone.” mann with 10. Freshman setter Kaylee Maat 13, the Wildcats went on a 12 - 6 run to win realization of what they need to do moving The Bulldogs’ intensity was unmatched compiled 48 assists for the Bulldogs. Her- set four and the match. forward. by the Wildcats, leading to the first set win mann also had four of the Ferris’ nine ser- “Northern took advantage of the things “Now, we know that we have a target on our for Ferris since December of 2019. vice aces. O’ Connell, junior Morgan Ross, we gave them,” Brandel-Wilhelm said. back,” Hermann said. “We have to go into ev- The next set was much more evenly and senior Nina Gorgijevska each compiled “Northern is a really good volleyball team ery match with having a chip on our shoulder.” matched. Despite having 11 errors, the Wild- 17 digs for the Bulldogs in the back row. O’ and played great.” The Bulldogs will be back in action on cats outlasted the Bulldogs in an extended Connell also tallied seven of the 14 Bulldog Merkle led the Bulldogs with 13 kills in Feb. 26 and 27, where they will travel to second set needing 66 points to be settled. blocks in the contest. game two, followed by O’ Connell (11) and Her- Lake Superior State. “We knew that Northern is really aggres- Saturday’s match continued the tough mann (9). O’ Connell also had 29 digs in the sive and have been working hard this last back-and-forth battle. In the end, the Wild- contest, with Gorgijevski and Maat adding 20 cats were able to get revenge with a 3 - 1 win. 12 Sports Week of Feb. 24 - March 2, 2021 Ferris State Torch Sports Speculation: Who is the greatest athlete of all time? Austin Arquette and continues to win at the age of 43. Brady James continues to chase Jordan as the Court, who has 24. Serena is the only player Sports Reporter has 34 playoff wins to add to his champi- G.O.A.T. in the basketball realm. James con- to hold all four Grand Slam singles titles on onship wins and has 230 regular-season tinues his 17-year career as he adds more multiple occasions. Williams adds 73 Wom- Throughout sports history, there is one wins. Brady has thrown for 91,653 yards in NBA championships to his four rings. James en’s Tennis Association titles and four Olym- question that continues to draw debate the regular season and postseason. With has won the finals MVP award each of the pic gold medals. across every category: Who is the greatest the most passing touchdowns in the regular four times he won the championship, but “She is the most decorated athlete of athlete ever? season and postseason combined at 664, has appeared in ten NBA finals. James so them all, being able to step away and have In their own respects, there are multiple he also has won 17 division titles. Brady has far is a four-time MVP and was the scoring a kid then come back to the sport and still “Greatest Of All Time” (G.O.A.T.) athletes, won two unanimous awards: Sports News champion of the 2007-2008 season. James be the best in the world speaks to her abili- but only in their respective sports. When you NFL Athlete of the Decade for the 2010s has been a 16-time all-star, but continues to ty and her constant fight,” McCartney said. look at the NFL you are thinking of players and the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time play today and add to his career accolades. “She to me is the great athlete in all sports.” such as Tom Brady or Jerry Rice or even Joe Team. Brady also won the Associated Press “He’s still breaking records and adding so Every sport has an established athlete Montana. Then you look at the NBA and the Male Athlete of the Year in 2007 and Sports much more in his basketball resume and has that claims the G.O.A.T. status. However, the argument for the G.O.A.T. is either Michael Illustrated Sportsman of the Year in 2005. changed the game for my generation,” Fer- one athlete that stands out above everyone Jordan or Lebron James. Tennis claims Sere- Brady also won the Bert Bell award in 2007. ris State men’s basketball wing Deng Reng else is none other than Tom Brady. Brady na Williams as their G.O.A.T. Finally, we have Brady has won the Best NFL Player ESPY said. “He’s exceeded everyone’s expecta- threw for 4,633 yards and 40 touchdowns baseball, and nobody other than Babe Ruth Award in 2008 and 2018. There is no de- tions and can be the runner up as the all- in 2020 while he led Tampa to a Super Bowl is the face of the MLB. bate of who the G.O.A.T. in the NFL is any- time leading scorer of all time with a chance victory. Brady is one of just two quarter- Here is where this conversation gets inter- more. to win another ring. I don’t think anyone will backs to lead two different teams to Super esting. Let’s first start with the NFL. Moving to the NBA, Lebron James’ biggest ever get to the level Lebron is at.” Bowl titles. Jordan is the closest in the ranks Seven championships, five super bowl argument for labeling him as the G.O.A.T. is With these three athletes in the biggest to be crowned the G.O.A.T. of G.O.A.T.s but and three league MVPs, two-time offensive his all-around dominance of the sport. How- conversations when it comes to who is the what puts Brady over the top is his legacy of player of the year and 14-time pro bowl ever, Michael Jordan has been the idol of the G.O.A.T of their sport, we cannot leave out championships and accolades, which con- player, Thomas Edward Patrick Brady Jr. is NBA for decades. The G.O.A.T. debate of the tennis and the mention of Serena Williams. tinue to grow. Brady has stated he wishes to the G.O.A.T of the NFL. From the year Brady NBA boils down to Jordan and James. Jor- Ferris State women’s basketball sophomore play until at least 45 but admitted he would joined the league in the 2000 NFL Draft dan played a 15-year long career and won guard Mallory McCartney said Williams is play longer if he continues to perform like with the 199th pick in the sixth round by six NBA championships and was named the the true G.O.A.T in all sports. For any athlete last season. When his time is up, Brady will the New England Patriots, Brady began his finals most valuable player in all six cham- to win an overabundance of titles is insane have a legacy that will be untouchable and climb to be labeled the greatest of all time pionship games. Jordan also added five to- and Williams has won 23 grand slams. Her the sports world will miss this great legend. in the NFL. Brady has become the only quar- tal MVP awards and was a 10-time scoring 23 Grand Slam titles are the most by any terback to win the Super Bowl in three dif- champion with 14 all-star appearances. player, man, or woman, in the Open era, and ferent decades since he began his career While Jordan is impressive and hard to beat, the second-most all-time behind Margaret

WALKER “Growing up in places where it wasn’t al- ways people that look like me, and I didn’t Continued from page 10 Hockey drops another have any Black teachers or anything like that,” Jasmyn said. “Then to go to Valpo, Soon she found herself giving her team- where it was fewer people who looked like mates feedback on post moves, how to play me, and if they did look like me, we’re all ath- a tough defender in a game and coaching weekend series letes. None of us were coaching staff.” players on defensive reads. She started see- It wasn’t until she got to Western that ing the game from a different perspective Jasmyn found a larger Black community, and found her stride analyzing the game in and even had a Black woman as an assis- a new way. tant coach. Now, she can be the coach for Danielle had always seen this in her her Black players to identify with. During her daughter, though. She recalls Jasmyn in high mother’s career, Danielle said there were school, a star player, still sitting at the end no people of color in the women’s program, of the bench whenever she came out of the something that would have meant a lot to her. game with a clipboard, drawing up plays and “If you have the opportunity to have some- talking other players through it. one of color on the staff, I think it is huge “For me, it’s a cool thing because she’s for young ladies playing, I really do, and not only my daughter, but now she’s coach- I want to see it. I think it matters and you ing at the university I went to,” Danielle said. know I’m glad for the young ladies that are “But then also, she understands the game on the team,” Danielle said. “I’m proud of her and so we can talk to her about it and I did for that and I think she’s built for it, she is a brief stint a couple of years at a Division I built for the challenge. I think that her experi- school coaching. I was a (graduate assistant) ences are going to help her as she navigates and so it’s interesting to talk to her about that water, because it is tough. In women’s that… and she understands and so it’s been athletics in general, it’s good to see more really fun, to be honest, it has been very fun.” women in it and certainly women of color.” Jasmyn approached Clipfell after her se- While Jasmyn calls it an amazing time to be nior year at WMU about the ‘So You Want To in coaching with the efforts now to increase Be A Coach’ program run by the Women’s diversity on coaching staffs, she clarified that Basketball Coaches Association. She was a she never wants to be the token Black wom- member of their 2019 class, sponsored by an. She points out the increase of diversity ini- WMU, and it was a pivotal experience for her tiatives were created due to the current social to kick off her coaching career. Besides the climate, “when maybe these conversations seminars and networking, she ran into her were needed all along the way.” old Valpo coach, which was Westendorp’s “This time that we’re in, there’s a lot of di- first sign that she should be on his radar for versity councils and diversity staff and things future positions. like that, and not that I don’t want to be a When Westendorp was named Ferris’ part of that stuff, I absolutely do,” Jasmyn head coach last summer, Kurth gave him the said. “I think it’s important to have a differ- second sign. Kurth, who had known Westen- ent perspective at the table to have a conver- dorp from his time at Ferris and recruiting, sation, and first off, for the table to include gave him a call. me and my perspective. But also making “When he got the job I called him up and I sure that you know, we’re not doing things said, ‘you’ve got to hire Jasmyn Walker. She’s for the sake of [doing them]. what you’re looking for,’” Kurth said. “I was “It’s kind of a double edged sword, I’m ex- super happy when that hire was made, and I cited to be a part of the table, excited to be thought it was a perfect fit.” part of the conversation, but also frustrated because these are things that minorities and Representation matters people have been saying for so long.” She admits she doesn’t know if Big Rapids While she is not the first, Jasmyn is cur- is exactly the place for her and her husband, rently the only Black woman on any of Ferris’ Photo by: Brendan Sanders | Sports Editor Asantay Brown. But for minority coaches try- paid coaching staffs. She is one of just four ing to get a seat at the table and increase Black coaches among all 13 teams. Junior goalie Roni Salmenkangas sits in the defensive position as he prepares to diversity on coaching staffs, sometimes you Growing up in the suburbs and attending make one of his 36 saves on Friday, Feb. 19. Salmenkangas would allow five goals have to go out on a limb. At the end of the first Mona Shores in high school, a product on 41 shot attempts by the No.3 ranked team in the country, Minnesota State. Ferris day, though, she hopes she can be a differ- of white flight, and then Valparaiso, Jasmyn made a surprise upset bid on the national championship contenders, scoring four ent perspective in the community and some- is familiar with being one of the few Black goals on 11 shots in the 5 - 4 overtime loss. The Bulldogs woud fall to 1 - 19 - 1 after one for her players to identify with. the pair of weekend losses. people in her community.