On this week’s episode of Ferris In Focus, we discuss various segments such as life in Big Rapids, local pets at the shelter, college kids’ cars, and more!
The latest episode of Ferris in Focus presents an engaging mix of content highlighting student life, community initiatives, and educational opportunities at Ferris State University.
Big Rapids Life
A special segment takes viewers to the McCosta County Visitors Bureau, a destination marketing organization funded by hoteliers through an occupancy tax. The bureau aims to increase hotel occupancy, promote local tourism, and enhance community appeal through various events and marketing initiatives. Despite challenges such as a post-COVID decline in tourism and economic concerns, the bureau is working to effectively market Big Rapids as a prime destination.
Animals of the Ark
Another feature introduces O’Malley, the hound from Animals of the Ark, showcasing a friendly and energetic dog available for adoption. The segment highlights O’Malley’s playful personality, love for walks, and readiness for a new home.
Next, the Manufacturing Engineering Technology program at Ferris State University is detailed, highlighting its hands-on curriculum and logical course progression. The program provides students with real-world experience in CNC machining, CAD design, and robotics, preparing them for both trade and decision-making roles in engineering fields. With structured course advancements from basic machining to capstone projects and certifications, the program offers a well-rounded education in manufacturing.
College Kids Cars
In our next segment, College Kids Cars, host Quinn McDaniel introduces his guest, Keegan Arroyo, who’s here to talk about his beloved 1999 Honda Civic EX. They kick things off by popping open the hood to reveal the D16 engine, complete with a cold air intake. Keegan mentions that he’s just had a tune-up and swapped out some parts to keep everything running smoothly. He also shares his plans to upgrade to a K20 engine because, let’s face it, who doesn’t want more power—and that sweet, sweet engine sound?
Though Keegan is a criminal justice major, his passion for cars runs deep, thanks to his family’s DIY approach to auto repair. Plus, he works as a mechanic during the summer. When Quinn asks what he loves most about the Civic, Keegan admits that he’s all about “retro” cars over the newer models because, to him, they’re just iconic. This Civic is his fourth car, and, naturally, he gets pulled over pretty often for having a bit of a lead foot. The segment wraps up with Keegan and Quinn grabbing some grub at Burger King—because why not?
Memory Lane
Next up is Memory Lane, where Natalie takes us on a nostalgic journey through the Xenoblade Chronicles trilogy, with a focus on the first game. She recalls playing it for the first time on the Nintendo Switch and how it quickly became a favorite. The game’s central themes? Revenge, destiny, and breaking the cycle of hatred. In the game, you control characters wielding magical swords that are the only hope against monstrous creatures threatening their world. Natalie’s favorite part? The stunning environments, which are packed with beautiful details, make exploration a treat. As for the combat, she says it’s simple to pick up once you get the hang of it, making for a satisfying, engaging experience.
Ferris Asks
Then, we have Ferris Asks, where we hit the campus to ask the big questions—like, what would you do with a million dollars? The answers ranged from practical (paying off student loans and investing) to a little more extravagant (buying fancy equipment or splurging on cars!). There were some heartfelt responses too, like giving it all to charity or using it to treat family and friends.
Cineskits
Finally, we wrap up the show with Cineskits, where we watch a hilarious $20 bet unfold between two friends. One of them, Newman, is running for president after his buddy dares him to. But as he gets deeper into the campaign, Newman realizes he’s in way over his head and doubts he’s cut out for the job. After some deep reflection, he decides to sabotage his campaign by rolling out some truly questionable policies. His first move? Nominating “Bad Guy” as his vice president. But plot twist—Bad Guy turns out to be a hero after saving a child’s life! In a last-ditch effort to tank his campaign, Newman proposes changing the name of football to “handball”—and, shocker, that move ends up making the entire country hate him. The result? Newman loses the race and, of course, owes his buddy a crisp $20 bill.
That wraps up this episode of Ferris in Focus. Stay tuned for new stories, insights, and highlights in our next episode!