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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
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129 th YEAR | ISSUE 34
THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884
SA Executive Council election debate highlights growth by Nia Wilson Staff Writer
Mississippi State University’s Student Association (SA) Executive Council candidates held
a debate in the Lee Hall Bettersworth Auditorium Tuesday evening. The debate allowed SA candidates a forum to voice their platform points as well as address any student concerns. Candidates for the 20152016 SA executive council include: Jamie Aron and
JoJo Dodd for President, Ashton Braddock and Roxie Raven for Vice President, Logan Reeves and Matt Jones for Secretary, Cole Wood for Attorney General and Malissa Arrington for Treasurer. During the debate, Aron expressed her primary goals
to include implementing a winter class session for students, expanding the reach of Bully Bucks and collaborating with the department of housing and residence life to include outdoor recreational facilities. Dodd focused on diversifying SA, demanding a
better parking situation and providing more appropriations for organizations not directly associated with SA. After highlighting the importance of increasing printing areas and hot spots around campus, vice presidential candidate Braddock said if she were chosen as
vice president, she would create an online submission form for students and work with administration to ensure grades are uploaded in a timely manner. “I also think it’s important to build relationships with senators,” Braddock said.
DEBATE, 2
SA Showdown:
Student Association Presidential Candidates
Q&A
Jamie Aron
Q: Do you think the Student Association needs to create relationships with more organizations/entities on campus, or are relationships with most organizations already active and healthy? A: Not only should we be creating more relationships with other organizations and student groups, but we should also be appropriating more funds. Mississippi State has over 300 student organizations — all of whom represent a distinct voice. As president, I want these organizations to have a voice and the financial support to let their voices be heard throughout campus and our region. To ensure the commitment of the SA, I hope to invite all presidents from every organization on campus to a meeting, where we can discuss the logistics of the Student Association and how we can best serve them. Q: If elected President, what would be your first action in regards to uniting the growing 20,000 student population? A: If elected President, my first action is to interview and select a cabinet, which will serve as representatives of the student body, policy coordinators and programmers. As proof of my commitment to all students at this university, I will actively seek members from all over campus — from various religious, athletic, ethnic and academic associations. Once these selected members are representative of the student body, the Student Association can move forward into a year of endless unifying possibilities. From listening to presidents of other organizations to working with administration and faculty to implement meaningful policies — like winter courses — or to planning SA’s exciting programs such as Bulldog Bash, this cabinet will move forward with innovation and work with all facets of our student body. I hope to lead the Student Association into an era of transparency and of active commitment to all students.
MSU to alter SMART
Shuttle routes, add stops throughout city by Taylor Bowden Staff Writer
This summer, the Starkville Area Rapid Transit program will alter and add several of its in-town shuttle routes in order to meet the needs of Starkville and student community needs. The SMART program has ordered three new buses as part of the $3,060,387 grant it received to fund its 2015 operations. Joel Walls, who runs the transit operations, said one of the new SMART routes that will be added will run the length of Mississippi Highway 12, starting at Wal-Mart and ending at the Montgomery Hall hub. “So you can get on at Montgomery and go anywhere in the primary
shopping areas along Highway 12,” Walls said. Additionally, the Boardtown loop will be split into Boardtown North and Boardtown South, with the north loop including a stop at the Oktibbeha County Hospital. The Old Main loop will extend its route to include a stop at Patriot Park to facilitate people who live in the Greenoaks residential neighborhood. Jeremiah Dumas, director of parking and transportation at Mississippi State University, provided a presentation to the Starkville Board of Aldermen Monday detailing these and other route changes as well as explaining the source of funding and the specifics of the department’s proposal for a 2016 grant. “This last year was the fi rst full calendar year of our implementation,” Dumas said.
JoJo Dodd
Q: Do you think the Student Association needs to create relationships with more organizations/ entities on campus, or are relationships with most organizations already active and healthy? A: The SA has many opportunities to create closer relationships with other student organizations. One simple way is to expand student appropriations. Appropriations offer other student organizations a chance to apply for money to support their group’s events or initiatives. We should expand the dollar amount allocated for appropriations and also loosen some of the restrictions on the money. This would go a long way to establishing the SA as an organization here to work with organizations, both large and small, to accomplish their goals. Q: If elected President, what would be your first action in regard to uniting the growing 20,000 student population? A: We have got to be more inclusive. The Student Association has earned the reputation of being an exclusive organization; something that is reserved for a select group of students. We have to actively work to address this perception. Until all students (Greek, non-greek, minority, transfers, international, Jewish, Muslim, etc...) believe that their opinions and efforts are welcome in the Student Association, the SA won’t realize its full potential to be a catalyst for change on campus. It’s been put this way to me, “Diversity is being invited to the party and inclusion is being invited to dance.” We need to invite more people to dance in the Student Association.
Library to feature Kinsey Collection by Katrina Smith Staff Writer
The Mitchell Memorial Library at Mississippi State University will host African American Treasures from the Kinsey Collection on March 9-13. The Kinsey Collection was started by Bernard and Shirley Kinsey in the mid-1980s through their son, Khalil, and his third grade project on their family’s history. The collection continued to grow, and today it holds over 400 years of history and is one of the largest privately owned African-American collections. The collection is comprised of a rich cultural and historical heritage through the works of African American artists such as Jonathan Green, documents and artifacts related to Frederick Douglas and Malcolm X. Stephen Middleton, director and professor of the African American studies program, was instrumental in bringing the idea to the library. This led to a partnership with the Mississippi Humanities Council, which provided the land grant to make this project a reality. Francis Coleman, dean of MSU Libraries, said she is honored the
MSU Libraries | Courtesy Photos
collection is coming to MSU. “This is an opportunity for everyone to get a chance to see a special exhibit and artwork, and it is a fascinating opportunity for our community,” Coleman said. The set-up of the collections will began March 9-13, with Khalil as the overseer. Once the exhibit opens, the visiting hours will be on select weekends and during regular library hours. There will be tours on which visitors can see hanging MSU Libraries | Courtesy Photos and standalone pieces, while ʻAfrican American Treasuresʼ from the Kinsey Collection (pica knowledgeable guide will tured) will be featured in Mississippi State Universityʼs Mitchell be on hand to answer questions regarding the artwork. Memorial Library March 9-13. The collection features cultural,
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historical art that depicts over 400 years of African-American history.
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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
Q&A:
Vice Presidential Candidates
Roxie Raven, sophomore political science major
Ashton Braddock, junior education major
Q: What would be your most important duty as Vice President of the Student Association? A: As Vice President of the Student Association, my most important duty is to ensure that Senate passes effective legislation to improve the lives of students on campus and that each piece of legislation passed is reflective of what the student body needs and wants. Q: In light of the recent crime spike in Starkville and on campus, what ideas would you suggest for the SA to assist in making students more aware of their environment? A: After doing some preliminary research in this topic for Senate last semester as co-director for Research and Development, my biggest suggestion would be increase the lighting in areas on campus that experience high-traffic at night. I would also suggest working with the police department to make carrying pepper spray legal on campus and not worthy of a ticket.
Q: What would be your most important duty as Vice President of the Student Association? A: If elected as Vice President of the Student Association, my most important duty would be to truly be a voice for the student body. I would like to make myself available to students and encourage the Senators to reach out to the students in their college to hear about their concerns. Q: In light of the recent crime spike in Starkville and on campus, what ideas would you suggest for the SA to assist in making students more aware of their environment? A: In order to encourage students to become more aware of their environment, I think something the SA can do is to promote Bully Patrol and Cowbell Cabs as soon as students get to campus. The SA can also attempt to host more events during daylight hours, encourage students to walk with a companion at night and work with the police department to hold self-defense classes.
Student Association Executive Council
Candidate Platforms
Secretary
Name: Logan Reeves Classification: Junior Major: Industrial Engineering Platform: I would like to fur-
ther diversify the SA Senate by expanding seat numbers. Also, to make accessible the Student Association Goal Tracker, revolutionize the Colvard Union and Sanderson TV listening, publish SA Cabinet and Senate meeting minutes and create a parking meter breakthrough.
Name: Matt Jones Classification: Sophomore Major: Biological Sciences Platform: I would like to
broadcast Senate business meetings to Tvs in the Union for students to watch. Also, I would like to have Senate Day publicized by the Student Association, where all students are invited to join a Senate meeting. Work with The Reflector to have a writer assigned to the Student Association.
Attorney General
Name: Cole Wood Classification: Sophomore Major: Political Science Platform: Create a committee or
attorney general advisery board for regular students from various organizations on campus. I would fight for students on the academic review board, specifically by increasing Academic Forgiveness by one hour. Also, I will advocate to sit on Associates Deans Council and fight for issues discussed at the Attorney General’s Advisory Board.
DEBATE
Treasurer
Name: Malissa Arrington Classification: Junior Major: Biological Sciences Platform: Revamp and manage
the change of appropriations requests from paper to digital and expand and promote Class Council in order for the student body to be more aware of the fundraising efforts. Also, allow the SA budget to be transparent to students. Improve communication between students, staff and organizations.
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“It will help keep people on track during senate meetings.” In conjunction, Raven said she believes creating a liaison program between the senators and each campus organization can increase the quality of student life on campus. Raven also said she feels strongly about implementing Open Educational Resources (OER), which will provide free electronic textbooks to students and teachers. “We should also outline policies and educate senators beforehand,” Raven said. “It will help senators maintain knowledge for future references.” Secretary contenders
Logan Reeves and Matt Jones both agreed upon SA increasing transparency and accountability. To complete this goal, Reeves said he believes there should be an SA goal-tracker available on the SA website, social media and in The Reflector. His other goals include allowing a credit card option for all meters and utilizing personal devices to be able to hear televisions in the Sanderson and Union. “There is so much more the Student Association does than just programming,” Reeves said. Jones said he feels the SA should collaborate with The Reflector. He suggests SA
have a writer assigned to SA meetings and events to report to the public, as well as broadcasting SA meetings to the student body. Lastly, Jones insists there be regular senate days in which students can attend the senate meetings. Cole Wood, attorney general candidate, proposed the Senate create an advisery board for students from their various organizations. He said as attorney general, he would then take the entire student body concerns to the executive board. Wood also elaborated on the importance of the SA constitution. He said he wants to ensure the
constitution is respected and realized as a stable and powerful document. Malissa Arrington, treasurer candidate, said changing the appropriation requests from paper to digital will increase effectiveness. Arrington also said as treasurer, she would challenge SA to allow the budget to be more transparent, including where funding from the student fees and two percent food-and-beverage tax are being allocated. Students are encouraged to vote in the SA Executive Council election Tuesday on their MyState account. The Reflector hosted this debate.
Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015 1:10 a.m. A student was arrested at Rick’s for profanity and drunkenness in a public place. 5:03 a.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for careless driving and driving under the influence. Monday, Feb. 16, 2015 4:35 p.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for felony sale of marijuanna within 1500 feet of a church. Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2015 1:09 p.m. An employee reported missing property during an audit at Longest Student Health Center. Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2015 8:41 a.m. A student was issued a student referral for causing a disturbance in Allen Hall break area. 10:24 a.m. An employee reported her MSU Patrol vehicle was struct by another vehicle on Bailey Howell, causing no visible damages. 8:35 p.m. A student was issued Justice Court citation and a student referral for minor in possession of alcohol. Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015 12:40 a.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for possession of drug paraphernalia. 2:59 a.m. A student was transported to OCH from Hull Hall for medical assistance.
SHUTTLE “What we operate under is what’s called the 5311 rural mass transit program. It’s for communities and municipalities that are 50,000 folks or less. These are federal transit dollars that are administered through MDOT [Mississippi Department of Transportation].” Dumas said MDOT provides for 80 percent of the cost of capital spending such as new buses or the construction of bus stop shelters and 50 percent of the day-to-day operational costs such as gas, tires and other maintenance concerns. According to Dumas’ presentation, SMART will request $3,226,400 from MDOT for 2016 to fund the next expansion of the program, which will create one bus route to East Mississippi Community College and a second that will loop from EMCC to the
KINSEY Security will supervise the exhibit at MSU, which is Exhibit II. The California AfricanAmerican Museum in Los Angeles, Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida and the Smithsonian Institution are among other locations the exhibit has been featured. Stephen Cunetto, systems administrator at MSU Libraries, said he hopes this will bring people to Starkville from the surrounding states to see the exhibit. “I am excited to be
CONTINUED FROM 1
Golden Triangle Regional Airport, to several of the industrial companies in the surrounding area, and then up to West Point for the tire manufacturing plant the Japanese company Yokohama established there. “MDOT wants us to go regional,” Wells said. “We are part of a regional group called Easy Tag, and the Choctaw nation transit manager is our mobility manager for Easy Tag.” The Choctaw nation has been in talks with Yokohama about job training and employment opportunities. Wells said the plan is for the two communities to both send buses that will hub at EMCC, and from there members of both communities can receive job skill education from EMCC as well as have assured transportation to any of the major industries in the region. CONTINUED FROM 1
hosting this opportunity for the students and the citizens from the Golden Triangle Area,” Cunetto said. Leilani Salter, administrative assistant to the dean, said she is excited to feature the Kinsey Collection in the library. Other events in connection to this event include the Ragtime festival March 26-28 and the Gatsby Gala. A Kinsey public reception will be held on March 21, and Kinsey will give a presentation on March 22.
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Heritage Museum houses city antiques, seeks expansion by Jennifer Flinn Contributing Writer
The Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum holds a vast collection of antiques from the city of Starkville and Oktibbeha County on permanent display in its many rotating exhibits. The museum, located on the corner of Fellowship and Russell streets in Starkville, is a former Mobile & Ohio railroad depot from 1874. The railroad depot was relocated in 1976 when the Heritage Museum was founded in celebration of America’s bicentennial. Since its founding, the Heritage Museum, a volunteer-only organization, has undergone interior and exterior renovations and in 2009, won an Award of Excellence in Historic Preservation for Interior Renovation. The exterior renovations were stimulated about six years ago by the collection of water under the building. The undertaking was carried out by the landscape architecture department at Mississippi State University. Bill Poe, chairman of the Heritage Museum, said the museum contacted the landscape architecture department regarding its water problem, and the department stayed for five years making improvements to the Heritage Museum in conjunction with the architecture department. “They corrected the water problem by putting a sand fi ltration system in place at the front of the building,” Poe said. The sand fi ltration system purifies the runoff water from the street and redirects it to the rain garden behind the museum where the water is mostly trapped and absorbed back into the soil. Over the course of its five-year stay at the museum, a class was formed for the landscape architecture department. The class concentrated on storm water runoff and water conservation. Along with the addition of the sand fi ltration system, a green roof pavilion was also added to the museum grounds. Mary Lee Beal, a full-time volunteer for the museum, said the fundraising part of the museum is called Friends of the Museum, which collects the tax deductible contributions. “This is really a grassroots effort. We could not have done the major renovations without the department of
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architecture and certainly could not have done the outside without the landscape architecture department,” Beal said. “Those two departments, as well as graphic arts, have all done things to contribute.” Beal also said there are always upkeep and maintenance projects that need to be done at the museum. “We would like to have increased funding from the city and the county to help us do some things,” Beal said. Poe said one of the museum’s main goals for 2015 is to expand its outreach program and grow visitation of the museum. “We feel like we have a treasure here, and most of the people in Starkville do not know about it,” Poe said. Beal said to help increase visitors to the museum the volunteers have discussed expanding its hours, especially on football weekends in the fall. Will Griffi n, a part-time volunteer for the museum, said he hopes students at MSU will take advantage of the Heritage Museum. “There is so much history, and I think it needs to be shared with the young folks,” Griffi n said. According to Poe, the Heritage Museum will soon join the Museum and Galleries Committee at Mississippi State University, which is another way to help increase visitation. “There are about 12 or 15 museums on campus and we are going to be included in that group,” Poe said. During a tour of the Heritage Museum, Poe said aviation is an important part of Oktibbeha County’s history. Poe said several advancements in the field of aviation have been made by people in Oktibbeha County over the years. Augustus “Gus” Raspet is credited with the development of the slow-moving aircraft designed specifically for use on the Mississippi Delta in the distribution of pesticides for crop-dusting. Poe said Charles Lindbergh made an emergency landing in Oktibbeha County before he made his famous Spirit of St. Louis fl ight. “My aunt remembers seeing that happen,” Poe said. “That was very interesting to have an eye witness of what Charles Lindbergh did.” Poe also said in the 1930s and ‘40s, this area was called the “Dairying Center of the South” due to the size of the dairying industry. “It should have been replaced after Gus Raspet’s research. It should have been called the Aviation
OC Heritage Museum | Courtesy Photo
The Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum features a collection of antiques from Oktibbeha County and Starkville. The piano (pictured) is a rare square piano from the Montgomery House featured in the museum. The Heritage Museum renovated its sand filtration system, which purifies runoff water from the street and redirects it to a rain garden behind the museum where water is absorbed into the soil.
Research Center of the South because it truly was,” Poe said. Starkville, Mississippi is also called home by three Hall of Fame sports players. James “Cool Papa” Bell was one of the fi rst African-American players from Negro league baseball to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1974. Bailey Howell, a basketball player for several NBA teams, was also inducted in 1997. Most recently, NFL player Jerry Rice was inducted in 2010. “For a town the size of Starkville, Mississippi, it is most unusual to have three hall-of-famers in three different sports that claim Starkville as home,” Poe said. Poe said the game of Tee ball, a sport played worldwide with the endorsement of the major league baseball teams, was invented in Starkville, Mississippi in the early 1970s. Poe said another wellknown basketball player, Travis Outlaw, is from the city of Starkville and regularly gives back to the community. “He recognizes where he came from, and he appreciates the city as well as we appreciate him,” Poe said. Poe also said Lynn Spruill, former Chief Administrative Officer of the city of Starkville, was the fi rst woman as a naval aviator to obtain carrier qualification. She donated much of her military dress to the Heritage Museum. Poe said the museum does not have many MSU
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antiquities, with the exception of a brick from the famous dormitory, Old Main, as well as a fi re escape ladder warped by the fi re. Poe, a former resident of Old Main, said he remembers watching the building burn in his senior year at MSU in January of 1959. About a year ago, the museum commemorated the 55th anniversary of the burning of Old Main with a presentation from Charles Lowry, author of a novel about the famous building formerly located on MSU’s campus.
Poe said it was one of the largest crowds ever to gather in the Heritage Museum. “A lot of the characters who lived in Old Main came back to tell their stories about humorous things that went on in the building,” Poe said. Poe said he remembers motorcycles driving around the halls of the old dormitory and the barricades put in place to stop this activity. He said the barricades aided the fire in reaching the attic and became a wind tunnel, moving the fire
throughout the entire building without stopping. Poe has also contributed to the museum’s collection of historical objects. He donated a picture of his own taken of the MSU campus in 1902 and a collection of taxidermy animals native to Mississippi including a large black bear that stands upright near the entrance to the museum. “This black bear is really popular with the young kids. Most of them have to have their picture taken with him,” Poe said.
1.5 ft. additional width; $15k-$30k per lane-mile
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Parse and Parcel
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014
AESTHETICS LOW BUMPS OBLONG
Motorists, cyclists should know traffic laws 14 WAYS TO MAKE 1.5 ft. additional width; $10k-$20k per lane-mile PROTECTION LEVEL
PLANTERS
Michael Lamb is the opinion editor for The Reflector. He can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.
Traffic sucks. Everyone hates being stuck behind other drivers and waiting for stop lights. For those who commute to campus, leaving just a few minutes later than normal can make the drive to campus feel 10 times longer. It doesn’t help drivers and pedestrians are frequently frustrated with bicycle traffic. In a place like Starkville where bicycle use is increasing, these frustrations are sure to grow in proportion. As a person that uses a bicycle for daily commute to and from campus, I understand all of these frustrations and would like to address a number of concerns raised by bicyclists. First, where do bicycles belong? Pedestrians on the sidewalks hate when a bicyclist whizzes by them without warning. Drivers are uncomfortable with the perceived uncertainty of a bicyclist’s behavior. The law, though, is clear as to where bicycles belong. The
Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) refers to House Bill No. 559 to define the rights of a bicyclist: “every person riding a bicycle upon a highway shall have all the rights and duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle.” Because bicycles are given the same privileges and duties as motor vehicles, it is clear bicycles do not belong on any pedestrian sidewalk. Again, as a student who uses his bicycle to commute to campus, I understand the struggle cyclists have while navigating the busy streets on campus and in Starkville. While it is tempting to ride on the sidewalks — especially in the heart of campus — it is lawful and respectful to walk one’s bicycle. However, I don’t believe in hard-and-fast rules that are inflexible to changing situations. I would offer there are times when a cyclist can ride on the sidewalk: when a pathway is clear of pedestrians, for example. Second, how can drivers and cyclists coexist peacefully? The answer is far from simple, but it begins with mutual respect. MDOT cites bicycle legislature passed by the state Senate as “John Paul Frerer Bicycle Safety Act.” One section of the act states “it is unlawful to harass, taunt or maliciously throw an object at or in the direction of any person riding a bicycle.”
Drivers should acknowledge the fact that a cyclist on the road has every right to be there by law. The act also states “while passing a bicyclist on a roadway, a motorist shall leave a safe distance of not less than three (3) feet between his vehicle and the bicyclist and shall maintain such clearance until safely past the bicycle.” The need for understanding traffic laws increases as motorists are more aware of cyclists on the road.
“... bicycle safety involves everyone.” While motorists’ increased respect for cyclists will aid those who travel by bicycle, there are also actions a cyclist can take to help motorists. Those riding bicycles should be respectful of motor vehicles; they are a lot heavier and will cause a lot of damage in an accident. Thus, a certain level of fear is appropriate. Cyclists can also wear reflective gear to increase visibility at day or night, and they are actually required by law to have lights mounted on the bicycle as a part of HB 559: bicycles must have a white lamp affixed to the front of the bicycle and a red lamp attached to the rear so a bicycle is visible from at least 500 feet away. Third, how can the city of Starkville and Mississippi
INSTALLATION COST 3 ft. additional width; $80k-$400k per lane-mile DURABILTY PROTECTION LEVEL AESTHETICS INSTALLATION COST
ALTERNATIVE BIKE LANES
State University help create a safe place for bicycle traffic? There are over a DURABILTY a bike lane. dozen ways to improve theA quick guide to the ways to protect AESTHETICS PARKING STOPS city’s existing bike lanesDeveloped from research by Nathan Wilkes, City of Austin 6 in. additional width; $20k-$40k per lane-mile to help make them safer. I PROTECTION LEVEL believe the most cost-effiRIGID BOLLARDS INSTALLATION COST cient and effective protec2 ft. additional width; $100k-$200k per lane-mile tion is switching bike lanes DURABILTY PROTECTION LEVEL and parked cars. Presently,© City of Boulder STRIPED BUFFER AESTHETICS INSTALLATION COST motor vehicle traffic rides 1.5 ft. additional width; $8k-$16k per lane-mile along the bike lanes while DURABILTY LEVEL PROTECTION parked cars are on the outLINEAR AESTHETICS BARRIERS INSTALLATION COST side of the road. If parked 6 in. additional width; $25k-$75k per lane-mile DURABILTY cars buffered the bike lanes, PROTECTION LEVEL there would be an additional AESTHETICS CAST IN INSTALLATION COSTPLACE CURB 11 feet between motor traf12 in. additional width; $25k-$80k per lane-mile DURABILTY fic and bicycle traffic. This Similar to current bike lanes in Starkville but offer PROTECTION LEVEL solution emphasizes the© trafficlogix.com AESTHETICS less protection DELINEATOR POSTS protection of cyclists and is INSTALLATION COST 1.5 ft. additional width; $15k-$30k per lane-mile also easy to implement; one DURABILTY PROTECTION LEVEL difficulty, however, is that PARKED AESTHETICS CARS intersections involving bike 11INSTALLATION ft. for parkingCOST + buffer; $8k-$16k per lane-mile lanes and motor traffic may DURABILTY LEVEL PROTECTION become more dangerous AESTHETICS 12” PRECAST CURB INSTALLATION COST since drivers may not be able 1.5 ft. additional width; $400k-$600k per lane-mile DURABILTY to see cyclists behind parked PROTECTION LEVEL vehicles. More expensive AESTHETICS TURTLE BUMPS solutions include various INSTALLATION COST 1.5 ft. additional width; $15k-$30k per lane-mile barriers or creating raised Cost effective solution that offers DURABILTY maximum protection bike lanes, which would PROTECTION LEVEL JERSEY AESTHETICS BARRIERS both increase protection of 2INSTALLATION ft. additional width; COST $80k-$160k per lane-mile cyclists while maintaining PROTECTION DURABILTY LEVEL visibility for motorists. RAISEDCOSTBIKEWAY INSTALLATION AESTHETICS Whatever the cost, it is No additional width; $8m-$26m per lane-mile DURABILTY apparent that bicycle safety PROTECTION LEVEL involves everyone. Bicyclists AESTHETICS LARGE must be aware of pedestriINSTALLATIONBUMPS COST 1.5 ft. additional width; $15k-$30k per lane-mile ans and motorists. Drivers DURABILTY should respect cyclists have PLANTERS PROTECTION AESTHETICS LEVEL a place on our city’s roads. 3 ft. additional width; $80k-$400k per lane-mile INSTALLATION COST The city and the universi- More expensive than current bike lanes, but offer a PROTECTION LEVEL DURABILTY ty can step up to meet the safer solution INSTALLATION COST needs of their citizens and AESTHETICS DURABILTY students by improving and Courtesy AESTHETICS of People for Bikes expanding bike paths. It all Graphic by Austin Grove begins with respect. OBLONG LOW BUMPS
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The Oscars under fire, lack diversity in films 1.5 ft. additional width; $10k-$20k per lane-mile
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by Drew Carter Contributing Writer
2014 produced a lot of amazing fi lms, and many of them have been recognized by Academy Award nominations. Unfortunately, a few fi lms and actors deserving of an Oscar nomination were snubbed, leaving many wondering about a few of the choices made. Some are claiming the reasons may be more politically driven than they appear. It is no secret the Oscars are notorious for handing out nominations many would claim unworthy of the treasured award. This
year proved no different. When nominees were announced, many took to social media to express how they felt. No women were nominated for Best Director or Screenwriter, and many allege the Oscar committee is sexist. In addition, it has been said there was little diversity this year; when “Selma” director Ava DuVernay and leading man David Oyelowo appeared to have been snubbed, the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite, became a trending topic on Twitter. Adding fuel to the fi re is the fact if DuVernay had been nominated, she would have been the fi rst African-American woman
to be recognized for Best Director. Alex Pelham from The Daily Texan stated the lack of diversity “marks a stark distinction from last year’s ceremony, in which ‘12 Years a Slave’ was named Best Picture and won for Best Supporting Actress.” The public is very unhappy with the fi rst all-white roster since 1998. But the Academy claims to be working on its diversity. The Academy inducted 400 new members and appointed Cheryl Boone Isaac as the fi rst African-American President. And although many are upset about the “Selma” snubs, it still has
2 ft. additional width; $100k-$200k per lane-mile INSTALLATION COST PROTECTION LEVEL DURABILTY INSTALLATION COST AESTHETICS DURABILTY
a chance to win for Best often ridiculous standards Picture; both deserved a Picture and Best Original — that fi lm is more likely nomination. Song “Glory.” to win. There were many deservAESTHETICS I believe the Academy All around, the snubs ing nominees this year the STOPS really needs to change the this year were very strange. PARKING Academy, for whatever 6 in.reason, additional width; $20k-$40k lane-mile way it selects its nominees. Most of the leading menCAST chose notperto select. IN PLACE CURB If you’ve heard the term were nominated along-12PROTECTION Oscar nomination is a in.An additional width; $25k-$80k per lane-mile LEVEL “Oscar bait,” it means a side their movies, withPROTECTION great thing to achieve, but INSTALLATION COST LEVEL fi lm is made a certain way the exception of David it is not an exclusive indicaDURABILTY COST specifically for the purpose Oyelowo in “Selma” andINSTALLATION tor of a movie’s success and © City of Boulder DURABILTY of winning an award so the Steve Carell’s perfor- AESTHETICS recognition. Nomination Academy will nominate it. mance in “Foxcatcher.”AESTHETICS is based solely on the opinBecause a phrase like that These omissions are ions of an Academy that has BARRIERS exists, I think it proves strange indeed, since the LINEAR come to be valued less and 6 in. additional width; $25k-$75k per lane-mile PRECAST CURB there is something wrong Academy only nominated12” less throughout the years. 1.5 ft. additional width; $400k-$600k per lane-mile with the way the Academy eight fi lms out of the cate- PROTECTION Whether you agree with LEVEL picks the nominee. Politics gory’s ten available spots.PROTECTION the LEVEL choices or not, Neil INSTALLATION COST play a heavy hand in decid- Other controversial snubsINSTALLATION Patrick Harris will host, DURABILTY COST ing which movies get were Jake Gyllenhaal inDURABILTY and there are tight races in © trafficlogix.com AESTHETICS picked. If the Academy “Nightcrawler” for BestAESTHETICS many categories, so it’s sure likes who was involved — Actor and “The Lego to be interesting to see the and if the movie meets its Movie” for Best Animated outcomes for this year.
PARKED CARS RAISED BIKEWAY 11 ft. for parking + buffer; $8k-$16k per lane-mile
My Two Cents
No additional width; $8m-$26m per lane-mile PROTECTION LEVEL PROTECTION LEVEL INSTALLATION COST INSTALLATION COST DURABILTY DURABILTY AESTHETICS AESTHETICS
Personality tests have merit, aid socialization
Personality tests have become increasingly popular over the years. Many different types have emerged, but the one that stands out
Managing Editor Catie Marie Martin
as one of the most credible is the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). This formula presents 16 different types of basic
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Letters to the editor should be sent to the Meyer Student Media Center or mailed to The Reflector, PO Box 5407, Mississippi State, MS. Letters may also be emailed to editor@reflector.msstate.edu. Letters must include name and telephone number for verification purposes. The editor reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish a letter.
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personality types, with each type having a slightly different twist on its own. Each personality type is coded with four letters. E (extraversion) or I (introversion) — how one is energized; S (sensing) or N (intuition) — how one takes in and processes information; T (thinking/ logic) or F (feeling) — how one makes decisions; and P (perceiving) or J (judging) – how one plans and organizes life. No one person is strictly an extrovert or strictly a feeler, etc., but some combination. The letters only refer to which one is more dominant in a person’s personality. One of the great things about the MBTI is the way it gives the person taking the test a point scale for each letter. This is where a person’s unique attributes show up in a big way. According to the MyersBriggs website, “The goal of knowing about personality type is to understand and appreciate differences between people. As all
types are equal, there is no best type.” Some say studying personalities has no merit. They claim it only leads to putting people in boxes and stereotyping them. I feel the exact opposite. I have found the study of personality types — particularly
improve my weaknesses. More importantly though, instead of merely getting JERSEY BARRIERS frustrated with a friend or 2 ft. additional width; $80k-$160k per lane-mile family member when they act a certain way, I’m able PROTECTION LEVEL to unravel the situation and INSTALLATION COST see where that person com- DURABILTY ing from according to his AESTHETICS or her brain wiring.
The ratings for aesthetics are subjective, based on full life-cycles. For details on all ratings, visit bit.ly/14bikelanes.
“By knowing the different types and how they relate to the others, I am able to better understand others as well as myself.” with the Myers-Briggs evaluation — extremely helpful in my everyday interactions with friends, family, colleagues and even random people I meet at the bank. By knowing the different types and how they relate to the others, I am able to better understand others as well as myself. For example, my type is ISFJ. Since I’ve read and studied about who I am, I have found ways to maximize my strengths and
Mamie Carlstrom PLANTERS is a junior majoring in communications. 3 ft. additional lane-mile She canwidth; be $80k-$400k contacted per at opinion@
reflector.msstate.edu.
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difference. The benefits reaped from this can prove AESTHETICS to be mind-blowing. Some psychologists and analysts disagree with the test, the types of questions BOLLARDS My sister and I are exact RIGID $100k-$200k per lane-mileof askswidth; and its method opposites on the spec- 2 ft.itadditional scoring. trum (this makes her an PROTECTION LEVEL While we should acknowledge no test can ENTP). Therefore, we see INSTALLATION COST life through very different ever fully explain the complexities of a human being, eyes. However, through DURABILTY we should still recognize studying the personality AESTHETICS types, we have both learned some come as close as to validate and understand possible to doing the task. PLACEis CURB TheIN MBTI straightforeach other’s viewpoints. CAST additionaland width; $25k-$80k per lane-mile full of fi nesse This knowledge also 12 in.ward whenLEVEL it comes to profi ling helps quite a bit in dat- PROTECTION a person’s personality. We ing and marital relation- INSTALLATION COST should appreciate its useships. Both parties should DURABILTY seek to understand their fulness and take advantage of the insight it provides. areas of commonality and AESTHETICS DURABILTY
12” PRECAST CURB
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RE F L E C T I O N S Stephen Covey
“When you really listen to another person PROTECTION LEVEL INSTALLATION COST from their point of view, and reflect back to DURABILTY them that understanding, it’s like giving them AESTHETICS emotional oxygen.” RAISED BIKEWAY
No additional width; $8m-$26m per lane-mile PROTECTION LEVEL INSTALLATION COST DURABILTY AESTHETICS
REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
An In-Class Distraction
CLASSIFIEDS POLICY
The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; the deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. Classifieds are $5 per issue. Student and staff ads are $3 per issue, pre-paid. Lost and found: found items can be listed for free; lost items are listed for standard ad cost. FOR RENT House for rent! Two bedroom, one bathroom. House located in Montpelier, MS. $500.00 per month plus deposit. Great location for students looking to enjoy quiet, country living. If interested, please call 662-295-7362. Canterbury Townhouses offers country living two minutes from campus! 2 bedrooms for $600, 3 bedroom 3 full baths $720. Water, sewage and trash included. Rent an apartment, not just a bedroom! Free TV with a 12 month lease. 662-323-9216. HELP WANTED ARE YOU READY FOR A CAREER? Waste Connections, Inc. is looking for a Landfill Gas Technician for our Walnut, MS location. This is a learning, handson position designed to get you ready for a career in Landfill Management. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply. Please call 865-312-9519 for more information or apply online today at www.wasteconnections. com! CLUB INFO
The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. MSU student organizations may place free announcements in Club Info. Information may be submitted by email to club_info@ reflector.msstate.edu with the subject heading “CLUB INFO,” or a form may be completed The Reflector at office in the Student Media Center. A contact name, phone number and requested run dates must be included for club info to appear in The Reflector. All submissions are subject to exemption according to space availability. MSU HILLEL
Jews wanted! If you’re Jewish, let us know! Like us on Facebook at Hillel @ Mississippi State University. Join us for meetings. For more questions, contact Joseph Metz at 601-813-7720. YOGA MOVES CLUB
School or work stressing you out? Get moving into Yoga Moves. Try our moves to get into shape and our relaxation techniques to handle the stress. Yoga Moves meets at the Sanderson Center in Studio C, Thursday evenings from 5:30-7 p.m. Like Yoga Moves Club - MSU on Facebook. STUDENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS
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Feb. 17 solutions:
5 THINGS TO KNOW FOR YOUR FRIDAY 1. Kentucky warrant for Disney’s Queen Elsa. The police department in Harlan, Kentucky has jokingly announced a warrant calling for the arrest of Queen Elsa of Disney’s “Frozen,” which apparently stated, “Suspect is a blonde female last seen in a long blue dress and is known to burst into song... As you can see by the weather, she is very dangerous.” 2. Mars mission candidates announced. Mars One, which plans to send a group of volunteers to Mars beginning in 2024, has selected its top 100 candidates. 200,000 applicants sought the opportunity to be the first to begin a colony in Mars. Mars One, a Dutch non-profit, will reduce the final candidates to a group of 24, which will be split into six crews of four, to be launched to Mars every two years after 2024. Mars One hopes to use existing technology to complete the mission, but MIT recently conducted a study that concluded current technology would be able to keep humans alive on Mars for approximately 68 days. 3. Best Actress curse threatens nominees. This year’s Oscar nominees for Best Actress should prepare to hold tight to their men after the winner is announced Sunday. Over the past dozen years, nearly every woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress has broken up with their significant other shortly following. Research has shown Best Actress winners have a 63 percent chance of their marriages failing, as opposed to their losing counterparts. Victims include Reese Witherspoon, Audrey Hepburn and Emma Thompson. 4. Black ice cover up. A New Jersey man attempted to cover up his drunk driving accident in which he slammed into a guardrail by pouring buckets of water onto the road. After crashing, Bryan Byers called a friend in hopes of creating the appearance of black ice on the road. Shortly thereafter, police discovered two buckets of water in the back seat of his friend’s car and charged Byers with drunk driving and other offenses. 5. Still Flawless. More than 200 untouched photos of Beyonce from a 2013 L’Oreal surfaced on a fan site, causing outrage on the behalf of Beyonce fans. The original photos were deleted shortly after being posted, but were picked up by Complex and Gawker. They went viral shortly after. Beyonce has yet to comment on the breach.
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Join us for a night of worship with Jenny and Tyler February 3 at 8 PM at the Wesley Foundation. STATE RUGBY
Think you’re tough??? Think again… Join State Rugby. 2014 SEC Division Champions! Practices T, W, R @ 5:30 at Rec Plex. For more info: rugby.org.msstate. edu or rugby-info@org. msstate.edu. BALLROOM DANCE CLUB
The Ballroom Dance Club is having its 10th Annual Moonlight Ball. It will be $20 for students and $25 for non-students and includes a catered dinner. It will be held April 11 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanderson Center. SOCIOLOGICAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION
The Sociological Student Association will meet the last Thursday of every month at 5 p.m. in Bowen Hall room 250. All majors are welcome. For more information, contact Dr. Lane at lane@soc.msstate.edu. ANTHROPOLOGY CLUB
The Anthropology Club will be having its Annual International Potluck on February 17 at 5:00 p.m. Bring your favorite international dish and have a great time. WESLEY FOUNDATION
Join us for Insight, a night of worship and Bible study at the Wesley Foundation, Tuesday nights at 8:00.
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
Shackouls Honor College presents Shakespeare week by Nicole Nettles Contributing Writer
The fourth floor of Griffis Hall was commandeered Wednesday and Thursday to make room for the Shackouls Honor College’s Shakespearean play “The Many Faces of Love & Desire” as part of the 2015 Shakespeare Week. The play was the brainchild of English assistant professor Eric Vivier and directed by Donna Clevinger of the Honors College. A variety of Shakespeare’s sonnets and works were incorporated into the hourlong performance, with most of the inspiration coming from Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.” The play featured littleto-no adaptations from the original works, creating a challenge for cast members when learning and reciting their lines. However, Clevinger explained this did little to stop the cast, as they executed their lines with minimum errors. “These are not theater students,” she said. “These are students who wanted to do something different.” This was only accomplished through weeks of rehearsal and sacrifice of the students’ time to make their performance go as smoothly as possible. Zane Parker III,
Mary Claire Gremillion| Courtesy Photograph
The cast, Amber Bennett, Isaac Huckaby, Drew Pettus, Amber White, Zane Parker III, Charles Micer, Chase Waldrip, Jack Bryan and Tony Laudadio (left to right), pose after a performance of “The Many Faces of Love & Desire” put on by Shackouls Honor College.
sophomore international business major casted as Malvolio, said it was refreshing to fi nally do a Shakespearean play for the fi rst time with the Honors College. “I am pretty confident that the play will earn us a good turn out because of its uniqueness, being that it is multiple parts of Shakespearean works,
rather than just one,” Zane said. The play itself opened with an accompaniment of a violin solo by junior political science major Tony Laudadio. As the music fi lled the room, the audience’s mood was set before the play was even started, allowing them to get a feel of what was to come.
The play progressed from there as the actors entered and began to speak their lines loudly and clearly. Shakespearean language was not the only thing that helped to set the atmosphere of the performance. The cast was in full-costume from a rental company. These costumes were of high quality and displayed
just how much effort was put into this production. A major difference in the performance put on by the Honors College from a traditional play was the lack of a true stage. “The Many Faces of Love & Desire” was held in a classroom setting, which would normally have led the audience to lack imagery, but did just
the opposite. The lack of a stage and background allowed for the audience to create their own setting with their imaginations. Another interesting factor was the arena-like performance space that provided each audience member with a different perspective of the play. The cast also got up close and personal with some of the audience, creating a more realistic scenario. Christine Dunn, sophomore secondary English education major, said the actors who played the brother-sister duo, Viola, performed by Amber Bennett, and Sebastian, who was played by Chase Waldrip, projected a strong physical presence in their performance. “It was an interesting performance with all of the mixed Sonnets. The transition between them was well-executed and blended to the point that you didn’t know when they were using a completely different piece of work,” Christine said. The only flaw of the play was the difficulty some may have with understanding Shakespearean language, but if one listens closely enough, they will be able to piece together what is happening. Overall, the play was enjoyable and provided a clear display of the effort put in by the student cast.
Students survive cold temps Starkville hosts by Kaitlin O’Dougherty Staff Writer
Winter has finally hit Starkville, and many dread facing these below freezing days especially when the temperature seems to drop even lower on campus. Kaitlin Cassidy, freshman educational psychology major, said she hates the weather nowadays. “Don’t go outside in this weather,” she advised. Unfortunately, this is not an option for most students on these glacial days. However, there are several things that can make these days a little more bearable. They might just get students
up for that 8 a.m. class or at least get them to roll out of bed at some point during the day. Gene McDonald, sophomore international business major, said he plans out his days to make the least amount of trips outside as possible. “I plan to go to certain parts of campus for the day and stay there until I am forced to step outside once again,” McDonald said. Another way to make the drive to class a little easier in the morning is to invest in an ice scraper. Scrapers with warm gloves attached to the top so that students’ hands survive the process are also available. These are worth the investment and solve the
problem of an ineffective defroster. Hunter Rawson, senior computer engineering major, said he has not enjoyed the wind that accompanied the freezing temperatures this week. He enjoys his time at the gym, but the cold weather has made him feel differently. “The cold almost made me change my mind about going to the gym,” Rawson said. “Just walking outside is miserable.” However, going to the gym is another great way to put some warmth back into one’s day. It is a great place to stay warm while also being productive. Swimming laps is another form of exercise many students do
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not incorporate into their workoutroutines.Swimming in the Sanderson pool can trick one into thinking they are on vacation. However, remember to bring a hairdryer – the cold air will feel even worse with wet hair. Another way to stay warm without sacrificing money is to open up all the blinds in one’s house during the day and close them all at night. This allows sunlight to enter the house during the day, which greatly affects the temperature inside the house. Closing the blinds at night helps block some of the cold air outside. This also allows students to save on electrical bills throughout the winter season. Some very simple tips to manage the cold are to turn your ceiling fan on reverse. It will push warm air down. Always wear plenty of layers and stock up on wool clothing. Many do not realize how much layering can save them from a miserable walk to class. Wear a hat, gloves and even a scarf. No one will be judgmental about doing so. Instead, they will be jealous of how warm and comfortable it looks. Lighting candles and curling up with a good book are also great ways to enjoy the season. Winter does not have to be miserable. It gives students the excuse to stay inside and binge-watch Netflix while curled up in a blanket for hours on end. Embrace staying inside and maybe even finish that DIY you never got around to doing during these frigid weeks.
Film Festival by Noor Mujahid Life Editor
Filmmakers small and large are gathering in Starkville as Hollywood Premier Cinemas hosts the Magnolia Independent Film Festival through Saturday. Events for Friday include two fi lm screenings from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. for $10 per person. Saturday’s events include a free workshop from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. as well as fi lm screenings from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at a cost of $10 per person. Awards will be presented after Saturday night’s events. The fi lms will be judged in seven categories including best feature, best short, best foreign, United Way Best Student Film, best documentary and Ron Tibbett Award for Excellence in Film. Johnny Weichel, senior broadcasting major, said he entered a short fi lm in MAG’s student category. “The fi lm is called ‘Current State.’ The story follows the conversation of two high school friends, Ray (Austin Lenox) and Chris (Sam Kealhofer),” he said. “The topic of conversation shifts slightly after a group of college students, Kaleb (Will Knight), Laura (Becca Hall) and Tayler (Mary Whittle), wander into the coffee shop.
Eventually, they are forced to cross paths.” Austin Lenox, Mississippi State University graduate, said he was introduced to the various aspects of fi lmmaking while acting for Weichel’s fi lm. “It was so interesting to see the intricacy of the fi lmmaking process, even on this smaller level,” he said. “I also loved seeing someone as passionate about his work as Johnny (the director).” Weichel said he believes events like MAG provide a great opportunity for fi lmmakers to connect with other fi lmmakers in their community. “For me, this is an opportunity to speak with other directors and editors about the art form,” he said. “That’s something that’s hard to come by, even on a college campus with over 18,000 students.” As a part of the fi lm festival, Weichel said he encourages students to attend MAG because it is an event orchestrated by locals and student support is appreciated by fi lmmakers like him. “Come to the MAG. It’s a great opportunity to support the arts. A lot of people complain about how there’s not a lot to do in Starkville,” he said. “If you want more stuff to do, you’ve gotta support events put on by people in the community.”
Sports
7 THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
Bulldogs travel to Tuscaloosa by Zach Wagner Staff Writer
Mississippi State University’s women’s basketball team will look to fi nish off the rest of its SEC schedule in strong fashion beginning Sunday, when it travels to Tuscaloosa to take on the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Bulldogs are coming off a hard fought win against Florida Sunday, which saw them pull away from the Gators in the second half to improve their overall record to 24-4 on the season. Coming off of the game versus Florida, Bulldog Head Coach Vic Schaefer said he is pleased with the state of the program and how his team’s momentum this season. “I am really proud of everything we have accomplished,” Schaefer said in a news release. “We have set a lot of milestones here that people didn’t think were possible when we got here three years ago. We have some high expectations around here.” This year’s squad has already proven to be one of the best in the school’s history, and by it tying its alltime wins record for a single season, it is beginning to wander into uncharted territory. However, come Sunday afternoon the Bulldogs will need to not let their guard down against an Alabama team, whose record may not show it, but can present problems for the Bulldogs if they allow them to get going. In their fi rst meeting of the season, the Bulldogs were able to scrap out a 16-point victory at home, but the win did not come easily. MSU got off to a slow start in the fi rst half. It was the play of Mississippi State’s defense that ultimately allowed it to get the victory, which has been another trend that has stuck with the team as well. MSU held Alabama to 30 percent shooting for the game and an even better mark of 14 percent from three-point range. Since that game was played on Jan. 18, these two teams have taken very different paths to get to where they currently stand today. MSU has gone 5-2 and picked up an impressive win over Texas A&M to help keep its spot in the third position in the SEC standings. Alabama, on the other hand, found out just how daunting the SEC can be, as it has gone 2-5 and has not been able to string together any successive victories yet in conference play. Turnovers have proven to be a problem for the Crimson Tide all year, but especially over the last
Beyond the Arc
MSU bats will stay hot It is common knowledge in baseball that the team always wants to get hot at the end of the season, but starting off hot is important too. The Mississippi State University baseball team opened up the season about as hot as a team can get, especially from the plate. The Bulldogs plated 48 runs over opening weekend, the most in a four game stretch since 2007. In recent years, the Bulldogs have relied heavily on a solid starting rotation and ample bullpen help to win ballgames, but this
batted with the bases loaded. The team went 7-for-16 with 22 RBI, and senior fi rst baseman Wes Rea blasted a grand slam on Saturday. Humphries and senior outfielder Jake Vickerson also went yard over the weekend. This could be a common theme for the Bulldogs in 2015 with more power coming into the lineup. In the preseason, head coach John Cohen harped that this team would show more power than in previous years, and he has not been wrong so far.
“ The fans in Dudy Noble Field’s Left Field Lounge may want to take their gloves to more games this year, because if the Bulldogs can continue to swing the bats like they are, the Lounge may become a busy landing zone for more MSU homeruns.”
Jacob Follin| The Reflector
Victoria Vivians goes up for a shot. Vivians averages 18.4 ppg against ranked teams.
seven ball games, where they are turning it over at a rate of 18.6 per game. Bulldogs have seen their offensive production improve over the last four-game stretch, and the improved play of freshman Victoria Vivians has acted as a spark for the entire team. Vivians fi nished last week, which was highlighted by a 39-point performance in the double overtime loss to Kentucky, and earlier in the week she was named the National Writers Association’s Freshman of the Week, the fi rst Bulldog player ever to receive the prestigious honor. Vivians was quick to thank her teammates for helping her achieve all that she was able to over the past week. “This is a great honor because there are so many great freshmen players across the nation,” Vivians said in a news release. “I appreciate the USBWA for selecting me, but I have to share this honor with my teammates and coaches because it wouldn’t be possible with their support.” The team as a whole has seen its shooting percentage rise to roughly 41
percent, which is good enough when partnered by its great work on the defensive end to be a really competitive team within the SEC. Another key to the game on Sunday will be having a healthy Martha Alwal this time around. Alwal had just come back from injury in the fi rst match up, and while she did play a pretty high 30 minutes in the ball game, she only shot 2-11 from the field, struggling to get a real feel for the game. This time around, Alwal should be much more comfortable in her role as the starter in the middle. Alwal has made five or more shots in the last three games. One player from the Crimson Tide to keep an eye out for is sophomore forward Ashley Williams, who is averaging 13.1 points a game this season to go along with six rebounds. She has helped provide the Crimson Tide with some scoring punch this season and has proven to be their most consistent player. MSU will key in on her and make someone else step up and try to pick up the slack come Sunday afternoon in Tuscaloosa.
year’s offense could change that trend. To produce runs, it all starts at the beginning of the lineup, where Seth Heck shined last weekend. Senior shortstop Heck led the team in hits, going 9-for-16 on the weekend, while sophomores Reid Humphreys and Jacob Robson each added six hits. The biggest reason for the offensive explosion was how well the Bulldogs
Although it was just the opening weekend, the Bulldogs look to be in midseason form. Robson had such a phenomenal weekend he received national honors. Robson reached base 16 out of 17 plate appearances and currently leads the SEC in runs scored with eight. Collegiate Baseball named him their National Player of the Week for the fi rst weekend of the season. Robson, aka the “Maple
Shane Anderson is a senior majoring in communication. He can be contacted at reflectorsports@ gmail.com
Hammer,” hit in the five hole for all of the Bulldogs’ four wins on the weekend. His play helped the Diamond Dogs move up in four of the five polls released this week. After staying put at No. 14 in Baseball America, MSU jumped to No. 18 in Collegiate Baseball, No. 20 in NCBWA, No. 21 in Perfect Game and entered the D1 Baseball top 25 at No. 24. If the Bulldogs can continue to play at this high of a level, they will continue to climb in the polls The 2015 campaign could be a breakout year at the plate for some young players, and if the past weekend has taught us anything, it’s that the Bulldogs are not afraid to swing the bat. In the last two games, the Bulldogs scored 15 or more runs in consecutive games for the fi rst time in 15 years. The fans in Dudy Noble Field’s Left Field Lounge may want to take their gloves to more games this year, because if the Bulldogs can continue to swing the bats like they are, the Lounge may become a busy landing zone for more MSU homeruns.
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Sports THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2015
Diamond Dogs prepare for Marshall, Alabama A&M by Kevin Simmons Staff Writer
After sweeping their opening series last weekend in dominating fashion against Cincinnati and Miami (Ohio), the Mississippi State University Bulldogs seek to continue success with another four-game series against the Marshall University Thundering Herd and the Alabama A&M Bulldogs. The only game the Bulldogs struggled in over the weekend was in their Saturday game against Cincinnati. MSU went down 4-0 in the second inning, but scored 17 unanswered runs, including an eight-run sixth inning to secure the win 19-5. MSU sophomore Vance Tatum came in relief of freshman Jesse McCord after the Dogs were down 4-0 and tossed 4.2 scoreless innings. The Bulldogs produced a great deal of offense over the weekend. MSU scored a total of 48 runs in the four game series, which are the most runs scored by a Bulldog team in a four-game stretch since 2007. This offensive clinic included home runs from Wes Rea, Reid Humphreys and Jake Vickerson all in game two of the series. Trusty MSU senior pitcher Ross Mitchell pitched 5.2 shutout innings in relief of Jacob Laster in game two. The Bulldogs also had a big weekend from leadoff man Seth Heck, who collected nine hits and scored seven runs. MSU sophomore centerfielder Jacob Robson
Emma Katherine Hutto | The Reflector
Jacob Robson swings the bat in last weekend’s game. Robson played in 18 games last season before suffering a season-ending injury.
is another player who will look to continue his success this weekend. The Canada native was named Collegiate Baseball’s National Player of the Week. Robson reached base on 16 of his 17 plate appearances
and finished the weekend with eight runs scored. Several young Bulldogs gained experience this weekend as Heck, Robson and Humphreys were the only players to start all four games. Head Coach
John Cohen has a history of playing several different players and experimenting with different lineups in non-conference play. Expect that trend to continue in the three weeks before SEC play begins.
This weekend’s opponents should prepare the Bulldogs for SEC play. Marshall defeated Florida A&M in two out of three games on opening weekend in Tallahassee, Florida, and Alabama
A&M lost three out of four to Indiana UniversityPurdue University at Fort Wayne. Both Marshall and Alabama A&M finished the 2014 season with losing records, and both were at least ten games under .500. However, the Thundering Herd would definitely seem to be the tougher of the two opponents. Marshall set a school record last weekend in game two against Florida A&M. After losing its opener 4-3, the Thundering Herd combined for a school-record 31 hits in a 24-2 win. Marshall won the final game of the series 10-9. Sophomore leadoff man Corey Bird is a top productive player to watch for Marshall. The centerfielder led the Thundering Herd in hits, batting average and stolen bases as a true freshman in 2014. Bird recorded six hits, five runs and seven RBI in the two wins against Florida A&M last weekend. While four games are scheduled for this weekend, heavy rain is in the forecast. MSU already had its Tuesday game against Mississippi Valley State canceled due to cold weather, and it is unlikely MSU will be able to play all four games this weekend. Marshall and Alabama A&M are set to play two games against each other at 2 p.m. on Friday and 1 p.m. on Sunday at Dudy Noble Field. MSU is scheduled to play Marshall at 6:30 p.m. on Friday night and will play a doubleheader starting with Alabama A&M at 2 p.m. and Marshall at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday. Weather permitting, MSU will finish the weekend against Alabama A&M at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.