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TUESDAY MARCH 5, 2019
134th YEAR ISSUE 38
THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884
Student Association elects new executives Jake Manning, President DYLAN BUFKIN STAFF WRITER
Originally, Jake Manning came to Mississippi State University to avoid his high school graduating class from Jackson Academy, where the University of Mississippi is teasingly called “the 13thgrade.” It did not hurt that his older brother already attended MSU and was involved in Sigma Chi, which
Manning also joined. Manning stressed he had no plans for joining the Student Association, much less becoming its president, when he arrived on Starkville’s campus as a freshman. In high school, Manning was not involved in student government, but he did play football and was a member of the chess team. Additionally, he and a friend started a Harry Potter club, where they would watch the popular films and play
Quidditch, a sport originating from the novels. Manning is an avid fantasy novel reader, and when made to pick a favorite, Manning names “The Lightbringer Series” by Brent Weeks as exceptional, though he still has a special love for Harry Potter. “I read the first one in a day; I read all of them in a week. I was hooked, and I’m a bad binger on anything,” Manning said. “I’m a big series guy when it comes to books.” PRESIDENT, 2
MSU Public Affairs | Courtesy Photo
Emily Case, Vice President EMMA DRAY BRASWELL STAFF WRITER
Emily Case, a progressive mind for the future of MSU’s campus life, was appointed as the Student Association’s new vice president, with 76.68 percent of the votes. The numbers show many consider her the best candidate for this position, whether because of her personality, hard work ethic or her plan of action. When running for a position in the student
Emily Case | Courtesy Photo
government, it is important to spread the word efficiently. Social media was vital to Case’s campaign because of her connections. “I’m lucky enough to be involved in a sorority, so I have 260 people who can post my graphic on their Instagram stories,” Case said. Social media helped her in more ways than just various Instagram stories, she said. Case’s campaign was furthered by her campaign videos produced, which were made by Hugo Garcia. They created three videos, and all three were
more comedic and personal than the clean-cut campaign videos Case avoided. “We made one about change that incorporated the off-campus dining options I’m hoping to implement,” Case said. “We made a funny one about parking, and then just one based off of the kid president video. I thought those were really helpful, because a lot of people thought they were funny, so they’d send them to their friends, and then people who don’t even follow me on social media were commenting on them and viewing them.” VP, 2
Jes Miller, Treasurer EMMA KING
STAFF WRITER
The Mississippi State University student body elected junior finance major Jes Miller as the new Student Association Treasurer. Miller won with a 58.1 percent majority and 1,581 votes on Feb. 26. Hailing from Spring, Texas, a town just north of Houston, Miller’s extracurricular involvement can be seen across MSU.
He is currently serving as president of Foundation Ambassadors and codirector of recruitment for the Interfraternity Council. Miller is also a member of the risk management and insurance honor society, Gamma Iota Sigma, and a Phi Gamma Delta fraternity member. Miller expressed excitement to accept the position of SA Treasurer and fulfill his goal of giving back to MSU.
At the NFL Combine
MONTEZ SWEAT
TREASURER, 2
Jes Miller | Courtesy Photo
Sarah Helen Skelton, Secretary GRACIE BYRNE STAFF WRITER
Sarah Helen Skelton, a sophomore public relations major, is now the secretary for Mississippi State University’s Student Association. Skelton received 76.68 percent of the votes on Feb. 26, with 2,081 votes being cast for her in total. Skelton ran against one other student, Bailey Lehmann. Lehmann received 23.32 percent of
Sarah Helen Skelton | Courtesy Photo
TUESDAY HI: 24 LO: 45 SKY: Sunny POP: 0
WEDNESDAY HI: 25 LO: 48 SKY: Sunny POP: 0
THURSDAY HI: 30 LO: 52 SKY: Partly Cloudy POP: 0
the votes, with a total of 633 votes being cast for her. Skelton is a graduate of Jackson Preparatory School. Skelton’s first experience in student government was becoming a part of the Student Association. Skelton is involved in various clubs and organizations on campus. These include Maroon VIP, Chi Omega sorority, New Maroon Camp, Freshman Forum and the Student Association cabinet.
FORECAST: The next three days will be gorgeous, albeit cold. Expect sunny skies to dominate for the first part of the week, with clouds slowly building in toward the weekend. Wind chill will not be as much of a threat as it was Monday, but it will still feel colder than the actual temperatures for Tuesday and Wednesday.
Alexandra Kent, Campus Connect Meteorologist
MSU’s Defensive End breaks the record for the 40-yard dash at 4.41 seconds. Rosalind Hutton, Noah Siano
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PRESIDENT
In the same way his brother attracted him to MSU, Manning’s brother was also somewhat involved in his entrance into the SA. Every Thursday night, Manning’s brother would host cookouts, and while attending one of these, Molly McAdams, a former student and SA senator at MSU, made Manning fill out the forms of intent to run for SA Senate, knowing he would love the position. The rest is SA history. Manning would go on to be appointed the Community and Governmental Relations Committee Chairman and the President Pro Tempore, which chairs the Rules and Legislation Committee, and he would become the SA Vice President, creating the expansive and illustrious resume which would carry him to his current station as SA President-Elect. The rest is SA history. Manning would go on to be appointed
the Community and Governmental Relations Committee Chairman and the President Pro Tempore, which chairs the Rules and Legislation Committee, and he would become the SA Vice President, creating the expansive and illustrious resume which would carry him to his current station as SA President-Elect. Current SA President Mayah Emerson described Manning’s personality as a big factor in his leadership success. “Jake (Manning) isn’t afraid to play devil’s advocate. He’s very analytical,” Emerson said. “He looks at all sides of the situation, and I think that’s always a good thing in leadership.” Furthermore, it is Manning’s outgoing personality that allows him to connect to others and enjoy his work. “He cares a whole lot about the student body, but he’s also not afraid to have
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a good time,” Emerson said. “Working with him over the past year has been lively to say the least.”
every single night, yet he is still up the next day doing it all over again.” Cuevas also stressed
“I’ve, nonstop, been thinking about how we can hit the ground running, and if I really do want to make substantial changes. I think I have to be at 100 percent on day one if I’m actually going to achieve a cultural change for the SA.” - Jake Manning, SA President-elect David Cuevas, one of Manning’s close friends and current roommate, also spoke of Manning’s work ethic as one of his defining characteristics. “Every day Jake (Manning) comes home late at night and he is exhausted from the day because it has been another long day,” Cuevas said. “This happens
Manning’s willingness to listen and help those who confide in him, which Cuevas says is his best quality. “No matter the issue or topic, I always feel comfortable having a conversation with Jake about it,” said Cuevas. Looking to the future, Manning wants to
remember the diversity found on MSU’s campus and work toward the betterment of the college experience for all involved. Manning recalled the biggest awakening for him was sitting in on Academic Insight panel, which allows parents to ask questions of various administrative figures on campus, and hearing the parents of firstgeneration college students have no frame of reference on how best to help their child. “I was like, ‘Wow, I really need to think about all of the different people coming here.’ Our transfer numbers are just about equaling our freshman class, at this point,” Manning said. “Our freshmen are more spread across the board than they have ever been.” Beyond this goal, Manning said he is excited to begin working for the student body and working with his new cabinet. Manning said his SA career
VP The most important aspect of getting votes for a position in the SA, however, was reaching out to people and asking for support. Much of campaigning circulated around being sociable and willing to speak with students about what they want and what she is hoping to do. “She’s super approachable, which is huge,” SA Senator Juan Benavites said. “When you’re on an executive council, you want to be approachable and willing to talk to anyone about their issues on campus and what they’re going through with those problems they have with the university.” Several senators who
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have worked alongside Case feel similarly about her.
Because this is a position that can change campus life in effective
“She was and still is the most encouraging person I have ever met in my life. She made me feel welcomed and important.” - Madelyn Winstead, Senator “She was and still is the most encouraging person I have ever met in my life,” Madelyn Winstead said. “She made me feel welcomed and important.”
ways and potentially make it better, being sociable is an important aspect. Some things Case is looking forward to improving are the
crosswalks and off-campus meal plan, among other things. “My freshman year at MSU I was hit by a drunk driver on Blackjack Road,” SA’s new Vice President shared. “One of the first pieces of legislation I did was to get a crosswalk on Blackjack Road because there’s no crosswalk there and people are walking back and forth to Helix all the time.” During her second term as a senator for SA, she successfully had a crosswalk installed at that location. The reason this particular issue resonates with her strongly is because adding crosswalks will improve safety on campus.
Case expressed interest with adding crosswalks between sorority and fraternity row, and also between sorority row and the landscape architecture building to improve this aspect of campus. “I’d love to start meeting with people to figure out a game plan for that,” Case said. Another important part of her platform was to create an off-campus dining possibility. “I’ve been working for probably about a year and a half on getting us a program like what they have at (the University of) Alabama. Essentially, it would be being able to use your ID off campus to buy
TREASURER “I have always wanted to serve the greater MSU student body on a higher level and finally have an opportunity to make a difference on campus through positive and impactful spending,” Miller said. Though he looks forward to assuming every duty the treasurer’s role offers, Miller also recognizes the great responsibility accompanying the job. When he fully takes the position, Miller will balance the budgets and expenditures of all divisions and organizations within the SA. Miller plans to dedicate every effort to ensure the SA is responsible with its
has focused on quality over quantity, and he takes pride in the comparatively small but meaningful amount of legislation passed during his term as VP. As Manning said, four or five major changes the student body can actually perceive on campus is preferable to hundreds that have no effect. Continuing on theme, Manning said he wants to get started on making those changes as soon as possible. “I’ve, nonstop, been thinking about how we can hit the ground running, and if I really do want to make substantial changes. I think I have to be at 100 percent on day one if I’m actually going to achieve a cultural change for the SA,” Manning said. “That’s exactly what I want to do. I want to revolutionize the place into a much more serious institution, and I’m going to be very open about that from the very beginning.”
food or even groceries,” Case said. “Because a ton of other schools in the SEC have a program like that, I would love to see us compete with that.” Layton Little, one of SA’s former vice presidents, said Case is a great fit for the position. “She’ll benefit not only one group on campus, but the entire campus as a whole,” Little said. Due to being a senator for two terms, Case felt familiar with the position of vice president, who runs the Senate. “I felt like I could do more than be a senator for another year, and VP just seemed to be the best fit for me,” Case said.
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funds while also meeting the needs of every student and organization. Scotty Bateman, former Phi Gamma Delta president and current biological engineering senior, once served alongside Miller on the Phi Gamma Delta cabinet. He said he has known Miller for three years from recruiting Miller to MSU and his fraternity. “Watching Jes (Miller) grow and mature into who he is today leaves me no doubt he will excel as the SA treasurer,” Bateman said. “He has prepared himself in every way possible for this opportunity, and gives 110 percent in everything he does.” When he was a freshman, Miller dreamed even bigger than his new role as treasurer, hoping to one day hold the title of SA president. During the following two years at MSU, however, he decided that particular responsibility was meant for another candidate. Miller decided to offer his skills to a more “behindthe-scenes” position which
still allowed him to serve the university publicly. Miller’s biggest influence here at MSU has been his fraternity, Phi Gamma Delta, which has shown him a support to last long past his four years
opportunity or the growth I have experienced without each of my brothers’ unconditional love and support.” Charles Provine, a fellow Phi Gamma Delta fraternity brother and
“My main goal is not achieving happiness through success, but joy through fulf illment. I cannot wait to spend more time with my family, and hopefully start one of my own.” - Jes Miller, SA Treasurer-elect in college. “The brotherhood within my chapter and lifelasting bonds I’ve created with some of my closest friends over the past few years will serve past college days alone,” Miller said. “Behind my family, they are my number one support group, and I cannot say I would have this
current SA Chief of Staff, has also witnessed Miller’s leadership potential over his collegiate years. “Jes (Miller) is my fraternity brother, and I’ve gotten to see him grow as a leader over the past few years while he’s served as a chapter officer, as well as president of Foundation Ambassadors,”
Provine said. “Jes (Miller) is going to make a great Treasurer because he’s dedicated, organized and hardworking.” Miller believes when it comes to all things life can throw, it is best to keep one’s chin up and persevere. He said the meaning of persistence is the most valuable lesson he has learned at MSU. Whenever Miller’s persistence begins to waver, he remembers a quote from former former President Calvin Coolidge, “The slogan ‘press on’ has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.” For other students considering running for an SA position next year, Miller suggests to first step back and examine one’s approach. He said to take the time to recognize the skills and experience required, the role’s daily responsibilities and how one would benefit the position itself as well as the MSU student body if elected. “When the opportunity
SECRETARY Before running for the secretary position on the executive council, Skelton was on the cabinet for the SA. After becoming involved in the cabinet and becoming friends with students on the executive council, she realized she
to campaign for treasurer came forward, I found no reason why I would not benefit from pursuing the job,” Miller said. “I am grateful for the support and love I have received over the past week, and even more thankful to have this opportunity to serve the MSU student body.” After graduation, Miller hopes to use his degree’s Risk Management and Insurance concentration to earn a position producing for a major property and casualty insurance firm. This summer, he will be interning with Arthur J. Gallagher in Louisiana, and said he is looking forward to the knowledge and experience he will gain through the eight-week program. In a more long-term perspective, Miller simply seeks his own happiness. “My main goal is not achieving happiness through success, but joy through fulfillment,” Miller said. “I cannot wait to spend more time with my family, and hopefully start one of my own.” CONTINUED FROM 1
wanted to help make changes on campus. Her position as secretary will include keeping minutes, and alerting members of the SA to any changes or updates made within the association. “I wanted to make sure
I was doing it for the right reasons,” Skelton said. Once she realized she wanted to run for executive council, she began putting a plan into action. This involved putting together a campaign team, creating her platform and talking to members of faculty. Skelton’s campaign manager Xavier Washington, a sophomore communication major, spoke highly of the new secretary. “I had the pleasure of serving with Sarah Helen (Skelton) on cabinet this year as one of her assistant directors (of) Freshman Forum,” Washington said. “When she asked me to be
her campaign manager, I was super excited because I believe in her so much. Working with Sarah Helen (Skelton), I know that she is very goal oriented and when she sets her mind to something, she does it so truly. The sky is the limit for the amount of things I think she can accomplish.” Her platform was based on three key topics: creating a 24-hour study space on campus, increasing campus community with outdoor seating and creating a hotline for the SA. “I’m excited to see what the four of us who got elected can change on this campus and what we can accomplish,” Skelton said.
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An In-Class Distraction
ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY...
… in 1963, the Hula-Hoop, first marketed by Wham-O in 1958, was patented by the company’s co-founder Arthur “Spud” Melin. An estimated 25 million Hula-Hoops were sold in the first four months of production alone. In 1948, Melin and his friend Richard Knerr founded a company in California to sell a slingshot they created to shoot meat into the sky for the falcons they used for hunting. Wham-O, the company’s name, came from the sound the slingshots made. The company would later branch out from the slingshots, selling boomerangs and other goods. Its first hit toy, what’s now known as a Frisbee, debuted in 1957. It was originally marketed as, get this, the “Pluto Platter,” in an attempt to capitalize on America’s fascination with UFOs. After seeing Australian children twirling wooden hoops around their waists during gym class, the Wham-O duo was inspired to create a plastic version. The name “Hula-Hoop” derived from its shape combined with the hip-gyrating Hawaiian dance, the Hula. Within months, the Hula-Hoop’s popularity phased out, and the masses were onto the next thing. Wham-O continued to produce a slew of beloved novelty items, including the supernal, silly string, slip ’n slide and the hacky sack. history.com CLASSIFIEDS FOR RENT: Searching for Female roommate (or two) who loves dogs (at least not allergic). Preferably graduate student or young professional, but not necessary if personalities seem to work well together. I am super chill. and play guitar. I attend the Orchard Starkville on Sundays. Rent $400/ month + utilities. Call 662-213-6371. The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday. The deadline
for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. Classifieds are listed at $5 per issue. Student and staff ads are listed at $3 per issue, pre-paid. Lost and found items: Found items can be listed for free; lost items are listed at standard ad cost. CLUB INFO The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday. The 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 managing@ 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.
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BAD DAWGS Thursday, Feb. 28, 2019 • Referrals were issued to two students for an altercation in Ruby Hall.
Hall, causing damages. • Student transported to OCH from Nunnelee Hall for medical assistances.
Friday, March 1, 2019 • Two students reported damages to their vehicles while parked in E9 parking lot. • Student referral issued in E13 parking lot for careless driving and for being a minor in possession of alcohol.
Sunday, March 3, 2019 • Student reported losing her keys at an unknown location. • Student issued a post-arrest citation for possession of paraphernalia and Justice Court citation for expired tag. Referral issued.
Saturday, March 2, 2019 • Student complained of back pain at Lambda Chi Alpha sorority house. Subject was transported to OCH by ambulance. • Student issued a postarrest citation and a referral in F11 parking lot for possession of marijuana. • Resident of city/county was issued a Justice Court citation on Blackjack Road for a switched tag. • Student reported his laptop stolen from his room in McKee Hall. • Student reported kicking the glass door at McCool
Notable Traffic Citations: • Justice Court citation issued on Barr Avenue for leaving the scene of an accident. • Four MSU citations for speeding, the worst of which was 57/30 on East Lee Boulevard. • MSU citation issued on President’s Circle for disregarding a traffic device. • MSU citation issued on Lee Boulevard for disregarding a traffic device. • Justice Court citations issued on Hardy Road for expired tag and improper passing.
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OPINION
Raise the minimum wage and do away with tipping
YASHASWIN SRIDHAR
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Tipping: the only interaction with another human being where size does matter, regardless of what anyone tells you. But have you ever questioned who gets tipped and why? Why should one tip an individual who transports pizza to our house, but not someone who delivers human beings to the hospital? Why tip a barber, but not a laser hair removal specialist? As an international student, a lot of tipping questions race through my mind. Internationally, “tipping culture” is not absent. However, it is not as prominent as it is in the U.S. In India, my place of origin, most restaurants have a service charge which is pocketed by the person who busses your table (unless otherwise stated). In Japan, tipping at a restaurant is rude and unacceptable. However, tipping is the norm in the
U.S. and you are a jerk if you do not. This triggered my inquisitiveness to explore more than just the tip of this iceberg. Tipping is a system entrenched in inequity and discrimination, and prospers in a hostile work environment where the biggest sufferers are hardworking individuals. Eliminating tipping in restaurants immediately would create turmoil. Hence, increasing the minimum wage of tipped workers to the federal minimum wage would be a step in the right direction. Nevertheless, it should not deter us from the path of eventual abolishment of tipping, which could be replaced by a service charge ensuring employees get paid fairly. One of the reasons tipping is a custom in the U.S. is because of the federal minimum wage for individuals in a tipped occupation is set at a massive $2.13 per hour. As a result, tipped workers are
“Just take the change as my tip.”
Rosalind Hutton
responsible for the rest of their income through tips. This forms an atmosphere of waiters pleasing their customers in order to make a living. It also creates an environment where waiters/ waitresses must tolerate a hostile working environment to sustain themselves. A study conducted in The Restaurant Opportunities Centers United Forward Together’s “The Glass Floor,” 66 percent of restaurant workers reported facing harassing behaviors from restaurant management,
80 percent from co-workers and 78 percent from customers. Thirty percent of women and 22 percent of men also reported being touched inappropriately as quite common. According to Michael Lynn and Glenn Withiam of Cornell University, employees also reported a gulf of pay that existed between non-white and white servers. There are ample problems in the system itself, but my qualms with tipping does not end at the
structure shortchanging and discriminating amongst its employees, it also inconveniences customers. Tipping breeds an environment of discrimination in which people of color, women, foreigners, young and old people tend to get less monetary compensation than their Caucasian male peers. However, I am not excessively concerned about receiving inadequate service. I am more troubled by the system mandating me to conduct a blazingly quick
customer service analysis, calculate the right amount of money in percentages while being held hostage by the person serving me. Also, it is embarrassing to tip less than the required amount since you come across as an entitled miser. According to Ofer H. Azar of Northwestern University, “When we disobey the norm of tipping, we suffer an emotional disutility.” This is a fancier manner of saying we feel embarrassed, guilty and our self-image is hurt when we do not obey norms. Unless your idea of pleasure is doing mathematics while your self esteem is slowly being chipped off every meal, I recommend a change in this system that not only shortchanges and discriminates amongst its employees, but also inconveniences its customers. If you liked this article please do not forget to tip The Reflector a few dollars in gratuity!
MSU sidewalks should ensure pedestrian safety A guide to choosing a 2020 Democratic nominee
RILEY STEPHENS
Rosalind Hutton
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
There are many things high school failed to prepare me for, but one aspect of college in particular has stood out lately as a recent pain in my side: trudging through a monsoon to make it to class. These past few weeks brought pelts of rain and sluggish gray weather that made hopping out of bed in the mornings more difficult than normal. In high school, alternating classes was a predominately indoor activity where you were safely covered from the harsh outdoor elements. In college, however, you have to power-walk through seemingly impossible routes from one end of campus to the complete opposite side, just to make it to class in 10 minutes, and if the weather was anything like two weeks ago, then you were practically swimming. A noticeable feature about Starkville showers is that if it is raining, it is likely extremely windy as well, undermining both the use of your umbrella and your dignity when the scourging wind flips your parasol inside out. One thing I noticed as I braced the wind, angling my umbrella just so the wind could not yank its shielding, was the excessive amounts of pooling water, puddled up from the uneven sidewalks and pavements. For such constant renovations and updates to our beautiful campus, the sidewalks and pavements have shown an increasingly poor contrast, especially evident when it rains. Not only are concaving sidewalks a nuisance to all students who still have somehow managed to make it this far in the school year without owning rubber rain boots, but they also may lead to potential safety hazards. Uneven sidewalks could make something as simple as a stumble turn into a fractured ankle or, in the worst scenarios, “broken
JOHN HAYNES
is a sophomore majoring in history and classics. Contact him at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.
bones, torn ligaments, traumatic brain injuries or herniated discs,” according to Wieand Law Firm. Especially when it rains as ferociously as it did a few weeks ago, the ground is even more slippery and the puddles obscure where exactly the sidewalk tiles fracture, leaving students in a game of Russian roulette when it comes to hobbling across these miniature pools of rainwater. All Law states injury from uneven sidewalks may be deemed a “negligence claim,” and if the university wants to avoid these types of situations, the cracked pavements should be renovated. Although this is a college campus, Mississippi State University is teeming with events which attract various guests ranging from returning MSU alumni for sporting events, featured speakers from out-of-state and even singers or actors for artistic performances. I do not think guests visiting MSU should have a poor impression of the campus based on one horribly embarrassing (or painful) incident of tripping and potentially injuring themselves on uneven sidewalks. Jim Dodson of Jim Dodson Law says thousands of injuries are inflicted from poor sidewalks every year. A person’s attention is often
not directed toward where their feet are stepping, but rather to outside distractions, such as ringing cell phones, nerves for an upcoming test, commuter cars clearly going over the allotted 20 miles-per-hour speed limit or even simply the stress of making it to class on time. It is natural for humans to look and think beyond their footing, making it all too easy for a trip-and-fall to ensue. It is the university’s responsibility to maintain the care of its students and guests alike. Sidewalks are intended to create a paved pathway for pedestrians to safely travel by foot, but if these pathways are so damaged and ruinous they become a safety hazard on their own, then their purpose is lost. The university would save more money and negative publicity by repairing its pavements rather than settle a lawsuit for a sidewalk injury. According to Wieand Law Firm, some falls are caused by carelessness, but often the serious injuries are from “hazardous condition of property,” and those are the accidents resulting in lawsuits. Therefore, to evade such mishaps, MSU needs to start taking the cracked sidewalks mapping out the extent of the campus under consideration for serious renovation.
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If you just want a sane moderate
If former Vice President Joe Biden decides to run, he is the candidate to beat. He enjoys massive popularity throughout the country and widespread name recognition. If Biden fails to please you, Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) is trying to build support. Unfortunately for her, multiple news sources, including Matt Flegenheimer and Sydney Ember of The New York Times, have recently published exposés detailing her harsh treatment of subordinates. Biden has thus far avoided any imbroglios, so he is the safer choice.
If you want a far-left liberal
No one knows for sure what would have happened it Senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT) had won the Democratic primary in 2016. According to Alexandra Hutzler of Newsweek, a variety of polls say he would have triumphed over Trump.
Rosalind Hutton
Sanders has absolutely crushed the competition in terms of raising funds, and he has been the standardbearer for democratic socialism for a long time. 2020 could finally be his moment. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) is also running, but she has no shot. Years of claiming to be Native American have finally backfired on her in spectacular fashion, culminating in a private apology to the Cherokee Nation. Trump will have a field day if she actually wins the nomination. Expect her to drop out after she falls flat on Super Tuesday, if not before. Finally, there is Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), who said she would not run for president, but now is. Her previous flip-flopping will kill any chance she has.
If you want a chance at being First Lady
It has been a little over a 150 years since America last had a bachelor in the White House, an incompetent failure named James Buchanan. But hope springs eternal for all you single ladies out there: Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). He says he has a girlfriend,
but there is no ring on his finger yet. In terms of actual policy, he currently sticks pretty closely to the party line, but this was not always the case. Booker worked with current Secretary of Education Betsy Devos on school choice in the past. However, he has since shifted his stance and voted against her nomination, as stated by Jonathan D. Salant of NJ.com.
If you are a Trump fan who wants to vote in the Democratic primary for a candidate who will ultimately lose
You sly dog, you! Do not worry, there are plenty of great options. First we have Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA), who Vegas currently favors. Even ignoring her controversial role as an attorney general in California (notably marked by her support of arresting the parents of truant children), much of her staff worked on Hillary Clinton’s doomed campaign. This does not bode well for her. Beto O’Rourke, a former Congressman from Texas, is toying with a run. Maybe America will rally around a convicted drunk driver who blogs about cobbler. Personally, I find it unlikely.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Life Editor/Emma Moffett
Managing Editor/Kristina Domitrovich News Editor/Katie Poe
Folks, it is that time of year again. Slowly but surely, all across the country, candidates for the 2020 Democratic nomination for president (and also Howard Schultz) are crawling out of the woodwork and making their way to the home place of American democracy: Iowa. Who you choose to support will vary on what you want to happen. Some people want four more years of President Donald Trump; some would prefer a moderate to lead the country; others will riot if the U.S. is not a socialist paradise by 2024. Fear not, gentle reader. I have conducted a thorough, unscientific analysis of the field, and I can tell you who to back based on your desire.
Pick me!
Circulation/Sierra Pruitt circulation@reflector.msstate.edu
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.
EDITORIAL POLICY
The Reflector is the official student newspaper of Mississippi State University. Content is determined solely by the student editorial staff. The contents of The Reflector have not been approved by Mississippi State University.
CORRECTIONS
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Listeners will be a ‘Sucker’ for the new Jonas Brothers’ single COURTNEY CARVER STAFF WRITER
Break out the old posters, CD’s and merchandise—the Jonas Brothers are back and better than ever. Since their split in 2013, the brothers each explored their own individual dreams. Kevin became a father of two with his wife, Danielle Jonas. Nick pursued a solo career and recently married Indian actress Priyanka Chopra. Joe collaborated with three of his friends to create the band DNCE, who came to Starkville in 2017 for Bulldog Bash, and is now engaged to actress Sophie Turner, who is best known for starring in “Game of Thrones.” Rumors of this reunion were ignited when the brothers’ group Instagram account was suddenly reactivated in January for the first time since 2013.
The first image posted on their Instagram was the cover of their newly dropped single, “Sucker,” which dropped at midnight on March 1. Not many will notice, but Joe is finally not in the center of the cover for once—and all of Nick’s fans said, ‘Hallelujah.’ Seeing the Jonas Brothers were reuniting caused many questions as to what their new and improved sound was going to be. Not knowing what to expect due to the single’s cover, this song is most definitely a hit. With this new pop-rock tribute to the women they adore, Nick and Joe vocalize in perfect harmonization while Kevin and Nick’s riffs on the guitars give the song a grungy feel. This song impeccably represents how the three have grown since their time as Disney Channel stars into mature men who
Rosalind Hutton
are passionately in love with their wives and fiancé through the catchy lyrics and official music video. During the wild music video, each of the three brothers are sensually singing to their leading ladies, who all make cameo appearances
during what seems to be an “Alice-in-Wonderland” themed tea party, filled with an immense number of absolutely adorable corgis and bunnies. One of the best scenes from this music video is when Nick sings the second
repeat of the chorus. Nick sings, “I’m a sucker for you / Say the word, and I’ll go anywhere blindly,” while he and Joe are both shirtless and ironically sucking on suckers in a bubble bath. Toward the end of this
playful yet alluring video, the corgi-filled tea party transforms into a gala where the brothers are each showcased experiencing seductive moments with their partners. Throughout the entire video, the sensual feelings are strongly present; however, this just shows how much the band has grown since their teenage boy band days. The brothers are now able to be more lustful than they could be back in 2013, and this is a merit of their return. For this to be the first song dropped since the brothers’ hiatus, it proves they are still in the game. This reunion has made all of the ‘90’s and early 2000’s babies’ dreams come true. There are high expectations as to what is to come from the Jonas Brothers because I’m a “Sucker” for this exceptional pop-rock tune.
2019 Magnolia Film Festival exceeded expectations
EMMA DRAY BRASWELL STAFF WRITER
One of the most glorious things that came into the world is binge watching. The Magnolia Film Festival is an annual event in Starkville, and one of the best things about it for students is that it is basically the definition of binge-watching. The film festival consists of seven short films and one movie-length film for each block of showings, roughly 16 hours of film-watching spread across three days for only $15. The festival also offers $5 tickets for four hours of viewing. This year was impressive, so I highly encourage those
interested to attend next year and take advantage of all the festival can offer. Of course, there were of negative aspects about the festival, but it was without a doubt money well spent. Not only was this festival great, but it is an aspect of Starkville that makes me glad I came to MSU. This festival was the first in Mississippi history, and since then, it has inspired others to host their own festivals and has impacted Mississippi in multiple ways. Michael Williams, the president of the Magnolia Film Festival, said festivals like this are a big part of why he has a career in this art form. “I was making films back
in 2004, but I started my professional career in 2007 after my first film job that I got after actually going to the Tupelo film festival,” Williams said. Williams also explained how film festivals in Mississippi have the ability to impact the state, including bringing job and economic growth. “They promote to the average person that film can happen in Mississippi,” Williams said. “It actually brings in tourism and money, and not just for festivals.” Thoughts on day one’s showings The first group of films on Feb. 28 were some of the best. With short dramas
Gracie Byrne| The Reflector
Beethoven’s “Ninth Symphony” was showcased on March 2 in the Bettersworth Auditorium in Lee Hall. This was the 50th Masterworks Concert by the Starkville-MSU symphony.
Beethoven’s ‘Symphony No. 9’ was brought to life at MSU LEAH WORLEY STAFF WRITER
Before I launch into my review of the 50th Masterworks Concert by Starkville-MSU symphony from Saturday night, I would like to insert a personal anecdote: when I was a small, four-foot-something sixthgrader, I was introduced to the world of orchestra. Upon signing up for the class, I thought I would stick with the delicate aesthetic of the violin, just like every other stereotypical little girl entering the classical music world. However, my class period did not have anyone to play double bass. Suddenly, I found myself raising my hand to volunteer, and the next thing I knew, I was propping myself on a stool just to keep the hulking instrument upright. My passion for music, classical and modern alike, has only soared from there. In my previous musical reviews, I had the opportunity to hear a wide range of styles, which each demonstrated the breadth of sounds and magic instruments can create. Though the bands have been wonderful and a joy to listen to, they could not possibly compare to the true magnificence of a symphony, especially when
the symphony is performing one of the greatest works of art humanity has ever produced. The performance last Saturday consisted of two pieces, Hector Berlioz’s “Roman Carnival Overture” and Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125. Berlioz’s “Roman Carnival Overture” is the musical synopses of two Italians falling in love at a carnival. The spirited transitions from melodic solos on wind instruments to sharp percussion rhythms illustrate the themes of love and chaos in the carnival. Again, the piece was beautiful, but was completely upstaged by one of the world’s most iconic composers. Beethoven’s “Ninth Symphony” was revolutionary in multiple ways. Not only was it the first symphony to use voices, but it was also the longest and largest symphony of his time. Many believe this work to be the turning point between the classical and romantic era. Before the orchestra began playing, conductor Barry Kopetz stated once the audience would hear Beethoven’s Ninth performed, they would become addicted. By the end of the concert, I can confirm his forewarning
with absolute certainty. It is a piece entirely unlike anything the human ear had ever experience before its debut, composed by a man who had been rendered deaf eight years prior. Throughout the four movements, there were subtle, underlying portions of musical themes that would coalesce into the well-known finale I had never noticed before. Each movement seemed to illustrate its own story arc that, initially, seemed to lack a single thread of continuity until the finale of fourth. By then, the fervent fingers of every instrumentalist as they flew across strings and valves, combined with the trilling voices of all three choirs in such a thunderous crescendo that it was almost impossible to catch them all at once. Just as suddenly, when it seemed to be trapped in the unending sound, all of it comes to a halt. A brief silence echoes over the audience before they fill the now-empty air with cacophonous applause. Before Saturday, it had been years since I had been to an orchestral performance. Now, I have been adequately reminded of the power and beauty of the symphony, and will likely make a more pointed attempt to attend similar events.
like “Longhand,” centered around a deaf girl trying to be accepted into the military, and “Breasts,” a film about a woman going through the struggles of raising a child by herself, the festival was able to bring to light some situations and hardships many do not have to struggle with or even consider on a daily basis. The director of “Longhand” used every noise heard in the film as a way to show the girl’s aspect on life, which was very impressive, and the fact that “Breasts” was based on a true story allowed the impact to be even stronger. “I Can’t Do This,” another drama shown the first day, was less interesting,
but still captivating. This short film was about a woman meeting her father for the first time, which made it semiinteresting, but nothing more. “An Unkind Word,” however, was the best short drama of the night. While the cinematography and intentional directing was better in ‘Longhand” and “Breasts,” “An Unkind Word” kept the audience’s attention due to the man’s realization of not being important in his own life. This film was outstanding because it was sad enough to make people realize how society can push someone to a fate of truly being unknown or not cared for. It sends an even deeper message because
the film was based on a true story inspired by the director Neil Monaghan’s own life. With three dramas came three comedies of the night, and while “Party On” was worth the viewing, “Medium Rare” was not. “Party On,” a film about two best friends with the struggle of staying close, was relatable, and the costumes and lighting were impressive. “Medium Rare,” however, was not like this. There are no good words to describe it, since it did not seem to have a point. There was a lot of artistic ability in this film that went to nothing, making it something to laugh about with friends. Read more at reflector-online.com
66-Sports SPORTS
THE REFLECTOR TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2019 @SPORTSREFLECTOR
SEC
champions Rosalind Hutton, Tyler Bell
Bulldogs win SEC Championship HUNTER CLOUD SPORTS EDITOR
Mississippi State University (27-2, 15-1 SEC) won its second-straight SEC regular season championship in women’s basketball with a 68-64 road win against the University of South Carolina (21-8, 13-3 SEC). After a win at home against Louisiana State University, MSU had a share of the SEC championship with South Carolina, but head coach Vic Schaefer said they did not want to share with anyone as he said he knew it was going to be a close battle in Columbia, South Carolina. “I knew it was going to be a dog fight,” Schaefer said, according to a press release sent out by the MSU Athletic department. “I thought they really came
out and had a lot of energy. They kind of took the fight to us a little bit.” South Carolina came out the gates firing on all cylinders, and lead 39-32 at the half. However, in the third quarter, MSU held USC to just eight points, proving Schaefer and the team had made an adjustment at halftime. “I challenged our guards at halftime because I thought their guards were the difference in the game in the first half,” Schaefer said. “We talked about that a little bit, and really just the toughness piece and the defensive piece.” The turnaround for the team occurred at the 8:51 mark in the third quarter, as MSU was down 39-34, when a technical foul was called on Schaefer. The call got the attention of the players, as
MSU completed the second half comeback by outscoring USC by 11 points in the third quarter of the game. Schaefer said the two best point guards in the nation played in the game with Tyasha Harris leading South Carolina with 20 points and three assists, and Jazzmun Holmes contributing eight points and five assists to MSU. “You saw two of the best point guards in the county, in my opinion, today in Harris and Holmes,” Schaefer said. “Those two kids are dynamite. If there are two better in the country, I’d like to know who they are.” MSU will have a firstround bye in the SEC tournament, and will play the winner of LSU and the University of Tennessee at 11 a.m. Friday in Columbia, South Carolina.
MSU falls flat on the Auburn Plains
RENALDO HOPKINS STAFF WRITER
Mississippi State University (21-8, 9-7 SEC) attempted a late-game comeback, but it was not enough as they fell five points short of defeating Auburn University (20-9, 9-7 SEC) 80-75 on Saturday. The loss snapped the Bulldogs five-game winning streak. The game began to look rough early on. Auburn scored three consecutive three-pointers to take an 11-2 lead in the opening 3:32 minutes of the first half. MSU bounced back, however, bringing the game back within two with offensive efforts from guards Tyson Carter and Quinndary Weatherspoon, making it 1816 with 8:00 left in the first half. Auburn scored 10 of the next 11 points to go up by double digits, a run which began after Auburn forward Chuma Okeke scored a layup. Okeke would also end the run by laying the ball in, making the score 28-17 at the 3:12 mark in the first half. MSU would enter halftime down 33-25. Their woes would continue after they returned from the locker room, as a layup from Auburn guard Bryce Brown put the Bulldogs in a 10-point hole. Auburn would go on to extend the lead to as many as 19 points later in the second half. MSU began to make their efforts to come back in to the game when Tyson Carter drained a deep threepointer, along with two more to cut into the margin. After a pair of free throws from Weatherspoon, the Bulldogs would be down by four, 71-67. Howland said he was proud of his team for fighting to come back. “I’m really proud of our
Noah Siano | The Reflector
Tyson Carter scores a layup against Missouri on Feb. 26. Carter had 21 points against Auburn.
team in terms of the fight,” Howland said. “To be down 19 and to make a run to come back where we had a chance, literally in the last minute.” Carter attempted a shot clock midrange shot, but it ended up coming short on the next possession. The Tigers dropped a corner three to stretch their lead
to seven. Auburn ended up hitting all four of their free throws in the last 24 seconds of the game to pull away and ice the game. MSU will travel to play the No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers at 8 p.m. Tuesday. This will be the Bulldogs’ last road game of the season. SEC Network will broadcast the game.
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