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IGNORANCE?

FRIDAY APRIL 8, 2016

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130 th YEAR ISSUE 45

THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884

Religious Liberty Act surrounded with controversy

by Brad Robertson Staff Writer

The Governor of Mississippi, Phil Bryant, signed House Bill 1523, also known as the Religious Liberty Accommodations Act, Tuesday morning.

Since then, the bill has garnered fierce opposition alongside strong support from businesses, local leaders and individuals.

The bill establishes employers and employees can deny services on the basis of their religious beliefs.

When the bill goes into effect on July 1, employees will be able to use religion as justification for hiring or firing employees. State government employees will also be allowed to recuse themselves from performing services, like issuing marriage licenses to citizens they feel confl ict with their religious or moral values.

Controversy has surrounded HB 1523 since it made its way onto the state’s House floor. Opponents of the bill argue that it opens a gateway for discrimination in the workplace on

religious grounds while supporters maintain that it is only meant to protect religious institutions and individuals from being unfairly harassed by the government.

Gavin King, a former executive member of Mississippi College Republicans and the current Attorney General of Mississippi State University’s Student Association, sees the bill as not entirely black and white.

“The spirit of the law is not malicious,” King said.

“There are good portions of it. The intent is to protect religious institutions.”

King argues the lawmakers passed the law without realizing the unfortunate context it would be viewed in. He cites the history of Jim Crow laws in Mississippi, where government aided in legal discrimination through the passing of legislation, as presenting a difficult situation when it comes to this type of bill.

“Everything in Mississippi must be considered in historical context,” King said. “Politicians failed to understand the realities surrounding this law.”

hb1523 controversy February 8 March 30 February 19 HB1523 introduced in March 11 April 4 Bill amended and the House and Referred Bill amended in House Referred to Senate passed Senate as Bill signed by House and and passed as amended Judiciary, Division A To Judiciary B Senate amended March 22 April 1 February 18 February 24 Amendments Bill passed Judiciary B Bill transmitted to Senate Bill passed Senate Judiciary A aproved by House

Companies publically against HB1523 include

Nissan Toyota MGM AT&T Tyson IBM Levi Straus & Co.

April 5 Bill signed by Governor Bryant

Nissan provides over

6000 jobs in MS Nissan, Toyota and MGM combined provide over

13000 jobs for MS

In addition to private business economic troubles, if found to be in violation of federal laws and rules such as Title IX ,Title VII, and the Fair and Equal Housing Act, Mississippi could be stripped of federal funding.

-ACLU

bek yake, the reflector

BILL, 2

MSDH confirms three cases of Zika virus in Mississippi

by Taylor Bowden News Editor

The Zika virus is a mosquito-borne virus from Africa that causes mild illness symptoms similar to the flu as well as rashes in 20 percent of its victims. As of Wednesday

there have been three cases of the virus confirmed by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) within the state.

While the symptoms are relatively benign in most cases, the MSDH said the virus can cause devastating birth defects if contracted by a pregnant woman or if pregnancy begins while the virus is present and there

are no available treatments or vaccines for the virus.

The MSDH listed the third confirmed case as a resident of Oktibbeha County.

Amy Loggins, resident nurse in the infections control department of Oktibbeha County Hospital, said the patient was not treated by OCH. “All we know is that we

did not draw the blood,” Loggins said. “We were very interested to know where it came from though.”

Loggins said all three cases in Mississippi were in individuals who had recently traveled from Haiti.

According to the MSDH, the first reported case was in a Madison County resident, the second was found in a patient of Lowry

Medical Clinic in Columbus and the third is reported to be an Oktibbeha County resident.

All cases are confirmed by MSDH after hospitals or clinics such as Lowry Medical send in blood samples to be processed by the state health department medical lab.

ZIKA, 2

Dak to appear in court Monday for DUI

Approximately 3,500 white flags were placed on the Drill Field in recogntion of Graduate Student Appreciation Week.

The flags form the shape of a cowbell. Each flag celebrates a MSU graduate student. The flags have been placed on the Drill Field since Monday.

by Taylor Rayburn Staff Writer

Sarah Dutton

The Reflector

I BledLEED MaAROONron * The 2nd annual I BLEED MAROON is April 10-15 and will be hosted all throughout campus. The event comprises eight blood drives in six days. *I BLEED MAROON has the potential to collect 300 pints of blood - one fourth of the blood needed in April for United Blood Services to supply area hospitals. *UNITED BLOOD SERVICES is the primary supplier of blood to OCH Regional Medical Center in Starkville, Baptist Memorial in Columbus and all North Misssissippi Medical Center hospitals, as well as many other hospitals in Mississippi and Alabama.

One of the greatest player in Mississippi State University football history, Dak Prescott, will appear before Judge Rodney Faver in municipal court next Monday on April 11 at 2 p.m. Prescott was arrested with a DUI over spring break.

This is not the first time Prescott has found trouble during spring break.

Last year, he got into an altercation in Panama City.

This time it was much more serious as Prescott was pulled over in his white Cadillac SUV for speeding near University Drive near the Cotton District.

It was determined Prescott was intoxicated and was arrested for driving under

the influence of alcohol.

However, the topic of debate are the two breathalyzers that Prescott took after the arrest. According to WREG News Channel 3, Prescott took one at 1:13 a.m. and then another at 1:47 a.m.

The first result was ruled an “invalid sample” and the second was ruled an “insufficient sample.”

Prescott was released on bond.

Prescott released a statement to NFL.com shortly after the incident apologizing for his actions.

The incident came at a bad time for Prescott as he has been preparing for the NFL draft, which is the weekend of April 28. Two days before his arrest, he appeared before 30 NFL teams at MSU’s Pro Day. The incident was out of character for Prescott who received the senior CLASS Award.

DUI, 2

Bek Yake, The Reflector

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NEWS

THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

BILL Nissan, Toyota, MGM, AT&T, Tyson, IBM and Levi Straus & Co. have all issued statements condemning the bill according to the Human Rights Campaign, who also issued a statement condemning the bill.

Nissan is the largest private employer in the state, providing over 6,000 jobs, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Along with Toyota and MGM, these three companies alone provide over 13,000 jobs to the state.

The corporate response to the bill is also concerning to students preparing to enter the job market. Toria Carter, president of IDEAL Woman of Mississippi State, an organization seeking to empower women on campus, worries that this bill will put even more restrictions on who can and cannot be hired.

“I feel like this bill takes us back 50 years,” Carter said. “I feel that this bill is ignorant.”

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Carter fears the bill will create an unwelcome environment in the job market and put unreasonable stipulations on holding a job.

Roxanne Raven, president of MSU’s Student Association, also fears the bill will be used inappropriately and described it as “unloving” and “not what Christ stands for.”

“This law is an embarrassment to the state of Mississippi,” Raven said, squeezing a stress ball before continuing. She said she views the law as giving employers and the government the power to deny rights to those they disagree with as well as potentially violating the privacy of employees in the workplace. Raven also has concerns about the encompassing religious liberty the law promises.

“This is not a freedom for Islamic people bill,” Raven said. “I’m afraid for nonChristians (because of this law).”

Though she said she has strong “personal convictions” regarding the law, Raven does not believe anything will change on campus as a result of the bill being passed. She stresses that none of the faculty, whom she works closely with, are going to make an opportunity out of this bill to discriminate.

Though Raven does not feel anything will change on campus, the bill does technically and legally supersede the university’s own policies on the matter, though federal law in turn supersedes HB 1523.

Wednesday MSU President Mark Keenum released a statement assuring readers that the “new legislation” will not change the university’s core values of diversity and inclusion.

Keenum said this campus would continue making progress toward a place that fully welcomes and respects differences.

Other institutions, such as the University of Mississippi and Jackson’s

City Council, issued similar statements condemning HB 1523, which is seen as discriminatory.

Jackson’s City Council cited the U.S. Constitution as a deterrent to this bill, arguing that it “guarantees to all persons ‘the equal protection of the laws’ and does not allow discrimination of any form against any person.”

Carter said she applauded the City Council’s actions and feels that standing up to this bill absolutely falls on local individuals and leaders.

King said he hopes the bill will be cleaned up in the courts, otherwise he feels the federal government will step in.

“The federal government will sue the state of Mississippi,” King said.

Raven also hopes the bill will be fi xed before it is effective as law on July 1. She said as a Mississippi native she wants to live in a state she can be proud of, not one that requires so much fi xing.

ZIKA

Zika Virus SYMPTOMS

According to the CDC, “Most people infected with Zika virus won’t even know they have the disease because they won’t have symptoms. The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes). Other common symptoms include muscle pain and headache.”

Bek Yake, The Reflector

Saturday, April 2, 2016 5:25 p.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for having no seatbelt and possessing a fake ID. Sunday, April 3, 2016 1:32 a.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for DUI, possession of paraphernalia, and marijuana in a vehicle.

5:01 p.m. A non-resident/visitor fell at Dudy Noble Field bruising his left forearm. The visitor was transported to the OCH Emergency Room.

Monday, April 4, 2016 12:00 a.m. An employee was arrested in Starkville for their DUI. This was their 2nd arrest for such charges.

1:16 p.m. A student was having a possible seizure in Allen Hall. The student was transported to OCH. Tuesday, April 5, 2016 8:27 a.m. A student reported her bike stolen from the bike room at Griffis Hall.

5:40 p.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for DUI, careless driving, and possession of marijuana in a vehicle.

6:53 p.m. A student reported her wallet stolen from room #116 at Dorman Hall.

Wednesday, April 6, 2016 1:10 p.m. A student was transported from the Landscape Architecture building to OCH by ambulance for seizing.

8:31 p.m. A student reported her purse stolen from her vehicle while parked at Hathorn Hall.

CONTINUED FROM 1

MSDH is unable to say The MSDH advises The breed of mosquito which locations the blood women who are or may that is spreading Zika samples where drawn. become pregnant to use – Aedes Aegypti – has Warren Edward, medical condoms during the entire not been detected in assistant at Lowry Mississippi since the Medical Clinic, said mid-1980s. The MSDH “ The MSDH is currently his clinic was the one is currently conducting on all to send in the blood conducting surveillance on surveillance mosquito populations sample leading to the in the state.” second confi rmed all mosquito populations State Epidemiologist case. Edward said the Thomas Dobbs said patient was a young in the state.” pregnant woman white american who -Warren Edward, Medical should avoid travel to had recently returned these countries. He from a mission trip to Asssistant at Lowry said at this time the Haiti. mosquito known to be MSDH said death Medical Clinic spreading the virus in from the Zika Virus is these countries has not very rare, and Edward said generally patients will term of their pregnancy if been found in Mississippi.

“Three U.S. territories only require supportive contraction of the virus is and 36 other states have care for the symptoms. at all a risk.

“It is only really a “Zika has been seen in already reported travelconcern with pregnant parts of Africa, Southeast associated cases,” Dobbs females or females who Asia and some Pacific said. “With late spring wish to become pregnant,” islands for years, but has and summer approaching, Edward said. recently been reported we know it is a popular He said while the in approximately 30 time for mission trips symptoms are otherwise countries, mostly in and vacations to these not life-threatening, the Caribbean, Central areas. Please be especially anyone experiencing and South America,” mindful of protecting them should seek medical a MSDH press release yourself from mosquitoes you’re abroad. attention, and confi rmed said. “The Zika virus is while cases should avoid contact spread through the bite Simple steps can make a with pregnant females. of an infected mosquito. big difference.”

DUI This incident has been the start of a run of bad off the field publicity for MSU. Fellow draft hopeful Chris Jones was arrested a week later for driving with a suspended license.

Then a week ago, MSU signee Jeffery Simmons was seen in a video beating a woman. He was later charged with simple assault and disturbing the peace.

Jon Gruden asked Prescott about his arrest on ESPN’s nationally televised “Gruden’s QB camp.”

In the end, Prescott has already taken the damage he will receive from this incident, regardless of how Judge Rodney rules Monday. This is something that has followed him in his meetings with teams, and it will continue to follow him until draft day.

CONTINUED FROM 1

“I want to make a statement, and f irst take complete responsibility for my actions. I’m very remorseful for my misjudgement. I want to apologize to my true supporters, my family, Mississippi State University, the NFL, and the kids who look up to me.

I won’t ask for forgiveness; however, I’ll show the true man I am and exhibit my character through my actions and behavior moving forward.”

-Dak Prescott’s apology from March 13, day after arrest

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OPINION

THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

The Final Word

Disinterest in racial dialogue causes missed opportunity

Justin Brickler is a senior majoring in communication. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.

In Lee Hall on Tuesday night, Tim Wise visited Mississippi State University.

Wise is an author and educator from Nashville, Tennessee. Wise is known for his outspokenness when addressing racism and oppression in America.

According to his personal website, Wise is the author of seven books, including

his highly-acclaimed memoir, White Like Me: Refl ections on Race from a Privileged Son. Wise is not a person who feels bad about making others uncomfortable when discussing race.

Wise discussed issues that are not addressed in our everyday society. He stated that every generation has had the problem of failing to deal with racial issues in hopes that the next generation will solve the problem.

Whether a person views the talk Wise gave as good or bad, it happened. Wise posed several questions to the crowd. Did racism disappear when Barack Obama became President?

Does electing a man of color eliminate racism?

Does electing a woman into a top office eliminate sexism? Not discussing something does not make it disappear.

Wise spoke about how people are committed

“College is a place where your views should be challenged. If you feel uncomfortable, then that means you’re getting the message.”

to remaining ignorant of American history and declared that we have a Governor who has committed a historic act of ignorance by signing House Bill 1523.

Wise’s talk was nothing

Margaret Mitchell “I was never one to patiently pick up broken fragments and glue them back together again and tell myself that the mended whole was as good as new. What is broken is broken. I’d rather remember it as it was at its best than mend it and always see the broken pieces.”

7 must do’s while you’re single Being single— particularly during your college years or mid-twenties— can be wild, exciting, and full of exploration, or it can be mind-numbingly lonely and heart breaking. The first option is a lot more appealing. So, here are 7 “must do’s” while you’re single: 1. Try new things.

I know that this one is cliché, but that doesn’t make it any less true. Trying new things allows you to open your mind to what the world has to offer. It allows you to explore likes and dislikes, and can completely change your views on life. So whether you’re trying a new food, a new hobby or a new way to wear your clothes, trying new things can allow you to explore the world and yourself. It can ultimately lead to healthier relationships in the future.

2. Travel far and often.

Another cliché, but still true. When you’re in a relationship, spontaneous travel and excitement usually tend not to be the first things that come to mind for date nights. That’s okay, because relationships create routine and comfort. But when you’re in a season of being single, spontaneity is always an option. So why not take advantage of that? Typically in seasons of singleness, your wallet is a little heavier than it would be if you were in a relationship. So take full advantage of that and go on a road trip— or book a flight to somewhere you’ve never been. Study the culture, the people, the food and yourself. The more you travel, the more you learn, and the more you learn the more you know. Plus, I’m sure future dates wouldn’t mind hearing about some wild adventures.

3. Spend a weekend with a married couple close to your age.

This one usually isn’t a popular suggestion, but it might be the most important. When you’re with a married couple, listen to how they speak to each other, and pay attention to how they treat each other without words. Ask about their daily rhythms, ask them about their struggles and make a mental note that marriage is not always perfect. When you are with a healthy couple that truly loves each other, it can help you learn how to love better and do more in future relationships.

4. Be a good wing-person.

Being single can also be a time to help your best friend out, and remember that it’s not all about you. Meeting people is hard. Sometimes, your friend may be too nervous to talk to a cute guy or girl— if you are by their side to talk them up, it can make things a lot easier for them.

5. Quit your crummy job.

There’s nothing quite like leaving something that doesn’t do you any good. Leaving toxic or unhealthy environments—that leave you unhappy at the end of the day— should be a no-brainer. This one is pretty simple. Just quit what makes you unhappy, and don’t waste time on things that don’t make you better.

6. Live alone.

Living alone allows you to experience being yourself in an entirely new way. Are you messy? Do you ever actually make your bed? Are the dishes actually clean or did you just tell yourself that you would get to it eventually? Living alone can show you what you are actually like to live with. It allows you to be self-reliant, and learn whether there is anything about yourself that could be detrimental to a future relationship.

7. Enjoy it.

Being single has its downsides, but the upsides can definitely outweigh them. Being single is fun, and we should look at is as a challenge to better ourselves and grow. Go on trips.

Do things you won’t be able to do otherwise. Learn more about others, and get deeper involved into the things you love. Ultimately, just enjoy it.

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different outlook on racial relations. As a nation, if we do not commit ourselves to learning from our past, it could lead to our downfall in the near future.

I feel the Tim Wise talk was an important

thing for MSU students to experience. MSU has done a great job of getting speakers from diverse backgrounds. I can safely say that we as college students are sometimes coddled too much. We feel uncomfortable when a speaker comes and challenges our views on life, but how are we to learn as a society if no one challenges our outlooks on life?

Since coming to MSU, I have attempted to keep an open mind when hearing people from different backgrounds speak on topics I’m not familiar with. College is a place where your views should be challenged. If you feel uncomfortable, then that means you’re getting the

message. Whether you agree with Tim Wise or not, he created an opportunity for new racial dialogue between students. The opportunity for dialogue in itself is a step towards acceptance.

The mass exodus of students at the end of Wise’s speech was disheartening. I wanted the opportunity to hear other students’ points of view on Wise’s speech.

If we are truly the ‘People’s University’, why can’t we discuss race relations in a safe, moderated environment?

With so many confl icting, political chalk writings happening around campus, I felt there should have been more student dialogue surrounding race on Tuesday night.

Quests & Questions

RE F L E C T I O N S

Editor in Chief/ Lacretia Wimbley

short of educational, and uncomfortable, but it also could have come across as irritating, depending on who you ask. I’m sure every person in attendance on Tuesday left with a

Despite flaws, United States still remains land of economic opportunity

Eshan Newaz is a semior majoring in biological engineering. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.

In 2010, when I first stepped onto American soil at the huge Chicago airport, I felt small and vulnerable—like an alien seeing real human beings for the first time. However, less than a week later, I was warm with gratitude as I noticed a woman wearing hijab and a girl in a tank top sitting side by side. There were people from India, China and many other countries sitting in the same shuttle, enjoying the American summer all the same.

Now, almost five years later, I not only have great friends from the United States but from India, China, Turkey, Nepal, Pakistan, Japan… and the list goes on. I know many disappointed and pessimistic people might disagree, but I’m convinced: The United States is still one of the greatest nations in the world, and for very different reasons than you might think.

Firstly, looking at numbers, America does not always make it to the top of the list in many economic indexes. However, indexes like Human Development Index, Quality of Life Index and World Happiness Report belong to other countries. Ultimately, the U.S. does still have the highest GDP in the world.

However, numbers only reflect part of the story, right?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 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.

The

Australian author and political commentator Nick Adams best summarized what makes America great in a YouTube video.

According to Adams, what makes America great is that it gives people a chance to fail and rise up again. The United States is home to nearly half the world’s millionaires. We also have the highest number of billionaires at 536—with China coming in second place at 213.

This may not prove economic superiority, but it does indicate that America is not only a melting pot, but a huge petri dish for entre-

“The U.S. is great because of the great leaders and great minds who have chosen to live and work here.” preneurs and genius. If you want to join the business class, the numbers show that you defi nitely can if you work hard and are smart enough.

Some of the world’s favorite entrepreneurs— like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerburg, Bill Gates and Jeff Bezoz—have established their ultra-successful companies here in the U.S. What I fi nd most fascinating about these Americans is that they are not just creating wealth for themselves.

They have created products that will positively impact everyone across the globe, and will shape the future of humanity. It is also worth noticing that the CEOs of many prominent companies headquartered in the

U.S., such as Microsoft and Google, are from countries like India. However, these brilliant-minded people came to the U.S. to apply their talents.

We can even look at a small city like Starkville as a reflection of the United States as a whole. At Mississippi State University, you can create your own fulfi lling world. I found a wonderful home away from home, full of Bangladeshi graduate students and families who meet regularly to cook delicious food for each other, just as an excuse to have fun. People of every background are free to celebrate their cultures during events like International Fiesta. If you love to meet new people, there are events like International Hour at the Baptist Student Union. Want to start your own business?

MSU Entrepreneurship Center will help you with funds and ideas regardless of your current economic status. The opportunity for growth is endless, even in a small setting.

Blaming external participants for internal crisis was never part of the American heritage. Building walls and kicking people out of a country has been done before in the old world. In this braver, newer world people have the power to try and try again to change the system, until the situation is fair and free for individuals and for the community.

The U.S. is great because of the great leaders and great minds who choose to live and work here. These achievement-oriented people have come because of the great opportunities offered to them within a safe and nurturing environment. In order to keep America great by sustaining freedom and happiness, the people of the United States must continue to choose leaders wisely.

Reflector

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

The Reflector staff strives to maintain the integrity of this paper through accurate and honest reporting. If we publish an error we will correct it. To report an error, call 325-7905.

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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016 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 Apartment room for rent: 489/month.

Includes all utilities, cable and internet. It has private room and bath with shared living room and kitchen right next to campus. Call 479-936-9989 FOR RENT Rooms for rent $325 and $375 per month, per room. 2 full bathrooms, close to campus, garage parking, near S.M.A.R.T bus and fenced backyard. Call 662-312-5630.

CLUB INFO The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3

BULLETIN BOARD 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.

COMFORTABLE SPACES Have anxiety?

Join Comfortable Spaces, a new student organization.

Visit twitter.com/ comfortspaces or orgsync.com/136914/ chapter for more information.

YOGA MOVES

Learn techniques to deal with stress, improve flexibility, and increase strength in a supporting atomosphere. Join us for free yoga sessions Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.at the Sanderson Studio C. MEN’S LACROSSE The Men’s Lacrosse team has a double header at home on Saturday. The first game will be at 11:30 a.m. against Mercer followed

by Memphis at 3 p.m. at the multipurpose fields.

RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY ORGANIZATION We host small lectures followed by panels to educate people about different religious beliefs found on campus. This week we cover agnosticism and atheism. The meeting this week will be located in Fowlke’s auditorium on the 3rd floor of the Union on April 11 from 7-9 p.m. Seating and food begins at 6:45.

SUDOKU

Hey Bulldogs!

Want your club or organization to be featured in the Club Info section? Stop by The Reflector office and fill out a club information form for free!

An In-Class Distraction

The Reflector 4/8/16 Crossword

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17 Cheap jewelry 18 Conked out 19 Cambodian coin 20 Abbr. in car ads 21 Embarks 23 Horse toppers 26 Compass pt.

27 Ginger ___ 28 Letters From Iwo Jima director 33 Disney’s fawn 36 Dispatched 37 Country club figure 38 Tenn. neighbor 39 Dracula, at times 41 Sixth sense 43 Spread grass for drying 44 Tennis equipment 45 Root vegetable 47 Dogie catcher 49 Young tree 52 Pocketbook 53 Suffer 54 Collects 58 Features of many westerns 61 Tennis call 62 Ancient 64 Assist 65 Majestic 67 Molokai meal 68 Cay

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69 Did wrong 70 Beetle Bailey pooch 71 Common flag symbol 72 Plaything 73 Some souvenirs Down 1 Fast planes 2 Throbs 3 Popular wedding gift 4 Bout enders, for short 5 Trap 6 “___ show time!”

7 Guinea pigs, maybe

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___ “Dice” Clay Worms, usually Plays for a sap Small amount Pie filler Hates Do without a script Picnic crasher Swab Bishop’s jurisdiction Dill seed Chooses Minerals Extinct bird Outlaws Sheltered side Chess ending British weapon

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Texas city Rosebush, e.g.

Bacon’s pal Cause of wrinkles Snappy Golf ball position Bloodline Hamlin’s ___ Oop Major thoroughfare Roofing material Dry run Poet ___ Wheeler Wilcox Variety Couples ___ Master’s Voice Relative, for short House site

April 5 SUDOKU Solutions

April 5 Crossword Solutions

Waltmon Frame & Body Shop Open Monday thru Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

• Automotive Refinishing •Collision Repair •Insurance Claims Welcomed 1105 Stark Road Starkville, MS 39759 Phone 662-323-0516•Fax 662-323-0539

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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

Lab Rats hit center stage

by ShaCamree Gowdy Staff Writer

The Mississippi State University Lab Rats Comedy troupe is putting on a show for students tonight. The show will be held on the fourth floor of Moseley Hall, and tickets are only $5. If attendees wear a Lab Rats t-shirt, they will receive a discounted price.

Lab Rats Comedy is an improvisational group and the first of its kind at MSU. They take words, names, locations and other random ideas from the audience, and come up with ways to act them out on the spot.

The theme for the upcoming show is “The Rat in the Hat”, based off the famous children’s book author, Dr. Seuss.

Connor Booth, this semester’s Lab Rats sketch director, is excited about the upcoming show.

“My favorite part is watching the audience react whenever I’m performing,” Booth said. “I do some crazy stuff sometimes and hearing their laughter and watching

their facial expressions really keep me going further in the scene and push myself as a comedian.”

Booth said she has been a member of Lab Rats for four semesters and thoroughly enjoys it. She said it gives her a chance to be herself and to interact with those who are just as energized and well-rounded as she is.

Brittany Roberts, performing Lab Rats member, said she has been involved with the group since the first semester of her freshman year, and she loves it.

“I think one of the best parts about performing is just being able to be goofy with your friends and have a good time,” Roberts said.

“A lot of times, if you’re having fun up there, the audience is too.”

As a graphic design major, Roberts is really involved with Lab Rats.

She designed some of the posters, and has also taught a few workshops.

She said it is a lot of work, but definitely worth it.

There will be three shows tonight. The times are 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. The Lab Rats will have their final show on April 27, which is the

Sam Gibson | The Reflector

Lab Rats comedy group will present ʻThe Rat in the Hatʼ tonight at 6, 8 and 10 p.m. on the fourth fl oor of Moseley Hall. Tickets are $5 and discounted for attendees wearing a Lab Rats t-shirt.

last day of classes for the semester.

If interested in becoming a member of this group, students can start

by attending a few of their workshops every Tuesday night at 7 p.m, in Suite 227 of the Colvard Student Union.

According to their website, “You’ll laugh, you’ll cry (if you laugh hard enough), and you’ll be happy all night. Bring all

your friends. Or even some of your friends.”

Nine-twentynine Coffee Bar hosts musician Sam Mooney playing together and that she wouldn’t miss it.

“I’ve seen Jake Slinkard Staff Witer perform several times over my college career and his talent has progressed so much,” Carter said. “He Tonight starting at 7:30 has such great stage presp.m., Nine-twentynine ence and always Coffee Bar will makes sure to host Jake Slinkard, play plenty of well opening up for known songs for Sam Mooney on the crowd to really his ‘Mississippi in get involved.” the Spring’ tour.

Slinkard said Tickets are $5 prehis favorite persale at the coffee bar formance was at and $7 at the door the Americana Mooney is a singMusic Festival er and songwriter in Nashville. He from Brookhaven, recalled that it was Mississippi.

He nerve-racking to released his debut be performing solo EP, “Somewhere in in front of a large Between,” in 2014, crowd but exhilaratand he is releasing ing at the same time. his second this year.

He was also excited His latest EP, “Find to say he would be My Way,” reached playing some new No. 8 on the iTunes songs Friday.

Singer/Songwriter “I’ve got a couChart on April 5. ple new original This show is part of songs I’ve decided his spring tour, but to play,” Slinkard non-dairy Mooney is calling it said. “That’s one his ‘Album Release thing you have to Party.’ do as a songwriter Jonette Shurdan, is put your stuff out Mississippi State there and gather alumni and barista feedback, and it’s at Nine-twentynine important to see said she is excited what is working for about the concert the audience and and for the artists. what isn’t.”

“He’s calling it Shurdan said his Album Release Nine-twentynine Party,” Shurdan Sam Mooney will play at Hal & Malʼs in will have dollar-off said. “I think he’s Jackson Saturday beer specials for defi nitely excitthe show and that ed about the new album and about growing performed there before as they will also extend closhis fan base. The artists we well,” Slinkard said. “It ing time until the show is have come play here aren’t really is an awesome venue. over. Nine-twentynine cofusually mainstream, and I It’s big enough that you fee bar is located on East think it’s a great opportu- have a lot of energy in the Main Street across from the nity for the community to room, but it’s also intimate courthouse. be introduced to local and enough that you can realup and coming artists and ly feel like you’re a part of appreciate this venue in a it. I love it down there in the basement; there’s good unique way.”

Jake Slinkard, kinesi- sound and a good commuology major at MSU and nity of people.”

Mattie Carter, sophJackson native, will open food sciences for Mooney. Slinkard has omore performed at many local major from New Albany, venues including Dave’s, Mississippi, plans on Two Brothers, Nine- attending the event. She twenty nine and on-cam- said she was very excited pus with a few Music to hear that Sam Mooney Makers productions. He and Jake Slinkard were

by Georgann Kenney

plays seven instruments and has been writing his own music since he was 12-years-old. Slinkard said he is excited, as always, to perform.

“I’ve been to concerts at Nine-twenty nine, and I’ve

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6 THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 8, 2016

@SPORTSREFLECTOR

SPORTS

Diamond Dogs travel to top ranked Gators

by Taylor Rayburn Staff Writer

No. 5 Mississippi State (21-8-1, 6-3) will face their toughest test this weekend in their series against No. 1 Florida (28-3, 7-2) in Gainesville. The Gators also boast the number one RPI (Rating Percentage Index) in the country and would prove to be a valuable win for MSU. John Cohen talked about the series after MSU’s mid-week game against UT-Martin.

“We are going to go down and play the best team in the country this weekend,” said MSU Head coach John Cohen. “I think our kids are looking forward to that opportunity and are looking forward to that challenge.”

MSU will start potential top-ten draft pick Dakota Hudson on Friday and start fellow dominant pitcher Austin Sexton in game two on Saturday. MSU has not announced their Sunday starter, which has been the team’s biggest weakness this season. In all three Jacob Follin | The Reflector of MSU’s series wins, they have won on Friday and Freshman catcher Elih Marrero follows through with his swing after making contact with the ball during Mississippi Stateʼs recent home series against rival Ole Miss.

Saturday then lost in game three on Sunday. runs in SEC play. He threw But day three has been was almost an audition favorite to start Sunday if Preseason All-American 56 strikeouts on the season an issue. So far, day three for the Sunday job. The Brown does not. In his one Dakota Hudson is living up in 48.2 innings pitched. starter Daniel Brown has Bulldogs used eight pitch- inning pitched, he threw 16 to the hype with his perfor- Sexton also had a strong struggled heavily. Brown ers and shut out UT-Martin pitches, gave up no hits and mance this season. With a season, throwing a 2.98 pitched 28 innings and 14-0. threw eleven strikes.

4-1 record, he is boasting ERA and has 51 strikeouts averaged a 5.46 ERA with a The starter on Tuesday Pilkington talked about an ERA below one at .92 in 45.1 innings pitched. He 2-2 record. Tuesday night’s was Konner Pilkington, the Sunday starting spot and has given up no earned is 3-1 on the season. game against UT-Martin and many feel he is the being up in the air.

“It (the Sunday starting spot) is up for grabs,” said Pilkington. “Everybody is auditioning for it. I really do want it.”

On offense, MSU has many sluggers. Led by Jake Magnum, who has a .439 batting average and has 15 RBI. Jack Kruger is also having a standout year.

Kruger has four home runs and 27 RBI to go with a .357 batting average. MSU has seven players who have started more than 20 games batting above a .300 average this season.

Magnum bragged on MSU’s batting depth during the week.

“We’re playing great,” Mangum said. “We’re deep. We have a lot of guys in the line-up who can hit.

So we are ready for it (The series this weekend).”

The Gators are the top team in the SEC. A win would be a huge RPI boost for MSU. It will be a tough matchup as the Gators have huge pitching depth.

Florida has five pitchers with at least three wins and no losses. They are also batting .300 as a team.

They are coming off of a huge series sweep over previously ranked No. 1 team Texas A&M. First pitch of game one will be this Friday at 4:30 p.m. Game two will be Saturday at 6 p.m, and game three on Sunday will be the only televised game. Game three starts at 3 p.m. and will be televised on the SEC Network.

Upcoming Bulldog Athletic Events Baseball @ Florida Friday, April 8 6 p.m.

Softball @ Alabama Friday, April 8 6:30 p.m.

Track & Field @ LSU Saturday, April 9 ALL DAY

Women’s Tennis vs. Ole Miss Friday, April 8 3 p.m.

Emma Katherine Hutto | The Reflector

Brandon Holloway takes a handoff in last seasonʼs spring game. The Bulldogs play this yearʼs spring game Saturday, April 16 at 11 a.m.

Spring practice in full swing

by Dimerious Townsend Staff Writer

With March Madness coming to an end and the NFL Draft approaching, Mississippi State is well underway to preparing for next season.

Without Dakota Prescott to lead the team next year, the Bulldogs will be

looking for Nick Fitzgerald to step up and fi ll the shoes.

With returning wide-outs and a more experienced offensive line, Mississippi State will see how life is without Prescott.

Next Saturday, April 16 at 11 a.m., the Bulldogs will play their Maroon & White spring game at Davis Wade stadium. Admission is free to everyone who plans to attend the game. The game will be televised via ESPNU as students and fans enjoy the multiple events Super Bulldog Weekend has to offer.

There are many new faces, not only players but also coaches as well. One of the biggest additions is the new defensive line Coach Brian Baker.

“I think as a coach, our

Baker said. “You do that by showing players you can help them win.”

There are many great aspects to expect from the Bulldogs next season.

Mississippi State loses one of its best players in history ,but the expectations of greatness the team’s had still remains.

Fans now look forward to each season expecting the Mississippi State Bulldogs to make the playoffs instead of just making a bowl game.

The football program has really grown over time under the tutelage of Head coach Dan Mullen. Adding new faces with decorated resumes only shows the respect and dedication he has for the school as well as the football program