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FRIDAY JANUARY 19, 2018
133rd YEAR ISSUE 26
THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884
Walmart shooter charged with capital murder JOSH BECK
NEWS EDITOR
On Saturday, January 13, 2018, at approximately 9:30 a.m., the Starkville Police Department responded to Walmart, 1010 Highway 12 West, for a report of shots fired. According Nichols, there was one victim who was immediately transferred to OCH Regional Medical Center. Oktibbeha County Coroner Michael Hunt confirmed the victim, Dr. Shauna Witt, was pronounced dead at 10:05 Saturday morning. Witt served as an optometrist at the Walmart vision clinic and store. SPD arrived at the scene in a matter of minutes where they found the 41-year-old suspect William Thomas “Tommy” Chisholm exiting the building with a handgun. After a brief struggle, SPD officers quickly apprehended and arrested Chisholm without further injury.
Following the incident SPD Chief Nichols provided a brief description of the incident. “The suspect entered the store, confronted the victim and fired several shots in the store,” Nichols said. “We believe this incident is isolated and domestic in nature. At this time, the scene is secure, and we are still investigating this.” According to close friends interviewed at the scene, the individuals were in an “on-again-off-again” dating relationship.
According to Brandon Lovelady, SPD communication officer, William Thomas “Tommy” Chisholm is being held for capital murder with no bond. Initially, Chisholm’s first municipal court appearance was scheduled for Wednesday at 2 p.m. However, due to the municipal court being closed due to weather on Wednesday his court appearance is rescheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday. In addition, Chisholm has also been charged with malicious mischief (misdemeanor) and aggravated assault. Chisholm was also involved in a four-hour standoff in Madison county. The incident was responded to by the Madison County Sheriff ’s. According to Madison County Chief Deputy Jeremy Williams Chisholm’s mother called the police “We received a call on April 27, 2012 from Mr. Chisholm’s mother she was concerned about his welfare,” Williams said. “We arrived to
the scene to attempt to check on him and we ended up in a four hour stand off.” The incident perpetuated until law enforcement officers deployed tear gas into the
home and apprehended Chisholm. He was arrested and taken to the hospital for a mental evaluation. Williams said the incident was referred to the Madison
County District Attorney office where no charges were made. Due to the nature being a domestic welfare check and not an arrest. Chisholm did not spend any time in jail.
experienced snow before, so this is her first snow,” Burrell said. “She’s having a really good time.” As for plans about how they would deal with the snow, Burrell said she was thinking about something warm. “We probably plan on drinking coffee,” Burrell said. “Then just hang out
here (on campus) and go study.” It was not just dogs who experienced snow for the first time Tuesday. Narendra Mallela, a Program Analyst in the Information Technology department, from India, said the cold weather and snow were a new experience for him. SNOW, 2
MEGAN TERRY
their friends, family and community,” Word said. Small businesses combat national chains’ lower prices with customer loyalty, variety of goods and potentially better-quality goods or services, said Word. “Walmart doesn’t necessarily have brand loyalty, whereas locally renowned smaller businesses tend to have a solid customer base,” Word said. “Walmart’s competitive advantage lies in its cost leadership, but local businesses have the advantage of product variety and product quality.” Suzanne Phillips, employee at Peery’s Market from Lone Jack, Missouri, continued to point out the importance of really getting to know the customers. “The customer relationships that we have in local, small businesses make the difference,” Phillips said. “Our customers value the time that we take to interact with them and show our loyalty to them, just as they show loyalty to us.” Word said while Walmart does not have the same level of customer satisfaction small businesses contain, some consumers will sacrifice employee attentiveness for lower prices. “If consumers are willing to spend more money for better products or services, Walmart has no way to compete with that at the moment without a major strategy shift,” Word said.
Josh Beck | The Reflector
A large police force is seen at Walmart after the shooting on Saturday. The shooter was quickly appreahended by Starkville Police Department.
Snow causes MSU campus to New Walmart close; students enjoy snow neighborhood market opens
Arctic temperatures froze Starkville, causing MSU to close its doors Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. JORDAN DARENSBOURG STAFF WRITER
A winter storm brought roughly 1 inch of snow to Starkville and throughout the Golden Triangle, causing Mississippi State University’s Starkville campus to close Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. MSU Communications Director Sid Salter announced MSU would close in caution as a result of poor road conditions in Starkville. “‘Black ice’ on road and bridge surfaces that are unlikely to melt because of protracted hours of sub-freezing temperatures are the primary concern,” Salter said. “Students, faculty and non-essential staff are urged not to attempt to drive in these conditions.” According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, many roads in Starkville and the surrounding area had iced over, which caused extremely hazardous driving conditions. These icy conditions resulted in several accidents on Blackjack Road Tuesday night, causing it to be closed from the Traffic circle to The Pointe apartment complex. With the weather came an opportunity for students and staff to play in the snow. One of the many students playing in the snow was Locke Burrell. The junior mechanical engineering major from Amory, brought her dog, Blair, out for her first
FRIDAY
snowfall. Burrell said the snow was exciting because it rarely snows in Starkville. “[Blair] has never
Schyler Watson | Courtesy Photo
From top: Kayla Mattox, senior english major, and Jamie Wilburn, Senior Human Development & Family Science major, enjoy the snow.
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
HI: 50 LO: 29 SKY: Sunny
HI: 56 LO: 41 SKY: Partly cloudy
HI: 61 LO: 48 SKY: Sunny
POP: 0%
POP: 0%
POP: 0%
FORECAST: The great thaw is finally taking place this weekend, with temperatures reaching 50 for Friday, and finally 56 and 61 for Saturday and Sunday. A beautiful weekend will translate to a chance of showers Sunday evening going into Monday morning. Thankfully, everything will remain in its liquid state for the foreseeable future. -Brant Beckman Campus Connect Forecaster
STAFF WRITER
The much anticipated Walmart Neighborhood Market off of Highway 12 opened its doors on Wednesday. The pile of building supplies and busy construction site gave life to Walmart’s new, smaller concept, the “neighborhood market.” The neighborhood market is essentially a condensed version of the famous superstore, and resembles many of the smaller grocery markets found throughout the south. Andrew Word, a senior accounting major from Prattville, Alabama, said despite adding competition to a small market, many small businesses have several advantages when compared to the national big-box chains. “Small businesses have several advantages over large competitors like Walmart,” Word said. “Such as local brand nostalgia, product differentiation and quality customer service are areas in which local businesses have a competitive advantage to Walmart.” Word said the advantages small businesses have are centered mainly around customer loyalty. “Regarding brand nostalgia and loyalty, consumers with some disposable income may be more inclined to shop at a local business and pay slightly more in order to maintain the local business culture and support
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WALMART
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BAD DAWGS Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2018 11:35 p.m. Student arrested in Starkville for DUI and careless driving. Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018 10:34 a.m. Resident of city was involved in a traffic accident on Walker Road. Justice court citations issued for suspended license and no insurance. 3:36 p.m. Employee reported a cowbell stolen from Cullis Wade Depot Clock Museum by an unknown male. Friday, Jan. 12, 2018 7:19 a.m. Officer reported damages to the radar trailer. Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018 2:27 a.m. Student arrested in Oak Hall for public intoxication. 3:58 p.m. Non-resident/visitor passed out in Humphrey Coliseum during a basketball game. Subject was transferred to OCH by ambulance. 10:25 p.m. Student was issued a citation and student referral for possession of marijuana and being a minor in possession of alcohol in Swamp parking lot. Sunday, Jan. 14, 2018 3:59 Non-resident/visitor’s vehicle was stuck in mud behind scoreboard of the Nusz Softball Stadium, causing damages after being pulled out. Monday, Jan. 15, 2018 7:44 p.m. Non-resident/visitor was arrested near Hurst Hall for possession of firearm on campus. Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018 1:31 a.m. Student was issued a post-arrest citation and student referral for possession of controlled substance in Zacharias Village parking lot. 11:29 a.m. Student was issued a referral for pulling fire alarm in Magnolia Hall. 11:44 a.m. Fire hydrant on BS Hood was damaged. 7:58 p.m. Student reported his room burglarized in McKee Hall. 9:14 p.m. Students were issued referral for possession of marijuana in motor vehicle behind McKee Hall. Wednesday, Jan 17, 2018 11:26 a.m. Student reported damage done to the Phi Gamma Delta house. 2:55 p.m. Student reported she was sexually assaulted in McKee Hall. Subject was transported to OCH by personal vehicle. Oncall counselor was on scene. Thursday, Jan. 18, 2018 5:01 a.m. Lloyd Ricks had a busted pipe, a plumber was called. Notable traffic violations: Justice Court citation issued for speeding 63/45 on Hail State Blvd. MSU citation issued for driving the wrong way on Bailey Howell. MSU citation issued for driving the wrong way on Hurst Lane. Justice Court citations issued for disregard traffic device and seatbelt violation on Barr Avenue.
Josh Beck | The Reflector
The new Walmart Neighborhood Market opened Wednesday. Many people flocked to the new store off of Highway 12, despite the freezing cold temperatures and icy conditions.
Brandon Williams, store manager of the Neighborhood Walmart, said he looks forward to serving Starkville and MSU. “We are excited to be new to the community and serve this side of Starkville and the Mississippi State campus, and look forward to building relationships in
this part of town,” Williams said. In addition to building relationships with the community, Williams said this Walmart was designed with the on-the-go consumer in mind. “This is a new format for this part of Starkville, one whose smaller footprint
focuses on fresh produce, and allows customers to get in and out quickly,” Williams said. “Walmart continually invests in new ways to save its customers time and money and this store is a great example.” According to a Walmart press release, the new store will employ about 100
full-time and part-time associates, and will feature one of the only drive-thru pharmacies in Starkville. In addition, the 41,000-squarefoot Neighborhood Market offers a wide variety of fresh produce and organic selections, a full-service deli and an in-store bakery with fresh breads.
TORI BOATNER
of being proactive toward change. “Remember the responsibility of the dream,” Ellis said. “You just can’t talk about it, you have to do something about it.” It was evident through Ellis’ speech he embodies the dreams of King. He served his state and community for 38 years in the Mississippi House of Representatives, and continues to serve during his retirement. While serving for District 38, Ellis mentioned he had to endure prejudice attitudes, similar to King. Not only did Ellis serve his state and community, he also served his country in the military. “We all have an innate responsibility to serve in some capacity,” Ellis said. Community leaders, members of the community and surrounding areas, students and MSU officials gave Ellis several sincere standing ovations filled with smiles. After his speech, Mark Keenum, president of MSU, presented Ellis with a cowbell. The mayor of Starkville, Lynn Spruill, also presented Ellis with a proclamation and
a key to the city. “You are a wonderful friend to the city,” Spruill said. MSU’s Black Voices sang various selections uplifting the oppressed and encouraging all to keep reaching for change. The Kappa Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. delivered a moving tribute to King, reiterating King’s legacy and the positive effect he has had on America, specifically the AfricanAmerican community. “Dr. Martin Luther King was a member of the Sigma chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and it was only right and our responsibility to show gratitude toward his legacy,” said LaDarrion Grant, member of Kappa Beta Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha. Students also took part in this momentous occasion. Student volunteers took part in the 7th Annual MLK Day of service at 20 different service partners in Starkville and surrounding areas. Danielle Scott, a Sophomore biological engineering major said the volunteer opportunity helped her reflect on the sacrifice of those before her. “I volunteered at the
Palmer Home for Children Thrift Store with I.D.E.A.L Woman. While organizing clothes, I kept in mind the values of selflessness and sacrifice true leaders like Dr. King held,” Scott said. Members of the Starkville community were also moved by the program. Wanda Kirkwood, a special education teacher at Starkville High School said it was “an awesome service and a great experience for my 9-year-old son.” Ellis mentioned he humbly accepted the invitation to speak at the Unity Breakfast, and it offered him a platform to thank his supporters and the community for their continuous service. He also saw this significant opportunity as a way to “help change the narrative of Dr. King that a lack of knowledge has caused.” Continuing to push toward a better community in Mississippi and America, Ellis encourages MSU to continue expanding its diversity. “Looking beyond the color of a person’s skin, at the depth of character, and what’s inside of them will help us overcome,” Ellis said.
Unity breakfast a success; former Rep. Ellis keynotes STAFF WRITER
Mississippi State University hosted its 24th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Breakfast Monday morning at The Mill Conference Center. The ballroom was packed with all ages and races, all uniting to shine a light on King’s legacy. Former Representative for District 38, Tyrone Ellis was the keynote speaker. He spoke strongly about one’s duty to serve, and the importance
Erin Parker | The Reflector
Members of Mississippi State University chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha speak in honor of King at the Unity breakfast held on Monday.
SNOW Mallela said he was not necessarily used to Starkville’s temperatures, as opposed to in his native home in India. “Back home, it’s too hot,” Mallela said. “Even our cold would be around 60 or 70, so you can think of how cold it would be for us.” Mallela said he planned on sharing the moment with his family in India. “We plan on hanging out and taking pics, and sending them to family back home (in India),” Mallela said.
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Temperatures on Friday are expected to reach near 50 degrees, which will improve road conditions even more than the improvements from Thursday. By the weekend, however, Starkville will have highs reaching the 60s. A big thanks can be given to the Mississippi Department of Transportation for keeping the roads safe through the deep freeze. Much of Mississippi was affected and Melinda McGrath, P.E., MDOT executive director, released a
statement on Wednesday. “MDOT crews have been working this weather event statewide, 24/7 for the past three days,” McGrath said. “MDOT maintenance crews worked throughout the night and are continuing assessment and response operations today to ensure Mississippi’s highways remain as safe as possible.” All roads have returned to normal. In addition, Many Starkville officials complemented the work of first responders and those in charge of keeping the roads drivable.
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2018 @REFLECTORONLINE
BULLETIN BOARD
An in-class distraction
ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY...
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...in 1993, the production of “Toy Story” began in Pixar Animation Studios. The film was the first Pixar-Disney collaboration, as well as the first full feature-length animated film completely computer-generated. Tom Hanks and Tim Allen starred in the film. The film was released in November 1995, and grossed more than $192 million at the domestic box office, and $358 million worldwide. ...in 1993, Fleetwood Mac reunited to play “Don’t Stop” at former President Bill Clinton’s Inaugural Gala. “Don’t Stop” was the underlying theme throughout Clinton’s 1992 campaign.
history.com
January 12 puzzle solutions
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OPINION
What is missed in the conversation about mass shootings events to people having access to firearms, or to people suffering from untreated mental illnesses. All of the shooters at some point had to make a conscious choice to carry out the mass shooting, and it is in the identification of this phenomenon where I believe our conversations have fallen short. This phenomenon came into clearer focus for me a few weeks ago when I was reading Malcolm Gladwell’s The Tipping Point. In it, Gladwell argues the same way one sick person can ignite an epidemic, small events can also push broader trends in a society.
STEVEN WEIRICH
is a senior majoring in economics. Contact him at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.
Every time our country suffers through another senseless tragedy in the form of a mass shooting, people invariably call for a “national conversation” about what caused the shooting. Some will talk about the need for more gun control, while others will say we do not take mental health problems seriously enough. Others will suggest violent video games make people more open to committing these atrocities. For me though, there has always been something unsatisfactory about these arguments. People seem to latch onto a perceived cause, which has a policy prescription closely attached. In my mind, we are not really asking, ‘why?’ Why, as documented in a piece by CNN, have all the five largest single-day mass shootings in American history occurred since 2007? To me, it is not enough to entirely chalk up these
According to research performed by Donald Rubinstein, the rate of suicides among people living on the collection of Pacific islands known as Micronesia increased rapidly from the 1960s up until the early 1980s. Rubinstein himself wrote, “From the early 1960s to the early 1980s, suicide rates overall in Micronesia had increased in classic epidemic fashion, more than doubling every decade, from the 1960s to the 1970s, and from the 1970s to the 1980s.” These suicides were also far more common among men than women, and they
“To me, it is not enough to entriely chalk up these events to people having access to firearms, or to people suffering from untreated mental illnesses.” Examples of this include fashion trends, social movements or the popularity of a book. One of the case studies Gladwell uses is the strange story of the suicide epidemic in Micronesia. It is in examining this particular phenomenon where I believe we can find an answer to our missing question on mass shootings.
were even more common among a single demographic of men. The majority of the suicides were concentrated among males between the ages of 15 to 24, with the rate of suicide in this age group equaling over 100 deaths per 100,000 people per year. Rubinstein’s research discovered there was a clear
Jenn Mcfadden, The Reflector
profile among the suicide victims. Not only were they males around the same age, but they also killed themselves in the same fashion for similar reasons. Most of the suicides were committed by a nontraditional hanging, and the reasons for the acts in question, while not identical, were often eerily similar. In a 1983 article in the New York Times, a Jesuit priest in Micronesia named Father Francis Hezel described how the suicides were “brought on by a dispute between a teenager
or young man and his parents or an older brother over a ‘crazy little thing.’” He then listed a few common examples, such as teenagers killing themselves because they were scolded by one of their parents or if one of their parents did not give them money. Many anthropologists and other scientists have puzzled over diagnosing exactly why these suicides became so common in Micronesia for years. Theories have covered everything from domestic issues to the
effects of modernization. Nevertheless, Gladwell found these cases to be a powerful example of a situation where a small event can trigger an epidemic which can be hard to explain. While it may be hard to see how these sad and bizarre stories could serve as a reference point for our current mass shooting crisis, I feel they indicate a reason for why these shootings have become so commonplace. In the next piece, I will go into greater depth to explain this phenomenon.
Alabama election clearly proves America’s division ZACHERY ABUNEMEH
is a junior majoring in political science. Contact him at opinion@reflector. msstate.edu.
To the surprise of many, 2017 ended on the polar opposite note 2016 ended on: a stunning election victory where a candidate unfit for office actually lost. When Doug Jones beat Roy Moore to become Alabama’s first Democratic senator in 25 years, most Americans saw this moment as a sign of unification. Maybe America learned from its mistakes from just a year prior and could carry this momentum towards a sweeping shift in Washington. Once the demographics were released, though, a more pressing picture was painted. Jones’ election victory was not a shift away from President Donald Trump, it was not a changing tide toward political equality and it was not a sign for a victorious 2018 for Democrats. Alabama’s senate race simply demonstrated how divided we are as a nation. The two candidates
could not have represented their parties any better. As we all have probably heard by now, Moore, the Republican nominee, was accused of sexually assaulting eight women when they were teenagers. Going beyond those disgusting allegations, Moore is the poster child for Trump’s Republican Party. According to Ben Kamisar at The Hill, Moore has stated in the past he believes terror attacks and violence are caused by godlessness, homosexuality should be illegal, Muslims should not be allowed in Congress and Barack Obama was not born in America.
“The election should not be about how Jones won Alabama, but it should instead be about how Moore lost Alabama.” Somehow, none of the comments and beliefs prevented Moore from not only winning the Republican nomination, but also winning over
Jenn Mcfadden, The Reflector
48 percent of the vote, according to Newsweek’s Summer Meza. It should come to no surprise Jones dominated the minority vote. According to Scott Clement and Emily Guskin with The Washington Post, Jones won 96 percent of the African American vote, including 98 percent of black women. While it did not cost Trump the presidential election, the Republican Party has had difficulty appealing to minority voters for decades, and thanks to candidates like Moore, the Republican
party cannot hope to win over non-white voters anymore. While Moore’s bigoted remarks and shocking accusations cost the Republican Party a Senate seat, Jones certainly did not make the election easy for Democrats. The major stumbling block for Jones in Alabama was he is pro-choice. For many, this made Jones nearly unelectable in Alabama. Once again, it should come as no surprise Moore hung on to over 90 percent of the Republican turnout,
Trivia Time! 1. How long ago was the NHL integrated? 2. What is the only sea with no coastline? 3. “Torchwood” is an anagram and spin-off of what popular British sci-fi series? Answer: 1. 60 years, 2. Sargasso Sea, 3. Doctor Who
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despite his many flaws. The election should not be about how Jones won Alabama, but it should instead be about how Moore lost Alabama. According to Meza’s Newsweek article, Jones only won 49.9 percent of the vote and won the election by a mere 1.5 percent. To demonstrate how small Jones’s margin of error was: write-in candidates, including people like Nick Saban, won 1.7 percent of the vote. Jones symbolizes the Democrats’ ineptitude to appeal to non-Democratic
voters. Jones won, not by drawing conservatives and moderates towards him, but by encouraging liberals and Democrats to volunteer and vote. The only person Jones could have defeated was Moore. The saddening reality about the Alabama senate race is the tribalism which dominates American politics and has ruined our elections. Candidates no longer have to worry about convincing voters to support their campaign; they instead focus on not losing potential voters, and how to increase their party’s voter turnout. Despite their flaws, both men won lopsided victories in key demographics. The winning difference was voter turnout. If more than 43 percent of conservatives actually voted, it is highly probable Moore would have won. The fact an alleged pedophile could still win almost 70 percent of the white vote, 83 percent of the conservative vote and 48 percent of the overall vote is truly disturbing. At this point in time, it seems we are locked into our party by race, gender, education or socioeconomic status long before the out votes are tallied.
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Letters to the editor should be sent to the Meyer Student Media Center or mailed to The Reflector, PO Box 5407, Mississippi State, MS. Letters may also be emailed to editor@reflector. msstate.edu. Letters must include name and telephone number for verification purposes. The editor reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish a letter.
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LIFE & ENTERTAINMENT
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Serendipity Hippie makes things ‘a little bit different’ MIA RODRIGUEZ STAFF WRITER
Paisley Hamilton is manifesting the bohemian and holistic style of the 1960’s in Starkville through her store, The Serendipity Hippie. A Starkville native and 2015 Mississippi State University graduate, Hamilton said the city has made such an impact on her, she has decided to make it a home to her business. While many stores primarily sell manufactured goods, Hamilton’s store is filled with handmade and artisan goods. Hamilton makes all her jewelry by hand. The jewelry is created from natural elements including leathers, crystals and pearls. In addition, her clothing is full of not only whimsical color and flare, but organic hemp and cotton fibers grown in the U.S.. Hamilton’s shop also contains the pieces of other artists, such as pottery from an artist in New York and large crystals from a family in Nepal. Each piece in the shop is unique, and the clothing is full of personality with an undeniably timeless presence. Her hooded “dusters” and bell bottom pants are reminiscent of the 1960’s and contain Hamilton’s own technique, creating a style all their own. “The idea is to make something a little bit different,” Hamilton said. “It promotes a sustainable lifestyle instead of something that’s disposable or changes constantly with
Kayleigh Phillips | The Reflector
Paisley Hamilton, the owner of Serendipity Hippie, assembles a new jacket in her studio to be sold at the store. The store opened in September, and offers a variety of hand-crafted goods.
the seasons. The idea is to make something that people want to hold on to and even go as far as pass down to someone they love.” Hamilton said the store’s building was not always the clean and aesthetically pleasing establishment it is today. Prior to the renovations, it was an automobile repair shop. The once-operating glass garage now provides beautiful studio lighting for Hamilton to design and craft her pieces. Hamilton treats each customer as if they were her lifelong friends. Hamilton will describe the
creative processes of each item to provide insight into the care and time each item took to craft.
“Paisley is intimately invested in her work and is setting an admirable example for upcoming generations of creators while improving the local economy.” -Nikki Longmire, customer She said she treats her equipment with the utmost care, having lovingly named
Jenn McFadden, The Reflector
The Frostbite Half Marathon will run through Starkville this weekend SHELBY POINDEXTER STAFF WRITER
The annual Frostbite Half Marathon will begin at 9 a.m. Jan. 20. A post-party and award ceremony will follow the event sponsored by Starkville’s Chick-fil-A. In addition to the half marathon, the event will also include a 10k and 5k race. A few avid runners in the Starkville area began the Frostbite Half Marathon in the 1980’s. Originally, runners were taken to Pheba, then ran the 13.1 miles back to OCH. The annual event takes about nine months to put together. Various local businesses will sponsor the event, including Skylake Construction, Paul Davis Restoration, Kelly Cutshall CPA, McDonalds and Columbus Orthopedic. Brad Jones, the director of the marathon, said when he and his partner, Wes Gordon, began organizing the race, they decided to move it. “We wanted to give it more of a Starkville feel and try to show off the town and campus to the runners that
may come from outside of this area,” Jones said. “So, we moved the start and finish to Main Street, and tried to come up with ways to turn it into more of an event.”
“Once we said we would give a good portion of the proceeds to a local charity, I was on board.” -Wes Gordon, race organizer Gordon said he was initially hesitant to get involved with the race, but is glad Jones convinced him to take part. “It was actually Brad that talked me into it,” Gordon said. “Once we said we would give a portion of the proceeds to a local charity, I was on board.” Each year, a different charity receives the proceeds
her serger sewing machine “Sergio.” She said many individuals in Starkville
of the race, with this year’s proceeds going to the Starkville Fire Department. Donations can be made online through the Frostbite website. The half marathon will begin and end on Main Street and will run through the Cotton District, Mississippi State University’s campus and Starkville’s Historic District. Custom cowbells will be given out to the winners of each race and the winners of different groups. Jones said this year, the Frostbite Half Marathon will partner with the Souper Bowl. The annual Souper Bowl shines light on local restaurants competing with various soup recipes to be awarded the Best Soup Award. “I think we’re always looking for ways to enhance our event,” Jones said. “So, when the opportunity came up to partner with the Souper Bowl, we thought it was unique and wanted that to serve as a combined after party for our racers and Souper Bowl participants.” Medals for the winners of the Frostbite will be awarded at noon on Jan. 20.
helped give her the ability to express her artistic voice, including fashion design
professor Phyllis Miller. Hamilton said Miller’s passion for the profession and design helped her to become the designer and businesswoman she is today. In addition to a physical store, Hamilton also dabbles in online sales and pop-up shops at art festivals. Although her store only opened in September, Hamilton said she has already accrued loyal customers through her social media presence, her booths at pop-up shops and online sales. Laurs Pneuma and Nikki Longmire are two such supporters.
Pneuma said she first encountered Hamilton’s work in downtown Starkville and at art festivals. She admires the uniqueness of each item and the way in which Hamilton conducts herself. “I can tell she will not change,” Pneuma said. “She will remain the same down-to-earth woman that you meet at her studio. This town is blessed to be the location of her creation, and I feel blessed to be a part of what she is doing here.” Nikki Longmire is also a longtime admirer of Hamilton’s work. Longmire said Hamilton is a “constant blessing.” “I can’t find words to express how important it is to shop with independent, local businesses in your area,” Longmire said. “Paisley is intimately invested in her work and is setting an admirable example for upcoming generations of creators while improving the local economy. She has always gone above and beyond in assuring each piece is made perfectly for each customer. I adore her. I adore her vision.” Hamilton said she loves collaborating with similarly unique stores and artists in events such as Sunday Fundays, which take place every fourth Sunday of the month during the summer. In addition, Hamilton expressed a desire to hold events at the studio during the future. For more information on the store or future events, The Serendipity Hippie can be found on both Facebook and Instagram.
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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2018 @SPORTSREFLECTOR
SPORTS
Women’s basketball continues undefeated season, look toward tough challenge against Tennessee
Jessica Lindsey | The Reflector
MSU center Teaira McCowan, junior from Brenham, Texas, boxes out an Ole Miss player in MSU’s 76-45 victory over the Rebels on Jan. 11.
MELISSA WEITZEL
SPORTS EDITOR
Mississippi State University women’s basketball extended their winning streak to 19 with two important SEC wins over the University of Mississippi and the University of Alabama this weekend. No. 3 ranked MSU (19-0, 5-0 SEC) women’s basketball never trailed in their 76-45 victory over Ole Miss (11-6, 1-3 SEC) on Jan. 11. With a crowd of 7,161 in attendance, MSU’s head coach Vic Schaefer described the Hump as “electric from the get-go.” Schaefer credited fans and praised the students after the game. “Our student section was amazing,” Schaefer said. “I want to compliment our students and let them know that we appreciate them.” MSU got off to a quick 14-0 start with senior guard Blair Schaefer hitting backto-back threes to open up the game. MSU held a 22-9 lead at the end of the first quarter. However, the fast start slowed down in the second quarter with MSU only scoring 12 points and Ole Miss scoring 13. In part, this was because many of the
starters got into early foul trouble. Coach Schaefer said his players, “were trying to do too much.” On the bench’s offensive struggles, coach Schaefer said he is not worried about it right now. “It was a weird game,” Schaefer said. “We didn’t have the chemistry offensively tonight, maybe give Ole Miss credit for that. They are good at what they do.” MSU won the game 7645. On Sunday, MSU faced some adversity, but the team was able to overcome the University of Alabama Crimson Tide 75-61 after a strong second quarter. After trailing in the first quarter, the Bulldogs exploded in the second, putting on a clinic of both offensive and defensive success. MSU outscored Alabama (135, 3-2 SEC) 28-9 to lead the Crimson Tide 44-29 by halftime. Victoria Vivians scored 12 points in the first quarter. Vivians finished the game with 21 points, seven rebounds and two assists. Statistically, Alabama was superior to MSU in shooting percentage, and even in defensive rebounds, topping MSU 21 to 17. However,
the one area in which the Bulldogs dominated was in the turnover battle. Alabama turned the ball over 26 times to MSU’s 13. Schaefer recognized how the turnovers helped them in this game. “We had 35 points off of turnovers,” Schaefer said. “That’s a pretty significant number when you’re talking about basketball games. I’m proud of my team.” The game’s attendance was announced as 9,010, which was the 3rd highest in program history. Curry appreciated the environment, even as the visiting team. “Playing in this environment just makes us better,” Curry said. Curry said she believes the fan support at MSU makes women’s basketball better in general. Schaefer was again quick to praise the support of fans. “(It was a) pretty special day, you have 9,000 fans in the building today, made it a really electric atmosphere,” Schaefer said. “The crowd was loud today. It is really unique and special to walk out there and see all those people.” With this Thursday off, the Bulldogs face their toughest challenge this year,
the No. 6 ranked University of Tennessee (16-1, 4-1 SEC), at 2 p.m. Sunday in Knoxville. “They have a heck of year so far, so we have our hands full,” Schaefer said. “Just excited about another opportunity.” The Lady Volunteers are coming off of a win against the defending national champions, No. 10 ranked University of South Carolina, who were without their star senior forward A’ja Wilson due to injury. MSU’s and Tennessee’s women’s basketball teams have a contentious history. The University of Tennessee is a historical powerhouse in women’s basketball. Before the 2015-2016 basketball season, MSU had never beaten Tennessee, but over the last two years, the series has been more equal. Last season, they split the series, each team winning on the road. For MSU, the win was sweet as it was the first time the Bulldogs had won in Knoxville, but their loss at home was even more bitter, as it kept them from sharing their first outright SEC championship with the University of South Carolina. “Ir doesn’t set well with you,” Blair Schaefer said. “We did not play good at home last year versus them. They just came in and out worked us in every area. So that is not usually the case with us, we not usually a team that lets that happen so we really need to focus on what we do. Not do anything out of our box.” MSU will look to avenge that loss, boost their RPI and secure their spot in the top 3 with a win against Tennessee. This would be their second win over an AP ranked top 10 team and fifth over a top 25 ranked team. ESPN2 will broadcast the game at 2 p.m., or streamed live on the ESPN app.
Alayna Stevens| The Reflector
Nuno Borges, a junior from Maia, Porto, Portugal, celebrates during MSU’s day of matches.
Men’s tennis off to hot start HUNTER CLOUD
No. 14 Mississippi State University (1-0) men’s tennis got their season off to a hot start with a win against University of Alabama at Birmingham (0-1) after sweeping the Blazers on Saturday. MSU found themselves down early in the double matches but quickly tied it with court two’s pairing of Nuno Borges and Strahinja Rakic winning their match seven to five. MSU clinched a point from doubles when court one finished seven to five in MSU’s favor and they carried that energy through the rest of the day. Head coach Matt Roberts said he felt the matches were a good way to start off the season. “The doubles were very good for us to get a little more comfortable with being uncomfortable,” Roberts said. “UAB pushed us in doubles, we had to make a comeback on court one. Two we had a lead and they came back and made it tough for us. Then on three we fought well, and had a lot of energy we just need to be sharper.” One of the players from the court three pairing was sophomore Giovanni Ordani from Rovereto, Italy, who played for the first time with his partner Florian Broska. “Me and Florian, we started playing in the fall, and this was the first match we played together during the
season,” Ordani said. “So I think it was hard because we were both nervous and excited to play. The other guys played well and we just couldn’t find our game.” When it came to singles’ matches, UAB fought tooth and nail for every game. The scrappy team kept the sets close, but were unable to win after MSU clinched the victory, winning four of the seven possible points. Ordani played an intense match and he felt his focus and confidence carried him through. “I played a lot of matches during the fall and back home over the break in Italy. I also have all my camps in my head,” Ordani said. “I just try to go their, focus, bring some energy, and do my things. If I do well then everything is going to be fine.” With MSU shutting out UAB seven to nothing, Roberts said he felt that if the team can make some adjustments, they will be ready to play USF at 1 p.m. today at home, and will play Miami at 3 p.m. on Sunday. “We went through something today, we built that trust with each other just a little bit more which you can’t get from practice,” Roberts said. “South Florida and Miami are two really good teams, and both coaches I respect a lot. We are just going to move forward, make some adjustments from today, have a great week of practice and we will be ready to battle again on Friday.”
Weatherspoon said. “Coach Howland came up with a new shooting drill he had us do in practice and I think it really helped.” Howland also talked about the team’s shooting and what it takes for players to improve. “We just need to shoot more,” Howland said. “To be a great shooter you have to get up reps. I remember Larry Bird used to shoot for an hour and a half before every gawme, so we just have to spend more and more time shooting.” Currently, Holman is the only player on the team shooting over 35 percent from the three-point range and he plays power forward and center. Typically, if a big man is your best outside shooter that is a problem. As the Bulldogs play against tougher competition it will be more difficult for them to get easy looks inside if defenses can hang back from the perimeter and not have to
respect shooters. Tuesday’s game could be a step in the right direction toward the Bulldogs being a more explosive and efficient offensive team. The Bulldogs have a tough SEC road game coming up as they travel to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on Saturday to take on the University of Alabama (11-6, 3-2). Alabama’s overall record is not as good as MSU’s, but they played a much tougher non-conference schedule. Alabama has one of the best point guards in the nation in true freshman Collin Sexton. Sexton is currently second in points per game in the SEC averaging 19.3. He is also one of the top NBA prospects in college basketball as he is currently projected as a lottery pick in the upcoming NBA draft by multiple sites. Saturday’s game will tip-off at 7:30 p.m. and the SECNetwork will broadcast the game.
STAFF WRITER
Men’s basketball fix second half woes, end three game skid
Blake Williams | MSU Communications
MSU junior guard Quinndary Weatherspoon, of Canton, shoots over a Vanderbilt defender. He led MSU with 19 points on 12 shot attempts.
FORREST BUCK
STAFF WRITER
The Mississippi State University Bulldogs ended a three-game skid on Tuesday night by with a 80-62 blow out of the Vanderbilt University Commodores. MSU (14-4, 2-3 SEC) juniors Aric Holman and Quinndary Weatherspoon both had big games. Holman posted a double-double, scoring 18 points and grabbing
14 rebounds while also playing big on the defensive end with two blocks. Weatherspoon lead the team in scoring with 19 points and had a very efficient night making eight of his 12 shot attempts. Holman talked about the importance of the win after the game. “We needed this win a lot,” Holman said. “Nobody wants to keep going on a losing streak, so we took it personal and came out and
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put together a good effort for 40 minutes.” Maintaining secondhalf leads was a problem for the Bulldogs against Ole Miss and Auburn, however MSU remained consistent throughout Tuesday’s game. Head coach Ben Howland talked about their past struggles and what was different in the second half of this game. “In two of the last three games we played we had
leads late in the game and lost them,” Howland said. “Tonight, I thought we did a better job of sharing the ball and not trying to do it by ourselves and that was big for our young team.” One of the keys to the Bulldogs running away with the game in the second half was their three point shooting. The Bulldogs have struggled as a team to consistently make threes all season, and the first half was no different as MSU went 3-13 from deep. However, MSU found success from the outside in the second half, making 5-7 threes, energizing the team fired and opening up the entire offense. The threes forced Vanderbilt to close out harder and respect shooters which opened up the driving lanes and post up opportunities within the Bulldog’s half-court offense. Weatherspoon talked about the team’s focus on improving its shooting after the game. “We have just been doing a lot of shooting in practice. Guys are putting in the time and getting the reps,”