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125th YEAR | ISSUE 37 @REFLECTORONLINE f /REFLECTORONLINE

FEBRUARY 25, 2014

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Faculty senate Lady considers giving Dogs benefits to sameclaim sex employees overtime thriller against Rebels

BY PRANAAV JADHAV

care benefits when persons identified under that protected class seek to secure Assistant professor of po- said benefits. The conselitical science Ravi Perry has quence is that MSU’s human requested the faculty senate relations policies are at variance with its at Mississippi stated policies State UniverAlthough and should be sity to assist in brought into correcting the the alignment non-discrimiMississippi with the more nation policy State applicable in a letter to the non-discrimipresident of the University’s nonnation policy faculty senate discrimination governing the Gerald Emison policy includes university.” on January 17.

Emison Perry said the protected said the resin the letter, class of sexual olution asks “I am writing orientation, there the universito request the is no access to ty’s Human Robert Holland Faculty Senate health care benefits R e s o u r c e s Depar tment assist in correct- when persons to examine ing a deficiency identified under lternative in Mississippi that protected class aways for proState University’s human seek to secure said viding health benefits to resources man- benefits.” spouses of agement prac- -Ravi Perry, faculty memtices. Although political science bers who are the Mississippi the same sex.

State Univer- assistant professor Perry’s letter sity’s non-disexplains his crimination policy includes the protected views on the disparity in proclass of sexual orientation, vision of such benefits under there is no access to health current practice.

Staff Writer

BY FORREST BUCK Staff Writer

After hitting the game-winning shot with 3.3 seconds left against No. 16 Vanderbilt Feb. 16, Martha Alwal carried the Dogs on her back in an overtime, come-from-behind win against Ole Miss Sunday.

The junior was named the SEC Player of the Week Monday after tying her career-high with 25 points and 23 rebounds, becoming the first SEC player since 2008 to pull down 20 boards. She was also named a finalist for the Gillom Trophy Monday, an honor given to the state’s top women’s basketball player, which she claimed last year.

Alwal said she knew she had a mismatch Sunday and

wanted to take advantage.

“I knew it was a team smaller than I was, so I just tried to go out there and dominate,” she said. “In the past, I have taken some plays off, so I tried to not do that tonight. I just wanted to concentrate and really play as well as I could.”

After trailing by 13 at one point in the second half, Mississippi State University won the game 72-70. With the win, the Lady Bulldogs improved to 18-10, 5-9 in SEC play, and Ole Miss fell to 1018 and 1-13 in the SEC. Both games between the two teams this season were decided by two points and went into overtime, but the Lady Dogs fought their way back into this game and relied on Alwal to come out with the win.

SEE BASKETBALL, 7 EMMA KATHERINE HUTTO | THE REFLECTOR

SEC Player of the Week and Mississippi State junior Martha Alwal goes up for a shot over Ole Miss’s Shequila Joseph. Alwal finished with 25 points and 23 rebounds in the game, the first 20-20 game of her Lady Bulldog career.

Honor Code Office implements student proctoring program

BY NIA WILSON Staff Writer

Mississippi State University’s Student Honor Code Office is establishing a new student-proctoring program.

While the program was originally created in 2009, the Honor Code Office took the time to fully develop the program as it anticipated a large amount of requests would be received.

During the 2009-10 academic year, the proctoring program assisted with 20 exams.

By the 2012-13 academic year, the numbers increased to 60 proctored exams. This semester the office is recruiting students, and next fall the service will be available for all faculty and

Staff Writer

MSU HONOR CODE OFFICE | COURTESY PHOTO

Mississippi State University’s Honor Code Office trains students to assist professors in proctoring exams as a way to promote MSU’s Honor Code, which states: “As a Missisippi State University student I will conduct myself with honor and integrity at all times. I will not lie, cheat or steal, nor will I accept the actions of those who do.” Students in the proctoring program assisted in 60 exams last school year.

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CROSSWORD CLASSIFIEDS LIFE SPORTS

“Little Rock Nine” member discusses Civil Rights Thursday

BY LACRETIA WIMBLEY

teaching assistants on campus.

The program is evolving to become an integral part of the work the MSU Honor Code Office does to promote honesty and integrity.

James Orr, director of the Honor Code Office, said a successful honor code is developed when students and faculty partner to promote honesty and integrity.

“The purpose of the Student Honor Code Office is to promote academic integrity, but also be a support for faculty and students. The proctoring program is one way to engage students in the promotion of academic integrity but also provide support for faculty in the classroom,” Orr said.

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Mississippi State University partners with the Greater Starkville Development Partnership in sponsoring a member of the “Little Rock Nine,” Ernest Green, to present “Lessons From Little Rock” in the Foster Ballroom of the Colvard Student Union at 2 p.m. Thursday.

On Sept. 25, 1957, Green was one of the first nine African-American students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in the Arkansas state capital. Green and the others successfully enrolled after former President Dwight Eisenhower ordered military safety for the students. Soon after Green became the first African-American to graduate from Central High, he earned his bachelor’s and master’s

degree from Michigan State University.

Stephen Middleton, director of the African-American Studies program and member of the planning committee, said Green has been one of his heroes for as long as he can remember, something that makes Green’s presentation particularly special.

“Whenever I saw documentaries of the Civil Rights movement, the “Little Rock Nine,” and Ernest Green in particular, always stood out,” Middleton said. “As a young man, he was only maybe 17 years old when he and others helped de-segregate Little Rock High School.

He was clearly thoughtful when he addressed the press, he was always poised and he always knew why. He felt that Little Rock High School would provide him with a better education, and he didn’t understand why merely because of the color of his skin that he didn’t have access to it.”

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INTEGRATION “So, he and the ‘Little Rock Nine’ put their lives on the line to enter that institution,� he said.

Middleton said the “Little Rock Nine’s� bravery has resulted in the expanded education opportunities Americans

enjoy in the United States today. “Ernest Green and the “Little Rock Nine� show that African-Americans have transcended challenges. To be a part of a transcendent people in a transcendent generation

beth wynn | courtesy photo

Ernest Green will lecture on the importance of the “Little Rock Nine.� The “Little Rock Nine� was a group of students who integrated Little Rock Central High School in 1957.

continued from 1 is not just about them. It means that every immigrant that comes to this country and takes a look at the experiences of African-Americans will discover how transcendent the human spirit is and how it is possible in this place we call the USA,� Middleton said.

Donna Clevinger, director of MSU’s â€œâ€ŚAnd the Rain Came to Mayfieldâ€? and member of the planning committee for Green’s presentation, said she is thrilled the university is able to host Green’s visit and listen to his story. “He’s going to impact all of us with his life journey,â€?

Clevinger said. “These stories will be able to go with us for a long time.�

Cedric Gathings, assistant director of the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center, said Green’s tenacity and fortitude has made him a true trailblazer of the Civil Rights movement. “During an incredibly difficult time for African-Americans, he demonstrated the undeniable power of human strength,� Gathings said. “Through his sheer bravery and commitment to equality, he secured his place in history when he enrolled in Central High School’s student body.

Students will benefit greatly from hearing stories of individuals like Green, who were integral to the success of the

beth wynn | courtesy photo

Green is a member of the “Little Rock Nine,� pictured here in 1957. Green was the first African-American to graduate from Little Rock Central High School.

Civil Rights movement.�

Gathings said the realities of deep-seated racism in America for the younger generation sometimes go unremembered. “Hearing stories from individuals like Green will remind students of the immense price that was paid for the current liberties we experience,�

Gathings said.

The planning committee

for Green’s event will include Middleton and his assistant Linda Miller, Gathings, Kyle Steward from the Office of External Affairs, Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President, Allison Pearson, Sid Salter, director of the Office of Public Affairs, Clevinger and Jennifer Gregory, the Greater Starkville Development Partnership chief executive officer.

Salter said he praises Middleton and his staff in the department of African American Studies and the job they have done in putting this event together. “This should be a must-see event for MSU faculty, staff and students. I think Mr. Green is a very important voice from the civil rights era in this nation,� Salter said.

HONOR CODE “Further, students also have an opportunity to provide support for faculty as they seek to cultivate a culture of honesty and integrity in the classroom. I believe that institutions of higher learning have an obligation to train future leaders to be men and women of integrity,� Orr said.

Lauren Colby Lindley, assistant program coordinator

for the Student Honor Code Office, said the proctoring program serves as a reminder of the long-term importance of the honor code. “I think that it is vital for students to abide by the student honor code because it will impose honor and integrity during their student career. If honor is practiced as a student, it will be more likely to be carried on

continued from 1 throughout the other stages of life,� Lindley said. “There are many students who aren’t educated on the severity and consequences of what cheating and plagiarism can do. I would advise all students to consider cheating and plagiarism a crime. Academic misconduct violates the integrity and credibility of your education.�

Blaire Wilson, coordina-

tor of the Student Honor Code Office, said understanding the significance of the honor code is key to being a solid member of the MSU student body. “Keeping the honor code at the forefront of discussion will promote a culture of integrity at MSU, which will resonate with the different businesses and companies who seek our graduates

for employment,� she said. “The posting of the honor code in each classroom is a symbol of the university’s dedication to integrity and a reminder to students of their responsibility to uphold the values of what it means to be a student at Mississippi State University.�

The proctoring program has proved to be so help-

ful that other universities have contacted the Student Honor Code Office in order to learn how to implement the program. The office will present on the topic of “Creating a Student Examination Proctoring Program� at the International Center for Academic Integrity Conference that will be hosted in Jacksonville, Fla., Feb. 27- March 2.

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“...And the Rain Came to Mayfield” comes to MSU

By Reed Gaddis Contributing Writer

The Mississippi State University theatre department opens “...And the Rain Came to Mayfield,” a contribution to Black History Month and a production set in the early 1960s Mississippi, which represents the reality of a time in history, Thursday.

The play is held each February in the United States and Canada and observed on the MSU campus as well. Black History Month activities are sponsored by African American Studies and the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center.

The performance will include adult language and themes customary to 1960s Mississippi life.

Donna Clevinger, communication professor and theatre director, said she has high expectations for the play and MAKYLA SPENCER | THE REFLECTOR is delighted that it will be a part of Black History Month MSU students practice before the premiere of “...And the Rain Came to Mayfield.” activities.

The play is part of Black History Month and is set in Mississippi in the 1960s.

“I wanted to show a historically accurate play of the early and an actor in the play, said patron in the store and the props for the play.”

1960s,” Clevinger said. “The he describes the play as very hairdresser in town,” Sheridan Ryan Newberg, senior psymusic of the show is made dramatic and full of tension. said. “She is the preface of the chology major, said he has possible thanks to the general “The play shows that we play and could be called ‘the been a part of plays since manager of the campus radio have come a long way since calm before the storm.’” high school and that there is station. It’s always wonderful those times and a lot of peoIn addition to acting in the not another feeling like being to get help from across cam- ple need to see that,” Frazier play Sheridan serves as the on stage. pus.” prop mistress. said.

“Even more than that it’s She said invited scholars Sheridan said she has the connections and friendAllison Hopkins, freshwill be present during and af- man mechanical engineering learned a great deal about ships you make off stage with ter the play. major who plays the charac- racism and the time period of the other actors,” Newberg “They will set the stage for ter Dixie, said the audience the 1960s by being a part of said. the show since things have should expect to be shocked the production.

The performance will be changed over the last 50 but that the play is comical as “I’ll be backstage making held Thursday through Satyears,” Clevinger said. “They well. sure everybody gets the cor- urday at 7:30 p.m. in Mcwill help the audience underLilly Sheridan, freshman rect props at the correct time, Comas Hall. The admission stand what is going on in an communication and Spanish and I make sure everything is cost will be $10. Tickets can educational process.” major, said she serves as the set on the stage beforehand,” be purchased upon arrival or Kevin Frazier, freshman an- play’s comic relief.

Sheridan said. “I’m serving online at comm.msstate.edu/ imal and dairy science major “My character Mavis is a as a scavenger for finding old theatre/tickets.

Iraqi, Kurdish officials visit MSU, promote scholarships

BY DJ WORMLEY Contributing Writer

The International Institute at Mississippi State University sponsored Iraqi officials Ammar Alsahrawi and Karwan Zebari in their presentation of respective scholarship programs for Iraqi and Kurdish students on Feb. 19 in Fowlkes Auditorium in the Colvard Student Union.

Karin Lee, manager of International Students and Scholars at MSU, said there are currently 13 Iraqi and Kurdish students pursuing graduate degrees at MSU. According to Lee, many of these students have full funding from the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

“The International Institute has been working for two years to get an opportunity to talk to the two gentlemen, but the faculty did not get a chance to get in contact until now,” Lee said. “Iraq is a country that has been ripped apart by

wars, and the country as a the U.S., Iraq and Kurdistan whole is trying to rebuild. and help students catch up Iraqi students are trying to academically. rebuild and get a better ed“The scholarship proucation.” grams are designed to make Lee said Iraqi graduate stulanguage dents come here,” barriers Shoup said. “The The can cause scholarship Kurds have been students interested in deprograms to become veloping academic are hesitant institutions.” about ask- designed to make Shoup said the ing quesIraqis and Kurds Iraqi graduate tions. She focus on developsaid stu- students come ing higher educadents at here. The Kurds tion.

MSU can have been “Most of us were be ambasnot really aware interested in sadors for of the scholarship a s s i s t i n g developing programs,” Shoup s t u d e n t s academic said. “This presenin learn- institutions.” tation generated a ing new great opportunity -Brian Shoup, cultures. for American stuB r i a n MSU associate dents to meet Iraqi S h o u p , professor students. MSU reassociate ally wants to cultiprofessor vate links between of political science and pub- nations, and he believes dolic administration, said the ing so will not only benefit Iraqi and Kurdish regional MSU, but benefit the coungovernment tries to culti- try.” vate relationships between Rick Travis, associate

dean of Academic and Student Affairs, said the Iraqi and Kurdish officials try to promote education in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields, especially with doctoral students.

“The greatest challenge for these students is learning English,” Travis said.

“The generation of Iraqis needs better trained professors.”

Travis said the faculty left the presentation enthused about finding qualified students with financial support.

“The scholarship programs that were talked about can attract good students who are financially able to pay to come to MSU,” Travis said. “There are currently 13 Iraqi and Kurdish students in the program, and we hope to acquire more.”

Travis said the presentation was informative and helpful.

“We hope to see an expansion with good students,” Travis said.

Friday, Feb. 21 • 3:48 p.m. An officer received a call about welfare concerns for students in Critz Hall.

Saturday, Feb. 22 • 1:22 a.m. A student’s vehicle caused damage to the lawn at the Early Childhood Development Center.

• 8:41 a.m. An employee reported the window at the ticket office at Dudy Noble Field was broken.

• 1:33 p.m. An employee reported a coworker’s office door open in Memorial Hall. Nothing was missing.

• 9:04 p.m. A student was arrested on Spring Street in Starkville for possession of marijuana in the vehicle.

• 11:24 p.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for no tag and not having his or her seatbelt on.

Sunday, Feb. 23 • 4:51 p.m. A student reported a front license plate and tag cover stolen off his vehicle while parked in the Moseley Hall parking lot.

• 6:38 p.m. A student was arrested on a warrant for possession of marijuana in Hathorn Hall.

Citations:

• 26 citations were issued for speeding.

• 22 citations were issued for disregard of a traffic device.

Correction: In Friday’s edition of The Reflector, Tim Chamblee was misattributed in “Notable freshman class larger, more prepared.” The Reflector regrets this error.

BENEFITS

The current non-discrimina“The process, which is standard for any request from an tion policy in place at MSU states individual faculty member, is for that “Mississippi State Universithe senate to refer the request to ty is committed to assuring that a committee of the senate for it the university and its programs to develop a recommendation are free from discrimination and for overall senate action. In this harassment based upon race, case, since the matter concerns color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, nabenefits, it was retional origin, ferred to the UniI expect the d i s a b i l i t y, versity Resources Committee of the age, sexual senate will senate. That referorientation, deal with ral took place in gender identhis as it tity, genetic the senate meeting information, of Feb. 14,” Emi- would any faculty son said. “I expect member’s request.” status as a U.S. veterthe senate will -Gerald Emison, an or any deal with this as it would any faculty MSU Faculty Senate other status protected by member’s request. president state or federWe will give it careal law.” ful analysis in the Judy Spencer, chief human committee, and the committee will bring its recommendation resources officer at MSU, said it to the full senate. The senate is premature for her to comment will debate it and then take an on the contents of the letter, but action.” she does support the university’s Perry also quoted Martin Lu- non-discrimination policy. ther King.

“This is a letter that went to “Providing these benefits faculty senate. It is my underaligns with the core beliefs and standing that the issue will be values of the university, the state assigned to a committee within of Mississippi and the U.S. con- the faculty senate. If a recomstitution. The Rev. Dr. Martin mendation is made for review, it Luther King Jr. urged us to make will come from the faculty senreal the promises of democracy ate to the provost first, and then and to make justice a reality. In to me,” Spencer said. doing so, he reflected John RawThe MSU Faculty Senate is ls’ views of treating equally those scheduled to meet March 21, in equal circumstances, a funda- and the meeting will be broadmental basis for human rights,” casted live on facultysenate.msPerry said. state.edu.

2014 SouthEAST JOURNALISM CONFERENCE AWARDS

OVERALL

Overall Onsite Competition 2nd place

"Best of the South" Overall Best Newspaper

INDIVIDUAL BEST OF THE SOUTH

Daniel Hart

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1st in Media Ethics

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continued from 1

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3rd in Page Layout ZACK ORSBORN | THE REFLECTOR

OPINION

4 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2014

OPINION EDITOR: ALIE DALEE | opinion@reflector.msstate.edu INTERNATIONAL INK

I

t could be deemed a ridiculous move by legislators to pass a bill that denies services to same-sex couples in Kansas and Arizona.

Mark Joseph Stern, columnist for slate.com said in an article on Feb.13, when passed, the new law will allow any individual, group or private business to refuse service to gay couples if “it would be contrary to their sincerely held religious beliefs.”

Pranaav Jadhav is a junior “Private employers can continue majoring in communication. to fire gay employees on account He can be contacted at opinof their sexuality. Stores may deny ion@reflector.msstate.edu. gay couples goods and services because they are gay. Hotels can eject gay couples or deny them entry for both opinions, but should in the first place. Businesses that an opinion shape public policy? provide public accommodations Should legislators be swayed by — movie theaters, restaurants — the populous instincts of the concan turn away gay couples at the stituency they represent?

This is debatable and needs to door,” he said. “And if a gay couple sues for discrimination, they be brought up for discussion, in won’t just lose; they’ll be forced television studios and in editorials. to pay their opYou can feel ponent’s attorFreedom either way — ney’s fees. As I’ve of speech against LGBTQ noted before, anrights or for ti-gay businesses grants LGBTQ rights, might as well put space for against patriarchy out signs alerting or for patriarchy gay people that both opinions, but — but should their business should an opinion your opinion help isn’t welcome,” shape public decrease or lessen Stern said. the fundamental In line behind policy?” rights of an AmerKansas is Arizona, which passed a similar bill in ican because of his religion, sexual orientation, country of origin or a 33-27 vote Thursday.

Leslie Baker, political science political affiliation?

The answer is no. No matter instructor at Mississippi State University, said as seen with the where you live in the United Arizona case, like-minded states States, there are certain core values tend to pick up the policies that on which all Americans agree — the right to free speech, free exerothers adopt or introduce.

“The Arizona bill is as full of as cise of religion, the right to peacemany loopholes as the Kansas bill ably assemble, bear arms, etc. We that makes it possible to justify can’t modify or change the core discrimination for just about any- values of our constitution.

Imagine: what message would thing, not just same-sex couples.

Certainly, the courts will strike the bill in Arizona and Kansas, it down if it passes. The Arizona if passed in the House of Senate governor vetoed similar legislation and signed by the governor, send last year. It’s really a shame that to the international stage? A perlegislatures can’t spend time ac- son can be denied service based tually trying to help the economy upon his sexual orientation in and job markets instead of debat- America. Is this a good precedent ing this type of legislation. These to set? The international media bills are very indicative of how has already begun its coverage on inefficient and ideological legis- the story and closely observes the latures have become,” Baker said. progress of these bills.

I am not against having an anIn a democracy, the voice of every citizen counts. That right ti-gay opinion or a pro-gay opinhas been safely secured in our ion. I am against swaying public first amendment, the voice says policies in a way that challenge the LGBTQ citizens must be given values upon which this nation was equal rights or a voice like that born.

In the coming days the bill could of MSU’s football player. Rufus Warren recently tweeted, “I don’t be a law in these two states. The have a problem with gay peo- only hope is this does not spread ple.. Be happy! But I look down to other states. Additionally, politon gay football players.. This is a ical experts will tell you, if a fedMAN sport! And being gay is not eral government intervention to our constitution is a possibility, it a man.”

Freedom of speech grants space could soon be a reality.

PRANAAV JADHAV

Managing Editor

Editor in Chief

News Editor

Kristen Spink

Kaitlyn Byrne

Anna Wolfe

Multimedia Editor

Life Editor

Opinion Editor

Zack Orsborn

Daniel Hart

Alie Dalee

Sports Editor

Photography Editor Emma Katherine Hutto

Copy Editor Emma Crawford

CONTACT INFORMATION

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Editor in Chief/Kaitlyn Byrne

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.

325-7905 editor@reflector.msstate.edu Managing Editor/Kristen Spink 325-8991 managing@reflector.msstate.edu News Editor/Anna Wolfe 325-8819 news@reflector.msstate.edu Opinion Editor/Alie Dalee opinion@reflector.msstate.edu Sports Editor/John Galatas 325-5118 reflectorsports@gmail.com Life Editor/Daniel Hart 325-8883 life@reflector.msstate.edu Photography Editor/Emma Hutto 325-1584 photo@reflector.msstate.edu Multimedia Editor/Zack Orsborn multimedia_editor@reflector.msstate.edu Advertising Sales/Alex Anthony 325-7907 advertise@reflector.msstate.edu

CORRECTIONS

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CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Does Kansas’s anti-gay bill violate the First Amendment?

John Galatas

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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.

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.

History marches on in a modern age

A

s a student who chose ant to the overall context of the history as his principle past, they are not the be-all and area of study, I resolved end-all of one’s grasp of the imto have concrete reasoning as to portance of where we all originatwhy I chose to major in some- ed. We are all products of our histhing many people view as irrel- tory. For example, we all have our evant. The more I thought about own unique traditions we view as my convictions to invest time in sacred that date back hundreds historical studies, the more I re- of years. Also, the languages we alized, while it probably won’t act speak are hundreds of years old as a persuasive argument for the and are weaved in and out of the masses to fill out events that lead a change of maus to modern jor request and It is certainly day. Yesterday is join the ranks, encouraging woven into the conveying an here and now, to look back and that carries understanding to a time and heavy implicaof why history matters may see when our fellow tions. encourage more man has overcome “Moving forpeople to take ward by lookan interest in the same obstacles ing back” is the the themes and with which we are phrase that acts overtones of the faced.” as my compass past. when attemptPeople get ing to navigate bogged down with the constant through the unending reading flow of dates, facts and seemingly requirements that come with the unrelated stream of events that territory as a history major. It is spans thousands of years, but this a simple phrase that presents a is not the way history should be complex idea. Looking to the viewed. While these dates, facts major figures of history can offer and events are certainly import- us role models to pattern our dai-

ly lives and habits. Great leaders and their examples can offer us solace in our own times of strife and conflict. It is certainly encouraging to look back to a time and see when our fellow man has overcome the same obstacles with which we are faced. These same leaders provide us with motivation when we feel complacent or lazy.

Our current institutions will break down if the historical and political matters of the past are ignored. If we simply ignore the mistakes from yesteryear and repeat those mistakes, what we achieve in science, engineering and industry will, at worst, be eradicated. Many of the problems we face today, whether a personal trial or larger societal issue, are essentially the issues of the past repackaged into a modern form.

Two years ago, Andrew Romano and “Newsweek” did a study that tested average American citizens on the test required for citizenship for immigrants seeking citizenship in the United States.

According to Romano, “Twenty-nine percent couldn’t name the vice president. Seventy-three

Walton Chaney is a junior majoring in history. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.

percent couldn’t correctly say why we fought the Cold War. Forty-four percent were unable to define the Bill of Rights. And six percent couldn’t even circle Independence Day on a calendar.”

Without harping too much on these shocking statistics, it is apparent there is much room for improvement. Many factors contribute to these abhorrent statistics, but a couple of questions must be posed: How long can our republic sustain this obliviousness to the facts? How can we respect the sacrifice laid down to preserve the tradition of freedom each citizen enjoys?

Lastly, the value of history should not only be considered crucial, but also fascinating. The example Martin Luther King Jr. set is as inspiring as any. He offered a view that should be considered when he said, “We are not makers of history. We are made by history.” If we fail to observe and respect history, we deny who we are. History matters.

DELVING A LITTLE DEEPER

Is response to James Meredith statue a good sign?

W

hat is the current status of racism in America these days?

With the recent vogue in tolerance, civil rights and heavy focus on gay rights, it seems easy to forget about racism.

You probably have heard about the event on the University of Mississippi’s campus. Three students have been identified in connection with the recent desecration of the James Meredith statue by putting a noose and Georgia’s former state flag on it. What followed includes an investigation and reward offered for information leading to arrests by the university police, an expanded investigation by the FBI, a suspension of the campus chapter of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, of which the students were members, and the expulsion of the men from the chapter. This progression happened in less than a week, and while the fallout for these young men remains to be seen, the principle situation has been dealt with and largely resolved.

This reflects a society that does not tolerate racial discrimination and threat.

Even more notable, all this

is happening in Mississippi, one of the top five states which comes to mind when the word “racist” is mentioned. Sure, there are countless infrastructure that have been established over the past 50 years to make this possible, starting with the civil rights laws of the 1960s and including the presence of some sort of race relations office on perhaps all college campuses. But it has been more than a half century since it was necessary to send 500 U.S. marshals to the Ole Miss campus to allow the young Meredith to attend classes as the first black student (thankfully, MSU’s own Richard Holmes’s first attendance was largely uneventful).

Think about that for a moment; two generations of people have grown up accustomed to racial integration, with the second more so than the first.

Compounded with the emergence of significant black celebrities and role models in sports and television, as well as the now-cleared hurdle of having a black United States president, one should expect racism to now start to receive the same head-shaking amazement

as when told sneezing is the body’s spirit trying to escape.

Last year, the University of Alabama held a symposium announcing the results of a 4,000-student survey of racial attitudes. Their results showed a continued decrease in traditional racism. However, there remains a disparity. White students were “more likely to view race relations on campus favorably” while black students were “more likely than their white counterparts to believe racial discrimination limited their options significantly.”

Kenneth Spencer, interim chief of the MSU Police Department, said there have not been many race or hate crimes on campus in the past 15 to 20 years. Several of my black international-student friends answer that they also have not personally seen or experienced racism.

For my own part, I have lived in the South since I was 13. Ask me how many times I have witnessed racism or even just mild discrimination? The answer is I cannot think of an example.

I have had black teachers, bosses, friends, coworkers and even students. Sure, there are those

JAMES TRACY James Tracy is a graduate student in physics. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.

whose behavior hints at some kind of internal discrimination but not enough to the point that it forces the conversation.

So, is racism still a major issue or is it just perceived as one? I’m starting to think that we, as a society, have finally started to see a shift. The James Merediths and Richard Holmeses didn’t make today’s attitudes possible — they made the next day possible. It was that day, and the ones that followed, which reset our attitudes about racism. We’re not there yet, but we’re definitely on the better side of the mountain now.

LET’S PLAY THIS BY EAR

Why we love the anti-hero

D

avid and Goliath, Gandalf and Saruman, Scar and Mufasa, Pocahontas and that mean pilgrim with the high-maintenance dog: since the beginning of time, there has been a good guy and a bad guy.

This character binary has defined a large portion of story telling.

We need someone to root for, as well as root against. This archetype is visible in much of today’s entertainment, however, with the incredible success of shows like “House of Cards,” “Breaking Bad,” “Mad Men” and “Dexter,” it seems that the public defies the division between good and evil and embraces the antihero.

The presence of the antihero is by no means a new phenomenon.

Everyone from Shakespeare to Salinger has utilized an imperfect protagonist, but recently, there has been a significant resurgence of the flawed hero. My question is: why? Why is the present population so hungry for an antihero, and why are we so willing to accept them, evil and all?

Part of this connection comes from skilled writing that allows the audience to form meaningful, intimate relationships with the characters — relationships so strong that we genuinely want the best for the characters, despite being adulterers or narcotics cooks.

However, I believe this connection goes far deeper than good writing.

I feel the reasoning behind hu- the viewer that, no matter how manity’s connection to the anti- deplorable their actions may be, at hero is two-fold. The first reason their core, there is some measure is this: we are comforted by the of inherent good and morality. idea that being flawed still leaves Whether this is true is another a capacity for discussion entiregood. We observe ly, but the idea We are a power-hungry of redemption is Walter White (of certainly uplifting comforted “Breaking Bad”) for us inevitably by the place his family fallible humans. idea that at risk, backThe second stab nearly every being flawed still reason is, quite other character leaves a capacity frankly, we enjoy of the show to observing people gain leverage and for good ... This who are more corcommit multi- glimmer of hope rupt than we are. ple, gruesome provided by the Sure, I may have murders, but anti-hero reassures cheated on my we also see him online quiz, but fight tooth and the viewer that, at least I didn’t kill nail to win back no matter how anyone to take the respect and deplorable their over his or her trust of his for- actions may be, at governmental ofmer protégé, Jesse fice (I’m looking Pinkman. We see their core, there is at you, Mr. Frank an arrogant Jamie some measure of Underwood). It Lannister (of “A inherent good and is always encourSong of Ice and morality.” aging to pass Fire” and “Game judgment on inof Thrones”) dividuals to make maim an innocent child, engage one’s self feel superior, and the fact in a sexual relationship with one of that these individuals are fictional his relatives and manipulate every- (thus removing the guilt of passone he comes in contact with in ing judgment on an actual perorder to retain his stature, but we son) makes this a win-win. Plus, also see him swallow his pride to if good things can still happen to protect and befriend Lady Brienne these sinful deviants in spite of all of Tarth. This glimmer of hope of their wrongdoings, surely my provided by the antihero reassures slight transgressions won’t adverse-

SHEALY MOLPUS Shealy Molpus is a senior majoring in communication. She can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.

ly affect my life in any serious way.

I believe the antihero’s relevance in today’s culture is a direct result of the reasons listed above.

The international turmoil, political polarization and harsh social standards of our present culture provide an ideal environment in which the antihero can thrive. We no longer want someone to root for or root against; we want someone who can do evil but receive atonement. We need someone who can do tremendous wrong but still occasionally find the compassion to fight for the greater good. And, if all else fails, we need someone to compare ourselves to when we feel we are too far gone.

So, I thank you, antihero, for providing the world with a sense of empathy, a lesson in forgiveness and, most importantly, a boost in self worth.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2014 | 5

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM

AN IN-CLASS DISTRACTION ...

2-25-14

BULLETIN BOARD 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 SALE

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Over 5,000 comic books, mostly 1970s and 1980s, bagged and boarded. Over 20,000 baseball cards in 800 and 3,200 count boxes. Call 662-312-2402.

FOR RENT

Canterbury Townhouses are under new management.

Two-bedroom is $550 and three-bedroom is $750. This is per person, not per apartment.

Two minutes to campus. Call 662-323-9216. Country living off the the beaten path, yet so close to it all.

HELP WANTED

An accounting representative needed. Should be computer literate and well organized.

Interested persons should please contact danielrichie72@live.com for more information and wages.

CLUB INFO

The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. MSU

student organizations may place free announcements in Club Info. Information may be submitted by email to club_info@reflector.msstate. edu with the subject heading “CLUB INFO,” or a form may be completed at The Reflector 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.

WESLEY FOUNDATION

Insight Bible study and worship Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at 286 East Lee Blvd. next to Campus Book Mart. Follow on Twitter @MSStateWesley or on Facebook.

STUDENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS

Care about the environment?

Love activism? Come join SSC on Thursdays at 6 p.m. in McCool 111 to make a difference. Follow on Twitter @MSU_SSC. SCUBA DAWGS

Ever wanted to try scuba diving? Now you can. Come out for Discover Scuba on Feb. 11 and 12 at 5:30 p.m. in the Sanderson Center pool for just $5. All gear will be provided. Follow @MSUSCUBADawgs on Twitter or like us on Facebook.

MSU RUGBY TEAM

Want to play a real sport?

Join the MSU Rugby Football Club. Practices are MondayThursday from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Recplex fields located near the end of Stone Boulevard.

For more information email josephpongetti@gmail.com.

DCP ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Paid internship at the happiest place on earth. Apply now through March 28 at disneycollegeprogram.com.

AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTIES UNIONMSU CHAPTER

The MSU chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union will meet the last Wednesday of every month at 5 p.m. in Bowen Hall room 250. All majors are welcome. For more information, contact Dr. Lane at lane@soc.msstate.edu.

SOCIOLOGICAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION

The Sociological Student Association will meet the last Thursday of every month at 5 p.m. in Bowen Hall room 250.

All majors are welcome. For more information, contact Dr. Lane at lane@soc.msstate. edu.

ROSE PRUNING 101

Come join us Sat., March 1, from 9 a.m. to noon at the MSU Veterans Memorial Rose Garden to learn the best pruning techniques for hybrid tea roses and garden shrub roses from experts in the field.

RSVP by Feb. 28 by emailing gcdenny@pss.msstate.edu or calling 662-325-1682.

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6 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2014

THE REFLECTOR

LIFE & ENTERTAINMENT Professors, VAC gallery exhibit displays diverse paintbrushes: range of works, mediums from CAAD

LIFE EDITOR: DANIEL HART | life@reflector.msstate.edu

DAVID LEWIS | THE REFLECTOR

A visitor observes a painting hanging in the “Figures and Forms” exhibit, which is on display in the Visual Arts Center until March 29. The exhibit features the work of MSU College of Architecture, Art and Design faculty.

BY CATIE MARIE MARTIN AND

GENY KATE GURLEY Staff Writers

Though the Visual Arts Center’s displays in the past year have ranged from Korean graphic art to environmentally-conscious textile pieces about animals, the VAC’s latest exhibit, “Figures and Forms,” comes straight from Mississippi State University.

From now until March 29, members of the Starkville community can view the works of 19 staff members from the MSU College of Architecture, Art and Design at the VAC, located at 808 University Drive. The exhibit features many artistic mediums and includes paintings, sculptures, photography, graphic design and fiber art.

Lori Neuenfeldt, gallery director, said the exhibit displays the diverse range of talent that fills the department.

“It shows how different our professors are as artists,” she said. “There are so many dif-

DAVID LEWIS | THE REFLECTOR

Attendees of Thursday’s reception congregate before one of the show’s mixed-media pieces at the VAC, which is located at 808 University Drive. The exhibit features artwork of many styles and mediums, including graphic design, sculpture, painting, photography and fiber art.

ferent styles, abstract and re- glimpse into the professional alistic, and so many different work of professors. forms of art.”

“Often students don’t know Though the exhibit is an much about their own proopportunifessors’ crety for the ative work.

Starkville As with all art The work and MSU represented exhibitions, community in the show people to study the always recreativity of news reshould be MSU prospect and open to what i n s p i r e s fessors, the they are gallery also awe,” she provides a said. “Visseeing, learning op- aware of what moves itors to the portunity gallery will them emotionally and for students. see the diJ a m i e courageous enough to verse styles Mixon, in- ask quetions. It’s that of the artterim de- simple.” ists.

The partment works range head and co- - Neil Callander, from repreordinator of assistant professor of art sentationthe graphic and foundation program al images design con- coordinator depicting centration figures and program, portraits said this exto explorahibit promises to incite and tions of abstract forms, colors, intrigue both art students text and shapes,” she said. and students from other disMixon specializes in graphciplines, as the show offers a ic design, particularly in con-

cert posters. Her work has been featured in the Verizon Wireless Arena in Little Rock, Ark., and her poster for Pink’s “The Truth About Love” tour won an award of excellence from “Communication Arts,” a professional creative journal.

Her work for DelFest at Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern is currently on display in store windows in downtown Starkville and on campus.

Jude Landry, assistant professor of art, and Marita Gootee, professor of art, have also had works featured in juried exhibitions. Landry designed a United States T-shirt print that is on display as a wood cut in the gallery, and Gootee’s “DollarTree Rex” was featured in the Lightbox Photographic Gallery in Astoria, Ore. The show aims to aesthetically please as well as intellectually stimulate its visitors. Neil Callander, assistant professor of art and foundation program coordinator, said the work in the gallery also promises to stir up a well of emotions and

provide a moving experience.

“As with all art exhibitions, people should be open to what they are seeing, aware of what moves them emotionally and courageous enough to ask questions,” he said. “It’s that simple.”

The works will be on display from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday until Friday and from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. The gallery provides an opportunity for students within the MSU art department, as well as those who are intrigued by the creative experience, to discover more about the professors guiding young future Mississippi artists.

DAVID LEWIS | THE REFLECTOR

Neil Callander, (right), speaks with a visitor at the “Figures and Forms” exhibit reception. The varied work in the show includes award-winning pieces from professors Jude Landry and Jamie Mixon.

BRADEN BENSON | THE REFLECTOR

DAWGS DRESSED TO IMPRESS | MSU Fashion Board presented its “Andy Warhol’s Fashion Factory” fashion show, the first Fashion Board show of the spring semester, at The Veranda Wednesday. MSU Fashion Board members modeled the outfits inspired by the famous pop artist’s bold, colorful work.

What’s in your Netflix queue?

1. Buffy the Vampire Slayer Because there’s something about a cheerleader stabbing a vampire in the chest that appeals to me.

2. RuPaul’s Drag Race Because I’m very gay.

Zack Orsborn, Multimedia Editor

3. House of Cards Even though I can never understand what they’re saying, it’s still thrilling.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2014 | 7

SPORTS

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM

Bulldogs split weekend bout with Holy Cross, prep for midweek test

BY BRANDON LANGLOIS Contributing Writer

Offensive and defensive struggles hurt the Bulldogs as they split a four-game series 2-2 at home against the Holy Cross Crusaders over the weekend.

The Bulldogs committed seven errors to Holy Cross’s two and stranded 47 base runners in the four-game series.

Head Coach John Cohen said he has faith in his defenders, and they will continue to work hard and improve.

“I don’t think there’s any explanation,” Cohen said. “I think it’s just part of the game.

We have great defenders. I trust all of our guys. They’re all unbelievable defenders.

I know they’re going to get the job done. It just happens sometimes.”

Junior outfielder Jake Vickerson said the team will continue to stay positive and look to capitalize on offensive and defensive opportunities in key situations.

“We just have to go back to the drawing board,” Vickerson said. “I don’t think it’s time for us to go in there and feel sorry for ourselves. They beat us fair and square. We didn’t make the plays and get the big hits that we needed to.

We have to get back at it this week.”

A strong pitching perfor-

earned runs on two hits.

Trailing 4-0, the Bulldogs scored one run in the fifth inning on an RBI single by Vickerson. However, the Bulldogs were unable to produce any more runs during the game.

Cohen said costly miscues on the mound were a huge factor in the game.

“The key to the game is we just had huge misses on the mound and they didn’t,” Cohen said. “When you keep challenging the strike zone the way they did, your defense is going to engage. We just had huge miss after huge miss.

I thought (Jacob) Lindgren pitched really well, but you can’t have the kind of misses on the mound that we’re having right now. That takes LEON CARRUBBA | THE REFLECTOR Wes Rea (left) rounds third base after hitting his first home run of the year, and Jake Vickerson (right) cannot reach a home you in the wrong direction. I thought defensively we did a run ball hit by Brandon Cipolla. MSU will host Mount St. Mary’s in a midweek series Tuesday and Wednesday at 4 p.m. pretty good job.”

MSU returns to Dudy-Nomance by junior right-hander Myles Gentry helped the Bull- Fitts improved to 2-0 as the just two pitches as Holy Cross ble Field for a two-game series against Mount Saint Mary’s on Bulldogs defeated the Crusad- defeated the Bulldogs 7-6.

Brandon Woodruff helped dogs secure the victory.

In the series finale on Sun- Tuesday at 4.pm. Game two is Gentry relieved Woodruff ers 8-4.

Mississippi State University Offensive success continued day, a four-run inning by Holy scheduled for Wednesday at 4 defeat the Crusaders 6-2 in in the fifth inning and pitched three and one thirds shutout for Rea in game two of the Cross was too much for MSU p.m.

Friday’s opening game.

Cohen said he will continue Woodruff threw for five and innings to earn his first career twin bill. Rea crushed a three- as the Crusaders defeated the run home run in the bottom of Bulldogs 6-1. Starting pitcher to give different players an optwo-thirds innings allowing save.

In Saturday’s doubleheader, the fourth inning and finished Donny Murray picked up the portunity and experiment with just three hits and one earned the Bulldog offense was carried the game with four RBIs on a win for the Crusaders, while the lineup early in the season. run.

“We’re going to keep playMSU true freshman Dakota The offense was led by by redshirt junior first base- season-high three hits. ing a lot of people early in the The Bulldogs led 6-5 in the Hudson suffered the loss.

Vickerson and senior center- man Wes Rea. Hudson pitched three in- season,” Cohen said. “Even In game one, Rea went seventh inning before allowing fielder C.T. Bradford as the nings and gave up five hits and though it might cost us a bit, two combined for five of the 2-for-4 with two home runs two runs in the eighth.

Sophomore right-hander one earned run before being I think in the big picture it’s and a career-high tying four team’s 10 hits.

John Marc Shelly suffered the relieved by freshman Vance going to make us a better proA stellar relief appearance RBIs. Right-handed pitcher Trevor loss for MSU after throwing Tatum. Tatum allowed three gram and club.” by sophomore right-hander

STREAK

continued from 8

They came within four points of tying the game, but eventually, the clock ran out, causing them to drop their ninth consecutive game 7369.

Despite trailing for the majority of the game, the team still fought hard to the end and never quit.

Head Coach Rick Ray said he expects his team to play hard.

“I know some people want to give these guys credit for playing hard through the losing streak, but if you’re not playing hard, then you’re not giving yourself a chance to win,” Ray said.

The win by the Razorbacks was their first win at the Hump in 14 years. MSU now stands at 13-14 overall and 3-11 in conference play.

The Dogs will look to snap the streak when the University of Tennessee comes rolling into town on Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Senior Colin Borchert came off the bench and paced the team with 21 points, one point shy of his career high.

During the game, the Bulldogs saw both of their point guards go down due to injuries.

Junioir Trivante Bloodman hobbled off the court midway through the second half with an ankle injury, and freshman I.J. Ready took an elbow to the face late in the game causing him to miss the final possession.

Senior Tyson Cunningham and sophomore Fred Thomas did not see the court on Saturday.

Ray said the two were not on any kind of punishment. Stepping up in their absence was walk-on forward Tevin Moore.

Moore played a career-high 17 minutes and provided high energy on both ends of the floor. He finished with five points and four rebounds.

Ray said Moore has been working extremely hard in the practices, and Ray wanted to reward him with playing time.

“Tevin has been probably the most enjoyable kid I’ve ever coached in my coaching career,” he said. “He’s never complained about his playing time.

He’s been on our ‘White’ scout team and never complained.

He is a great teammate, and I thought we deserved to give him a chance.”

Moore said he just wanted to take advantage of his opporLEON CARRUBBA | THE REFLECTOR tunity.

I.J. Ready lays in a basket around Arkansas’s Bobby “My confidence is some- Portis. Ready collected seven points in Saturday’s loss. thing I just built up working in practice getting the reps, Shooting guard Craig Razorbacks head coach and I was going hard every day, and when my name was finally Mike Anderson said even Sword said it is important to called, I just took that chance,” with a short-handed roster, he stay positive and continue to thinks Ray does a tremendous push forward despite being on Moore said.

A lack of depth on the roster job and is taking the team in a difficult losing streak.

“We’re not going to let has been the focal point of the the right direction.

“It’s a timing issue. I was in this (losing streak) affect us,” team.

With an already thin roster, his same situation before. You Sword said. “We want to just Moore’s contribution to the got to work with what you move on to the next game and team will be beneficial for the got until you can get what try to get the next win. We Dogs as they look to finish out you want. He has those kids just have to look forward, we the regular season and head playing hard, and they’re be- can’t look back on these losslieving.” Anderson said. es.” into the SEC Tournament.

9 gold

7 silver

BASKETBALL

continued from 1

The Lady Bulldogs would not Sunday’s game provided more than Awal having a mismatch, go away as they rallied and pulled off a phenomenal comeback. though.

They scored twice as many She has come on strong as of late and seems to be playing points as the Rebels in the last 12 even harder and with more fo- minutes of the game, going on a 26-13 run to cus. In MSU’s close the secloss against Bama Any ond half and Thursday, Alwforce overtime. al had 15 points Mississippi The overand 10 rebounds, State fan time period was and against Vanderbilt she added with a pulse knows thrilling, but 23 points and six the importance of two big jump shots by Awal rebounds. playing the school and freshman Head Coach up north and Dominique Vic Schaefer also acknowledged the beating their butts.” D i l l i n g h a m sealed the deal coaches felt Alwal -Vic Schaefer, for MSU. was a mismatch MSU women’s Junior Safor Ole Miss. basketball head vannah Carter “This is the said the team type of game that coach simply refused Martha is capable to give up. of,” Schaefer said.

“It was our third overtime “We challenge her every game to go out and get 20 rebounds. We game, and we had lost the first had been really working hard this two,” Carter said. “So I felt like week because we knew this was it was our time to come out and a game in which she could have win one of those.” that type of performance.”

Schaefer said it was a great day This game was not all smooth to be a Bulldog, and the Humsailing for the Dogs, however. phrey Coliseum crowd helped Ole Miss jumped out on the the Lady Dogs win the game.

Lady Bulldogs early and dom“Any Mississippi State fan with inated the first half going into a pulse knows the importance of halftime with a 42-35 advantage playing the school up north and and all of the momentum. The beating their butts,” Schaefer Rebels carried the intensity into said. “I think the biggest key tothe second half as they eventually day was the crowd. It really got built a 55-42 lead with 13 min- us going. There was some treutes left in the game. mendous energy in the building Down 13 with everything today.”

The Lady Bulldogs host No. seeming to go the Rebels’ way, the contest looked all but over at 12 Kentucky Thursday at 7 p.m. in their home finale. that point.

12 bronze

USA WINTER OLYMPICS WINS ZACK ORSBORN | THE REFLECTOR

8 | TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2014

SPORTS EDITOR: JOHN GALATAS | reflectorsports@gmail.com

SPORTS

STAT OF THE DAY:

THE REFLECTOR

Nine SEC teams are currently ranked No. 1 in the nation in men’s basketball, softball, gymnastics, men and women’s swimming, men’s indooor track, equestrian, men’s golf and baseball.

Softball sweeps Hawkeyes, remains perfect

By AlexAndriA Wilson Contributing Writer

Solid base running and strength on the pitcher’s mound earned Mississippi State University softball wins this weekend over the Iowa Hawkeyes and propelled MSU to its second-best start in program history. Runs were essential in gaining the advantage on the board, and they became the turning points during crucial innings of all three matchups.

Senior Sam Lenahan contributed big plays on the offensive end and showed off her strength in the box. Lenahan said having good approaches at the plate was something Assistant Coach Beth Mullins had been working on with the team.

“I was just trying to have a good approach, sticking to the plan that Mullins talked to us about before the game,” she said. “It ended up working out for me.”

Lenahan also gave credit to her teammate Alison Owen, a power pitcher who limited Iowa’s hits during the first matchup on Friday. Owen fanned 11 batters and walked just one.

“Alison pitched an amazing game, and she had great defense behind her,” Lenahan said. “Overall, that’s a really great game.”

Owen struck out the Hawkeyes in the top of the first, but the Bulldogs failed to score during both of

emma katherine hutto | the reflector

Alison Owen tosses a pitch during Sunday’s win over Iowa. Owen has recorded 64 strikeouts in seven games. their chances in the bottom of the first and the second inning. MSU finally broke through during the third inning, earning a 2-0 lead over the Hawkeyes. The remainder of Friday’s game saw minimal threats as Owen retired the Hawkeyes in order in the top of the seventh to snag the first victory of the series.

Bulldog Head Coach Vann Stuedeman said a mix of Owen’s pitching and stout defense was key to winning the series opener.

“We needed (Alison’s) strong pitching performance and great defense. I don’t think we had an error. Those two runs held. I’d like to see us definitely push across a

few more,” Stuedeman said.

Prior to Saturday’s game, Lenahan said there may be a different game plan and approach taken in part two of the series, depending on who was on the mound, and it was freshman Alexis Silkwood who boosted the Bulldogs to their 5-0 victory.

Silkwood has struck out 31 batters in her last 20.2 innings pitched in college and has not allowed a run since her debut against Northern Kentucky at the beginning of the season.

Silkwood scattered four hits and fanned 11.

Hawkeye action in the box was stunted by solid Bulldog defense.

MSU drove in three runs in the bottom of the first inning for an early advantage on the board.

MSU added another run in the bottom of the second to bump the score to 4-0.

In bottom of the fourth, another Bulldog run by sophomore Kayla Winfield sealed the deal.

After consecutive strikeouts in the fifth and top of the sixth, Silkwood kept Iowa off the board and retired the Hawkeyes in the top of the seventh.

Owen worked more magic on the mound Sunday limiting Hawkeye hits and striking out five in the first two innings. MSU gained a 2-0 lead over Iowa in the bottom of the second, and Iowa tried to even the score in the top of the fifth, but the MSU defense held tough.

Bulldog bats would then erupt against the Hawkeyes with a total of seven runs in the bottom of the fifth. Efforts remained unanswered by the Hawkeyes, upping MSU’s winning streak to 14 games, the third-longest run in program history.

Mullins said this weekend’s series provided quality wins and experience for the Bulldogs as they approach conference play.

“It’s a huge sweep for us.

Champions get tough on Sunday, and our girls could not have come out better than they did on Sunday,” she said. “Iowa fought and fought. They had good pitching and quality hitting. Alison did a great job of making them work.”

The Bulldogs will travel to Gulfport, Miss., for the Mississippi Gulf Coast Softball Classic this weekend. MSU will play six games in three days as the Dogs will face the University of Texas at San Antonio, Baylor, Memphis, Nicholls State, Ohio and Texas State throughout the weekend.

leon carrubba | the reflector

Trivante Bloodman’s lay up gets blocked by a Razorback defender. MSU scored 38 points in the paint Saturday.

Men’s basketball looks for answers following ninthstraight set back

By Quentin smith Staff Writer

Dropping its previous eight games, the Mississippi State University men’s basketball team entered Saturday’s contest against the Arkansas Razorbacks searching

for a way to snap the losing skid.

The Bulldogs fought back and forth with the Razorbacks all game long, playing catch-up for majority of the game. Both teams took turns going on different scoring runs. The Bulldogs used a late second half surge to cut into a 15-point lead with 6:45 left in the game. see STREAK, 7

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