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THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884
Realignment shifts student union offices Student affairs redistributes responsibilities BY MEGAN MCKEOWN News Editor
ATTITUDES ON
ADDERALL
BY CANDACE BARNETTE Staff Writer
*Editor’s Note: Josh Edmonson’s name has been changed to protect the identity of the person involved. His name has been marked with an asterisk in the article.
E
nergy drinks and endless pots of coffee are taking a backseat to the “study pill,” Adderall, for an increasing number of college students. Adderall is a drug prescribed to people who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. When taken by someone who suffers from ADHD, the drug improves concentration and focus. Melissa Dexter, a junior marketing major, has been prescribed to Adderall for the past year. “I had a problem focusing,” Dexter said. “When I sat down to study,
Hales will continue as SA vice president He will not seek re-election in March BY MICAH GREEN News Editor
Although Halston Hales officially received his undergraduate degree in December, he will continue to serve as vice president of Student Association while he pursues a master’s degree. “I began thinking about it back in February last year,” Hales said. “It was part of the plan from the beginning.” Rhett Hobart, SA president, said this type of situation is addressed and allowed in the SA constitution. Despite the rules, Hales said he will not seek re-election after his term is finished in March.
I wouldn’t remember anything I had just read and my thoughts would be on other things.” Although Adderall is a prescription drug, many students abuse the medication expecting to reap the same benefits as ADHD users. Amy Weathers, pharmacist at Super Sav-On Drugs, said most students do not realize they are actually getting the very opposite effect. “People with ADHD are prescribed Adderall because their bodies have paradoxical reaction, meaning their reaction to a drug is opposite from what is normal,” Weathers said. “Adderall is just speed that hypes people up, so with ADHD users, it calms them down.” Users claim the pill helps to increase focus, an essential skill for college students working to finish research papers, exams and projects on time. With constant deadlines to meet, distraction is detrimental. Josh Edmonson* said he buys Adderall from a friend to prepare better for upcoming tests. SEE ADDERALL, 2
Salads tossed into Union mix Toss It Up replaces Bleecker Street, offers students healthier food options BY LACI KYLES Staff Writer
A new eatery is now open in Colvard Student Union as part of efforts to offer healthier options and better meet customers’ needs this semester. Jennifer Barnette, marketing manager with MSU Dining Services, said in an email Toss It Up opened on Jan. 9 in place of Bleecker Street. After conducting numerous surveys, focus groups and speaking directly with customers, the concept was deemed popular. “We wanted to do a more fresh approach to a salad and deli concept,” Barnette said. The decision to close Bleeck-
er Street and open Toss It Up was a quick turnaround. Plans were made at the end of the fall semester to have the new dining option open at the start of the spring semester, she said. One of the main objectives behind the switch is to demonstrate to students that eating healthy, nutritious food can be easy and delicious, Barnette said. “With fresh products made right there in front of our customers, Toss It Up will complement our already existing locations and offer another great healthy option with MSU Dining,” she said. The items on the menu at Toss It Up are similar to
what was offered at Bleecker Street, except the focus is centered on spotlighting trendy and popular salads as well as sandwiches that are offered in a new and exciting way, she said. Toss It Up also offers grab-and-go options for customers who are in a hurry. “We want this to be your goto spot for fresh and healthy eating in the student union,” Barnette said. “MSU Dining is always doing research to better understand the needs and preference of our customers. Toss It Up will offer fresh, tasty dining options for students looking to manage their health and lifestyle goals.” SEE
SALAD, 3
JAY JOHNSON | THE REFLECTOR
Above: A line forms in front of new Toss It Up. Bleecker Street was replaced over the break. Below: To-go options for a quicker lunch.
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READERʼS GUIDE CAMPUS CALENDAR..................2 BAD DAWGS..............................3 OPINION ...............................5 CONTACT INFO......................5
Colvard Student Union experienced a few office space trades over the holiday break. The office of Greek Life, which previously shared the suite with the Student Association on the third floor of the Union, is now in its own space in room 300. Eddie Keith, associate dean of students, said CAB, the Lyceum Series, Music Makers and nonGreek student organizations switched offices with the fraternities and sororities for more practiKeith cal operation. “For us, the main thing we are interested in is trying to serve and assist students in the best way we possibly can,” Keith said. “We know it’ll be a little bit confusing at first for people who are used to walking into these offices, but everyone will learn their way around soon.” He said the change in offices also comes with a change in name. The office that was formerly known as the “Center for Student Involvement” will be renamed “The Center for Student Activities.” The office switching is in part response to a redistribution of responsibilities within the division of student affairs following the loss of Lisa Harris, the associate vice president of student affairs, Keith said. Bill Kibler, vice president for student affairs, said he made the decision not to fill the position primarily for financial reasons. “At the point that the economy might improve, the budget strength of the university would be better, so there might be an opportunity to fill the position later, but there’s no plan at this time,” he said.
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FRIDAY , JANUARY 13, 2012
ampus
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Dr. Mar tin Luth Jr. Birth er King day Univers ity Clos ed Date: J a n. 16
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:J Time: 1 an. 18 2 to Locatio n: Mitc 1 p.m. hell Me Library mor IMC Pr esenta ial tion Contac Room t: Debo 325-08 rah Lee 10
Dylan Favre transfers from MSU to Pearl River Community College-
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an Date: J . 1:30 a.m 1 : e m i T p.m. to 2:30 dent ard Stu v l o C : n m Locatio oster Ballroo e F s r n o o Uni Linda M : t c a t n Co 03 325-14
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Kewon Delarryous Doss, of 1816 Stowood Road in
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a
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ADDERALL “It gets you in the zone,” Edmonson said. “I take it about three days in a row before a big test so I can stay up late and concentrate more.” Most students who sell will only charge about a few dollars per pill. The cost is dependent upon the milligrams in the medicine. Adderall of a higher milligram is priced higher because it has a longer duration of effectiveness. “I usually pay $10 for four 20 mg pills, but you can also get twelve 10 mg (pills) for $20,” Edmonson said. The price is low because Adderall is so readily available. With many people having access to the drug, some are starting to wonder whether it is overprescribed. Ally Knowles, junior marketing major, has been prescribed for the past six years. She said she believes doctors prescribe Adderall to too many people who do not have ADHD. “There should be a stricter process of getting it because there are lots of people taking it who do not need it,” Knowles said. Weathers said she agrees the drug is overprescribed.
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-A survey conducted at 119 colleges in the U.S. found up to 25 percent of students enrolled in competitive universities admitted taking Adderall to help them study. -Students between the ages of 18 to 22 years old are more likely to take non-prescribed Adderall as non-students in the same age group. -Full-time college students who have used Adderall for a non-medical purposewere more likely to have used other illicit drugs in the previous 12 months. source: allaboutcounseling.com PIPER REAVES | THE REFLECTOR
“I see a lot of people prescribing it in conjunction with pain medication,” Weathers said. “Pain is a downer and Adderall is an upper, so it’s messing their bodies up all the way around.” The drug’s misuse is also having negative side effects for people who truly need the medication. Jacob Collins, junior communication major, said because Adderall is being abused so much his doctor cannot prescribe it to him. “It pisses me off,” said Collins. “I have to take this other drug that doesn’t even work as well because there are so many people out there taking it who don’t need to.” According to Lowndes County Justice Court Judge Chris Hemphill, illegal users and sellers could face steep consequences for the crime. “For a first-time offender, possession of a scheduled narcotic without a prescription will likely result in probation,” Hemphill said. “Selling a scheduled narcotic is a felony which can result in up to 20 years in jail.” In addition to the legal risks,
there are also health risks for nonprescribed users. Weathers said she believes Adderall does have the potential to be dangerous. “What people don’t think about is how it affects your heart,” Weathers said. “Your heart is being overworked, and just like other muscles it grows and hardens; in 20 years, you’ll have diseases most people don’t get until they’re 60.” There are even side effects for prescribed users. “I got off it for a little bit and went through a kind of depression,” Knowles said. “When you’re taking something as strong as Adderall, your body becomes dependent and depression is another side effect.” Still, Dexter says the benefits are worth the side effects. “My experience on Adderall has overall been positive,” Dexter said. “My thoughts and actions are so much more organized, and my GPA has significantly increased.” Edmonson said the drug does help his grades but only indirectly. “It doesn’t help you make better grades,” Edmonson said. “It just gives you an extra boost to study harder.” Even though some students have reported positive experiences on Adderall, pharmacists and law enforcement still caution students to take only the medication when prescribed to them. Editor’s note: See page 5 for an opinion piece on this subject by Joshua Bryant.
NEWS
REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
FRIDAY , JANUARY 13, 2012
IPEDS Six-Year Graduation Rate
Staff Writer
Many Mississippi State University students are staying in college for longer than the traditional four years, according to a statistical analysis of the MSU graduation rate. Provost Jerry Gilbert said the Office of Institutional Research and Effectiveness calculates MSU’s average graduation rate by tracking the number of incoming freshmen who graduate from the university within six years. The six-year graduation rate at MSU is the highest among Mississippi public universities with a 59 percent six-year graduation rate averaged from classes entering between 2000 and 2004. The average five-year graduation rate is 52 percent, while the four-year rate is 28 percent, he said. Gilbert said he thinks MSU leaders would like to create programs to encourage students to stay in school to help raise its six-year graduation rate from 59 percent to 65 percent in the near future. An increased student involvement is one possible reason students are choosing to stay in college for longer periods, Gilbert said. “I think the student of today is more engaged and has more options for on-campus and offcampus involvement than stu-
dents did a number of years ago,” he said. Gilbert said financial responsibilities and cooperative education programs are also possible causes for the growing number of students with non-traditional graduation times. “An activity that increases the time to graduation is involvement in the cooperative education program where a student alternates study and work semesters,” he said. “A co-op experience gives the student real-world experience and makes that person more valuable to an employer.” Kailey Redding, a senior communication major, said she stayed in college due to a lack of job opportunities. “I planned to get my two associate degrees and then find an entry-level job, apprenticeship or internship, but that never happened. I decided then to just go ahead with my bachelor degree,” she said. Redding said she chose communication to make herself more marketable as an employee. “I thought communication would add a different perspective to my design ability and add to my skill set,” she said. “I keep practicing my skills, and I learn all I can to keep sharp.” Shaun Cooper, a senior secondary education major, said he realized he would need more than four years to graduate when
Fall 2011 Freshman Class
50
percent
BY LAUREN CLARK
60
Monday, January 9
40
20 10 ASU DSU JSU MSU MUW MVSU UM USM System
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System source: ihl.state.ms.us
PIPER REAVES | THE REFLECTOR
he transferred to MSU in 2009 after changing his education concentration from English to science. “Taking a variety of classes in so many subjects doesn’t always fit the degree plan, so I needed to take some extra time to complete my science courses,” he said. Cooper said he does not regret the decisions that led him to stay in college for five years, even if that was not his original plan. “I wouldn’t change anything about my educational path. I have had the chance to explore many career avenues, venture abroad and spend more time divulging myself into a variety of interests here at MSU,” he said. Redding said she has used the extra time in college to her ad-
SALAD
continued from 1
Amanda Minyard, senior elementary education major, said she is optimistic about Toss It Up, but is concerned with convenience and affordability for all students. “Bleecker Street was deemed one of the healthier choices in the past, (but) in my opinion, it was the steep prices of their selections that led to (its) downfall,” Minyard said. Minyard said a salad bar restaurant in the Union is likely to increase her healthy eating habits while on campus but only if the prices are reasonable. Students sometimes choose to eat unhealthy foods because fast food is cheaper than the healthier selections, she said. “I do like the fact that MSU is striving to encourage the students to make more nutritious selections. It is a good step forward in getting the MSU community headed in the direction of living a healthier life,” she said. “A new restaurant is always exciting to try and I’m looking forward to seeing what Toss It Up has to offer the students and faculty of MSU.” Joe Pongetti, freshman kinesiology major, said he eats in the Union approximately five days a week, but never ate at Bleecker Street. He said he is skeptical of a “healthy eatery” such as Toss It Up having much success against Chick-fil-A or Panda Express, especially when freshmen can use a block meal in Perry Cafeteria and get a healthy meal for much cheaper. “I don’t think Toss It Up will be successful,” Pongetti said. “I wouldn’t mind eating there, but the odds are it will not (be successful).”
DAWGS
• 10:13 a.m. An employee reported missing items during a self audit in the ITS Department. • 10:25 a.m. An employee reported missing items during a self audit in the ITS Department. • 1:45 p.m. A student reported her PlayStation 3 stolen out of her room in Cresswell Hall during the Christmas holidays. • 7:09 p.m. A student was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol on Fraternity Row.
30
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Toss it Up
vantage by making more social and professional connections and increasing her areas of interest. “I like being non-traditional. I know so much more, and I feel like a pro at playing the college game,” she said. “I’ve made many friends and professional connections. It’s all been a great experience.” Cooper said he thinks it is essential for students to understand staying in college longer than the traditional four years is equally as rewarding when the student graduates and receives his or her degree. “For all students, regardless of the (time) spent or age, graduating with a degree we are proud in is of utmost importance,” he said.
Tuesday, January 10
• 8:55 a.m. An employee was transported to OCH Regional Medical Center from State Fountain Bakery for breathing problems. • 4:34 p.m. An employee recovered a clear plastic bag containing a green leafy substance in a patrol vehicle on Walker Road. • 5:27 p.m. A student reported money stolen from her room in Ruby Hall.
Wednesday, January 11
• 10:01 a.m. A student reported his or her bicycle stolen while parked behind McKee Hall. • 4:23 p.m. A student reported his or her bicycle stolen from bike rack in front of Perry Cafeteria. • 7:48 p.m. A student was arrested for speeding and driving with a suspended license on Stone Boulevard.
Thursday, January 12
• 12:05 a.m. A student hit the back of their head bouncing on the bed in Hull Hall. Subject was transported to OCH Regional Medical Center. • 12:24 a.m. A student was arrested for driving under the influence and improper equipment on Miss. Highway 182 and Research Park. • 1:48 a.m. A student was arrested for DUI on Miss. Highway 12.
Citations:
• 4 citations were issued for disregard for a traffic device. • 21 citations were issued for speeding. • 2 citations were issued for expired tag. • 2 citations were issued for driving the wrong way on a one way street.
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Students partake in Adderall market “W
ell, I promised myself I would never have to do that,” said the demure, straightbacked young blonde across from me in a tone as fresh and pure as a newborn baby’s. It was final exams week last December and six of us sat in the lower level of the university library, huddled on various couches around a coffee table stacked high with notes from our classes; the young blonde was giving her opinion on, and effectively silencing, a brief conversation that arose in which Adderall was the chief subject. The dynamics of the study clan, all of whose GPAs are above 3.5, was constructed of two students that refused to take the substance, two others who took the medication during exam week and one that stood indifferent to the usage of the popular medication Adderall that has seen a booming market across American university campuses. CNN recently interviewed an Auburn University senior that seeks out the “study drug” before any big exam; the student, Jared Gabay, details the ease and relaxed atmosphere that comes with the buying and selling of Adderall studying purposes: “It’s easy – not sketchy or perceived in a bad way.” The article continues and presents a two-sided response from the medical community on the substance’s illegal use; a psychiatric professor details the possible side effects and long-term damage that can arise from abusing the medication, while a group of scientists from the journal Nature encouraged the careful legalization of the medicine and others of its kind for general use. These champion the benefits of increased cognitive awareness: “Safe and effective cognitive enhancers will benefit both the individual and society.” The article also states that 30 percent of students have tried Adderall, but omits the demographic that exists for the students I personally know who use the study enhancer: a vast majority of students who take the substance are not the average C student. Rather, these are those wholly devoted to their studies and feel the pressure to succeed; notwithstanding the dire circumstance of being passionately intelligent matched with the necessity of maintaining off-campus employment during the academic year. With the American economy continuing to decline and tuition at our school creeping upwards
Joshua Bryant is a senior majoring in English. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu. year-by-year, more students are being asked to be both successful in academia and chief provider of their own finances. With all of these responsibilities, how can the popularity of Adderall be viewed as an “anomaly?” Some will read this article and say, “But you know exams are coming. You are just not well prepared. It really is your own fault.” However, the following is a real exam schedule of a classmate: Three comprehensive exams spanning 15 novels, three 10-to12 page research papers in the aforementioned classes, an oral exam and presentation in a foreign language, and one last eightpage research paper and presentation in another class. I kindly ask you, the reader, how could anyone complete such an academic course load and not be compelled to take drugs? Yes, there are those among our student body capable of executing the above curriculum with ease, but the vast majority of students will feel the drain of off-campus responsibilities and meet three options: cram all night and hope to make the desired A, accept lower grades and hope for better next time, or turn to medication to for the desired lift. If there is to be open dialogue between students and the university, the notion that users of Adderall are “lazy” or “poor planners” must be undone; legality aside, there is no more moral corruption present in taking Adderall than in swilling back half a bottle of liquor in the Cotton District. If my assumptions are correct that these purchasers are the toptier in terms of GPA, how can we remedy Adderall’s continued popularity? Perhaps MSU will go the way of poorly designed pamphlets warning of possible addiction and seizure-induced flailing on the ground, or overhaul study workload to align with the lifestyle of the modern student. While a great many students will be successful without Adderall, this writer can only forecast a rise in its usage– and perhaps our university’s GPA.
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CORRECTIONS
Art of one night stands not challenging
S
o you want to have a one night stand? There’s no shame in it. The one night stand is a tradition as engrained in the college experience as all-nighters or hangovers. Sometimes, all three traditions coincide. I’m happy for you. You’re shunning cultural expectations of sentimental attachment. You’re risking your reputation, throwing caution to the wind and liberating yourself from the repression of cultural norms. And you’re going to get laid! The problem with one night stands is the stigma attached to the term itself. To alleviate this issue, I’ve come up with a list of alternative names for the occasion. Feel free to use these as you wish. • Evening adventures • Random rendezvous • The nocturnal nudge • Waltz of the witching hour • Bedtime boogie down • Mystery midnight meeting • Touch-and-go • Picking up a few things at the B-Quik • Watching “True Blood” on mute With safe words like those, you’re free to discuss your iffy indiscretions anywhere you may please, from McDonald’s to McCool. The art of the one night stand isn’t hard to master, but the event entails certain etiquette. There are rules. In embarking on your evening of enterprise, you and your partner of choice enter into a standing agreement that only stands for one night. The circumstances vary from night to night, partner to partner, but like a theatrical production, the format remains constant. I give you: The One Night Stand: A Play in Three Acts First, the invitation. Picture this: It’s 1 a.m., and the bar’s lights come on, flooding the musky room with inebriated groaning and fluorescent possibility. The hottie/ cutie/studmuffin/MILF/lil’ mama/ acceptable sex partner/etc. you’ve
Rachel Perkins is a senior majoring in English. She can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu. been chatting up all night passes you a knowing glance as you both pay your bar tabs (tipping the bartender generously, for he or she has just played a vital role in your night’s plan). This moment is known as “the bid.” In this make-it-or-break-it moment, each of you have a decision to make. You slyly nod and the two of you make your way out the door together, stumbling into a night of impish possibility. A question of etiquette arises: which house will you travel to for your perilous deeds? In traditional society, the male’s house is the preferable destination. However, in modern culture, the female’s house is favored as she typically keeps a cleaner home. An offer will often be made, and the two of you should discuss pros and cons of each housing situation. As you reach your destination, and a bedroom door closes, so falls the curtain on the first act. The audience waits with bated breath. (Just kidding, there’s no audience. Unless you’re into some really freaky stuff, in which case, good for you. I think.) As the curtain opens on the second act, we find the two of you awkwardly engaging in some variety of small talk. “What’s your major?” and “Where are you from?” become popular conversation starters. The play lulls. It is important to remember why the two of you have been brought together on this least holy of nights. Your fates were intertwined so that your bodies might be, so get to it!
In a late night situation such as this, minimum conversation is necessary. There was plenty of time for that sort of exposition at the bar or house party in which this night began. Once a bed is in sight, it’s business time. During an occasion such as this, as with all sexual encounters, it is crucial to remember protection. As enjoyable as the evening becomes, it isn’t worth the risk of an STD or a baby. While this event has potential to develop into more than just one night, you probably don’t want to spend the next nine months (and then the rest of your life) deciding whether you really like this person. Use a condom. Ladies and gentlemen, if you’re sexually active, you should all keep condoms at your place of residence. (For the record, this column is not to be held accountable for any conceptions. I warned you!) One night stands span the sexual spectrum from awful to awesome. Such a fling can result in an evening of sloppy and dysfunctional missteps or a memorable and pleasurable grindfest. (Feel free to borrow that word if you’d like.) There is an inverse relationship between quality of sex during a one night stand and the amount of memories surrounding it. When a one night stand goes well, you might or might not remember it. You’ll think of it fondly when the memory creeps up at the mention of that person’s name or during a particularly rousing scene in a Darren Aronofsky film. When a one night stand goes badly, you will never forget it, though you will dedicate countless hours attempting to rid it from your memory. Good luck. After both players in the act
have reached the play’s climax, the second act closes with sweaty diminuendo. The most crucial part of the evening takes place the following morning. As a sobering dawn encroaches, decisions wait to be made. Certain decorum must be met in this illuminated morning. If one partner requests a ride home, the other must abide. While the offer of the use of the shower should be made, the offer of breakfast isn’t necessary. Breakfast is a little too serious for this fortuitous fling. For the future of this chance encounter, one must read the signs. While one night stands have and do develop into more, it’s rare. Plus, that isn’t why you embarked upon this mission. Feel free to go your separate ways, like two intersecting lines, destined to never cross paths again. As the two of you split, the curtain closes on this third and final act. Feel free to privately review each player’s performance, as this show was in town for one night only. The one night stand is an art, a craft and a way of life. Sex is a natural human desire, and the one night stand is an efficient and enjoyable way to meet that need without the emotional baggage of a relationship. One night stands aren’t for everyone. To those who don’t participate, more power to you! Relationships are hard and they take work, but from what I’ve gathered, they tend to be worth it. For those of you treading the waters out here with me, go for it! Have fun, be safe and remember if you have a dog or cat, keep them out of the room because that’s creepy. Good luck.
“While the offer of the use of the shower should be made, the offer of breakfast isn’t necessary.”
the elePhaNt IN the rOOm | PatrIck yOuNg
Editor in Chief Hannah Rogers Managing Editor Julia Pendley
gettINg Off the recOrd | rachel PerkINs
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.
First week questions provide entertainment
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ongratulations! You have survived the first week of the spring semester. Where did the time go? It seemed like it was just days ago that it all began. The new semester brings forth many things that make me tingly in my no-no zone: fresh school supplies from Walmart, a new set of textbooks to use as coasters and a whole new crop of classmates to Facebook stalk. But as my many lovers would tell you, even the most satisfying experiences have moments of disappointment. The first week of the semester is no different. Even with all the bliss, to some students, these first classes bring about incredibly unique questions and odd behavior. First class meetings are typically dedicated to overviews and introductions. While questions are always welcome from students, there appears to be a shortage of intelligent ones. Below are just a few examples of first day questions that make me want to locate the nearest bridge: “Are we going to be here the entire time?” I am sorry, but is there some place else you need to be? By the looks of your sweatshirt/scarf combo, I can tell you’re probably off to Milan for fashion week, so please feel free to duck out early. Nothing makes a
better first impression than saying to your professor, “Let’s wrap this up, because I already dread seeing your face.” “How many questions are on your exams?” This question has never made sense to ask on the inaugural day. Are you really going to remember if there are five short answer, 20 multiple choice, 10 true/false and three essay? Probably not, so stop wasting our time. Chances are the professor has no idea either since we just met five minutes ago. “Do we need the book?” I get it, textbooks are expensive and we are poor, but how many professors do you know have said, “Reading is overrated, let’s just come to class and hang out?” The textbooks are supposed to be the basis for the lecture. Do you read every chapter that is assigned? Of course not, but you typically need the book for a better understanding of the material so bite the bullet and get it. I am sorry you can’t buy that new Lil’ Wayne album, but when buy-back rolls around, you’ll be able to get some gum with the $2 Barnes & Noble offered you. In addition to these questions, a few of your classmates will stand out and become type casted for the rest of the semester. This takes
“A few of your classmates will stand out and become type casted.”
Patrick Young is a graduate student in public policy and administration. He can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu. place during the dreaded introductory portion of the first class meeting. Their descriptions are below: The over-sharer: We have all greeted the class with our 10 second speech providing our name, classification and major, but there’s always one person who turns this into autobiography time. While it may interest your mother that you started as an education major, switched to dairy science and now are in photography, I was hoping you would address why you’re wearing pajama jeans. Also, let’s leave the death of any family member out of introductions; we’re not in the mood for pity. The tasty one: While we may dread hearing about the life of Ned the pig farmer from Saltillo, there is always one classmate we could listen to all day. The “tasty one” looks like he or she just walked off a calendar shoot and is in the need of a serious massage. This is the one particular time that introduction day is needed because
you get to learn his or her name so you can stalk. While this student will probably decrease in attractiveness throughout the semester due to the Skoal ring you see on day two or how she decides to put less effort into her appearance as the semester progresses, your first day crush will always have a special place in your lust-filled heart. The couple: You can always pick out this duo the second you walk into the classroom. They are typically holding hands even though they are in separate rows and they keep bringing up their love for one another in over-the-top ways. “I love you snooky bear.” Typically, it is the female that makes sure everyone knows she has her man on lock, while the guy rolls his eyes because he is in another classical literature class that doesn’t even count toward his degree. But they are together, and that is all that matters. Enjoy the shotgun wedding. As we look to week two, I ask everyone to have patience with those who ask these questions and portray such behaviors. Unless it is the tasty one, he or she can do whatever they want to us. But remember, we have a limited number of first days left at this university, so cherish the awkward and continue to loathe those who create these moments. It’s healthy for us to want to slap someone, as long as we do not actually do it. Good luck.
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THE REFLECTOR
BULLETIN BOARD
AN IN-CLASS DISTRACTION ...
Across 1 Thumbs-way-up reviews 6 Knocks with one’s knuckles 10 Not feral 14 Low-budget, in company names 15 Happily __ after 16 October birthstone 17 Hexes 20 Dined 21 Twosome 22 Heart chambers 23 Positive thinker’s assertion 25 Cleopatra’s river 27 Surprised party, metaphorically 32 Beelzebub 35 Oboe or bassoon 36 Baled grass 37 “Jurassic Park” terror, for short 38 Meanspiritedness 40 Home plate, e.g. 41 Above, in verse 42 Apple computer 43 Showed on television 44 Destination not yet determined 48 Detest 49 Oscar-winning film about Mozart 53 End of __ 56 Yard sale warning 57 British mil. award 58 Beatles song, and a hint to the hidden word in 17-, 27- and 44-Across 62 Opera solo 63 Like a steak with a red center 64 “That is to say ...” 65 Double O Seven 66 “P.U.!” inducer 67 Willy-__: sloppily Down 1 Satisfy, as a loan 2 Like most triangle angles 3 Chooses at the polls 4 USNA grad 5 Slight trace 6 Symbol of financial losses
7 State firmly 8 For each 9 Málaga Mrs. 10 Best-seller list 11 Mimic 12 West African country 13 Jazzy Fitzgerald 18 Indian bread 19 “To your health,” to José 24 Big-screen format 25 Russian rejection 26 “That’s clear now” 28 Angels shortstop Aybar 29 Sear 30 Operate with a beam 31 Kept in view 32 Halt 33 Zone 34 Alaska, once: Abbr. 38 Obscene material 39 Glazier’s fitting 40 Tough spot 42 Newton or Stern 43 Inundated with
1-13-12 Solutions for 12-2-11
45 Needle’s partner 46 Sadat’s predecessor 47 Leave out 50 ‘50s Ford flop 51 Typical 52 Hot-headed Corleone brother in “The Godfather”
53 Moby Dick chaser 54 Fiddling emperor 55 “__ Brockovich” 56 Flying prefix 59 Gold, in Granada 60 Insane 61 Record label initials across the pond
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MSU CANTERBURY EPISCOPAL FELLOWSHIP “Spiritual but not religious?” Spirituality and home-cooking at the Episcopal Church (“Canterbury”). Free dinner, activities each Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Canterbury Lodge, 105 N. Montgomery St., Starkville. For more information, contact Chaplain Carol Mead at 6941178. Sponsored by Canterbury Episcopal Fellowship. MSU SHOOTING SPORTS CLUB Looking for all kinds of competitive shooters. Rifle, shotgun, pistol and multigun competitors needed. Contact Tyler Tharp at 601-618-5137 or Mike Brown at mike.brown@ msstate.edu. TRIATHLON CLUB Learn more about MSU’s new Triathlon Club by visiting MSUTC.com or on Facebook @ Mississippi State Triathlon! RUF Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) is a campus ministry that has been on State’s campus since 1976. Our large group Bible study meets Thursdays from 7 to 8 p.m. in Dorman Auditorium. For further information and for upcoming events, visit msstate.ruf.org. All are welcome to come. STUDENT DIETETIC ASSOCIATION MSU SDA’s first meeting is Tuesday at 6 p.m. in Moore Hal. The guest speaker will be Ellen Wallace, RD, LD, CDE. YOGA MOVES Stressed out? Try hatha yoga to soothe the body and the mind. Yoga Moves meets every Tuesday from 5 to 6:10 p.m. in Studio C at the Sanderson Center.
OCTOPUZZLE
Solutions for 12-2-11 FOLLOW
service, PRIORITY, on Tuesday nights at 6:15 p.m. You are also invited to a $5 home-cooked meal, called NOONDAY, on Wednesdays at noon. The BSU Center is located directly across the street from Campus Book Mart. All students are welcome. Visit msubsu.com for more information. CAMPUS BIBLE STUDENTS Intensive Bible study Mondays from 7 to 8 p.m. in room 324 of the Union. All are welcome. Email tns54@pss.msstate.edu for more information. CATHOLIC STUDENT ASSOCIATION The CSA invites you to join us each week at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Student mass is on Sundays at 5:30 p.m. Good food and fun fellowship can be had at $2 dinners on Tuesday at 6 p.m., followed by weekly /Bible study at 7 p.m. Come to one of these events and learn more ways to get involved! For more information, simply “like” our Facebook page: “Mississippi State Catholic Student Association.” FAAMSU Come join us for lively discussions. Believers welcome! Every Thursday, starting Sept. 8, in the Union room 226 from 6 to 9 p.m. Twitter: @SAUCEFORALL. We are the Freethinkers, Agnostics and Atheists of MSU. FEMALE GRADUATE STUDENTS New group for female graduate students in science, engineering and mathematics: Please email msu.gwise@gmail.com LIGHT BEARERS Yeah! We Bear The Light! Come join us for fellowship, dynamic worship and inspirational devotions every Thursday at 7 p.m. Union 3rd floor, room 329.
ife The L Section
Directions: Place the numbers 1 to 8 in each of the octagons such that the numbers are not repeated in any octagon, row, column, or diagonal. The sums of the minor diagonals (diagonals that contain either four or six numbers) are provided at the beginning and end of each minor diagonal. The sum of the four numbers that border a diamond are provided in that diamond. The numbers that border diamonds do not have to be unique.
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Life
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friday , january 13, 2012
Opinion Editor
This article contains spoilers; if you haven’t seen the movie or read the book yet, the spoilers should not emotionally traumatize you. When I went to see “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” last month, I had no idea what to expect. I had seen no trailer, and I had been meaning to read the book for some time but never actually read it. Once I settled into my seat, snacks galore in my lap, my friends who made the movie plans informed me the movie was over two and a half hours long. I was definitely not expecting that and would have brought Taco Bell to tide me over; I also would have seen an earlier screening instead of the 9:40 p.m. show we saw. (Hey, I had work the next morning.)
Little did I know, I was about to ride a murder mystery roller coaster, suspense after every turn. The movie starts out pretty slowly, bouncing back and forth between two characters, Mikael and Lisbeth, who have seemingly little to do with each other. Mikael is a private investigator of sorts, as is Lisbeth. But Mikael is a middle-aged, middle-class man, and Lisbeth is a ward of the state. Lisbeth is also extremely unconventional, sporting short, spiked hair, bleached eyebrows and several piercings. Eventually, you discover they are going to work together to solve a disappearance that took place in the 1960s. They research on a creepy island, meet a lot of potential suspects and ultimately solve the case. The plot of the movie is interesting enough, but the real stand-
A few entertainment highs and lows from the year according to us
out is Rooney Mara’s portrayal of Lisbeth Salander. She completely changed her appearance and immersed herself in the character. Her voice, nonverbal communications and physical movement collaborated to create a wellrounded, well-developed character with whom viewers could completely relate, even though most viewers probably had nothing at all in common with Lisbeth. Mara's standout performance made the film the success that it is, and it would have been a completely different movie with another actress. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” was one of the most impressive films of 2011. We can only hope the other two books of the trilogy are made into films, if only to see another of Rooney Mara’s radiant performances.
Best movie: 'The Muppets'
courtesy photo | the reflector
By HannaH RogeRs Editor in Chief
It had been 11 years since The Muppets had a theatrical film release. In that time, I went from being in elementary school to attending college. For many years, Kermit the Frog was only a vague memory, occasionally brought about by my family’s Muppet Christmas ornaments or a stumble upon one of the old movies. As much as I loved The Muppets, I assumed that as far as their golden age was concerned, my childhood was effectively over. However, “The Muppets” proved me wrong, showing it is possible to bring back a cherished franchise without ruining the dreams of the fans (George Lucas should take note). The plot nostalgically looks back at “The Muppet Show” and the older Muppet films without being too sentimental. The humor and heart of the series remains intact and the focus is on Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie and the rest of the
original characters. Even though there is plenty for the most dedicated of Muppet fans to enjoy, newcomers (and fans of Jason Segel and Amy Adams) still will find plenty to enjoy. The best movies are those that in years to come will still be loved because of their fearlessness and characters. As with the original Muppet movie, “The Muppets” is a welcome addition to not only the world created by Jim Henson, but the film landscape at large. Kermit has been loved for over 50 years and will undoubtedly be loved for 50 more by new generations as
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Best/Worst of 2011
Best Movie: 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' By Wendy moRell
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he and the rest of The Muppets continue giving the world’s third greatest gift — laughter.
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Worst TV Show: 'Whitney' By James CaRskadon Sports Editor
I’m easy to please when it comes to TV shows. If a show makes me laugh, no matter how ridiculous, I am all for it. So when NBC debuted ‘‘Whitney’’ staring mediocre comedian Whitney Cummings, it landed on my television more than once. Well, sadly, a small part of me wishes I could take those 30 minute chunks of my life back. Even though the show had a funny line here and there, it was filled with predictable jokes. The show revolved around the long-term relationship of Whit-
ney (playing herself ) and her boyfriend, which was not a particularly compelling relationship. The plot has little going for it that made me want to come back and watch another episode. I enjoy many NBC shows such as ‘‘The Office’’ (who doesn't love Jim and Pam?), ‘‘Parks and Rec’’ (Ron Swanson is my hero) and ‘‘Community’’ (why are you going off the air??) but ‘‘Whitney’’ does not hold a candle to these shows, in my opinion. Could the show get better? Sure, but for now ‘‘Whitney’’ has earned my vote as worst TV show of 2011.
“Worst: first semester of senior year. Best: second semester of senior year.” Mollie C. Reeves, Copy editoR
Worst movie: 'New Year's Eve' By HannaH RogeRs Editor in Chief
For a movie called “New Year’s Eve,” there was a severe lack of fireworks (both literally and figuratively) in the two-hour horror director Gary Marshall tried to pass off as a film. Bad puns aside, the movie suffered from the same problem as most nausea-inducing romantic comedies these days: it wasn't a comedy, and it wasn't romantic. I’m not sure how anyone, much less Michelle Pfeiffer, Sofia Vergara, Robert De Niro and Halle Berry, was convinced
this was a good idea. Casting every movie star possible does not mean the movie will be good, especially when it prevents any of the characters from being developed (not that I would expect a compelling emotional journey from something called “New Year’s Eve,” but that's beside the point). Maybe I’m just bitter. Maybe I set my standards for entertainment too high. But I refuse to believe Sarah Jessica Parker is still young enough to play a romantic lead to someone half her age (alright, that’s an over-exaggeration) with
whom she shares no chemistry. I also find it hard to believe someone can magically find a horsedrawn carriage or an empty street in New York City on New Year’s just after the ball has dropped. But what do I know? Maybe it was the lack of chemistry between any of the couples (you would think they could get one out of 6,000), the really bad script, the fact I wanted to see “Hugo” instead and was pouting in my seat or a combination of all three. Either way, maybe Marshall should resolve to stop making holiday-themed “romantic comedies.”
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LIFE
friday , january 13, 2012
THE REFLECTOR
Worst movie: 'Bridesmaids'
courtesy photo | universal studios
By Eric Evans Online Editor
Whoever decided releasing a potentially raunchy female comedy in the same month as ‘‘The Hangover Part II’’ should be shot. While funny at moments, ‘‘Bridesmaids’’ seems to drudge along into a dramafilled “chick-flick” that failed to impress and left me regretting spending my money on the lackluster storyline. Previews promised a belly-busting recipe of grotesque humor from some interesting looking actresses, but when it came down to it,
the humor fell terribly short. ‘‘Bridesmaids’’ is definitely not a movie you will be quoting for weeks to come, especially when ‘‘The Hangover Part II’’ came out just 13 days later. Don’t get me wrong, the acting was actually pretty decent, but this is just another female drama with a few curse words and some diarrhea thrown in to make you queasy. On top of some dispensable comedy, the run time was over two hours, which made my butt hurt more than my stomach muscles, which were relatively unused considering I only laughed occasionally. Frankly, the previews
had me believing Coke would be spewing through my nose instead of sitting in my bladder telling me to get up and go pee. If this crew really wanted to give a good comedy a run for its money, they needed to find some other way than having some fat girl sitting on a sink with diarrhea. ‘‘Bridesmaids’’ really had the possibility of being successful, but the comedy was predictable and unoriginal. If you want a good belly-busting laugh fest, this is not it. There are better alternatives flooding the movie goers’ market that outshine this dull performance.
Worst TV: 'American Horror Story' By Eric Evans Online Editor
Released in October 2011, ‘‘American Horror Story’’ quickly became a Wednesday night staple in many households because of its interesting and sometimes confusing twists. Connie Britton plays a depressed, desperate, confused and, toward the end of the series, pregnant house wife named Vivien Harmon that is trapped
in a haunted mansion. The mansion is filled with the realistic ghosts of people who have previously died in the house. It’s easy to understand how the TV drama gets so out of hand and wacky at some points. If the plot doesn’t confuse you, just try watching the drama. While each episode makes the viewer long for more information, it also gets extremely frustrating to be left hanging week after week. Information is
slow to come to fruition during each episode and makes for a very slow-feeling plot. If you are constantly curious and have some sort of fetish for dead people knocking up desperate housewives, this show could possibly be for you. Without a good storyline and little promise for future episodes (since all the main characters died), this TV drama/ horror just doesn’t cut it for the everyday viewer.
Best movie: 'The Help'
courtesy photo | the reflector
By Kaitlyn ByrnE Copy Editor
Few summer blockbusters are able to achieve the status of instant classic, but ‘‘The Help’’ is one of the few capable of exceeding the typical summer blockbuster expectations and becoming just that — an instant classic. ‘‘The Help,’’ based on the novel of the same title by Kathryn Stockett, is an emotionally
encompassing film that paints a riveting portrait of the racial divisions in the South during the early 1960s. The movie focuses on the story of Aibileen, a black maid in Jackson, Miss., and a white writer named Skeeter. Together, they work on writing a tell-all book about the division between white socialites and the hired help. Aibileen’s encouraging words to her employer’s young daughter, “You is kind, you is smart,
you is important,” are part of an uplifting theme throughout the movie, even in the midst of heart-wrenching scenes. There are not many movies that can make its audience laugh, cry and feel inspired all at the same time, but ‘‘The Help’’ does just that. It will make you happy, it will make you angry and, at times, it might even break your heart. But most of all, it will leave you feeling hopeful.
courtesy photo | the reflector
Best Album: The Roots 'Undun' By Micah GrEEn News Editor
Released in the United States on Dec. 6, 2011, ‘‘Undun,’’ the eleventh studio album from hiphop band The Roots, debuted at number 17 on the U.S. Billboard Top 200 chart. ‘‘Undun’’ existentially addresses the roles
and lives of individuals born into a dangerous and exploitative urban environment. The album specifically tells the story of fictional character Redford Stevens in reverse-chronological order beginning with the young man’s premature death and moving through the experiences that brought him to this fate. The character’s name is a reference to a song by Sufjan Stevens, fellow musician and producer of ‘‘Undun.’’ Though the band’s rock, hip-hop vibe is still present, heavy soul and progressive jazz elements exist throughout the album, bringing beauty to difficult subject matter. Like previous releases, The Roots bring the music, while the lyrical side relies mostly on feature artists, minus the contributions
from the band’s legendary Black Thought. Mississippi’s own Big K.R.I.T. features on a powerful track, “Make My” which deals with a young man attempting to justify his existence before passing on. “Tip the Scale” is probably my favorite track. Coming later in the album, this song deals with, as the title concedes, living life in a way that benefits you, by any means necessary, if you will. The alternating snare, bass beat combined with a terrifyingly somber keyboard soundscape is absolutely destroyed with wordplay by the featuring Dice Raw. “Look, let he without sin live without sin. Until then, I’ll be doing dirty jobs like swamp men. Counting the faces of those that might have been.” Need I say more?
LIFE
REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
FRIDAY , JANUARY 13, 2012
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SERIOUSLY YOU GUYS... | RACHEL PERKINS
Ten New Year's resolutions students can adhere to A s the clock struck midnight, signaling 2012 had officially begun, I quietly whispered to no one, “Let’s pretend none of this ever happened.” Without fail, every year of my life has been the best and worst year so far. This feels like a universal truth, as with the approach of each coming year, my Twitter and Facebook feeds fill to the cyber brim with reflective musings on the twelve months previous. As we reflect on another year passed, we collectively create resolutions for ourselves in the coming one. In undertaking these resolutions, we attempt to somehow better ourselves for personal and posterity’s sake. The problem with resolutions lies in their ephemerality. Similar to the rush of promise a college student might feel at the onset of each new semester, the beginning of the year seems to glimmer with the hope of achieving all we could not in our younger and more naïve years. However as the year progresses, our tribulations may wear us down. Month by month, our once unbreakable resolutions grow worn down and weathered. Our congruous cries of, “This year, I mean it” fade into mere echoes, lost to the vast expanse of time and expired gym memberships.
Rachel Perkins is a senior majoring in English. She can be contacted at life@reflector. msstate.edu. But this year’s different, I can feel it. Maybe it’s the eerie presence of spring-like weather lingering in a Mississippi January, or the looming threat of the Mayans’ predicted apocalypse, but I really believe the resolutions we make this year can stand the test of time. (If the Mayans were indeed right, it’s totally okay with me. If the world ends, I never have to pay back my student loans! Silver lining, folks.) Let’s approach 2012 with an optimistic attitude, and let’s do it together. As a keen observer of society (aka I’m the creepy girl watching people eat in the union), I’ve noticed the areas in which we, as a community, need some improvement. As a peer right there in the trenches with you, I beset these insufficiencies upon myself as well. In the spirit of positive and collective change,
I’ve accumulated a list of 10 easy and necessary resolutions I think we can and should all strive to achieve in what might be our last year on earth. 1. Figure out your life’s motto. A motto can be as simple or deep as you’d like, but it should aid you in troubling times. Some of my favorite mottos include, “Life is like a box of chocolates” and “Snap, crackle, pop!” brought to you by the likes of Forrest Gump and Rice Krispie treats, respectively. A motto is like your emotional catchphrase, so put some thought into it. As for me, I live my life by the simple but powerful mantra of “What Would Rihanna Do?” 2. Do one thing each day that betters your entire life. This can be as monumental or as trivial as you want. Changing your life is easier than you think. Start with something simple, like actually removing yourself from a mailing list rather than just deleting each e-mail and work your way to bigger things, like curing cancer. I believe in you! 3. Embrace change, starting with Facebook’s new timeline feature. Nothing quite riles up the masses like an alteration in Facebook’s layout, and this new one’s a doozy. Accepting change is an important life tool, and Fa-
cebook is merely nudging you along in your path toward total nirvana (and procrastination). Accept it and embrace it. I love timeline because it promotes my favorite feature of Facebook — stalking myself. 4. Can we stop wearing Ugg boots yet? Is this too much to ask? I’m asking it anyway. Girls, you are way too beautiful and gifted to go stomping around campus with elephant feet. Look, I know — they are really comfy, but so are footie pajamas, and I don’t go around wearing those. Actually, change this resolution. Everyone start wearing footie pajamas in public. Start that right now. 5. Inform yourself. There’s an election coming up. It’s more important that you study the issues facing our country and how each candidate plans to handle them than it is for you to study the names of the Kardashian sisters. On that note, read the news. Get your news from a source that comes in a printed format. I could talk for days about the social and journalistic importance of blogs, but for your own sake, at least browse a newspaper once a week. (Hey, you’re doing that now!) 6. Live in a way that would make your inner 6th grader proud. Basically, this means don’t
be an idiot. Let’s face it, the sixthgrade version of you was probably way smarter than you are now. Be the person you hoped you’d become, and not the person you’ve allowed yourself to settle for. 7. Let’s be healthy. I can promise you there’s no need for you to eat nothing but Saltines for a week or lift 200 pounds per day at the gym. If you look like you might blow over during a strong gust of wind, or like your neck might explode during a particularly challenging math problem, you’re doing it wrong. Just eat the things you know you’re supposed to eat and try to do some sort of physical activity. (Dancing around your room by yourself counts!) Oh, and something about drinking water. Yeah, water’s good. 8. Seriously, don’t drink and drive. Do I really have to ask this of you? Yes, I do. Okay, I don’t think you should stop drinking. Drink all you want! It’s fun! But if you don’t have a ride home from wherever you’re drinking, it’s sofa city or start walking. Come on, people. It’s 2012. You know better. 9. If you don’t have a favorite TV show that’s currently running, find one! There are so many good shows airing this season, and there’s a show for every-
one. Find the show that fits you, fall in love with it, and prepare yourself for the numbing depression that will accompany its inevitable cancellation. Everyone’s favorite show always gets canceled. Also, if you’re one of those people who “don’t watch TV,” please regard the following ellipsis as my Liz Lemon-style exaggerated eye roll… 10. And finally, do it big! I mean, really big. Live your life like an eighties music video. I’m talking big hair, big shoulders, big clouds of smoke, big everything. On the off chance this is our last year, it’s our last chance to really live it up. So let’s do that. Let’s do it big. There you have it — some relatively doable resolutions for the New Year. Whether you make a resolution or not and whether you stick to it or not, let’s make this year great. Like I said, I’ve got a really good feeling about this one. As this year closes, whether we reflect back upon it while popping bottles of champagne with our closest friends, or while watching a giant rock hurl toward the earth as we cling to family in our final moments, let’s make sure we can say we did more than just the best we could. Let’s look back fondly and remember. Let’s make this the best year yet.
The Blue Party returns to Starkville
COURTESY PHOTO | BLACK PEARL MUSIC GROUP KAITLIN MULLINS | THE REFLECTOR
The costumed Blue Party bands performs at the Garden Center in 2011 with its "Ameriparty" signature genre.
BY EMMA HOLMES Staff Writer
The Blue Party Band is a music-making, partythrowing funk fest made up of six musicians all shaping the energy of the band in their own way. The members of the band are Reid Martin bringing vocal, guitar and banjo skills to the table; George Stathakes throwing in some guitar, bouzouki, papoose and vocals; Natalie Mae keying, fiddlin’ and also chiming in with some female vocals; Al Small, also known as T., running up and down the bass; Alex Bachari picking on the guitar; and, lastly, Ross McIntire keeping the beat sick and steady on the drums. The Blue Party Band started off as just that, not only a band but, rather, a party jumping from house party to house party, needing only a venue to get the festivities started. Now it is performing for 150 plus people on average at the booked venues. It is based out of one of the most musically rich cities of the South: New Orleans. The band members met one another in a class at Loyola University and the birth of their folksy, funky, party sound was born. The Blue Party Band is an independent band; meaning they have not sold their tune souls to any label in hopes of stardom, but embarked on sharing their music to any and all, on their own accord. Booking all of its shows proved to be a challenging feat with a significantly impressive outcome, considering the band played over 100 shows from October 2010 to October 2011. Most of its tour is primarily in the Southeast and Midwest. Some venues the
band has played on the tour are Tipitina’s in New Orleans, Voodoo Fest and Starkville, which has a significant placement on the tour, considering this will be its seventh show here. “Starkville is hands down one of our favorite towns to play. Over the last two years, we feel like we’ve made a good dent in the music community here and would like to see our numbers keep growing," Martin said. "We plan on moving to bigger venues soon and hopefully getting on future festivals, such as Bulldogs Bash. We’ve also made some great friends in town over the last couple of years because we make it a point to hang out with people that come to shows and become a part of the community,” Martin said. The style of music The Blue Party Band exemplifies is what the band members describe as “Ameriparty,” which is a combination of Americana and party. When I asked Jesse McCraw, a long time friend and fan of the band, how she would describe its music, her answer summed up the band’s music adequately. “It is hard to put a finger on the right definition of the style the band has, but the best definition I can think of is like a folky type sound with an ‘in your face upbeat’ rock type nature and a tinge of pop,” McCraw said. The folk, rock, pop flavor The Blue Party Band proves time and time again to age-old fans and newcomers alike, that music makes the party contagious. You have a chance to catch this party fever and dance to the infectious Ameriparty beat for yourself this
January is National Stalking Awareness Month Boy, I love Facebook. Now I have Cindy’s address and her class schedule
1 out of every 12 women will be stalked during her lifetime. 1 out of every 45 men will be stalked during his lifetime. 3.4 million people over the age of 18 are stalked each year in America. Highest rate of stalking is experienced by people aged 18-24 (typical age of college students) 3 in 4 stalking victims know their stalker. Each year more than 20,000 cases of cyberstalking are being reported . Over 90% of victims are women. It is estimated there are as many as 500,000 online victims each year. The most common type of stalking online is sexual harassment.
Take the Stalking Awareness Quiz today!
“This project was supported by Grant No. 2010-WA-AX-0002 awarded by the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusion, and recommendations expressed in this publication are those of Outreach & Sexual Assault Services and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice, Office of Violence Against Women.”
Sponsored by The Department of Relationship Violence and Outreach (662) 325-2090 www.health.msstate.edu/sas/
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stat of the day :
Saturday Special: alabama vS.
in bowl games dating back to the 1999 season.
miSSiSSippi State
5-0 – mississippi state’s record
3 p.m. Sec network
eric evanS | the reflector
Mississippi State’s Chris Moore faces off with an Ole Miss player during one of MSU’s games earlier this season. The Bulldogs will face Auburn this weekend at the BancorpSouth Center in Tupelo.
MSU Ice Hockey wraps up home season by hannah rogers Editor in Chief
After trailing the University of Memphis for the majority of last Friday night’s game, the Ice Dawgs were able to rally in the third period and come back to win 5-4. The newfound momentum allowed the ice hockey team to sweep Memphis last weekend and has produced high hopes for this weekend’s games against Auburn, which will be the team’s last home games. Chance Morreale, senior right wing, said his team needs to stay tough and play a hard game against Auburn. “We need to control the flow of the game,” he said. “Auburn has been a good team the past few years, so we need to have fans behind us and keep the momentum.” First year head coach Paul Thornton said Mississippi State will implement the same game plan against Auburn as it did against Memphis. “Auburn is a big conference match-up. We hope to beat Auburn. We are probably evenly matched,” he said. R.C. Morgan, junior center, said the team needs to be just as athletic and physical against Auburn as it was against Memphis. “There is more competitiveness against Auburn because it is an SEC team,” he said. “We need a lot of fans to come out
and support the team.” Hunter Bridges, senior forward and MSU ice hockey president, said the team plans to keep their cool and avoid getting penalties, while using Auburn’s to their advantage. Facing his last season with the Ice Dawgs, Bridges said he wants to soak in the experience while it lasts. “I hope to go out with a bang and hopefully get wins this weekend and keep a winning record for the rest of the season,” he said. Morreale, who is also graduating this spring, said it will be hard to leave the team behind as he takes the ice in Tupelo one last time. “I will hang up the skates after this,” he said. “With the fans behind us it will be a great game, and I want to know that I gave my all.” As the senior members prepare to play their last season, they have had to adapt to changes to team dynamics, including a change in coaching. “He (Thornton) came in late October. We went through a coaching transition, which was kinda hard,” he said. “The team has become closer, with more events and more practices.” Thornton said since he has become coach, the team culture has been restructured to gain better organization on the ice. Thornton has given the team offensive and defense systems to run during practice to prevent chaos on
the ice and drills to improve distance. “The team hasn’t been disciplined in the past. They’ve done very well and came a long way,” he said. “They’ve taken great stiles this year trying to build the program. The players have bought into the system.” Through Thornton’s leadership the team has become more dedicated than in previous years. “We got our heads on straight and started over, basically,” Morreale said. “We have learned a lot. It’s been going good so far.” Morgan said the team has improved over the years, and the players have gotten better. “We have a really good (team). Everybody loves everybody,” he said. More players from the north have joined the team and Bridges said the team members hope to recruit more in the future by sending letters to promote the school. “They can get good weather and hockey,” he said. As the program continues, Morreale said he wants to see the team gain new members and grow. He said anyone who has played ice hockey before or who knows the game is welcome to try out. “Hopefully, we will one day have an ice rink closer to us than Tupelo,” he said. “We hope to keep the fan base and get that bigger.”
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DOGS WIN A CLOSE ONE | Sophomore Wendell Lewis finishes a dunk during the first half of MSU’s 62-58 win over Tennessee on Thursday night. The Bulldogs survived a scare at the end when the Vols had an opportunity to tie or take the lead with 11 seconds left, but a UT turnover secured the victory for MSU, giving State its first SEC win of the season.
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Bulldogs looking for more from guards By Kristen spinK Staff Writer
Dee Bost leads the Bulldogs in points, assists, steals, three pointers made and minutes played per game. The senior point guard has been the leader of the team all season, but he has been playing a ton of minutes and carrying the load for State. As good as Bost has been, he needs some help. Freshman guard Rodney Hood has been the most consistent helper for Bost, averaging 12.6 points per game while shooting 50 percent from the field. But even Hood admitted the MSU guards need to step up their game. “We have to handle the ball better and make plays,” Hood said. “They took the ball out of Dee’s hands, and the rest of us failed to make plays. We have to get better at that.” In State’s SEC opener at Arkansas, the Razorbacks pressed and kept the pressure on the Dogs throughout the game. This led to a season-high 18 turnovers, six above the team’s average. Head coach Rick Stansbury said he is not going to panic about the game. “Our offense led to some defensive problems, too. Defensively, we have been pretty good and consistent,” Stansbury said. “We’ve seen a lot of different presses all year long, but this one sped us up, and it’s hard to simulate it in practice.” Besides Hood, senior Brian Bryant, sophomore Jalen Steele and freshman DeVille Smith have seen minutes off the bench. The three are averaging a combined 21.5 points per game. Lately, however, they have added little to the scoreboard, excluding Smith’s 25-point outburst against Arkansas. Bryant admitted he needs to improve his decision making and ball handling to help Bost more. “We feel like he’s playing too many minutes, and down the stretch he gets tired,” Bryant said. “We need to rest him in the early half and give him more help.” While those guards can assist Bost in some ways, Smith is the true back-up point guard and is
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Men’s tennis set to open season in Hawaii
Coming off a 2011 season that saw Mississippi State’s men’s tennis team win the SEC West title, the Bulldogs will begin their 2012 campaign this weekend in Hawaii. MSU returns all of the key players from the 2011 squad that finished 20th in the nation. The Bulldogs will begin the 2012 season ranked 16th in the preseason polls. The season will officially begin at 2 p.m. Friday against Santa Barbara in Honolulu and will continue Saturday when State takes on Hawaii. The Bulldogs will be leaning on a trio of seniors who received second team All-SEC honors a season ago. George Coupland, a Hatfield, England native is the highest ranked among MSU’s players, beginning the season at No. 32. Fellow senior Louis Cant is ranked No. 45 in the preseason polls, while Artem Ilyushin is not ranked because he did not compete in the fall. Also competing for the Bulldogs will be reining SEC Freshman of the Year Malte Stropp, as well as fellow sophomore Zach White. Next weekend MSU will take on a pair of Big 10 schools as it travels to Michigan State and Ohio State for matches. The first home match for the Bulldogs will be on Feb. 3 against TCU at the A.J. Pitts Tennis Centre.
Stuedeman adds former All-American to staff
eric evans | the reflector
Dee Bost, left, sets up a play for Mississippi State. Bost leads MSU in points, assists and steals this season. The senior is hoping to receive more help from guards like Jalen Steele, right.
improving by gaining experience. The 5’11 four-star recruit tallied 25 points in just 18 minutes of action against Arkansas, and Stansbury said Smith must continue to focus and make adjustments. “He’s best at just scrambling in the open court, but he has to continue to stay focused, and it’s a challenge for him everyday,” Stansbury said. “I want him to get to where we can bring him in and feel comfortable with him
and get some consistency from him offensively and defensively.” Stansbury added that Bost does not need help bringing the ball up the court; rather, he simply needs a rest every once in a while. “Dee needs a blow, and DeVille’s a guy who can help with that,” Stansbury said. “We need to rest Dee more, but we would like to get Dee and DeVille on the court together some more.” Smith is averaging 6.3 points
per game and is second on the team with 38 assists and 18 steals on the year. Since SEC play is underway, Smith’s contributions to the team will become more and more significant. Hood believes Smith will be a key part of the team as the season continues. “We need ball handlers, and he’s tough mentally and physically,” Hood said. “He can score with the best of them, and we’re going to need him down the line for ball-handling purposes.”
MSU softball coach Vann Stuedemann has added another member to her coaching staff with the start of the season less than a month away. Former University of Alabama star picther Kelsi Dunne has joined the staff as a volunteer assistant, Stuedeman announced Wednesday. Dunne was named All-American in each of her four seasons at Alabama, where she played under Stuedemann. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in sport mangement. “Kelsi commands instant respect in the softball community and we’re ecstatic that she decided to be a Bulldog and help this team reach places we’ve never been before,” Stuedeman said in a statement released by MSU. “Her ability to thoroughly and effectively communicate her knowledge of the game to our players will prove to be an invaluable asset for our program going forward.” As a player at Alabama, Dunne racked up numerous records for the Tide. She is the school’s all-time strikeout leader with 1,219 and has the school’s lowest opponent batting average with a .165 clip. Dunne was selected with the top pick in the 2011 National Pro Fastpitch Draft by the NPF Diamonds. “To work under Vann and help her current pitching staff is an opportunity that I’m extremely grateful for,” Dunne said in a satement. “I look forward to using my passion and knowledge of the game to maximize player development here in Starkville.”
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Recruiting preview: 2012 class looks to make final push BY MATT TYLER Staff Writer
IAN PRESTER | THE REFLECTOR
Mississippi Stateʼs linebackers pose with coach Geoff Collins for a picture after the teamʼs Music City Bowl win over Wake Forest. The group will feature a mixture of new and old faces in 2012. Cameron Lawrence (10) is the leading tackler among the players returning.
OUTKICKING THE COVERAGE | RAY BUTLER
Way-too-early look at ʻ12 Dogs A
fter finishing the 20112012 season with a 7-6 record and a Music City Bowl victory over Wake Forest, the Mississippi State Bulldogs will now hit the weight room in anticipation of beginning the 2012-2013 football season with spring practice in March. With every off-season comes new opportunities for underclassmen to fill the holes left by graduated seniors of the previous season. As a whole, the MSU football team had 15 seniors on the 2011 roster, nine of which started. When the departure of Fletcher Cox to the NFL is added, the Bulldogs will return just 11 of 24 starters for the 2012 season, leaving a large gap for players who saw only moderate playing time this past season to fill. At first glance, the quarterback position at MSU will be without a doubt one of the biggest question marks heading into next season. With the graduation of Chris Relf and redshirt freshman Dylan Favre out of the picture after transferring to Pearl River Community College during bowl preparation of this past season, the Bulldogs are left with just two quarterbacks on scholarship; Tyler Russell, who started multiple games this past season as a redshirt sophomore, and Dak Prescott, a highly-touted recruit out of high school who traveled with the team during the 2011 season but did not see any playing time and was eventually redshirted. With the quarterbacking corps thin at best, State will probably look to sign a quarterback in the current recruiting class in order to add much needed depth to the position. As it stands now,
Ray Butler is a freshman majoring in kinesiology. He can be contacted at reflectorsports@ gmail.com however, Russell may be in line to receive a lion’s share of the snaps next season, which could possibly lead to a more consistent passing attack than Bulldog fans have witnessed in seasons past. While Vick Ballard is a player who will be nearly impossible to replace for MSU, the Bulldogs do have several candidates at running back who have the ability to fill in nicely. LaDarius Perkins, an explosive player who is known for big plays, figures to have every opportunity to start at the running back position next season as a redshirt junior. Nick Griffin, who recovered from a knee injury in time to see limited action this season, will likely back up Perkins. Josh Robinson and Derrick Milton, who both redshirted this season as true freshmen, are also primed to fig-
ure into the game plan in some fashion. In attempt to replace three graduated seniors along the offensive line, current redshirt freshman Blaine Clausell, who started in place of Carmon and was hampered by injury at different times this season, will be relied upon to fill one of the open tackle positions. Another current redshirt freshman, Damien Robinson, saw time at guard this past season but could move to offensive tackle, the position he was originally recruited to play. Luckily for the Bulldogs, Tobias Smith, a current junior who started in the first three games of the season before suffering a year-ending knee injury, is slated to return to his starting role in the 2012 season. To replace Ferguson and Cox on the defensive line, State will likely turn to the likes of current freshmen P.J. Jones and Curtis Virges. Jones, who played as a defensive tackle this season, could either start alongside Boyd or slide over and fill the void left by Ferguson. Virges saw time this season at both defensive tackle and defensive end, and his flexibility will be further welcomed next season. Other names to watch are Preston Smith and Johnathan Harris, a pair of true freshmen who are likely to contribute to MSU’s defensive line next season. Also,
“The Bulldogs have a lot of production to replace heading into next seasonʼs schedule, but with a large amount of talent remaining on the roster ... it is hard to imagine much of a drop off.”
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State has acquired a large amount of talent on the defensive line in its current recruiting class. If the Bulldogs can maintain their commitments and get that talent to sign the dotted line on National Signing Day, MSU will almost surely have contribution from true freshmen on the defensive line next season. To replace Brandon Wilson, who finished his final season at MSU with 94 tackles, State has numerous options of to “quarterback” the defense. Matthew Wells, Christian Holmes and Ferlando Bohanna, all freshmen, saw playing time this year and, barring injury, will be on the field again next season for MSU. Cameron Lawrence, currently a junior linebacker who led State in tackles at the end of the 2011 season, figures to once again be a main playmaker for defensive coordinator Chris Wilson, who will enter his third year at MSU next season. The Bulldogs have a lot of production to replace heading into next season, but with a large amount of talent remaining on the roster, along with a schedule I believe is easier than this past season’s schedule, it is hard to imagine much drop off from the 2011 season to the 2012 season. With beginning preparations for next season right around the corner, the MSU coaching staff, players and fan base would much rather see a team in 2012 that mimics or exceeds the success of the 2010 team that finished with a 9-4 overall record and a dominating victory in the Gator Bowl rather than the 7-6 record that MSU accumulated in the 2011 season.
With college football’s National Signing Day approaching on Feb. 1, recruiting is in full swing for colleges across the country. This is especially true for universities that compete in the football-crazed Southeastern Conference. As a program that competes in the SEC, members of Mississippi State University’s coaching staff have spent the last year working hard to lure top talent to Starkville to ensure the Bulldogs remain competitive within the roughand-tumble league. The SEC passed legislation last year limiting each member institution to signing 25 players to scholarships a year. However, some recruits can enroll early and count back toward the previous year’s signing class. As it currently stands, MSU has 25 commitments, three of which are able to be counted back to last year’s class. This leaves MSU with three or four spots left to fill as signing day approaches. This year’s class is heavy on offensive and defensive linemen, with five offensive linemen and seven defensive linemen currently committed. Along the offensive line, junior college transfers Charles Siddoway and Dylan Holley, who both enrolled this semester, are expected to provide a boost to a young offensive line that struggled most of the previous season. High school prospects such as Cole Carter, Justin Senior and Under Armour AllAmerican Devon Desper of Madison Central High School will add more depth. It is on the defensive line that the Bulldogs have racked up. With star defensive tackle Fletcher Cox heading to the NFL and several other defensive linemen graduating or becoming seniors, it was imperative MSU coaches reload on the defensive line. In getting players such as Denico Autry, scout.com’s top-rated junior college defensive end, Quay Evans, scout.com’s second-rated high school defensive tackle, the Bulldogs have managed to land two five star prospects on the defensive line. Along with these two standouts, MSU has talented prospects from around the Southeast committed such as Ryan Brown, Nick James, Jordan Washington, Torrey Bell and Nelson Adams. According to Paul Jones of bulldawgs247.com, this large group of defensive linemen will allow MSU defensive line coach Chris Wilson to continue rotating many guys along the defensive front. “What it does is build your depth. Coach Wilson always wants to have nine or 10 guys on the defensive line to take in to each season, and he will have that again next year,” Jones said. “I wouldn’t be surprised to see
Recruiting
Breakdown for MSU's Current Commitments
By Ranking : 3 : 19 : 3 By Position Defensive Line: Linebacker: Offensive Line: Athlete: Defensive Back: Tight End: Running Back: Wide Receiver: Kicker: Quarterback:
Source: rivals.com
PIPER REAVES | THE REFLECTOR
Quay Evans and Nick James both get some reps.” At the skill positions, MSU has signed a bevy of athletes who could play on either side of the ball. Prospects such as Xavier Grindle, Adairus Barnes, Will Redmond, Deonte Evans and several others could wind up playing wide receiver or defensive back. Redmond, who scout.com rates the 19th best cornerback in the nation, is the crown jewel of the group. In what will surely be thrilling news to anyone who has kept close tabs on the MSU football program under head Coach Dan Mullen, the Bulldogs currently have a kicker/punter committed in Devon Bell from Warren Central High School in Vicksburg, Miss., who regularly kicks the ball into the end zone on kickoffs. If the current recruits stay committed and the Bulldogs land another talented player or two, Jones believes this class could be comparable to the first class Mullen signed. That 2009 signing class has already seen Cox leave early for the NFL and will see several more players do the same before it is all said and done. “Depending on if they finish with a couple of top guys like they should, it could be a lot like his first,” Jones said. “If they close with three-or-four star average guys closing out, it could be a top-25 class across the board.”
SIGNING DAY National Signing Day for all college football programs is Feb. 1.
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