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NOVEMBER 15, 2013

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Dawg Rally helps boost school spirit

BY PRANAAV JADHAV Staff Writer

Mississippi State University Athletic Director Scott Stricklin, the Famous Maroon Band and 100 free T-shirts will be featured at the Dawg Rally Friday in the Junction. The pep rally will be Friday’s event as part of the on-going True Maroon week celebrations on campus.

Nikki Robinson, co-director of the Student Association history and traditions committee, said the SA planned the event, but SA contacted the Athletic Department to support the Dawg Rally.

“We will have Scott Stricklin speak. The cheerleaders, the pom squad and the band will also be present,” Robinson said.

The Dawg Rally is scheduled to begin at 4:15 p.m. with a few surprises planned at the end.

“Beginning Thursday, many cowbells will be hidden all throughout the campus until Friday, and we ask people to find them and bring it to the Dawg Rally to receive prizes,” Robinson said.

Clinton Alexander, junior communication major and band member, said playing at the Dawg Rally is a memorable experience.

KAITLYN GEX

|

COURTESY PHOTO

Dane Knight shared a love for Christmas with his roommates, Kaitlyn Gex and Alex Maxwell. They put up a full-size Christmas tree early on Nov. 5. Knight, who died on Nov. 8, studied biological sciences at MSU and wanted to attend nursing school. Knight’s friends remember his smile brightening their day.

Student’s shining smile remains in memories after tragic death

BY LACRETIA WIMBLEY

friends during this very diffi- dull moment with Dane. cult time,” he said.

“He was always laughing The memoand smiling. He rial service for always made Knight was at sure that everyHe was Our Lady of the one around was always Gulf Catholic having a good laughing Church in Bay time,” Rafferty and smiling. said.

St. Louis, Miss., Wednesday.

Friends said He always made Friends said Knight sure that everyone walk into a could one of the most room m e m o r a b l e around was having of strangers and things about a good time.” light it up.

Knight, a Bay -Colleen Rafferty, Kaitlyn Gex, St. Louis native, freshman and freshman human was his bright Knight’s former sciences major smile. roommate, said Colleen RafKnight looked ferty, freshman forward to comhuman sciences major and ing home to the Coast and havfriend, said there was never a ing bonfires with friends.

Staff Writer

Dane E. Knight, sophomore biological sciences major at Mississippi State University, died Nov. 8.

Billy Miller, Oktibbeha County deputy coroner, said the police department received a call at 11:02 p.m. last Friday night from 74 Lock Lane in the Highlands.

Sid Salter, director of Public Affairs, said there is incredible sadness when a young life full of promise is cut short.

“Mississippi State University greatly values each member of our university family, and our thoughts and prayers are with Dane Knight’s family and

SEE RALLY, 3

SEE KNIGHT, 2

KAITLYN GEX | COURTESY PHOTO

Kaitlyn Gex (right) remembers Dane Knight (left) as her inseparable friend who lit up any room he entered.

History department gives BIS program celebrates alternative spring break 50th anniversary Friday

BY JAKE JONES Staff Writer

Some college students spend their spring break relaxing on a beach or hanging out at home, but during this year’s spring break, 30 students will travel to the Mississippi Delta to experience its rich history and to make a difference in the lives of those living in the Delta.

The Mississippi Delta Alternative Spring Break is a three-hour credit history class open for all students who are interested in the Mississippi Delta’s history and culture. Part of the class is a week-long trip to the Delta where students will participate in service and educational activities.

This is the third year of the program, and it was just recently

MEGGAN FRANKS | COURTESY PHOTO

Students participating in the history course Mississippi Delta Alternative Spring Break will take a trip to the Delta to experience its culture through church visits, blue’s music and Native American interaction. Past groups went canoeing in the Mississippi River.

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made into a permanent class at Mississippi State University. Jason Ward has been the professor for the class previously, but this year the class will be taught by Karen Senaga.

Senaga, a doctoral student in the history department, worked with Ward on a project focused on the Delta. Senaga said she has always been interested in agriculture and the history of the Delta and looks forward to experiencing the Delta from a service point of view with the students.

“I am interested in thinking about the Delta in a larger context,” Senaga said. “I think students need to understand that the Delta has developed and has ties to the globe. Hopefully, I can bring that perspective to the class.”

The Business Information Systems event will host established BIS members and founder.

BY NIA WILSON Contributing Writer

The Business Information Systems (BIS) program in Mississippi State University’s College of Business will honor 50 years of success this fall.

The celebration will be Friday at 4 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium in McCool Hall.

Krysten Lee, a senior BIS major and BIS club member, said the scientific background

gained from BIS training can be seen in most technological tools people use today.

“Mississippi State University’s Business Information Systems program was the first information systems program in an accredited college of business in the world,” Lee said.

“It was originally created in 1963 by Charles Moore, who led the way for the 1,803 who have become a part of the program throughout the years.”

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THE REFLECTOR

KNIGHT

continued from 1

“We were kind of insep- rafting more, since he’d only arable. His all-time favorite been a couple times,” she said. singer and group was Carrie “Dane loved to run too. Not Underwood and Matchbox really on a track but mostly 20,” she said. “I remember he on campus or in the Highwould always make me stop lands. Boating and playing talking whenever a song of beach volleyball back at home Carrie’s would on the coast play.” were really The first Gex said some of his fathing I Knight never vorite things to thought it was do.” noticed too early to celParnell said about him ebrate Christshe has known was how funny he mas.

Knight since “We shared a was.” they both were love for Christ- -Austa Chasez, three years old, mas so much University of and he would that in our always brighthouse we put Mississippi student en her day. up a full-size “I was his Christmas tree on Nov. 5,” friend because he was a good she said. person,” she said. “He was Christy Parnell, sophomore the type of person you would biological sciences major, said always want to see every day.

Knight’s unique personality He would do this Pinocchio would draw people in, and dance saying, ‘I’m a wooden his smile was like the warmth little boy,’ and it would be reof the sun. ally funny because he was so “He loved being outdoors. lanky. He would also ‘twerk’ He would always say he want- on the wall when we were beed to go kayaking and water ing silly. You really wouldn’t

see that side of him unless you were close to him.”

Austa Chasez, junior at the University of Mississippi and friend, said she met Knight about three summers ago when they worked together as lifeguards at Barnacle Bills Water Park in Waveland, Miss.

“The first thing I noticed about him was how funny he was,” she said. “He was also very smart and graduated with honors from St. Stanislaus College in 2012.”

Chasez said Knight drove a Dodge truck that he named “The Green Machine.”

“I will miss the way he was so bubbly and how he could always make me laugh,” she said.

Knight received the Character Cup award his senior year and was a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Key Club, March for Life and Yearbook Staff at St. Stanislaus College.

Gex said Knight was not recently involved in anything at

CHRISTY PARNELL | COURTESY PHOTO

MSU students and friends Kaitlyn Gex, Dane Knight, Christy Parnell, Colleen Rafferty and Sara-Ashton La Rosa tailgate during an MSU football game.

MSU, but he had plans to go to nursing school next year.

Rafferty said Knight was very religious and demonstrated his faith through at-

tending church and working with Kairos and Search retreat team.

“He had big goals for himself and was very determined

ANNIVERSARY There will be an abundance of knowledgeable speakers at the event. In attendance will be Sharon Oswald, dean of the College of Business, provost Jerry Gilbert, executive director of Mississippi Information Technology Craig Orgeron, several alumni and other established members. Charles Moore, the founder of the program, will be in attendance as well.

Kent Marett, associate professor of information systems and faculty adviser for the BIS Club, said the BIS Club has not only been helpful prior to the celebration, but will also be invaluable at the event.

“The day of the event the BIS club will be helping with registration and making name

to make them all happen,” she said. “Dane never hated anyone; no one hated Dane.

He was an all-around great guy.”

continued from 1

tags. Basically, they just make everyone feel welcome. I hope they also have the opportunity to meet and greet with the important figures there,” he said.

The BIS Club currently has about 25 members and is open to any students interested as the school year progresses. The club has been going for about three years, but many people know about them. Anyone that is a BIS major or interested in becoming a BIS major is advised to consider joining BIS Club.

A BIS major at MSU can expect to be prepared for a career in information technology and working in a corporate environment. This major allows students to extensively explore both computers and business.

More commonly than not, BIS graduates begin their careers as a computer programmer, then as their skills develop, they become a systems analyst, database administrator or management position.

Marett said the purpose of the event is to celebrate how far the BIS program has come and promote the bettering of the program as the years continue. It stands t o encourage all students that have a passion for technology and business. Each speaker can

share a piece of their experiences and knowledge to inspire current and future BIS majors.

Marett said he is eager to hear from every speaker, but one stands out in particular.

“I am most excited about hearing Charles Moore.

Imagine what courage and charisma Moore must have had to talk Mississippi State into starting a program that no one else had. I

can’t wait to hear the story behind the beginnings,” he said.

While other schools have management information systems (MIS) or computer information systems (CIS), MSU respects the “B” in BIS. MSU focuses on fully educating the many aspects of computers, management, and business.

Rodney Pearson, professor of information systems, said he likes the “B” in BIS much better.

“We have had BIS before MIS even existed. We don’t support just management or just computers. We educate our students on the workings of business as a whole,” Pearson said. “That is what the audience should see at our celebration.”

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DELTA

continued from 1

Prior to spring break, students will study the history of the Delta from settlement to the present. During spring break they will visit the Delta. The trip will begin with a worship service in traditionally white and black churches. During the rest of the trip students, will embrace the culture of the Delta through blues music, civil rights and Native-American experiences. Students will also take part in service projects with youth development programs, Mississippi River MEGGAN FRANKS | COURTESY PHOTO conservation groups, locally-grown food initiatives MSU students learn more about the Mississippi Delta during a spring break. This and health education or- year’s trip will focus on blue’s music, civil rights and Native-American experiences. ganizations. Students will guest speakers will be author and participated in the alter- neighborhood kids and share also canoe down the mighty Francoise Hamlin. Hamlin native break trip. Lewis said with them some vegetables Mississippi River.

After the students return wrote “Crossroads at Clarks- her favorite part of the trip from the garden that we were from the Delta, the class dale,” which is one of the re- was building “raise bed gar- planting,” Lewis said. “Some dens” in Sunflower County, of them did not know that structure will consist of a se- quired readings for the class.

Holly Lewis, senior mar- Miss. certain foods came from the ries of seminars from local “It was my favorite because ground. It was amazing to professionals about issues keting major, said she was facing the Delta. One of the enrolled in the class last year we got to meet some of the watch them make the connection that we grow our food.”

Registration for the class, which is listed under the course code HI 3342, is going on now. The class will meet on Monday afternoons from 4 to 5:15 p.m. However, one requirement is that students who want to enroll in the class have to email Senaga before they can sign up.

This is to make sure that students understand the reading that will be required, as well as make sure they understand the spring break trip, which will cost $200, is not optional.

Cade Smith, director of student leadership and community engagement, helped start the program three years ago. Smith said one thing he feels deeply about is a quote MEGGAN FRANKS | COURTESY PHOTO by 19th century philosopher Students perform service projects during a previous alternative spring break trip. Students learn and serve during the trips that are a part of a history class. Herbert Spencer ,who said

Monday, Nov. 11 • 2:34 p.m. An employee reported some property damages in Davis Wade Stadium 200 level.

• 3:28 p.m. A student reported a threatening message written on her dorm room in Rice Hall.

• 4:38 p.m. An employee reported money belonging to the Collegiate Cattlewomen’s Association missing from her office in the Wise Center.

• 6:15 p.m. A student was having seizures in McCool Hall.

EMT was called. The subject refused transportation to OCH. • 9:50 p.m. A student dislocated his shoulder at South Farm.

• 11:15 p.m. A student was arrested on Stone Boulevard for speeding and driving under the influence. Justice Court citations and a student referral were issued.

Tuesday, Nov. 12 • 2:18 a.m. A student was arrested for possession of marijuana at McKee Hall. A Justice Court citation and student referral were issued.

Wednesday, Nov. 13 • 8:57 a.m. An employee reported her jacket and iPod missing from McCool Hall.

• 11:04 p.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for possession of marijuana and public drunkenness.

• 11:29 p.m. A student was pointing a green laser out of a window of Rice Hall. A student referral was issued.

Citations:

• 14 citations were issued for speeding.

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

the great aim of education is not knowledge, but action.

“I want students to understand that they have an opportunity, and a responsibility, to take what they’ve learned and bring new value

to the world,” he said.

Students who would like more information about the class can email Karen Senaga at ks775@msstate.edu or Cade Smith at cade@saffairs. msstate.edu.

RALLY

continued from 1

“It’s great to see everyone get the momentum back up so spirited and excited for the game.

I think it adds a litWe did the tle to the energy we ‘we belive’ see on game day,” he campaign said. last year, and Toya Windom, MSU alumna and we didn’t win that game. business manager We still believed in our at the Office of Admissions and Schol- team win or lose, but arships, said the SA this year we are focusing wants to increase on believing we are True school spirit on cam- Maroon.” pus this week.

“I think all of this -Michael Hogan, stuff will be really Student Association good to get everyone president involved and pumped up on everything going on campus. This could even though the football

team has not been winning games lately,” Windom said.

Michael Hogan, SA president, said the festivities are a good way for MSU stutdents to stay motivated and be excited for the game.

“We did the ‘we believe’ campaign last year, and we didn’t win that game. We still believed in our team win or lose, but this year we are focusing on believing that we are True Maroon,” Hogan said. “Bob Carskadon is the emcee for the Dawg Rally, and we should have a few surprises at the end.”

For more information on the Dawg Rally and other True Maroon events, log on to sa.msstate.edu.

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OPINION

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

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After victory in N.J. governor race, is Christie now aimed for presidency?

I

n what was termed as a landslide victory for Chris Christie last week in his re-election as the governor of New Jersey, Christie’s name has already begun to surface as the GOP’s probable candidate for the 2016 presidential elections.

A new NBC News poll released Tuesday showed Hillary Clinton would start with a 10-point lead over Christie in a hypothetical 2016 presidential race, 44 percent to 34 percent, but a difference of 10 percent could easily be overtaken.

The theories of wooing the minority voters made rounds after Obama’s re-election last year, and many felt the GOP needs to do more to appease voters from different backgrounds if it wants to win back the White House.

The growing number of immigrants who play a role in shaping American politics cannot be overlooked or denied. President

Obama secured around 70 percent of the Latino vote in November 2012.

The Huffington Post reported in an article on Feb. 22 the possibility of 40 million Latino voters by the end of 2030 if immigration reform becomes a reality.

While speaking to Fox News’s Chris Wallace on Sunday, Christie said, “At the end of the day, people in Washington, D.C., don’t understand that if you want to win a vote by that kind of margin, if you want to attract the majority of the Hispanic vote, if you want to nearly triple your African-American vote, you need to show up,” he said. “You need to go into those neighborhoods.

You need to campaign in places.

That’s the way the Republican party will make itself more relevant to a whole much broader group of folks. And the fact is, that’s exactly what Ronald Reagan would have done and did

do when he was campaigning for president.”

In January 2013, a PublicMind poll found that 73 percent of registered voters approved of the job Christie was doing as governor in the state of New Jersey. Leslie Baker, political science instructor at Mississippi State University, said she thinks Christie will run for office and has enough support.

“It will be an interesting race.

One reason for his popularity right now is that he’s pretty moderate, and a lot of Democrats like him. But in order to win, he’ll have to move to the right. That could cost him key independent support. The key in Christie’s race (if he gets the nomination) against Clinton will be who has the best fundraising and ground game,” Baker said.

Jon Terbush, columnist at “The Week” questions whether Christie can win outside New Jersey. In

his article on Nov. 12 titled “Chris Christie’s Provincial Problem,” Terbush said Republican respondents nationwide are equally split between Christie, anti-Christie and unsure. Christie has notably sparred with unions, slashed state spending and wagged his finger at teachers — all of which should win him support with conservatives. But he’s also developed a moderate image, dropped a challenge to gay marriage, endorsed some limited gun control reforms and suggested illegal immigrants be given in-state tuition rates.

On the contrary, McCay Coppins, staff writer at buzzfeed.com said in an article on Nov. 8 one data point buried in the exit poll cross-tabs and not published in most news stories about the race might temper the hysteria.

According to exit polls conducted by Edison Research, in a hypothetical 2016 contest between Christie and Clinton, the Repub-

lican governor’s support among minorities would drop sharply in his home state.

The question put to New Jersey voters was: “If these were the candidates for president in 2016, for whom would you vote?”

In a head-to-head matchup, Clinton would receive 57 percent of New Jersey Latinos’ votes and Christie would get 33 percent.

The gap grows even wider with black voters: 86 percent said they would vote for Clinton, and just five percent would vote for Christie.

One of the oldest democracies on the planet could witness a first woman president or an extremely popular governor as president in 2016 with the current hypotheses.

If you can recall, there were fewer names thrown at you in 2009 for the 2012 presidential elections from within the GOP after the one-year completion of Pres-

PRANAAV JADHAV Pranaav Jadhav is a junior majoring in communication. He can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.

ident Obama’s first term. Now there are way too many for 2016.

What has changed? Is it Obama’s plummeting popularity rates or is it that the GOP has found its potential powerhouses?

Political pundits could make a prediction, but only 2016 will tell if Christie is a real threat to Clinton’s White House aspirations.

I MEAN, THINK ABOUT IT

LET’S PLAY THIS BY EAR

Has society fostered an acceptable drug culture? Is a master’s degree the new bachelor’s degree?

T

he media’s depiction of college life often includes scenes of extracurricular experimentation with illegal substances as well as excessive consumption of legal substances.

These scenes normally take place in party atmospheres and involve poor decision-making skills and a lack of responsibility. On a smaller scale, these scenes can be found on nearly every college campus.

However, there is one substance abuse issue rarely portrayed in the dramatic interpretation of the college lifestyle. Its use prevails across campuses nationwide, but rather than increasing the chances of bad decisions, the purpose of its use is to increase focus and improve one’s performance in school or work.

The abuse of medication intended to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is, according to Alan DeSantis, a professor and research professional at the University of Kentucky, in an interview for CNN.com, “abused more than marijuana and is easier to get.” The research performed by DeSantis revealed 30 percent of students at his university had illegally used ADHD medications like Ritalin, Adderall, etc. as a stimulant. That percentage increased in the studies performed solely on upperclassmen (CNN.com).

The federal government considers most forms of ADHD medication as a schedule II drug. This category of drug is reserved for substances that have “the highest abuse potential and dependence profile of all drugs that have medical utility” (CNN.com).

Despite how serious the circumstances that surround ADHD

medication may seem, I feel one would be hard-pressed to find a student without acquaintances who have abused drugs in this manner or have not abused the drugs themselves.

I am personally prescribed to ADHD medication. I acknowledge that some people are skeptical of the legitimacy of ADHD as an illness in general. However, that is the topic of another article entirely, and for the sake of brevity, I will admit I need my medicine. Any one of my friends or family members can attest to the fact that my ability to focus is, to put it lightly, challenged, not in the sense that I am lazy and choose not to focus but more in the sense that I have difficulty completing thoughts and driving because I am so easily distracted. In regards to schoolwork, my medicine provides an extra boost of focus needed to finish out assignments or complete tests in a timely manner. But schoolwork was not the driving force behind my decision to be tested for ADHD. I chose to be tested so that I could potentially be more focused and efficient in my day-today life.

Some of my friends who choose to ingest ADHD medication without being prescribed have ulterior motives that range anywhere from staying up later for recreational activities to weight loss, but the primary reason behind taking the medication illegally is to perform better in school. I sometimes have a difficult time judging my peers for this action because I know very well that taking the medication does make schoolwork seem more natural. Their intentions are good;

I

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

they want to perform well in class.

However, the way many college students abuse these substances is alarming. These medications are meant to be taken routinely.

You are suggested to take them at roughly the same time every day, and you are encouraged to maintain a healthy sleep schedule, diet and exercise regimen while doing so. Failing to meet these requirements can result in negative side effects including headaches, nervousness and depression.

Many college students take these medications with little to no regard for the dangers of their misuse. Taking ADHD meds at 2 a.m. during finals week to pull off an all-nighter before your 8 o’clock test is not only a poor habit to create, but it threatens one’s health and well-being. Because of the frequency of the misuse of these medications, students have become desensitized to the danger they inflict upon themselves. I encourage all college students to become familiar with the proper uses of ADHD medication, and to continue to pursue academic excellence, but to do so in a safe and healthy way.

n this day and age, many with the master’s degree also earns college students choose to a higher income than the perattend graduate school. From son with a bachelor’s degree that engineering to marketing, more works the same position. For tostudents are choosing to continue day’s generation, a master’s degree is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, their higher learning.

Why is this? It is mainly about and a bachelors degree is equivapotential salary. Studies show lent to a high school diploma. As that students who go to graduate depressing as this may sound, a school and earn a master’s degree high school diploma is equivalent earn higher salaries than students to nothing. It may get you a startwho choose not to pursue a mas- ing position at a low-income job such as a fast ter’s. The facts food-restaudo not lie. There rant, but who could be othFor today’s wants to work er reasons why generation, a starter job college students a master’s paying minichoose to stay degree mum wage all in school. Some of his or her students may is equivilant to a life? No one not feel they are bachelor’s degree, does. This is ready to face rewhy graduality and venture and a bachelor’s ate school is a out into the real degree is equivilant smart choice. world — to re- to a high school There are main in school things you seems to be the diploma.” must consider best option. Let’s if you choose face it, most of us have been in school so long it to attend graduate school, such has become a safe haven for us. as deciding the right school for However, statistics show more col- you, where you want to live for lege students attended or will at- the next few years and the cost of tend graduate school because they attendence. The first step would be to narrow your choice down to want to earn a higher income.

The increase in the number of schools that specialize in what you students who attend graduate want to go to school for. If you school has caused the job field are interested in law, University to become extremely competi- of Mississippi School of Law and tive. It is now harder than ever University of Alabama School of to find jobs directly after grad- Law may be two of your choices. uation. However, students who If you want to attend graduate attend graduate school and earn a school for engineering, Missismaster’s degree are more likely to sippi State University has a great obtain a job than a student with program, which means you may a bachelor’s degree who applies not even have to relocate. Then for the same position. The person you can narrow your choice down

SEQUOIA RICHARDSON Sequoia Richardson is a senior majoring in political science.

She can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.

even more and decide where you would want to live, and most likely work, for the next few years. It is best to go to school where you would like to start work so that you can easily make connections to potential job offers while you work on your master’s.

Next, there is the issue of money. Most graduate schools, such as MSU, offer waivers for out-ofstate tuition, and there are many scholarships that can be earned for in-state tuition. Also, to work for the school’s program and to help participate in research that pertains to your major can help you earn money toward your tuition.

The easiest way to get some cash toward your tuition would be to score high on the GRE. Doing well on this test is your golden ticket to higher education and more money in the bank. If you are interested in graduate school at MSU and have more questions, Karen Coats is a great professor in the Department of Basic Sciences that can answer any questions you may have. Graduate school is definitely worth looking into.

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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.

D

id you know there was a only because their fathers made full-out student strike on them. The situation settled after Mississippi State Univer- about a week, but most women sity’s campus 100 years ago? had been transferred out, and the According to a 1993 report by school took a policy that excluded Cathryn Goree, a former MSU women from future admissions. student, in 1912 a cadet was seen Take a moment and really wrap speaking with a female student your mind around this. On this in the library around noon. Vice campus at MSU, such a massive President Magruder took the mat- confrontation between students ter to relatively and faculty was new President all caused by a After a George High(possibly) intower, which century, and nocent converled to a new orsation held in now with der that banned daylight at the the help contact between library.

There men and women of the school, the was no formal outside of class. rule against such students are still The cadets protecting the honor things. But then responded by again, this was skipping classes of women.” a century ago, the next day and when men went even signed a to football games resolution demanding Hightower in three-piece suits and women’s apologize to the ladies for insult- suffrage was still seven years off. ing their honor. The administra- So, who was wrong? tion answered by expelling dozens I began to try to answer this of students and calling in the gov- by polling a few female students ernor to help resolve the matter. in the Colvard Student Union.

The women signed a resolution None knew of the strike until I stating they did not object to an told them, and when asked if the order, although several would lat- campus administration still owed er recant and claim they signed it women some type of apology,

about half said yes, while the other half dismissed the idea and said it didn’t matter. Undergraduate student Sarah Margaret Hewes, a senior majoring in history, said, “It is very telling of the time, how they thought. The whole thing was pointless.”

Naturally, a matter of this sensitivity needs to be addressed from all sides. President Mark Keenum’s office referred me to chief communications officer Sid Salter on it. He knew of the history, as you’d expect, and when asked if Hightower overreacted, he pointed out that “through the prism of history and hindsight, it is easy to pass judgment on what was obviously backward thinking, which ignored the legitimate rights of women.”

Salter then pointed out the comprehensive progress made by MSU over the years. The campus became co-ed again in 1930.

In the ‘60s, President Kennedy’s Commission on the Status of Women led to the formation of the Faculty and Professional Women’s Association, as well as the gender studies program in COAS. “The Keenums are very keenly

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

aware of the important leadership role women play in our modern society,” Salter said.

I think the administration did overreact to the mid-day scandal, but does the school still owe anyone an apology? I agree with Salter and the female students I interviewed: there are much more prominent issues that need our attention. The women I questioned were in the middle of promoting Breast Cancer Awareness. After a century, and now with the help of the school, the students still protect the honor of women.

“Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable.”

-Mary Oliver

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2013 | 5

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM

AN IN-CLASS DISTRACTION ...

11-15-13

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 RENT

A two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment in the Cotton District is available for rent for Mississippi State students or members of the Bulldog family.

The apartment has a fireplace and a washer and dryer. Call 662.694.0995 if interested.

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.

DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP

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.

MANIFESTING GLORY PRAISE TEAM

Free music clinic Nov. 21 and 22 in the chapel of memories.

The Manifesting Glory Praise Team is offering voice lessons, vocal techniques and teaching songs. All are encouraged to attend.

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. YOGA MOVES CLUB

School or work stressing you out? Get moving into Yoga Moves! Try our moves to get into shape and our relaxation techniques to handle the stress. Yoga Moves meets at the Sanderson Center in Studio C, Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Like Yoga Moves Club-MSU on Facebook.

GREATER STARKVILLE

The GSDP is accepting applications for the 2013 Starkville Community Christmas Parade taking place Monday, Dec. 2, at 6 p.m. in downtown Starkville.

The theme will be “Christmas in Whoville.” All entries must be decorated to incorporate the theme. Each entrant must attend a mandatory meeting on Tues., Nov. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the GSDP Office to learn important details about parade participation. Should you need additional information, contact Jennifer Prather at 662.323.3322 or jprather@ starkville.org.

BIOCHEMISTRY CLUB

The Biochemistry Club will be having its final meeting of the semester Thurs., Nov. 21, in Dorman Auditorium room 152.

It will be a potluck dinner, so bring your favorite food and an appetite. All students are welcome.

RECREATIONAL SPORTS

The Department of Recreational Sports is hosting its fourth annual Strength and Fitness Week Nov. 18-21.

Special events and classes will be held. Visit recsports. msstate.edu for more information.

Follow the SPORTS SECTION on Twitter

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THE REFLECTOR

6 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2013

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

LIFE & ENTERTAINMENT

Theatre MSU’s performance gets a bit hairy Sunday

BY GORDON LEE Staff Writer

This Sunday, McComas Theater turns into a spooky fairytale swamp as Theatre MSU presents a courageous adventure and ignites imagination with the opportunity to forget the stresses of the grown-up world and think like a child again, if only for a while.

Theatre MSU performs “Wiley and the Hairy Man,” its second production of the season, Sunday. The show begins at 2 p.m., and tickets are available through the department’s website, comm. msstate.edu/theatre.

In addition to Sunday’s performance, the group of students puts on several special productions for children in the Starkville community.

Around 1,700 elementary and junior high students will bus in throughout the week to see the show.

Cast member Morgan Tubbs, senior communication major, said the annual children’s show is important to Theatre MSU because it provides an opportunity to work outside Mississippi State University and inspire children.

“We love to include the community, especially those younger kids that might want to do this when they grow up,” Tubbs said.

Cody Stockstill, visiting

assistant professor of design and technical theatre, directed “Wiley and the Hairy Man.” He said although the production is a children’s play, it includes fun for kids of any age.

“Children’s plays are not just aimed at children,” he said. “The story is entertaining for all ages. It targets all audiences.”

Stockstill said the play is a Southern fairytale replete with voodoo, magic and jokes for both younger and older audience members.

“The hairy man is sort of a Southern boogeyman. I describe it as the boogeyman but with alligators and voodoo queens. It’s quirky. It’s got a lot of Southern dialogue and stuff that Southerners would get — including stuff that both adults and younger kids would get,” he said.

Stockstill said the play’s Southern Louisiana setting drew him to “Wiley and the Hairy Man,” as he said he relates to the setting.

“I’m coming from Louisiana to this job, and I wanted to bring that with me. I thought this would be a great beginning,” he said.

“Wiley and the Hairy Man” is Stockstill’s first play as director with Theatre MSU. As a new faculty member, Stockstill has been able to contribute fresh perspective and energy to the theatre group.

He said working as director

comes with the responsibility of making the story come to life.

“I am sort of in charge of keeping the overall vision together — as far as the design, the way we are performing the play and making sure that we are telling the story that is in the script and the story that we want to tell as a group,” he said. “What is the world we want to present? What does it look like? Feel like? Smell like?

How bright is it? How dark is it? What are the textures?”

Stockstill also serves as the technical director and set designer for all Theatre MSU productions, and the set of “Wiley and the Hairy Man” displays Stockstill’s skills at set design. The set brings the director’s vision of a fantasy swamp to reality with recycled burlap and glass bottles that hang in the dim, spooky lighting of a starlit swamp.

Jesse Williams, junior psychology major, plays Wiley and said the play’s set has a Tim Burton feel to it.

Stockstill said his favorite part about directing the play was getting to know the students and appreciating their talent and hard work. The cast has also said they enjoyed working with the new director, and they described him as fun and positive.

Williams said Stockstill is both funny and effective as a director.

Southern sitting: ANDREW YERGER | THE REFLECTOR

Sheldon Brown sits on his porch in Starkville enjoying a fall day. Porches, a pervasive Southern icon, provide multiple benefits, including protection from heat gain through the house’s walls and a well-proportioned social space.

BY CAMERON CLARKE Staff Writer

As days shorten and fall weather falls into place, students and Starkville residents can find porches a great place to relax, enjoy the sights and the sounds of a calm afternoon and commune with passersby. Though many houses and campus buildings do not have porches available for relaxing, anyone with access to some form of porch or balcony benefits from the serenity and sense of community the simple structure brings.

Kenneth Thomas, a Starkville urologist, said although he may not use his porch very often, he understands porches form an integral part of Southern community. “(Porch sitting) is an important piece of the puzzle to community,” Thomas said. “It is a classic part of the South.”

Jim West, dean of Mississippi State University’s College of Architecture, Art and Design, said porches are an icon of Southern culture largely because of their practicality. While he enjoyed his spacious front porch in a rocking chair, West said porches originally served two purposes: to keep the sun’s heat off the houses’

DAVID LEWIS | THE REFLECTOR

The set for Theatre MSU’s performance of “Wiley and the Hairy Man” is crafted of recycled materials like cardboard, recycled burlap and glass bottles. Director Cody Stockstill described the play as a Southern fairytale for both adults and children.

“He makes every aspect of rehearsal fun, and there is never a dull moment. We are always cracking up and laughing,” Williams said. “But he is also really serious, and we’ve gotten a lot done in a short amount of time.”

Becca Horton, senior communication major with a concentration in theatre, plays the Hairy Man. She said she appreciates Stockstill’s positive attitude. She said Stockstill compliments successful aspects of an actor’s performance and makes construc-

tive suggestions instead of giving negative criticisms.

Stockstill’s vision and positivity is put to the test as the cast tries to teach children in the audience about keeping the environment healthy.

Tubbs said this relevant message adds value to the show for the children in the audience.

“This show is very kid-friendly with the humor, but we are also trying to do our part in educating the kids on environmental issues such as recycling,” Tubbs said. “Be-

cause our set is made out of almost all recycled material. It is not only a comedy, but also a learning experience for them.”

The director and the cast said attendees can come to “Wiley and the Hairy Man” expecting to laugh.

Tubbs said students attending the play should look forward to being a child again.

“Come in with an open mind,” Tubbs said. “Be open to imaginative thinking because this play relies heavily on imagination, so channel your inner kindergartener.”

Front porches provide architectural, functional, easygoing social spaces

walls and allow a place for people to sit in the shade with cool winds not available inside a sweltering house before air conditioning was invented. “(A porch) shades the front wall of the house and so it keeps the house cool,” West said. “It protects the wall and provides a breeze that you won’t get inside the house.”

Due to the almost year-round need for porches’ thermal conservation, the South includes a large number of both old and new homes with porches.

West said before air-conditioning was invented, porches provided crucial protection from heat. He said porches originally jutted from nearly every home, though now many builders forget the functions porches can serve.

“If you look at Southern houses from a hundred years ago, they all have porches,” West said. “Many builders in modern times have forgotten their original use and have allowed them to be shorter, as just a social function, and lose the benefit of the shade from the overhanging roof.”

Though the practical function of porches is easily forgotten, porches in the South often scaffold social interactions. Peggy West, Jim West’s wife, brought to light the social benefits of taking time to sit on a porch and chat with friends.

“A lot of (the benefit) is the conversation and socializing,” she said. “The conversation is meandering and relaxed. It doesn’t really have a point; just being outside makes you feel connected to your community.”

Jim West said even from an architectural standpoint, the best porches provide social barriers between the home and the sidewalk and have the right dimensions for social interaction. “(The porch) is a social transition space, higher than the front yard and more social than inside the house,” Jim West said. “To come up and sit, (passersby) have to be invited. It provides a layer of social transition, a sense of security.”

Jim West went on to describe how a good porch has a proper width and depth for people to converse naturally. He said porches should rise above the yard and the street, and when a barrier surrounds them it adds a sense of security Jim West likened to sitting behind a full desk compared to sitting behind an exposed, four-legged table.

Peggy West said almost every day the Wests spend time sitting on their front porch, which faces Louisville Street. She said she and her husband like to participate in their local community and

take a rest from the day’s activity. A little farther down Louisville Street lives another porch-sitter: Spencer Newman, a junior history major.

Newman said sitting on a porch is a great way for him to take a break from the business of college life.

“The porch provides very good relaxation and bonding time with the roommates,” Newman said. “It is nice and calm. You come back from class and take a seat on the porch and unwind.”

Whether the porch above the post office on campus or a family-occupied porch on a Sunday afternoon, porches provide an important stage to express Southern community in the form of happenstance meetings and visits planned for nothing more than a good talk. Sitting and talking about whatever comes to mind builds friendships based off leisure time, without distracting professional obligations or duties. As the leaves continue to change and the weather cools down, the porch remains a respite from the hubbub and hyperactivity of modern life and a forum to develop valuable community for Starkville residents.

ANDREW YERGER | THE REFLECTOR

Vincent Epps enjoys his porch on a sunny day. Jim West, dean of MSU’s College of Architecture, Art and Design, said porches provide shade as well as a secure space for transition between the front yard and the house itself.

MSU alumna self-publishes debut novel, NYC crime novel, with heart, depth

BY GENY KATE GURLEY Staff Writer

Thanks to self-publishing outlets like Amazon and the support of local bookstores, authors like Caroline Pugh can provide stories to interested readers without restriction.

Pugh’s debut novel, “Something Bigger,” contains excitement and mystery without sacrificing character depth.

Pugh’s characters undergo defining, traumatic moments yet remain complex and real. The heroes are likable, and the setting enhances the story.

Pugh self-published “Something Bigger” earlier this year.

She said she struggled to find a literary agent to represent her, and because she felt strongly about her story, she looked into Amazon’s self-publishing industry.

“I designed my own book cover, edited my own copy —

CAROLINE PUGH | COURTESY PHOTO

Pugh, MSU alumna, self-published her debut novel, “Something Bigger,” through Amazon.

Pugh has signed and read from her debut at bookstores across Mississippi.

and edited and edited — and sent it off,” she said. “The process is called ‘print on demand.’ The book is not printed until someone places an or-

der at amazon.com. However, I also have my own copies to sell from my car’s trunk like John Grisham, and I’m trying to get my book into local bookstores.”

Pugh graduated high school in West Point, Miss., and later graduate from Mississippi State University. She now lives with her family in Tupelo.

Pugh said she has written all of her life, but she only got serious about writing recently. She said as she worked on “Something Bigger,” the story almost materialized before her eyes.

“I thought of the idea of ‘Something Bigger’ gradually,” Pugh said. “Story pieces just came to me as I started writing. It suddenly turned into a novel-length manuscript.

It was really strange — as I wrote, the characters literally took on a life of their own. I’ve heard other authors say this,

and now I believe it.”

Remy, who played a part in Pugh said she wanted to the wrongs done to Riley. make New York City a major While she works to have part of her story. She said New the guilty party incarcerated, York City is her favorite place Riley learns to trust her new in the world, and friends she loves Broadand allow It was really way.

Lane to strange — as The book’s protect I wrote, the heroine, Riley her. In characters Michaels, flees a the thrilldevastating ex- literally took on a life ing novperience to New of their own.” el, Pugh’s York City to work characas a Broadway -Caroline Pugh, ters are publicity agent. author of “Something scarred, Though she leaves and the the horrors of her Bigger” humanpast in D.C., her ity she fears confront her displays again. The man who wrongs in each of her characters her is released from prison, makes the book an engaging, and she and her new friends emotional read. “Something must prove him guilty. She Bigger” turns the crime novel discovers through this work genre on its head and adds a that her new boyfriend, prom- dose of humanity that drives inent actor Lane Brennan, has the reader to care about both an ex-wife, Broadway actor Jill the characters and the plot.

Judy Sewell, an old friend of Pugh’s, said she bought the book to support Pugh but was very impressed with the novel, regardless of friendship ties.

“I recommend it, not as a friend, but because it is a great read,” Sewell said. “Her characters are fully developed. The settings are described with such detail that you feel like you’ve been to NYC or D.C. The ending, which I won’t give away, is very intriguing and totally unexpected.”

Sewell said though it is her first novel, Pugh handles self-publishing successfully.

“She has book signings all the time,” Sewell said. “She works for an advertising firm, so she has knowledge of how to market herself.”

Because the end of “Something Bigger” set ups for a sequel, Pugh said she mulls over the possibility of a second installment.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2013 | 7

SPORTS

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM

WHO WILL WIN THIS YEAR’S HEISMAN TROPHY? COACH’S CORNER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Winston Heisman hopeful Manziel ready for repeat Baylor’s Bryce is right

W

e are now in week 12 of the college football season and about a month away from the conference championship games. That means the season is winding down, which means talk of the Heisman Trophy is in full effect.

At the moment, there are three legitimate candidates in reigning Heisman winner Johnny Manziel of Texas Forrest Buck is a senior majorA&M, Marcus Mariota of ing in kinesiology. He can be Oregon and Jameis Winston contacted at reflectorsports@ of Florida State, with guys like gmail.com.

Bryce Petty and A.J. McCarron on the outside looking in. yards, 26 touchdowns and Right now, there is still a lot completes 69.2 percent of his of football left to be played, passes. There are quarterbacks that would love and you could to have those make a solid ‘Famous case for any of Jameis’ has numbers for a full season let the top-three his team alone through guys to win just nine games. the Heisman undefeated and in When you conTrophy. position to run the sider the fact I know the table in route to a that this player Heisman Trophy is not a national title game.” is only a freshman and has alteam award, ready come in, but team success does factor into the played so well and so poised equation, and as a freshman, against some good teams and “Famous Jameis” has his team has already established himself undefeated and in position as the leader of that team, it to run the table the rest of makes his bid to be the next the way in route to a nation- Heisman Trophy winner even al title game. Winston has led more probable.

The ‘Noles essentially conhis team to some of the most impressive victories of the sea- trol their own destiny to get son. FSU beat Maryland 63-0 into the title game, and it is when they Terrapins were in large part due to Winston ranked No. 25. The Seminoles and his stellar play. I think the beat a higher-ranked, more fact that Winston is headed experienced team in No. 3 for a national title appearClemson 51-14 at Clemson, ance will be the difference. and Winston led his team to Winston’s consistency in conbeat its bitter rival No. 7 Mi- junction with FSU’s remaining schedule is why I believe ami 41-14.

In addition to leading his right now “Famous Jameis” team to a 9-0 record up to this Winston is the favorite to win point, Winston’s stats through the Heisman Trophy and ultinine games have been fantas- mately, will go on to actually tic. He has thrown for 2,661 win the esteemed award.

FORREST BUCK

I

t is that time of the year again where people ask the question, “Who will win the Heisman?” Corterrius Lewis is a sophomore Will it be Florida State QB Jameis majoring in communication. He Winston, Texas A&M QB Johnny can be contacted at reflectorManziel or Oregon QB Marcus sports@gmail.com Mariota? The answer is tough, but “Johnny Football” can make, and it is obviously Manziel.

Even though it appears to be a he brings energy to the game that two-man race between Manziel no other player seems to have. That and Winston for the Heisman, energy ignites his team and gets the many football analysts have already best out of his teammates.

It is fair to say that no other playgiven Manziel the nod as their favorite to win the award. He made er in the country has meant more to their team than football history Manziel. Out of a last year when he Manziel has total 123 teams in became the first the NCAA FBS, freshman to win improved the Heisman Troas a player, Texas A&M’s defense is ranked No. phy following a 103, one of the fantastic season. and his numbers worst in all of colFor the second are a reflection of lege football. That year in a row, he that.” means most of the has once again team’s success is proven to us why he deserves to be this year’s winner predicated on the third-ranked offense led by Manziel. of the prestigious award.

Week after week he carries the Manziel has improved as a player, and his numbers are a reflection team to victory by putting up huge of that. In last week’s game against numbers against some of the naMississippi State University, he tion’s top-ranked football teams. broke Texas A&M’s school record That is no easy challenge for him for passing touchdowns in a sin- seeing as he plays in the SEC, a gle season. With 3,313 yards this conference considered by most to year, he is also on pace to throw for be the toughest in college football. more passing yards than he threw As a result of playing in the SEC, for last year. Manziel has more Manziel takes a beating from oppassing touchdowns (31) and a posing SEC defenses that have higher completion percentage (73 caused him to become injured in a percent) right now than he had in few games this year.

Nevertheless, he continues to all of last season when he won the play through those injuries and still Heisman Trophy.

Manziel’s talents as a football performs at a high level. The only player cannot be denied. Despite knock against Manziel is the fact being considered an undersized that he has already lost two games quarterback, he has shown the abil- this season. One of those losses was ity to do what no one else can do. against No. 1 Alabama. The other Each time he steps on the field, he was against the No. 7 Auburn Tiputs on a memorable show for fans gers, a game in which Manziel was and spectators who watch him per- injured.

Despite picking up losses, he form. Manziel expertly eludes defenders and gets away from would- played some of his best games be tacklers, which allows him to throwing for more than 450 yards extend plays using either his arm and four or more touchdowns in or legs. He creates plays that only both games.

CORTERRIUS LEWIS

W

hen it comes to the Heisman race, a few big-time names stand Kyle Cupples is a sophomore out such as Johnny Manziel, Ja- majoring in kinesiology. He meis Winston or even Marcus can be contacted at reflectorMariota. However, there is one sports@gmail.com. guy who has flown under the raand ran for a pair of touchdowns. dar until now.

Baylor’s Bryce Petty is on the The one factor that might hold rise and gaining ground in this him back in the race is a limitarace. The redshirt junior quar- tion of stats based on minutes terback from Midlothian, Texas, played. Petty is usually done playhas been outstanding so far. Just ing by halftime because of how two years ago, he was Baylor’s big of a lead Baylor holds over its opponents. t h i rd - s t r i n g People have yet quar terback The Bears to see what he can behind Nick have an do with the ball Florence and average in his hands in a 2011 Heisman two-minute drill winner Robert winning margin of Griffin III. situation while 45.6 this season, He has patrailing. Some say tiently waited and no other team the true measure to show the comes close to that.” of a quarterback nation what he is what he can do can do, and so when the presfar this season Petty has thrown sure is on. Still, with four games for 2,657 yards and accounted for remaining, he might have to play 21 touchdowns. He has also put the whole game in a few of these up eight rushing touchdowns. matchups. Baylor plays Texas What is very impressive is that he Tech, Oklahoma State, TCU and has only thrown one interception finishes the season hosting Texas. so far this season. Manziel has If he keeps up the 332.1 yards thrown 11 picks, while Winston per game stat against Texas Tech has thrown seven. and Oklahoma State, it will be Also, the Baylor Bears have hard for Petty not to be invited rolled all over the competition to the Heisman ceremony. Howthis year. The Bears have an aver- ever, the game against Oklahoma age winning margin of 45.6 this State is where he will end the season, and no other team comes night either as a real contender or close to that. Baylor ranks second just another quarterback. in the nation in total offense. Petty leads the nation in total quarterback rating and yards per pass attempt with an average of 13.2 yards per throw. Some might say the Bears’ schedule is weak and full of “cupcake” teams. To be fair, he has not seen the teams Manziel or Winston has faced, but his stats are remarkable nevertheless.

The media started to take notice last week with a huge 41-12 win against No. 10 Oklahoma.

Petty threw three touchdowns

KYLE CUPPLES

8 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2013

SPORTS EDITOR: JOHN GALATAS | reflectorsports@gmail.com

SPORTS

THE REFLECTOR

STAT OF THE DAY:

THE MSU FOOTBALL TEAM WILL PLAY THE NO. 1-RANKED TEAM FOR THE SIXTH TIME IN SCHOOL HISTORY WHEN IT FACES ALABAMA SATURDAY.

Alwal paces Bulldogs in win Setters split time on court

BY QUENTIN SMITH Staff Writer

Coming off its first win of the season against Houston, the Mississippi State University women’s basketball team opened up its home slate against in-state foe Jackson State University and won in a blowout fashion 81-42.

This win marks the 28th-consecutive home opening win for the Lady Bulldogs.

The Lady Bulldogs played in front of the second-largest crowd in a non-conference game. In the early parts of the game, head coach Vic Schaefer said he could see his team was still focused onEMMA KATHERINE HUTTO | THE REFLECTOR their first win.

Junior Martha Alwal takes a shot against Georgia last “In the first 10 minutes, we were not a good basketball season. Alwal scored 17 points in MSU’s win Wednesday. team,” Schaefer said. “We put so much emphasis on winning “I don’t think that should ever “Pressuring the ball and playthe first game at Houston, and happen. I should have 10 every ing good defense helps us, and it had a hangover effect on this night, so I’m frustrated with that allowed them to take bad game.” that, and I also went 3-7 from shots or no shots at all,” she said.

The team would quickly re- the free throw line.”

Defense has been a big part of bound as MSU dominated both Junior point guard Jerica the team’s success in both games ends of the floor. After being James said she felt good when this season. The Lady Bulldogs tied at 13 a piece at the 10:35 the team finally put its foot on have forced a total of 51 turnmark in the first half, the Lady the pedal and took off with the overs in their first two games of Bulldogs went ahead to take the game. the season, and Schaefer said he lead and never looked back.

“When it finally got going, wants defensive pressure to be On the offensive side of the it was really good,” James said. the identity of his team. court, the team received good “We felt the energy from the “This team is still learning as play from everyone who saw crowd as well as the energy from we go. They are not afraid. It action in the game. The Lady the players on the bench and the doesn’t matter their age or clasBulldogs had five players reach players on the floor.” sification, they are not scared,” double figures in scoring and Defensively, the Bulldogs used he said. “We’re going to try and were led by junior center Mar- consistent ball pressure, which be tough, defensive-minded and tha Alwal’s 17 points. Despite gave the opposition fits. MSU we always want to hang our hats leading the team in scoring, Al- forced 29 turnovers, swatted on our defense.” wal said she still was not pleased nine shots, collected six charges The Lady Bulldogs will put with her performance and rec- and held JSU to just 25 percent their defensive reputation and ognized there is room for im- shooting from the field. undefeated record to test Sunprovement.

James said executing the day as MSU hosts the University “I’m really frustrated that I team’s defensive strategy con- of New Orleans at 3 p.m. in the got eight rebounds,” she said. tributed to the Tigers’ bad shots. Humphrey Coliseum.

BY KRISTEN SPINK

setters, and we have some more hitters stepping it up in practice, so we can go to a 6-2 and have Tyler Russell and Dak Prescott more attackers involved,’ and it’s are not the only two Bulldogs to worked.”

After losing its first four SEC split time at the quarterback position this season. Suzanne Horner games, MSU inserted sophoand Katlyn Mataya share time at more Alaska-Fairbanks transfer Mataya into the setter position the rotation for the Mississippi We support in addition State University voleach other to freshman leyball team.

State College, In volleyball, the — there’s Penn., nasetter is considered no hatred because tive Horner. the quarterback of the team. The setter we’re splitting time.” The result?

The Dogs touches the ball on -Katlyn Mataya, won their folthe second of the MSU volleyball lowing two three hits on every matches in play (unless she can- sophomore setter straight sets. not get to the ball).

In the volSimilar to the football team, the volleyball team leyball two-quarterback system, decided to run a two-setter for- Horner plays the role of Russell, mation about halfway through keeping the team focused with a the season. Only three other SEC calm demeanor, while the quicker teams (Georgia, Auburn and Ar- Mataya brings a Prescott-like enkansas) run this 6-2 formation. ergy to the court.

Horner said State’s 6-2 is The other teams run a traditional 5-1 set with just one setter play- unique because she and Mataya are so different. ing the entire match.

“She (Mataya) is quick, enerMSU head coach Jenny Hazelwood said the 6-2 has provided getic and tricky,” Horner said. more offensive options for her “She is small and really energetic team because with the setter al- and, and I mean I’m energetic, ways on the back row, three hit- but I’m more focused, and we’re ters are always on the front row just such a different dynamic, and rather than having a setter on the together it’s a nice combo.”

Although the Dogs fell to Texfront row half of the time.

“For us, running a 6-2 has been as A&M last Friday night, Matareally helpful,” Hazelwood said. ya recorded 16 set assists, while “We were having trouble getting Horner finished with 15 assists. offensive production. When our The girls said they set the same setter was front row, teams were hitters in practice as they do in able to key in blocking wise on games, and Mataya said she and our few front row hitters, so it Horner talk through things when was causing problems for us from they sub out and during timean offensive standpoint. So we outs.

“In a sense, that’s a really good just said ‘Hey, we’ve got two great Managing Editor

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pro coming off (the court) because you can step outside the game, and you can look and have a chance to talk to coaches. It’s nice getting a different point of view,” Mataya said. “It’s so nice because we just support each other — there’s no hatred because we’re splitting time; we love each other. She makes me feel really calm. We’re definitely the best setter team in the SEC.” Horner, who played both a 5-1 and 6-2 in high school, said playing with two setters has both pros and cons.

“It’s hard because you’re still focused into it, but you’re not warm because you’re standing there, but it’s fun because when Katlyn comes on, she brings a new energy,” Horner said. “We’re always helping each other like, ‘Hey, you need to push that set out’ or ‘That was a really bad decision.’ It’s nice because not all the pressure’s on one person. You can share that responsibility.”

Just as Russell and Prescott have accepted the two-quarterback system and work together to accomplish the best for MSU, Horner and Mataya have accepted their roles. Mataya describes Horner as “cool, calm and collected” and said she looks to Horner while she’s on the court.

Hazelwood said the girls are funny together and challenge each other in every aspect of the game.

“They definitely try to push each other. In practice, there’s a lot of competition, even when they’re on the other side of the net,” she said. “They really compete, and that’s super important in any position, and they do a really good job of that.”

Horner and Mataya will lead the volleyball Dogs in their final matches, including home games against No. 17 Kentucky Friday night at 7 p.m. and Georgia Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

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