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Super Bulldog Weekend presents:
Troy rape allegations encourage
COTTON DISTRICT ARTS FESTIVAL
RAPE CULTURE
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FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Women’s basketball wins
HOOPS AWARDS p16
129 th YEAR | ISSUE 46
THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884
Synthetic marijuana responsible for 85 overdoses statewide various hospitals throughout Mississippi, including the Oktibbeha County Hospital. Kim Roberts of the public relations department at OCH, said there were two confirmed reports of spice overdoses, both young adult males, from the Emergency Department. She said the
by Jennifer Flinn Staff Writer
For the past three weeks, there have been around 85 overdoses due to use of synthetic marijuana, commonly known as spice. This drug epidemic has been prevalent at
two patients presented with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, sweating and agitation. “When patients present to the ER, some may not admit what they have used, and we do not have any specified laboratory tests to check for Spice intoxication,” Roberts said.
Vance Rice, MSU Police Chief, said there have been no incidents of Spice overdose on campus, but there have been several incidents at off-campus locations. He said Spice is dangerous because it can have stronger effects on some individuals than it does on others. “We have not had any
r e p u S
(incidents) on-campus, however, we had two students hospitalized because of (spice),” Rice said. “Hopefully, our students are getting the message that this stuff affects everyone differently. There have been a lot of deaths as a result of it.” Lauren Spearman, a senior biochemistry major,
Bu ll d
-Cotton District Arts Festival, April 18
weekend
-Old Main Music Festival, April 25
SPICE, 2
og
Coming up:
-Super Bulldog Weekend (schedule on pg. 17)
said she thinks Spice is dangerous and people should stay away from it. “It is dangerous because of the harmful additives, and you do not know what you are getting. There are carcinogens in the ingredients that have long-term effects, and they are also addictive substances,” Spearman said.
Super Bulldog Weekend has been a staple of life in Starkville for decades, bringing the locals out and Alumni home every year for sports, food and music.
Champ to pass Bully MSU starts last round of interviews harness to next, Jak for next VP of student affairs this week by Van Cotton Staff Writer
Champ, Mississippi State University’s living mascot,
will walk one last time on Scott Field as Bully before he passes the mantle to his sixmonth old son, Jak. Jak will be the 21st English bulldog to take on the full responsibilities as Bully. BULLY, 4
William B. Stackman
Regina Young Hyatt
Douglas A. Hallenbeck
Gigi Secuban
Courtesy Photos | Public Relations
by D.J. Wormley Staff Writer
Courtesy Photos | Public Relations
Jak is the son of the 20th Bully, Champ, and will replace his father as MSUʼs mascot.
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Finalists for the position of vice president for student affairs at Mississippi Monday
State University have been announced by the search committee will conduct final interviews for two weeks. The finalists are Douglas A. Hallenbeck, associate vice president for Student Affairs and executive
Policy: ANY PERSON MAY PICK UP
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director of university housing and dining, Clemson University; Regina Y. Hyatt, dean of students and associate vice president for student affairs; University of Alabama in Huntsville; MaryJane “Gigi” S. Secuban, associate
Reader’s Guide
Bulletin Board Opinion
10 7
vice chancellor for student affairs, office of inclusion and intercultural relations, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; and William Bradford Stackman, associate vice president for student services, University of Notre Dame. VP, 4
Classifieds Life
10 11
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
SPICE
Spearman, who graduates in May and will be attending pharmacy school in the fall, said some would consider taking a synthetic form of marijuana rather than regular marijuana due to drug tests administered for these types of drugs. “When they search for drugs in people’s systems, they search for metabolites of the drug. Drug tests would be unlikely to detect synthetic marijuana because it is looking for THC metabolites,” Spearman said. Thomas Dobbs, State Epidemiologist for the Mississippi State Department of Health, said, in an email to Mississippi hospitals, since April 2 the Mississippi Poison Control Center has received over 180 reports of Spice overdoses in numerous counties across the state. “In an effort to better understand the clinical presentation, underlying risk factors and geographic spread of this increase in reported adverse events, MSDH is initiating an enhanced surveillance system. At this time, we are interested in tracking the number of Emergency Department admissions for individuals with a presentation consistent with synthetic cannabinoid use,” Dobbs said.
CONTINUED FROM 1
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Spice, or synthetic marijuana, refers to a wide variety of herbal mixtures that produce similar experiances to marijuana and are marketed as “safe” legal alternatives to marijuana. Synthetic marijuana contains dried, shredded plant material and chemical additives that account for the mind-altering, psychoactive effects. It is sold under many different names including K2, Yucatan Fire, Skunk, Moon Rocks, and many others that are all labeled not for human consumption. Over 100 cases of Spice overdose reports in Jackson, Mississippi in recent weeks have been tentatively linked to the synthetic marijuana produced by Latoya Yvette Emmons and Lester Lavell Singleton. Emmons and Singleton were arrested April 9 for manufacturing synthetic marijuana in their apartment in the Jackson area. Over 200,000 empty packages yet to be fi lled with the drug were found by law enforcement. Authorities are trying to prove a connection between the batch of Spice produced by Emmons and Singleton and the high number of overdoses in the area, The Clarion-Ledger reported on April 11.
“At this time, we are interested in
tracking the number of Emergency
Department admissions for individuals
Location of Emmons and Singleton’s synthetic marijuana operation.
with a presentation consistent with synthetic cannabinoid use.”
Map of Mississippi counties with reported overdoses
Graphic | Bek Yake
-Thomas Dobbs, State Epidemiologist
FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015 REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
Heath Fair: The NuBeta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, inc., hosted a health fair Wednesday evening in the Colvard Student union Dawghouse. The fair featured information about high blood pressure, type II diabetes, tips for a healthy life, and more.
Sarah Story | The Reflector
Cookies and Cokes: Miss. Mississippi Contestants hosted an event called “Cookies and Cokes” for the Childrenʼs Miracle Network. All of the money raised will donated to Childrenʼs Miracle Network hospitals.
Sarah Story | The Reflector
George Sherman
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University Drive - from Nash St. to MSU Maxwell St. - from University Dr. to Lummus Dr. Page Ave. - from UniversityDr. to Maxwell St. Colonel Muldrow St. - from University to Lummus Dr.
ALL vehicles left on street Saturday morning after 1:00 A.M. will be towed!! For more information on the Cotton District Arts Festival go to www. cdafestival.com or scan the QR code with
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
BULLY
CONTINUED FROM 1
Jak was born in October 2014 and his formal name is “Cristil’s Golden Prince.” Jak was named after the legendary and iconic voice of MSU sports who announced football and basketball games for 58 years, Jack Cristil. One of the five life-size Bully mascots, Trevon Allen, a freshman biomedical pre-med major, said continuing with Champ’s heir is appropriate. “It’s better, at that age, his mind is a sponge. He’ll have six or seven years learning on how to be one of the best Bullies,” Allen said. “With Champ being his father, he’ll have the same instincts and it’s a good idea to keep the bloodline going.” Allen also said puppies are
energetic, so while Jak will be just as prestigious as past Bullies, he will also be a playful symbol for MSU. “Champ had his days as a pampered dog,” Allen said. “Champ knew he was important and took his job seriously, he focused more on being Bully than playing with us.” Jak’s mother, Nelson’s Dutchess “Pippa” Philippa, is from Copiah County. The Clarion-Ledger reported before birthing Jak, Pippa loved to ride skateboards and run around the yard, and Jak gets his energetic spirit from her. Jak was born
“Champ has done everything you could have asked for and more as Bully.” -Jojo Dodd ,
MSU Student
Thursday before the MSU vs. Auburn game. He was among six puppies, two males and four females.
Jojo Dodd, president of MSU’s student association and one of MSU’s mascots, said Bully and his costumed mascots have a special
relationship. “Whether at a game or away we stay close,” Dodd said. “People want to see us interact. Champ has done everything you could have asked for and more as Bully. Jak is young and I’m sure he is eager to meet adoring fans.”
Sunday, April 12, 2015 12:28 a.m. A visitor was arrested on Magruder Street for speeding 35/20 with a suspended driver’s license. 02:06 a.m An officer reported damages to a stop sign near Delta Gamma House. 11:52 a.m. An employee reported receiving suspcious phone calls from an unknown person. Monday, April 13, 2015 1:55 p.m. An employee reported missing inventory in Thompson Hall. 2:16 p.m. A student’s dog was left inside his vehicle at Rice Hall.The dog was brought to the police station and kept safe. 5:08 p.m. An employee reported her MSU parking hanging tag was stolen from her vehicle. Tuesday, April 14, 2015 08:06 a.m. A student reported receiving unwanted calls and texts from her ex-fiancee. 11:21a.m. An employee reported damages to her vehicle by MSU Landscape personell while parked on Morgan Street. 1:34p.m A student was arrested on College View Street for speeding 44/20 with a suspended driver’s licence.Justice court citations were issued.
VP
Courtesy Photos | Public Relations
Jak, who will be the 21st Bully to take to the fields, will spend most of his time with his caretaker Lisa Pritchard. However, his mother Pippa occasionally makes visits.
Thomas Bourgeois, dean of students at MSU, said he believes the position of vice president of student affairs is important because the vice president rallies for students’ needs. “The vice president shapes the direction of the division of student affairs. He or she is the main advocate for students and they fight for resources for students,” Bourgeois said.
CONTINUED FROM 1
Bourgeois said he believes selecting a vice president of student affairs benefits MSU because the university as a whole participates in selecting the right candidate. “The selection process helps the candidate and the university form a symbiotic relationship and allows both entities to decide who is the right fit,” Bourgeois said.
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Come join us May 8th at 4pm for open house and our 1st annual Woofstock festival. Music, Food & Fun!
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Welcome the new 2015-2016 Reflector Editorial Staff:
Editor-in-chief: Lacretia Wimbley Managing Editor: Nia Wilson News Editor: Taylor Bowden Sports Editor: Anthony McDougle Copy Editor: Ashley Brewer
Life Editor: Noor Mujahid Opinion Editor: Bailey McDaniel Multimedia Editor: Bek Yake Photography Editor: Sarah Story
2015 Mississippi Press Association Better Student Newspaper Contest GENERAL EXCELLENCE 1st place: The Reflector
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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Political Buzz
Clinton’s running as president will remain a hot topic
We all knew it was going to happen, and it did: Hillary Clinton will be seeking presidency in 2016. In a YouTube video released Sunday, Clinton announced her bid for president and thus formally began her campaign. Before she announced, Clinton has been pruning her image these past few months and so far, has been successfully appealing to the public. Leaving the State Department back in 2013, she immediately started distancing herself from the present administration and its negative approval ratings. Simultaneously, she
began her unofficial bid by appearing on most major news networks, including Fox News, and eloquently defended her work as a senator and Secretary of State. While on air, she remained classy and moderated her political language to appeal to a wider audience, showing more early signs of campaigning. She since has been traveling frequently giving speeches all across the US and now, after her announcement, is already traveling to Iowa for their early caucuses. So far, she is the only shining star from the Democratic Party to who seems to carry any serious clout for 2016, especially
with other Democrats like Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), declining to run. With a huge base that supports her, it seems likely she’ll win the Democratic nomination (assuming no other candidate comes out of obscurity like in 2008). Although in the November general election, she will undoubtedly face some tough criticism. Not many politicians have been as steeped in scandals as Clinton who has challenging days up ahead. Besides old scandals like Whitewater or Travelgate, Republicans will likely attack her inadequate response to the
events in Benghazi, as well as the recent controversy surrounding the use of her home email for government work. Individually, most politicians could recover from scandals like these, but having so many on her, Clinton will have to address them well. Additionally, she will likely face much scrutiny for changing her political positions on LGBT issues and diplomatic positions towards Cuba, which will make her appear indecisive and irresolute. Despite all of this, her biggest challenge is how she is going to handle Obamacare. An open advocate of universal
healthcare in the past, Clinton will have to address how she plans on fixing the broken Obamacare system without either alienating her base or showing her absolute approval of the legislation. For now, Clinton is the front-runner for the Democrats, and most likely will be for a long while. Despite her many scandals and controversial decisions, she will still be a force worth contending with in 2016. Republicans will have to strongly rally around their candidate for the election, because currently Clinton not only has a favorable rating and
Joseph Kerstiens is a freshman majoring in biochemistry. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.
huge support within her party, but arguably the most experience with the executive office. While it is definitely too soon to call, it is an undeniable fact that Clinton will be a central figure througwhout this upcoming election season.
Lauren Hill’s death stresses importance of cancer research by Justin Brickler Contributing Writer
With Mississippi State University hosting its annual Relay for Life in the Sanderson Center last Friday, it is the hope that America grows closer each year to finding a cure for cancer to eradicate this horrible disease. According to Cancer.org, “cancer remains the second cause of common deaths in the United States.” (I inserted the quotation marks because it sounds like a direct quote. If it’s not, you can remove them.) Cancer has been known to claim people of all ages, ethnicities, and social class. This disease does not care who it infects, it just attacks your body without any regret. It is the hope that progressing research will stop cancer from affecting the lives of average citizens. The question is, how does one accept the fact that he or she has cancer and can possibly lose that battle before it even begins? There is a girl named of Lauren Hill who shall be remembered for her battle against cancer by the
friends, family and people of the world that she touched during her final months on this Earth. Stories about Lauren Hill have been seen on all major media outlets from ESPN, FOX news, and even to the pages of USA today. Lauren was diagnosed on November 20, 2013 with a type of cancer known as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gilorma, also known as DIPG. as a shorter term. The DIPG registry website states that DIPG is a cancer that forms on the brain stem on the lower back of the brain and that less than ten percent of patients live no longer than two years. Despite being a high school senior who knew her cancer was inoperable, Lauren made it to Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio where she committed to play basketball. In September 2014, Lauren was told that she only had a few months left to live. Imagine being 19 years old knowing that you only have a few months left to live. How would you react? Lauren did not think about the things she could not accomplish, but instead she
thought about all the goals she could accomplish before leaving this Earth. The NCAA allowed Mount St. Joseph to move their game against Hiriam College up two weeks to allow Lauren the opportunity to play in her first and last game as a freshman. The Mount St. Joseph Lions took a victory of 66 to 55 over Hiriam College in
presented her with a $5,000 check that would be donated to the Cure Starts Now Foundation. Summitt also presented Lauren with the U.S. Basketball Writers Association’s Pat Summitt Most Courageous Award. The Cure Starts Now Foundation is dedicated to eradicating DIPG in children and teens. Lauren
“The important thing to learn from Lauren Hill is that she lived without any regrets or fear.” front of a sold out crowd in the Xavier University Cintas Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Lauren was the headline of the game where she scored four points with her left hand despite being dominant with her right hand because her entire right side of her body was being affected by DIPG. The highlights of the game --- besides Lauren playing her first game --- was that former coach Pat Summitt of the Tennessee Volunteers women’s basketball team
retired from basketball in December and became an honorary coach of the Mount St. Joseph Lions where she helped coach her team and helped the Cure Starts Now Foundation raise money for the DIPG cancer fund. Lauren’s goal was to raise 2.2 million dollars for the foundation. She did not reach this goal, but as of today she raised nearly 1.5 million dollars for the Cure Starts Now foundation. Lauren Hill became the
face for all children battling DIPG worldwide. Lauren Hill touched many athletes and coaches around the world with her story. LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Pat Summitt, former coach of the Lady Tennessee Volunteers, Candace Parker of the Los Angeles Sparks, and Fred Jackson of the Buffalo Bills are some of the many athletes that commented on how Lauren Hill touched them with her inspirational story. Lauren Hill succumbed to DIPG on April 10, 2015 as she lost her battle with cancer. Lauren Hill was not your average teenager. Lauren Hill is someone people of all ages can look up to because she became the face of a type of cancer that never had a face. Lauren touched millions with her inspiration and will to never give up to this disease. Students will find themselves sometimes complaining about how rough life can be or how they hate going to class, but students should realize that some others have it worse off. Doing research on Lauren taught me that as
a 21-year-old, I should be happy because I am healthy and I do not currently have an illness or sickness to worry about. My advice to myself and to others is that we should stop complaining and living so cowardly in our daily lives. That she we should be happy to wake up healthy and active because someone else does not have the same luxury as us. We should all strive to accomplish our goals without any fear of failure or fear about what others may think of us. If we learn to accomplish these simple things, we can learn to live a full life because you never know when it may come to an end. The important thing to learn from Lauren Hill is that she lived without any regrets or fear. We should be like Lauren and help those around us who need us most in this world. Lauren is a true example of what Stuart Scott said during his speech at the ESPY’s while he was battling cancer, “When you die, it does not mean that you lose to cancer. You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and in the manner in which you live.”
Garissa attack brings larger issue to light On the morning of April 2, 2015, Garrisa University College in Kenya was
by Brandon Pittman Contributing Writer
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Letters to the editor should be sent to the Meyer Student Media Center or mailed to The Reflector, PO Box 5407, Mississippi State, MS. Letters may also be emailed to editor@reflector.msstate.edu. Letters must include name and telephone number for verification purposes. The editor reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish a letter.
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attacked by Islamic group Al-Shabaab. The group killed 147 people and wounded many more. Their main targets were mostly Christian students in the school. The Kenyan troops, who usually guarded the school and neighboring areas, were almost 90 miles away near the Somali border. Even though they managed to return and defend the school, they arrived too late to stop a majority of the executions. I believe the lack of interest by the United States and other countries is what allows groups like Al-Shabaab to commit certain attacks. Kenya has been dealing with this group over the last several years, including a bombing incident during the 2010 World Cup that left many injured. It is not like they have not received worldwide
coverage before. Yet, due to their size and number it seems to me most countries do not view Al-Shabaab as a dangerous group like they would, for example, ISIS. I do not want to place blame on the U.S., but I feel like because this attack happened in Kenya, America has ignored the fatalities. If the worldwide spread of terrorism is a major issue, then countries like Kenya should be observed just as diligently. Otherwise, if the problem is not handled soon, larger issues may arise. According to a release by Ben Brumfield on CNN. com it is likely Al-Shabaab and ISIS could join forces. Brumfield said “Al-Shabaab has already declared allegiance to al Qaida, and has been considering joining ISIS as well.” However, even with this knowledge the U.S. has not
paid much attention to the group, and ultimately does little to help the country Al-Shabaab has harmed. Now Kenya’s military is left combating the group’s stronghold in Somalia, while at the same time defending its own country. Because of that, many citizens in Kenya are starting to worry about the government’s ability to protect them, especially with the military stretched so thin. Recently, the United Nations has taken action to aid the situation in Kenya by acknowledging Al-Shabaab as a serious threat in society. My question is, why did it have to take the death of 147 people before the UN realized that Al-Shabaab was a problem? Also, if Kenya’s security was already in jeopardy, why was aid not sent earlier to help protect their people?
As Kenya continues to battle the terrorist group, they hope aid will arrive soon. Since the Garisa attack, the military has begun recruiting and training new soldiers. They have also begun using airstrikes to destroy Al-Shabaab camps along the border of Somalia. Still, the fighting is very stiff and the likelihood of Al-Shabaab taking more innocent lives is an unfortunate possibility. My hope is those left heartbroken by this tragedy will soon find peace and their country will find stability. I hopeother countries, not just America, will group together to provide aid as they deal with Al-Shabaab. Again I will say, what we may consider a minor problem today, could cost us more trouble in the future.
RE F L E C T I O N S “I cannot teach you violence, as I do not myself believe in it. I can only teach you not to bow your heads before any one, even at the cost of your life” - Mahatma Gandhi
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Troy rape allegations confirms evidence of rape culture by Justin Brickler Contributing Writer
Every spring semester, thousands of college students from across the United States and even other countries flock to the state of Florida to enjoy in essence what is known as a “true college spring break.” A true college spring break for most people is going to the beach with a group of friends while letting loose and enjoying a week means free from exams, homework, and the stresses of college. It is almost a rite of passage to go to Florida for spring break with friends, but when did leaving common sense become a part of that rite? Two Troy University students and a Middle Tennessee State University student have been charged with, “sexual battery by multiple
perpetrators in connection with a video that the Bay County Sheriff’s Office said , “appeared to be of a gang rape that occurred on Panama City Beach during spring break,” which is stated on AL.com. The three men were seen on a video that was found while the Bay County Sheriff’s office investigated the shooting of seven students who were attending a house party during spring break in Panama City Beach. “We have got to get control of our beaches,” said Bay County Sheriff Frank McKeithen during a press conference held after the arrest of the two Troy students. Delonte Martistee, 22, of Bainbridge, GA and Ryan Austin Calhoun, 23, of Mobile, AL were the named perpetrators. The third student from Middle Tennessee State University is George Davon Kennedy of Murfreesboro, Tn.
80% of victims are under the age of 30
Did common sense evade the other students who stood around while this group of people did this? It is disgusting that this happened on an overly crowded beach in PCB while others stood around and did noth-
was being raped right in front of them? Has our generation been desensitized so much by sex and rape jokes that when it happens in front of us we don’t go to the person’s aide? There is a problem
“We need to stop thinking of ways for victims to do things to lower their chances of rape and start telling the perpetrator that raping someone is NOT okay.” ing to help this woman. Our generation has fallen so far that they will allow a woman who is intoxicated to the point of nearly passing out to be raped and fi lmed by these students on the beach? I know that as college students we will drink alcohol while on spring break, but was the crowd so drunk that they did not realize a woman
Every 107 seconds another American is sexually assaulted
no one wants to talk about, it’s how we are surrounded by a rape culture. Rape culture is like racism, we all know it exists but no one wants to acknowledge it. Not to say we live in a rape culture, but there is a strong problem when no one recognizes what sexual assault looks like. The groups suffered from the bystander
293,000 victms of sexual assault each year
affect which is when people see what is happening but they are waiting for someone else to step up and fix the problem. Just knowing the bystander affect exist increases the chances that someone will ignore a future event that should call for immediate action. We cannot allow the media to distort our image of what spring break is supposed to look like with parties, drinking, and sex. We cannot hyperbolize that sex is happening so much during spring break that we do not fully recognize when sexual assault is happening two inches away from our face. When did a woman being intoxicated on a beach lawn chair during spring break become an invitation for a group of males to sexually assault her? There is nothing consensual about raping another person. Our society has the problem of blaming the
68% of assaults are not reported to the police
victim more so than the perpetrators who committed such a heinous crime. It is not okay to rape another human being. We need to recognize that there is a problem with some people in our society. We need to fi nd different ways to convey to these people sexually assaulting someone is a horrible crime because the victim can be scarred for life. We need to stop thinking of ways for victims to do things to lower their chances of rape and start telling the perpetrator that raping someone is NOT okay. I just hope that the group involved in this case are found guilty of all charges and receive the maximum sentence which will hopefully put them away for the remainder of their life. I hope that the justice system, or yet the greater public, does not fail the victim either in this case.
98% of rapists never spend a day in jail
Rape Abuse and Incest National Network www.rainn.org
Facing the F-word
Coachella rape t-shirt encourages rape culture Bailey McDaniel is the opinion editor at The Reflector. She can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.
With summer quickly approaching, music is in the air. A massive popular form of entertainment for young and old alike are music festivals like Bonnaro, South by Southwest, Hangout Fest, Warped Tour and Coachella, just to name a few. Excluding
age limits, people from all ages gather for these multiple day fests to engage with worldly cultures and chill with bands from all over. Unfortunately, with large groupings of people comes a variety of humor and understanding of right and wrong. This past weekend in Indio, CA, a mass culture of over 550,000 people gathered for the first weekend of Coachella. Among these thousands of people was a man who decided to share his idea of an acceptable daily routine with the world. Reading “EAT SLEEP RAPE REPEAT,” an anonymous Coachella goer’s shirt caught the attention of many. Managing
Important Numbers
National Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656-HOPE MSU Safeline 662-325-3333 MSU Police 662-325-2121 Longest Student Health Center 662-325-7539 Oktibbeha County Sheriff ’s Department 662-323-2421
editor for Vice music’s electronic music site THUMP snapped a photo of this man for a tweet saying, “This guy earns the award for worst fashion/lifestyle choices @coachella. I’m not easy to offend, but this is shitty.” After the tweet was sent out, the twitter community was quick to share in the disgust of this offensive clothing. The phrase comes from well-known rape scene actor, Ranjeet when he tweeted the phrase last year. Here is my problem, when in the world did it become okay for someone to view rape as a common and accepted occurrence?
Don’t get me wrong, the massive disgust shown for this man’s attire gives me hope that not all people are comfortable with blatant
“As a society, we need to stand up and say NO to victim blaming.” acts of stupidity, but this shows just how submerged we as the human race are in a rape culture. Women are viewed as objects to look at and do with as one pleases. In today’s society,
everyone is so quick to ask the wrong questions. Instead of placing blame on the perpetrator, we make excuses and point the fi nger at the survivor. Questions include things like “What was she wearing?” and “Why was she out so late?” When did it become a woman’s fault that she was sexually assaulted because her skirt, heaven forbid, showed two inches of her thigh? This may seem like a separate topic completely, but the point I am trying to make is that t-shirts like the one in question are factors in the victimization of rape and sexual assault survivors. As a society, we need to
?
Did you know 1 in 5 women are raped while in college 1 in 16 men are sexually assaulted while in college 9 out of 10 victims know his/her offender Less than 5 percent of completed or attempted rapes on college campuses are reported to law enforcement Freshmen and Sophomores are at greater risk for victimization Every 21 hours there is a sexual assault on an American college campus If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline. For emergencies call 911.
stand up and say NO to victim blaming and the loose use of the word rape. No, you will never “rape a test” or “rape a basketball goal.” Rape has never and will never be something that should be taken lightly or joked about. Its our job as human beings to encourage others to educate themselves on rape culture and the common everyday ways we participate in it. This t-shirt may not break any laws, but it does something much greater. This shirt breaks the severity of rape. Rape is a serious term that should never be used as a funny or attractive appeal for merchandise.
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
The Steady Stride
Celebrity worship hinders peoples’ individuality
In our world of interconnection, we are consistently afforded opportunities to promote ourselves, most notably through the avenue of social networks. Many of us have grown quite proficient in the art of self-endorsement, as subtly or overtly as the desire of the individual dictates. As I have striven to stay abreast of the trends, I have recognized an interesting proclivity that pervades much of our public discourse: a penchant for celebrity. From my perspective, the modern zeitgeist is founded in an intense selfishness that seeks to elevate things that are advantageous or pleasing to us, while casting away things that do not seem to elevate us in return. This tendency is present within all, to a degree, yet is most vividly displayed in the act of idolization. This natural propensity to adore something is often hi-jacked – the feeling is not allowed to dawdle and wander aimlessly, searching carefully for a worthy recipient. Rather, our hyper-connected society provides numerous celebrities whom we are told deserve our attention, and yes, even our worship. Our attention is often funneled straight toward the “idols” we have already collectively established as the representation of flawless beauty and exquisite achievement
among the living. To seek guidance and cultural credibility outside the realm of the celebrity elite is seen as an ill-informed blunder. Who better to guide us to our better selves, people will exclaim. Maybe. But also, as I see it, who better to lead us away from ourselves and into a vain search for meaning in places where it is not to be found? These days, celebrities seem almost mass produced – designed with the vain proclivities of the rabble in mind, pumped out of some assembly line with the speed necessary to catch the next lapse in the pop culture cycle, all to ensure there is no gap in the steady stream of glitz and glam. Celebrities are pimped to cater to the ever decreasing standards of pop art, and the entertainment requirements of the easily pleased. Everything they do is sensationalized. And that is a habit that has been foisted on the rest of us. What purpose does social media serve better than the embellishment of mundane aspects of our daily lives? While many of us do indeed believe we live interesting lives, we have great assistance in convincing others of it through various lenses of distortion. “If a camera is not on it, is it worth viewing?” has become the
question of our age. Celebrities have to work very hard to live in obscurity. Anonymity is essentially denied to them. What a drastic difference this is from the average individual, doing everything within his or her might to cast off their anonymity and throw on the rich robes of fame. There is one particularly self-aware celebrity who takes issue with this idea
solutions have to be sorted out within ourselves.” Brand knows quite well, and disdains in kind, the fraudulence that so saturates the entertainment aristocracy. Show me a culture that can’t look away from celebrity tricks and I will show you a culture that can’t face itself. There is need for a new paradigm. One where our voices are not surrendered to the media elite who have
“We do not have to submit to the machinations of distant, profit seeking minds that do not share our interests. Nor do we have to follow blindly in the footstpes of celebrities whose actual experiences only represent a slim portion of human expression.” of fi nding ones worth and guidance in the arms of superstars. The extravagant Russell Brand has an insider’s perspective, and advises anyone seeking true identity and wholeness to steer clear of the trendy ways of the performing icons. “We need amelioration from these consumer tonics,” he says in an interview. “We can never purchase externally any true tonic. It’s, as we say, an inside job. These
unchallenged platforms with endless reach, but where the common man has a voice right alongside the celebrity in the cultural conversation. Perhaps that is the most recent spin on the American Dream – the ability to gain influence and earn the attention of the multitudes. Perhaps this will all come across as a jealous jab at those who do what I cannot, those who are talented
in ways that I will never be, and those who simpleyembody the formula for modern conceptions of success. But as I grow older, I do not become more envious, but less. As I reflect upon our modern state of affairs, I only feel sad as I look upon those sacrificed as an offering to the celebrity machine, and those that worship upon its altar. It is no crime to be famous, but it is a privilege that requires responsibility. A dismantling of the social hierarchy could allow for a healthy redistribution of influence. We are made to believe the methods of change are only glamorous and held firmly by the rich, but it need not be so. We often grow tired of exposure to various celebrities, yet it takes much to truly wreck a celebrity’s image and force them out of the public spotlight. This is especially true with parasitic pop culture outlets peddling useless celebrity trivia as if it were some sort of holy writ. The smallest bit of drivel will receive endless study, while the incredible feats of the common man will largely go unnoticed. And it is not simply that such misplaced concern exists that is troublesome, as we humans are at all times prone to
Andy Moore is a senior majoring in political science. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.
wrongfully elevate the useless to the level of the ultimate. But it is the fact that such triteness has been so subsumed into our cultural consciousness that we can hardly look away from the celebrity visage to face ourselves. What are our lives if not imitations of the famed faces of modern appeal, we ask. We are deceived and diminished if we believe this is the fullest measure of our worth and grandest display of identity. We do not have to submit to the machinations of distant, profit seeking minds that do not share our interests. Nor do we have to follow blindly in the footsteps of celebrities whose actual experiences only represent a slim portion of human expression. May our identities be more than simple conglomerations of absorbed celebrity personalities? We are more.
Chili pepper option Letter to the Editor on site unnecessary by Kelneccia Denman
I would have loved to have some leeway when registering for courses each semester. My university provides the vague description of the course and professors, but it would be even sweeter if I got comments from students. What do I mean by that? I’m in Spanish III this semester, not doing well, and I dislike my teacher. We are currently in groups for a project.
One of my group members mentioned a website where you can rate your professors! My inquiring mind searched her with a few questions in mind, then proceeded to check it out. The group meeting ended, I proceeded to my apartment, got comfortable and typed in the web address. When the site popped up, I saw three banners: Find a professor, find a school, and rate a professor. I clicked on ‘find a school’, entered Mississippi State and there it was, top rated
professors. You know, I had to go to the class professor I disliked the most. Her ratings were great! Raters said that “she was amazing and they enjoyed every minute.” Of course I was appalled. My initial thought was why, also the site has been up for a while. The last comment is from 2007. I searched for my favorite teacher next and of course his rating was amazing. Raters said that “he was a great teacher and they loved his class.” The confidence of trust gained in seeing that rate was great.
“My professor’s hotness wouldn’t make me choose them over an unattractivev one.” I can trust this website, I think. One more thing my group member disclosed
was the chili pepper on the rating profile of the professor. We all know
what a pepper insinuates. My professor’s hotness wouldn’t make me choose them over an unattractive one, but it’s entertaining to see. I’m always late in the game on conditions. I thought I should get the word out on this thing. Surely everyone’s experiences aren’t the same, but when there is a ton of similarity truth is neighboring. Before you all jump on board, the site is run by Viacom. They have privacy conditions that you should read before you rate. And You’re WELCOME!
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month • A report of child abuse is made every 10 seconds in the United States • Every year there are more than 3 million cases of child abuse • In 2012, 1,640 children died from abuse and neglect • Of the children who died in 2012, 70% were under the age of 2 • Around 80% of maltreatment fatalities involve at least one parent as the perpetrator
www.childhelp.org
10 REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
An In-Class Distraction
5 THINGS TO KNOW FOR YOUR FRIDAY 1. The measles outbreak in the Los Angeles Disneyland is officially over. Out of 134 cases of measles, officials traced 40 of them to Disneyland visitors and 30 to family members of those visitors. There has not been any new cases since March and officials are declaring the outbreak handled. 2. Time recently realeased its 12th annual “100 Most Influential People in the World” list. Included in this issue are familiar names like Hilary Clinton, Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, Emma Watson, Laverne Cox and many, many, many more. 3. Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Jameis Winston is being sued for alleged rape charges. Erica Kinsman, a former Florida State University student, claims Winston raped her in 2012. Winston responds that the sex was consensual. 4. Northern white rhinos are on the verge of extinction. Currently, Kenya has the last three white rhinos in the world. There are two females, and one male. Sudan, the last male northern white rhino, is the species’ last chance of survival. Sudan is under 24-hour surveillance. 5. Supermodel Gisele Bundchen retires. After 20 years, Bundchen gives up her modeling career to pursue other projects. Her final runway show was in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
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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 House for rent! Two bedroom, one bathroom. House located in Montpelier, MS. $500.00 per month plus deposit. Great location for students looking to enjoy quiet, country living. If interested, please call 662-295-7362. Uniquie Faculty (student or alumni) Apartments! “Lodge at the Lake.” Fantastic view, 340’ waterfront, dock, boat, fishing. Eleven miles west of campus. One bedroom apartment avilable August. $550 (Or buy all five units $343,000!) Call 662-418-2790. MEDICAL HELP WANTED OCH Regional Medical Center is looking for a part-time certified pharmacy technician. Experience with working in a hospital or retail pharmacy is perfered. Call Patsy Prisock, Human Resources, at
662-615-2990 for more information. 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 The Reflector at office in the Student Media Center. A contact name, phone number and requested run dates must be included for club info to appear in The Reflector. All submissions are subject to exemption according to space availability. 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 5:30-7 p.m. Like Yoga Moves Club - MSU on Facebook. STUDENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS
Care about the environment? Love activism? Come join SSC
on Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. in McCool 111 to make a difference. Follow on Twitter @MSU_SSC. WESLEY FOUNDATION
Join us for a night of worship with Jenny and Tyler February 3 at 8 PM at the Wesley Foundation. STATE RUGBY
Think you’re tough??? Think again… Join State Rugby. 2014 SEC Division Champions! Practices T, W, R @ 5:30 at Rec Plex. For more info: rugby.org.msstate. edu or rugby-info@org. msstate.edu. BALLROOM DANCE CLUB
The Ballroom Dance Club is having its 10th Annual Moonlight Ball. It will be $20 for students and $25 for non-students and includes a catered dinner. It will be held April 11 at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanderson Center. SOCIOLOGICAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION
The Sociological Student Association will meet the last Thursday of every month at 5 p.m. in Bowen Hall room 250. All majors are welcome. For more information, contact Dr. Lane at lane@soc.msstate.edu. ANTHROPOLOGY CLUB
The Anthropogy Club will be having a meeting Tuesday, April 21 at 5 p.m. in Cobb 100
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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
SAAC presents Cotton District Arts Festival by Mary Rumore Staff Writer
Mississippi State University’s Super Bulldog Weekend, begins today and will continue until Sunday. This annual event has something to offer everyone, not just sports fans. Along with baseball, football and softball games, another entertaining activity that takes place during Super Bulldog Weekend is the Cotton District Arts Festival. The festival will take place from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday in the historic Cotton District on University Drive. The Cotton District Arts Festival includes live music performances, a juried art competition and show, a writer’s village, the taste of Starkville restaurant competition, 5K and 1 mile runs, a pet parade, a student art competition and more. The festival will host over 125 different artisans. Arey Wilson, sophomore sociology major and music minor, said she is one of the
Staff | The Reflector
Super Bulldog Weekend kicks off today, and the Starkville Area Arts Council will present the Cotton District Arts Festival tomorrow from 7 a.m.–5 p.m. in Starkvilleʼs historic Cotton District on University Drive. The festival will feature live music acts, an art competition, art and food vendors, a pet parade and more.
performers for the Cotton District Arts Festival. Wilson won second place at the Songwriter’s Showcase, which took place on April 2 at Dave’s Dark Horse Tavern. She will be performing her original music at the festival. “I am very excited,”
Wilson said. “I have been looking forward to it since the songwriter’s competition.” Wilson, and fi rst place winner of the Songwriter’s Showcase Tanner Gray and third place winner Mariel Marcum, will perform live from 12-12:45 p.m. on the West stage.
In combination with music, there will also be art shows at the Cotton District Arts Festival. MSU students and others from the area have the chance to show off their original artwork. This year Andrea Clanton, from Grenada, Mississippi, is entering
her photography in the juried art competition. Clanton is entering four photographs she took in New Orleans at her great grandfather’s old farmhouse. She said the festival will be very special this year. “Sharing personal artwork always challenges
you to be your personal best,” Clanton said. “I enjoy meeting other artists and like-minded people.” The juried art awards will take place at 9:30 a.m. in the MSU Visual Arts Center. The Cotton District Arts Festival also gives pet owners a chance to show off their furry friends. Registration for the pet parade is at 8 a.m. and the parade begins at 9 a.m. Pets in the parade can win awards for best costume, biggest, smallest, ownerpet look alike, longest tail and much more. Awards will be presented at 9:30 a.m. on the South stage. Clanton is also participating in the pet parade and the juried art competition this year. “I think my kids are most excited about entering our Yorkie in the pet parade,” Clanton said. The Cotton District Arts Festival is presented by the Starkville Area Arts Council. For more information, maps and a full schedule of the Cotton District Arts Festival, visit www. cdafestival.com.
Russian National Ballet to perform ‘Sleeping Beauty’ by ShaCamree Gowdy Staff Writer
Mississippi State University’sLyceumSeries will present “Sleeping Beauty,” a performance by the Russian National Ballet Theatre on April 22. The performance will take place in Lee Hall’s Bettersworth
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Auditorium. The Russian National Ballet Theatre was founded in Moscow during the transitional period of Perestroika in the late 1980s. Now, it is its own institution which includes over 50 dancers with vast experience. “The Sleeping Beauty,” is revered as one of the greatest accomplishments of the classical ballet.
Eaton Walker, center for student activities graduate assistant and member of the Lyceum Series performing arts committee, said he cannot wait for the upcoming event. According to Walker, the performance will be the perfect way to conclude the spring academic semester and performances put on by the Lyceum Series. “We are extremely
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for the general public may be purchased at www.lyceum.msstate.edu for $25. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m. Students are encouraged to come out and enjoy the conclusion of the 20142015 performances put on by the Lyceum Series. For questions and concerns regarding the event, contact Amelia Treptow at 662-325-2930.
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rendition of the story turns out. “I absolutely love “Sleeping Beauty.” I am so excited about this performance because I know it will be completely different from anything I have ever witnessed,” Thames said. I can only imagine what wonderful things they have in store for us.” The show is free for all MSU students. Tickets
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excited to host the Russian National Ballet,” Walker said. “We believe it will offer a ballet performance unlike any other that will greatly benefit all those in attendance.” Breana Thames, junior computer engineering major, said she is also looking forward to the fi nal performance because as a fan of the classic fairytale, she is excited to see how this
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MMP presents music festival
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
MSU raises suicide prevention awareness by ShaCamree Gowdy Staff Writer
Emma Katherine Hutto| The Reflector
The revamped 2015 Old Main Music Festival will take place from 12-11 p.m. on April 25 at the Mississippi State University Amphitheater. The festival will host bands such as ASTR, Ghost Beach, Black Pistol Fire, Rock Eupora, Chasing Edom, Daniel Neely, Family Funk Company, Phoxy Phonic and The Tombigbees. The Old Main Music Festival is an annual event. In the past, MMP has brought The Neighbourhood, Cage the Elephant and many more musical by Kaitlin O’Dougherty Staff Writer
Music Makers Production will hold its annual Old Main Music Festival at Mississippi State University’s ampitheatre on Saturday, April 25. The festival will host bands such as ASTR, Ghost Beach, Black Pistol Fire, Rock Eupora, Chasing Edom, Daniel Neely, Family Funk Company, Phoxy Phonic, and The Tombigbees. Kelsey Truitt, sophomore secondary
education major, said she is looking forward to attending the event and
give the local bands really good publicity,” Truitt said. “I’ve heard
“Festivals like this give the local bands really good publicity. I’ve heard of a couple of the bands like Rock Eupora and The Tombigbees. They always put on a good show.” -Kelsey Truitt, sophomore secondary education major discovering new bands. “Festivals like this
of a couple of the bands like Rock Eupora, and
The Tombigbees. They always put on a good show.” The event is not limited to only music. There will be food trucks, an artist village and many other activities for students to participate in. Although there will be many options that day, Molly Morrow, sophomore broadcasting and public relations major, said she is also looking forward to the music. “I’m excited about all the different bands that will be playing,” Morrow said. The events are free for those in attendance.
5
On April 21, the Work Life Balance Committee at Mississippi State University will partner with the Staff Council and Mississippi Coalition of Partners in Prevention for a QPR suicide prevention workshop. QPR stands for question, persuade and refer. There will be two sessions available to attend. One of the sessions will be held from 10 a.m. to noon and the other from 3-5 p.m. This event will take place in the Longest Student Health Center, room 350. The idea behind the event is by learning these three steps, one could help save someone from making a terrible decision. Those who are already trained in these areas are able to recognize the signs of a person who may be considering suicide. By attending this event, one could learn to be vigilant for warning signs. Juleigh Baker, a health and wellness educator for University Health Services, said she is really looking forward to seeing how the event will impact students and faculty at MSU. “This is a training event that a couple of our staff members have had special training to host. In the past, mental health issues have often held a negative stigma among the general public, but over the past
few years that has changed to more positive views which truly helps all,” Baker said. Baker said the training is designed to give the average person skills to recognize someone who might be having suicidal thoughts, the questions to ask the person, the skill to try to persuade them to speak to a professional and the proper places to refer them. Baker stressed the importance of the information which will be given at the event because one may often be oblivious to what a peer is going through. Allyra Williams, sophomore political science major, said she will register for the event because she has the ability to make a difference in someone’s life. “I don’t think I have ever come in contact with a person who was thinking about taking their own life, but you never know,” she said. “I will be attending the event because I know different people go through different things, and it would make me happy knowing I’m the reason someone is still here and alive.” It is not required for those in attendance to have prior training. To register for this event, visit www.hrm.msstate. edu/development/ upcoming. For additional information, visit the Staff Council website at www. staffcouncil.msstate.edu/ events or contact Juleigh Baker at (662)325-2141.
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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Bully Through the Years 1905 “Bull Dog Pup”
1935 Ptolemy, “Tol”
1926 Bully
Aug 1942 – ?? Bully IV, “Big Dog on Campus” or “BDOC”
1967-1972 Bully X, “Sergeant Mac”
1992-1994 Bully XVI, “Replica of Corker” or “Corka”
July 1945- March 1947 Bully V
September 1947December 1951 Bully VI-A, “BDOC”
1972 Bully XII, “Teeway’s Romeo” or “Romeo”
1972 Bully XI
1995-1998 Bully XVII, “Lucky Be Happy” or “Lucky”
1935-1939 Bully I, “Bully”
November 1947 – May 1952 Bully VI-B
1974-1975 Bully XIII-A “Trajan”
1974-1975 Bully XIII-B “Sissy” 1998-1999 Bully XVIII, “Dontae”
1939-1941 Bully II, “Beau Legg”
Sept. 1953-Nov.1956 Bully VII, “Mr. Muggs”
1976-1982 Bully XIV, “Champion Bully of MSU” or “Champ”
September 2001-September 2009 Bully XIX, “TaTonka Gold” or “Tonka”
Oct. 1999- Aug. 2001 Interim Bully XVIII, “Humphrey Hartsog” or “Humphrey”
1939 Shirley
March 1942-July 1942 Bully III
1964-1966 Bully IX, “Joker”
1957-1964 Bully VIII
1985-1991 Bully XIV-B
Sept. 2009-April 2015 Bully XX “TaTonka’s Golden Sun” or “Champ”
1991-1992 Bully XV, “Little Bully”
Present Day Bully XXI Jak
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Sports
14 THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Bulldogs set to host Florida during weekend by Zach Wagner Staff Writer
The Mississippi State Men’s baseball team will look to get back on track this weekend against Florida, who will come to Starkville ranked 7th in the USA Today Coaches Poll. Losing their last four out of five games, The Bulldog’s haven’t been able to get their offense flowing on a consistent enough basis to string a series of consecutive victories together within conference play. The team is on pace to finish with one of the lowest offensive efficiency ratings in the program’s history and there have been rumblings from people around the program concerning the lack of changes to the lineup that could help stimulate some more offensive prowess. With that being said, head coach John Cohen shifted the blame towards inconsistent pitching following their 13-5 loss on Sunday at Texas A&M. “In the fi rst two games, we pitched it well and that kept us in the game,” Cohen said. “In this game, we didn’t pitch it well at all. Realistically, we had two out of eight innings where you feel like pitchers went out and did a really great job. Personally, I feel we have the best defensive infield in the league but we are struggling to put them in a position to make plays.” At one point during the season, the offense failed to score a run in 29 straight innings, before fi nally breaking out of the slump in a win at home against Auburn in late March.
Jacab Follin | The Reflector
First baseman Wes Rea attempts to make a play on an infield ground ball. Rea will be a pivotal piece in the success of the Bulldogs against No. 7 Florida.
At the same time though, the Bulldogs were able to put together a long run of holding their opponents to two runs or fewer in nine straight games earlier in the season. Currently, Mississippi State has seen their
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collective team batting average slip to .278 as well as the staffs overall ERA to .399, which when coupled with the challenge of facing one of college baseball’s premier programs in the Florida Gators, could make for a very difficult weekend for Cohen. One factor that the Bulldogs may have working in their favor is the recent news that the Gators will be without
two of their pitchers this weekend. That is because sophomores A.J. Puk and Kirby Snead were charged with a third-degree felony for allegedly climbing a crane at a construction site on campus, according to The Orlando Sentinel. Regarding the incident, Florida head coach Kevin O’Sullivan has yet to release any comment but the players’ lawyer Huntley Johnson did
choose to address the matter following his clients actions. “This is a learning experience for the two young men,” Johnson said. These events may prove to help the Bulldog offense, who will take any breaks they can get. The Florida pitching staff have been particularly formable this season, posting a team ERA below 3.50 and combining to help position the Gators for a postseason push.
The Gators will come to Starkville on the heels of losing a 4-3 12 inning thriller to in-state rivals Florida State on Tuesday night. A game that their head coach would describe afterward as one they just couldn’t get a hold of. “We didn’t quite do enough to win the ballgame. Looking back, JJ (Schwarz) leads off the ninth with a ball off the wall and a couple of more inches to the left it’s a home run”, said O’Sullivan. “But, the ball doesn’t go out and we don’t get a bunt down. We needed to get the runner to third base and drive him in there.” While the Gators do enough to get things done on the mound, the true strength of the team comes on offense, where the team ranks high in most of the major categories. To be more specific, they are 8th in both batting average and home runs, as well as 6th in runs, scored this season. One player on the Gators who has been scorching as of late, would be freshman catcher/designated hitter JJ Schwarz. It was announced on Wednesday that he had been selected as the national hitter of the week after he was able to produce some eye-opening numbers the week before. Schwarz batted .529 (9-for-17) with 15 RBI, 12 runs scored and seven home runs as Florida captured all four games last week, including a sweep of No. 21 South Carolina. His sevenhomer barrage surpassed the six homers Taylor Gushue had in 63 games last year to lead the Gators. The Bulldog pitching staff will need to stay focused against a very high octane Gator lineup, as mistakes can quickly turn into home runs. If the Bulldogs have any remaining hopes of capturing a regional birth come May, they will need to start putting together some impressive victories. Winning the series against Florida this weekend will certainly help their cause. The weekend series gets underway on Friday night at 6:30 p.m. at Duty Noble Field. The series will continue at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
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Sports REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Beyond the Arc
Bully’s Ballers
Malik Newman under recruitment turned the Wildcats into an NBA player factory over the past few years. According to cbssports.com, Kentucky is already ranked as the top team going into next year because of the massive amount of talent that comes through the school. If Newman wants to possibly play for a championship in college Kentucky clearly gives him the best chance for achieving that goal. If Newman wants to play the point guard position in college though, Kentucky may not necessarily be the best place for him. Kentucky returns sophomore Tyler Ulis at the point guard position and the best point guard in high school, Isiah
the incumbent at the point guard position and is not in the same class of talent as Newman. If Newman wants all the shots, and to be the man running the show then MSU is probably where he should be. How much new MSU head coach Ben Howland affects this recruitment might be the largest wild Blake Morgan is a junior card of all. Howland majoring in communication. recruited big-time names at his time at UCLA, so He can be contacted at he knows what it takes to reflectorsports@gmail.com bring in top players. He has coached NBA point guards The college basketball before and knows what recruiting season is coming it takes to get guys to the to an end and high school next level. What Howland senior Malik Newman is is having to overcome one of the most coveted though is the time lost while prospects in the country he has not been around. that has yet to sign Calipari and with a team. his staff have Newman has been recruiting been heavily N e w m a n “Does he want to be just recruited for years since day one, by Mississippi Howland took another cog in the machine State University, over about a University of month ago. at Kentucky or does he want Kentucky, LSU In the world and University of recruiting to possibly start a strong of Kansas. that is almost Though MSU basketball tradition at MSU no time at and Kentucky all to build a with Howland? Only time have been named relat ionship throughout as and convince a will tell what will ultimately the front runners player to come for the top five to your school. sway his opinion.” prospect. It is of course So, which way impossible will Newman to determine lean? He has made what is truly it known from important to the very beginning that Briscoe, is signed to come an 18-year-old kid. Does his dream is to be an NBA in next season. There are he want college success player and he wants to be only so many minutes that and national television a one-and-done player. He can be spread around. recognition, or does he has also made it clear that Briscoe and Newman want to stay close to his he wants to run the point played in the Nike Hoops home in Jackson and be the guard position in college, Summit last weekend and main guy with ball in his not shooting guard like Briscoe had one of the hand at the end of games? in high school. Which better performances in the Does he want to be just team has the edge to gain scrimmage. another cog in the machine Newman’s commitment? Newman struggled to get at Kentucky or does he Kentucky obviously much of a shot at running want to possibly start a has the advantage from the offense and did not get strong basketball tradition the standpoint of getting much time on the court. At at MSU with Howland? players into the NBA MSU, Newman would be Only time will tell what will quickly. John Calipari, the guy the second he walks ultimately sway Newman’s Kentucky head coach, has on to campus. I.J. Ready is opinion.
Dak Prescott
Last yearʼs Heisman contending quarterback returns to lead what appears to be an absolutely stacked offensive unit. Bulldog fans will be anxious to see if his mechanics and decision making skills have improved significantly from last season. It will also be interesting to see how Prescott distributes the ball amongst his several dangerous targets.
Wes Rea
Fans that are eager to see more fireworks after some that are scheduled prior to the Diamond Dogs matchup against No. 7 Florida should make sure to be glued to their seats at Dudy Noble Field when Rea steps to the plate. The offense has struggled as of late to get into a groove and if anyone could lead the Bulldogs out of that dry spell it is the power-hitting senior.
Alexis Silkwood
Coming off a hard fought loss to No. 21 South Alabama the Bulldogs will look to return to their winning ways as they welcome another ranked team, No. 12 Tennesse into Starkville. The sophomore pitched a superb game in a losing effort against the Jaguars, posting a complete game and allowing three runs on four hits. Silkwood should be an X-factor against a tough Volunteer team.
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Senior Celebration 2015 April 21, 2015 @ 5 PM Hunter Henry Center
It’s Time to Celebrate! Graduating seniors, come enjoy free crawfish, MSU ice cream, deli sandwiches, and live entertainment before you don your cap and gown!
Free selfie sticks to those who arrive early while they last!
Where: 1 Hunter Henry Boulevard
When: 5-7 PM
Laura Robertson Business Development Coordinator lrobertson@pfl-ms.com
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Sports
THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
Hail State Hoops Awards Victoria Vivians-MVP, Miss Offense Dominique Dillingham Miss Defense, Miss Hustle Kendra Grant- 6th Man Award Jerica James- Most Improved Morgan William- Rookie Award Kayla Nevitt- Most Outstanding Bulldog Blair Schaefer- Academic Award Martha Alwal- Co-Miss Defense
662-312-8895
Bill Simmonds |Media Relations
Members of the Bulldog Basketball team were recognized for their achievements after a historic season during the Hail State Hoops Awards Wednesday. The Bulldogs were successful in matching the best SEC finish in school history (third place). The team earned the programʼs first NCAA Tournament berth since 2010.
MSU’s comeback bid falls short by Brandon Pittman Contributing Writer
State’s Mississippi softball team fought valiantly in a tough 3-2 loss to the 22nd ranked South Alabama
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Jaguars. The Jaguars’ record improves to 32-7 and a 4-2 alltime matchup record versus the Bulldogs. Scoring in the game started late as both teams struggled to get good hits in the beginning. The defense for both teams was unyielding through the first three innings, as neither team scored any runs. Bulldogs’ pitcher Alexis Silkwood allowed only one walk in the top of the second inning, and recorded a strikeout later in the third. The game quickly started to turn in the Jaguars favor in the fourth after a double hit by South Alabama’s Kaitlyn Griffith. Followed by that, two single hits allowed the senior infielder to score the first run of the game and put the Jaguars up 1-0. Just one inning later, the Jaguars capitalized on their lead by scoring two runs, off of a double hit by infielder Chloe Rathburn. This
extended the Jaguars’ lead to 3-0 over the Bulldogs. In the bottom of the fifth, the Bulldogs’ outfielder took Nichols Loryn advantage of a throwing error by the Jaguars and seized third base. Following that a single up the middle by Caroline Seitz displaced the defense, and allowed Nichols to put the Bulldogs on the board 3-1. Still trailing in the bottom of the sixth, MSU hit two singles early in the inning, which allowed pinch runner Madison Arroyo to score after a sacrifice fly ball by infielder Kayla Winkfield and brought the Bulldogs to 3-2. Later, in the bottom of the seventh inning, the Bulldogs tried to continue their rally, after the Jaguars allowed two batters to walk. But Sarah Story| The Reflector facing a two out situation, Silkwood’s bouncer just Sophomore pitcher Alexis Silkwood prepares to deliver a pitch during across the middle was caught action earlier in the season. Silkwood pitched a complete game against and she was thrown out at South Alabama. first base. SOFTBALL,18
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Sports THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
SUPER BULLDOG WEEKEND FRIDAY, APRIL 17: Softball vs Tennessee at 5:30pm: --Breast Cancer Awareness Game (FANS WEAR PINK): FREE “Strike Out Cancer” shirts & pink MSU face decals while supplies last
EVENTS
Baseball vs Florida at 6:30pm: --FREE rally towels for the 1st 1,000 fans --Fireworks post-game to kickoff Super Bulldog Weekend SATURDAY, APRIL 18: Maroon & White Football Spring Game at 11am: -- “Passing of the Harness” ceremony pregame (Bully XX “Champ” to Bully XXI “Jak”) --FREE limited edition posters of QB Dak Prescott & Head Coach Dan Mullen for the 1st 10,000 fans --Halftime: Newsom Award Winners Announced; Recognition of MSU’s Women’s Basketball Team; MSU Pom Squad Performance Baseball vs Florida at 2pm: -- “125 Seasons” Commemorative posters for the 1st 5,000 fans Softball vs Tennessee at 6pm: --FREE commemorative senior posters for the 1st 250 fans SUNDAY, APRIL 19: Softball vs Tennessee at 1pm: --SENIOR DAY (pregame) -- “Kids’ Day at the Park”: Sunday Sundaes (FREE ice cream while supplies last); MSU face decals; children 12 & under can run the bases post-game Baseball vs Florida at 2pm: --Final set of Bulldog Baseball trading cards given away -- “Kids’ Day at the Park”: Children 12 & under can run the bases post-game
MAROON MEMORIES: We are offering even more exclusive “Maroon Memories” for Super Bulldog Weekend, so let us enhance your gameday experience; visit HailState.com/Memories today! Please see below for the full menu of offerings for #SBW15 SOFTBALL: --Game ball delivery --Announce batters for half inning (Kids 12 and under) --Anthem Buddies --Pregame picture on the field -- “Play Ball” Kid --Strike Out Cancer T-shirt (2M, 2L, 2XL available starting Friday) --Limited Edition Senior Poster (10 available starting Saturday) BASEBALL: -- “125 Seasons” Commemorative Basket -- “125 Seasons” Commemorative Package --7th Inning Stretch --Announce the Batters --Diamond Girl for the Day --Hall of Champions Tour --Meet and Greet with Athletic Director Scott Stricklin -- “Play Ball” Kid --Rosin Bag Delivery --Welcome Message FOOTBALL SPRING GAME: --Early entry pass into Davis Wade Stadium --Maroon Access: Tunnel walk and sideline access --White Access: Exclusive look into Bulldog team locker room and facility tour --Commemorative Dak Prescott & Dan Mullen posters, and more!
HAIL STATE!
Sports
18 THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015
The Flutie Effect makes impact in Starkvegas
Beyond the Arc
life,” Erin Nesbit, a social media specialist for Mississippi State, said. Mississippi State began to change its approach to social media all together. “On social media we are trying to get high-end art,” Sid Salter, the chief communications officer for the public affairs office, said. “We spent months developing these Blake Morgan is a junior nuggets of information, but we put majoring in communication. these things up where we try to He can be contacted at tell a superlative about Mississippi State that they are not aware of, reflectorsports@gmail.com and wrap it around the hashtag STATEPROUD. The reach of Due to the proper infrastructure this has gotten up to a little over a and last season’s football success, quarter of a million.” Mississippi State University was The reach of a social media able to grow its brand and reach post is characterized by how many more people than ever before. people will see the post. This is “In August we really realized largely influenced by the number of that we were not using social followers on a given social network, media as effectively as we should and the amount of engagement— have, and by that, I mean we were sharing, liking or retweeting—any just not telling the story,” Checky post receives. Herrington, an MSU marketing On Facebook, the Mississippi research analyst, said. State account saw sizeable MSU began to make a conscious increases in the reach of its posts effort to be more socially aware, throughout the fall. MSU had a and they even hired people to Facebook reach of a little over specifically create content for one million in August, but it social media. rose to just above six million “My goal when I came here in October. By November was to give social media some the number hit slightly above eight million, and December saw the reach CONTINUED FROM 16 of the posts fall to just below four million. While the content Silkwood, the SEC’s two-time on Mississippi State’s Pitcher of the Week winner, page was allowed three runs on four Facebook earned hits by the Jaguars after growing stronger, it could playing the complete game with not give reason for the large increase in people roughly 103 pitches. The Bulldogs, now with a being reached before the record of 31-13, will look to turn sharp decrease. By the middle of October, things around this weekend the MSU football team had as they host the 12th ranked Tennessee Volunteers in a risen to No. 1 in the country 3-game series for Super Bulldog and stayed there for five Weekend, starting Friday, April weeks. Halfway through November Mississippi State 17, at 5:30 p.m. fell out of the No. 1 spot after losing to Alabama in a top five matchup and then
SOFTBALL
Jacab Follin | The Reflector
Former running back Josh Robinson celebrates with Mississippi State University students after a historic game last year.
1984, Doug Flutie, the Boston College quarterback, flung a Hail Mary into the end zone to win a football game over the University of Miami. This was an iconic play in football history that would be replayed on national television numerous times “MSU has tried not to turn the for the following months. attention away from the success “People began to notice that the of the football program, but next fall, BC had instead use it as a jump-off point a marked increase in enrollment, for the rest of the university. ” and hence began the ‘Flutie Effect.’ You had about “We began the cycle up 50 percent of the academic in applications, but did see a community reject the whole significant increase in October notion,” Salter said. “It was and November,” said John R. happen stance. It was other Dickerson, who is the interim factors. It was general recruiting executive director of enrollment by BC admission folks, but it wasn’t Flutie.” at Mississippi State University. For the next few decades people The sharp increase in admissions for Mississippi State in the academic community are similar to what has happened began to study whether there was to other schools. On Nov. 23, actually a tangible way to see the another loss to Ole Miss near the end of the month. Over that period of time, MSU saw its Facebook reach grow substantially as well as its applications for admissions.
‘Flutie Effect.’ “There is a significant amount of literature out there about whether or not the ‘Flutie Effect’ is real,” Salter said. “The defi nitive research, some of which has come out of California-Berkley, is that the ‘Flutie Effect’ indeed is measureable and real.” With more attention being brought onto MSU than ever before, the university began to use the extra exposure to spread news about what the campus has to offer. “We have a lot of secrets here and that’s pretty sad because there is a lot of great stuff going on here,” Nesbit said. MSU has tried not to turn the attention away from the success of the football program, but instead use the success as a jumping off point for the rest of the university. “We have not used our increase in eyes to say, ‘boy aren’t we great at football.’ It is such a huge opportunity to focus on the academic success of the university, and we have tried really hard not to squander that,” Salter said.
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