The Print Edition

BULLDOG BASH 2012

Marketing staff benefits from GUIDE TO performance on the field SPORTS | B5

INSIDE

FRIDAY

NOVEMBER 2, 2012

Reflector The

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THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884

BY KRISTEN SPINK Sports Editor

W

hile Mississippi State athletics continues to succeed on the field, with back-to-back Bowl wins and an SEC championship last year in baseball, the past few years have witnessed the MSU Athletic Department springboard as one of the front-runners in the world of social media.

Last year, MSU became the first college to employ social media on the playing field when the school placed #HAILSTATE on its north end zone for the Egg Bowl. MSU director of marketing Chad Thomas said the idea came in a meeting during the summer of 2011.

In the meeting, the idea of putting

hashtags on the back of State’s Egg Bowl jerseys was mentioned, but those present decided that would be taking things a little too far with the commercialization of sport. The end zone idea was then mentioned and chosen.

Thomas said there was some consternation from fans about the new end zone at first, but once nationally respected publications and personalities commented on the distinctiveness of the idea, fans warmed up to it.

One of those celebrities was Dallas Mavericks owner and broadcast.com founder Mark Cuban. In an email to mashable.com, Cuban said the idea was brilliant.

“It’s a phenomenal idea,” Cuban said. “It’s a fun way to involve social media at the game, and to TV viewers, it’s going to stir up some emo-

tions between both teams. I can definitely see the Mavs and other teams doing it.”

The trend continues this weekend with the end zone featuring #SnowBowl2012 to remind fans of the 2000 bowl game between MSU and Texas A&M played in the snow, with the Bulldogs winning 43-41 in overtime.

Not only is the Athletic Department promoting social media on the field, but the department has also built up the Bulldog fan base online through exclusive use.

Social media is rapidly changing the way athletics updates fans and generates support for teams. Whereas in the past, breaking news and updates may have taken a day or more to publish, social media allows news to break in a matter of seconds.

SEE SOCIAL MEDIA, B6

ZACK ORSBORN | THE REFLECTOR

Bulldog Bash pep rally today Students should wear white, Wayne Madkin will speak

BY HILLARY LAPLATNEY Staff Writer

Mississippi State University’s Student Association encourages MSU students to wear white and cheer loudly during the Bulldog Bash pep rally tonight at 5:15 in the Cotton District.

The rally is put on by the SA History and Traditions Committee.

It is designed to be a chance for students, friends and family to show Bulldog spirit before the concert begins.

Vijay Kannuthurai, co-director of the committee, said students should wear white to the rally as a nod to the Bulldog’s 2000 Independence Bowl win over Texas A&M. “(The Independence Bowl) was the last time we played Texas A&M,” Kannuthurai said. “The game was played in a driving snowstorm, and Mississippi State wore white jerseys and eventually won the game in overtime. It has since been known as the “Snow Bowl” and we decided to adopt the concept for our Dawg Rally.”

SEE RALLY, A2

READER’S GUIDE

BAD DAWGS..............................A3 OPINION...............................A7 CONTACT INFO..................... A 7 BULLETIN BOARD................. A6

YeHive launching at Bulldog Bash

BY EMMA CRAWFORD News Editor

For Mississippi State University alumnus and Starkville resident, Brad Fuller, Friday’s Bulldog Bash event will be the beginning of his hard work’s pay-off.

Fuller is the co-founder and chief executive officer of YeHive, a new events-focused social media platform to be launched Friday during Bulldog Bash.

According to Fuller, YeHive’s unveiling could potentially be one of the biggest launches of a social media platform yet.

“If we can get 5,000 downloads that night we’ll be one of the largest social media launches in history,” he said. “And over the course of that day if we can get 10,000 we could surpass Instagram as the largest social media launch in history.”

Fuller said YeHive has received positive

feedback and that he is hopeful it will make history.

“I think we can do it,” he said. “I think we can be up there in the top few as far as social media launches, and I think that’d be pretty neat right here out of Starkville.”

Fuller graduated from MSU in 2004 with a degree in agribusiness and teamed up this summer with co-founder Gary Butler, who is also founder, chairman and CEO of Camgian Microsystems Corporation, to turn the idea for YeHive into action.

Fuller said YeHive began on the golf course.

“He (Butler) and I were playing golf one day, and I had an idea for a website and he had an idea for a website and we kind of merged them together and decided to build it,” he said. “Then once we started building it, we added features and things like that and it just kind of emerged.”

SEE YEHIVE, A2

Police prep for Bash crowds

CROSSWORD .................. ..... A 6 CLASSIFIEDS.........................A6 LIFE...................................B1 SPORTS.................................B5

POLICY

BY JAMIE ALLEN Staff Writer

Bulldog Bash weekend is here and the Starkville police are stepping up their forces to accommodate this large Lindley event.

David Lindley, chief of Starkville police, said this event has been going on for 10 years, and the police have developed a plan for handling the crowds.

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JAY JOHNSON | THE REFLECTOR

Brad Fuller said he hopes YeHive’s Friday launch will be a success.

“As it has continued year to year, it has gotten better each year and it has become pretty much something we have a routine for,” he said.

Chloe Cantor, sophomore forestry major, said when she was at Bulldog Bash last year, she appreciated what the police did because it allowed her to feel safer and enjoy the concert.

“The Starkville police definitely made me feel safer,” she said. “There is so much chaos at Bulldog Bash because there are hundreds of people there, and

knowing that the police were right there allowed me to have fun without being too worried about what was going on around me.”

Lindley said a certain number of streets in the Cotton District are always shut down for the event, and a perimeter is maintained with the help of MSU Support Services, who allows the use of its barricades.

Roads that will be closed for Bulldog Bash Friday night will include University Drive, Maxwell Street and Hogan Street.

SEE POLICE, A2

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SATURDAY

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SUNDAY

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MONDAY

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NEWS

FRIDAY , NOVEMBER 2 , 2012

YEHIVE

continued from A1

Fuller said he and Butler began build- really doing what we’re doing,” he said. ing the site in July and started fundrais- “We just saw it as a large, untapped maring Aug. 27 and raised $300,000 to fund ket.” the development of the project.

He said any user can create any event, Fuller said when developing the site, whether it be Bulldog Bash or a birthday he and Butler drew inspiration for Ye- party, and can use the “Events Near Me” Hive from elements of current social feature to locate events that have been media sites that have been the most suc- created. cessful.

Fuller said the site’s focus on events He pointed to phomakes it easier for users tos as the most utito see specifically posts Even with a hashtag lized element on most they are interested in. social media avenues.

Fuller said users can you’re missing a lot of “The biggest thing fi nd an event he or she stuff. Not everybody that has made most is interested in and all who tweets about social media sites sucphotos, videos and comcessful is photos,” he ments related to that Mississippi State said. “Photos made event will be shown on on a Saturday uses Facebook and photos the event’s page. #HailState and so this are Instagram.”

He said YeHive is simFuller said in adilar to a Twitter hashtag is a way that you can dition to photos and because it gathers all of get all of that together.” the posts related to an videos, he and Butler wanted to incorporate event in one place.

Brad Fuller, elements similar to “You’re in the event, co-founder and CEO of FourSquare’s location it’s whatever you want to YeHive service and Twitter’s look at and once you post timeline and bring there, it’s there,” Fuller them together for specific events on Ye- said. “Even with a hashtag you’re missing Hive. a lot of stuff. Not everybody who tweets “We kind of took elements from each about Mississippi State on a Saturday one that are successful and tried to put uses #HailState and so this is a way that those all together around the event,” he you can get all of that together.” said. “So you can still look at what you Fuller said the first release of YeHive want to look at on social media and have mobile apps will be for Android and iPall of that that you would have from hone users. these different avenues, but they’re all in He said the goal for YeHive is to grow one place.” and show social media businesses can When asked why YeHive would focus grow out of small towns like Starkville, specifically on events, Fuller said no oth- not exclusively large cities such as San er social media platform has had such a Francisco or New York. focus, so YeHive would bring something “What we hope for the future is just to new to the table. grow it and bring some business like this “There’s not really anything in that to the south,” he said. “We can do that space right now. There are some people kind of stuff here and that’s kind of what on the fringe of that space but nobody is we’re out to prove.”

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RALLY

continued from A1

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Last year’s Bulldog Bash pep rally served as an introduction to the weekend’s events.

Kannuthurai also said Wayne Madkin, MSU’s quarterback during the “Snow Bowl” game, will be speaking at the rally.

Kannuthurai said he believes Madkin’s appearance will be special for students who remember watching the Independence Bowl as a child.

He also said the pep rally will feature a highlight film of the game for those students who are not familiar with it.

Students in attendance at the

rally will have the opportunity to get prizes including mini footballs, T-shirts and pom-poms.

The SA History and Traditions Committee teamed up with local sponsors such as Mugshots and Campus Bookmart to provide some bigger prizes as well.

Taylor Williams, co-director of history and traditions with Kannuthurai, said she hopes the Bulldog Bash rally will be “bigger and better” than past pep rallies at MSU.

“We have a great speaker, and the cheerleaders have been working really hard on a great routine that will be very entertaining,” Williams said. “After the loss to Alabama last week, it’s really important that our student body continues to believe (in) and support our Dawgs.”

Matt McClellan, junior kinesiology major and member of the History and Traditions Committee, said he cannot wait for the weekend to arrive.

“I hope to see a good portion of the student body at the Dawg Rally Friday,” McClellan said. “It’s a great opportunity to show your school spirit as well as get pumped up for the game on Saturday. I enjoyed the rally before the Homecoming game and cannot wait for these events to have attendance similar to the Dawg Walk.”

McClellan said he hopes his fellow students are as “pumped up” as he is about the rally and the game against Texas A&M. Williams also said friends and family members visiting from out of town are encouraged to come to the rally.

“The Dawg Rally will be a great evening for you and your family, (and) a great way to support the Bulldogs as they take on Texas A&M this week,” Williams said.

“It will be good time to fellowship and to show your spirit for your team.”

POLICE The police will have detour routes set up for anyone who normally uses these streets.

The police started preparation for Bulldog Bash at 2 a.m. today with the closure of University drive and the arrival of the first pieces of equipment at 4 a.m.

After the concert ends, the police will continue to work through the night, taking down tents and

continued from A1 helping vendors pack up until early Sunday morning.

Lindley said during the concert, there will be a mobile command center for the police station set up as well as officers who work in pairs monitoring the crowd.

He also said there will be emergency services present at Bulldog Bash in case they are needed.

There will be a firetruck there, as

well as an ambulance.

Sophia Bahlinger, junior secondary education major, said she appreciated these services that the police provided because it made her feel safer at Bulldog Bash last year.

“I was able to enjoy live music from the different bands because the Starkville police created a safe environment for everyone,” she said.

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friday , november 2 , 2012

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A3

BAD DAWGS

Tuesday, October 30

hannah williams | the reflector

Left: Dominic Lippillo, assistant professor of photography (right) is given instructions on how to operate equipment.

Right: Senior art major Carrie Woods was one of many MSU students participating in the Habitat for Humanity project.

Students assist in community project

By Masey sMith Contributing Writer

Habitat for Humanity’s building project is scheduled for completion in one week.

Habitat for Humanity, founded in 1976 by Millard and Linda Fuller, has built approximately 25,000 nonprofit houses sold to people in need. This is the fourth MSU Maroon Edition house.

Students across the Mississippi State University campus have been working on this house since Dawg Daze.

Freddie Rasberry, executive director of Starkville Area Habitat for Humanity, said the students’ hard work has a positive impact on community service, volunteers and families of the house owners.

“Habitat for Humanity not only has a purpose to improve the community, but also improve children’s lives,” Rasberry said.

Rasberry said the college students working on the house learned valuable skills, including carpentry and how to saw and nail.

Mary Lowry Nemeth, junior kinesiology major and vice-chair of community service in Shackouls Honors Col-

lege, said she enjoys the opportunities provided by Habitat for Humanity and encourages freshmen to become involved in this mission.

“It’s fun to get off campus and do something to give back in the Starkville community,” Nemeth said. “Habitat House is great for freshmen because it really ties you to the community, and there’s a huge social aspect of getting to know everyone you work with as you work.”

Geummi Lee, business major and Montgomery Leadership fellow, said she knows all the hard work will pay off.

“It seems like we did little things to begin with, but in the end, this will be a family’s house,” she said. “That is the best part to me.”

Lee leads Bully’s Angels, a Day One group that has worked on the house since August. Although setting aside weekend hours to work on this house has been a challenge, Lee and Michael Adams, Montgomery Leadership fellow and senior environmental ecomomics management major, said they are proud of their workers’ dedication.

“I have a great group,” said Adams.

“I feel like we made a difference in the community and worked on our team-

work and communications skills.”

Many of the workers agreed the experience improved their ability to work in groups, as well as communicate effectively.

Jatarris White, English and political science major, said he was unsure about the project at the beginning of the semester but realizes the opportunities of the building project.

“Managing time and going to the site were the hardest parts at the beginning, but it is a great experience, and I enjoyed it,” White said.

Students participating in the housing project built shelves, painted the exterior and met the owners of the house.

“This is a chance to do something for someone else,” Rasberry said. “It is a positive experience.”

MSU President Mark Keenum will be speaking at the house at 10:30 a.m. on Nov. 20.

Students wanting to get involved with Habitat for Humanity can visit mvc.msstate.edu and select the “Volunteer Opportunities” tab. Then, select “Maroon Habitat for Humanity” and click “Volunteer Now.”

• 2:54 a.m. A student was arrested at his residence for contempt of court.

• 3:57 a.m. A student was arrested at Ace Apartments for possession of paraphernalia.

• 10:40 a.m. A B&B Electric utility truck was burglarized while parked at Aiken Village Complex.

• 3:51 p.m. A student reported his bicycle was stolen from outside of Griffis Hall.

• 7:33 p.m. A student reported money was stolen from his room in Rice Hall.

Wednesday, October 31 • 12:09 a.m. A student was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol, false information and driving under the influence.

• 2:07 a.m. A student reported a pumpkin had been smashed on her vehicle while parked in the South Hall parking lot.

• 10:11 a.m. A student reported her vehicle was hit on Hardy Road.

• 2:04 p.m. A student reported his license plate was stolen while parked in the parking lot behind the Sigma Chi house.

• 4:37 p.m. A student felt light-headed after donating blood at the Correction: In Tuesday’s edition of The Reflector, it blood drive in front of the Union. The subject was transported to stated OCH. academic advising ends Nov. 9 when it should have ends Nov. The student Reflector regrets this error.

• 5:26read p.m. itStudents were2.issued referrals for arguing and causing a disturbance at Rice Hall.

• 10:01 p.m. A student was arrested at the MSU Horse Park for disorderly conduct.

ADVERTISE Thursday,(WITH) November 1

• 2:10 a.m. A student was transported to OCH for medical THE REFLECTOR assistance. The subject was issued a student referral for public drunkenness.

CALL Citations: 325-7907 • 14 citations were issued for speeding.

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

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friday , november 2 , 2012

THE REFLECTOR

STUDENT VOTING

NOV. 6

zack orsborn | the reflector

MSU students prepare for voting in upcoming election

By Alie DAlee Staff Writer

As the presidential election rapidly approaches, the question of how to vote and if students are voting becomes prevalent on a college campus.

The United States Census Bureau, put out by the United States Department of Commerce, reported in the last presidential election, the 18 to 24 age demographic was the only group to show a significant increase in voting.

However, while more students came out to vote, the 18 to 24 demographic still had the lowest voting turnout.

This month, two Mississippi State University organizations, the Stennis Montgomery Association, a non-partisan political group, and the Student Association, are collaborating to encourage student voting.

Meg Appel, Stennis Montgomery Association president, said Stennis Montgomery sponsored two voter registration drives.

“Basically, we were registering people in Oktibbeha County, so if you decide to vote here instead of in your home district we would take it to the circuit clerk office for you,” Appel said.

Appel said while voter registration is over, students are still able to register for absentee voting. She said a student can call their circuit clerk in their perspective district and have an absentee ballot mailed to them, and then take the ballot to be notarized.

Appel said she thought the registration drive helped increase the amount of students voting.

Griffin Hatcliff, senior business management major, said he felt the election represented mixed opinions among MSU’s student body.

“I feel like there are substantial amount of people that are interested in the election; however, there is also a large number of students that are apathetic towards it,” Hatcliff said.

Annie Blass, freshman elementary education major, said she thinks attitudes vary by students regarding this year’s election.

“I think we are excited about voting,” Blass said. “It is our first time to vote, and most of my friends have been watching the debate and keeping up with it. We’ve all had fun talking about it.”

The Stennis Montgomery Association and the SA’s

Community and Governmental Relations Committee are joining together to host a mock election on campus to encourage students to vote.

Jenni Brown, Community and Government Relations Committee co-director, explained the idea behind the mock election.

“It’s just going to be shoeboxes and paper ballots, and we will have the top three candidates,” Brown said. “We thought about doing a write it, but there is just no telling what we get.”

Brown said there will hopefully be three locations around campus, with the proposed locations being at Mitchell Memorial Library, Colvard Student Union and Dorman Hall. The mock election will be held Monday Nov. 5, the day before the national election.

Brown said she hopes seeing the advertising and the mock election will give students the initiative to go vote.

“This is your chance to voice your opinion as a campus, so embrace it,” Brown said.

Appel said she hopes by seeing the mock results, it will be an incentive for students to go and vote in the national election.

barton dinkins | the reflector

Bin 612 is one of many Starkville businesses that benefits economically from Bulldog Bash.

Bulldog Bash brings business to Starkville, local establishments

By AnDrew Fortune Staff Writer

The influx of people Bulldog Bash brings to Starkville annually impacts the local economy, and various businesses begin making preparations weeks in advance and brace themselves for the crowds.

Alyssa Briggs, Sweet Peppers manager, said Bulldog Bash is a crucial time for business.

“There’s an ‘all hands on deck’ policy for our employees. We have our restaurant open and fully staffed and a beer cart outside,” she said.

Sweet Peppers restaurant employs many Mississippi State University students, but Briggs said they try to work with each student’s schedule

to allow for time off for Bulldog Bash.

Many of the parking lots in the surrounding areas are designated for Bulldog Bash parking for individuals headed to the Cotton District.

Jimmie Thompson, McAllister’s Deli manager, said the foot-traffic from Bulldog Bash lends to the increase in sales during this time every year.

“We really try to promote our catering this weekend with Bulldog Bash and the Texas A&M game,” Thompson said.

Andy Thornton, Bin 612 general manager, said his staff is preparing for the large mass of people expected to be in the Cotton District during Bulldog Bash and will have everyone working.

“We’ve ordered hundreds of

Good luck to the Bulldogs against Texas A&M!

cases of beer, and the liquor orders are bigger than they’ve ever been,” he said.

Briggs said Sweet Peppers obtained a one-day beer license specifically for Bulldog Bash.

In addition to the alcohol, a variety of food can be found throughout Starkville during Bulldog Bash.

With FanFare beginning at 3 p.m., followed by DawgRally in the District at 5:30, the crowds will be gathered in the Cotton District for most of the day.

Businesses will be working to service the needs of everyone in the Cotton District non-stop.

Businesses will provide a nearby reprieve from the madness of the crowds and professional catering to those who prefer to stay home.

NEWS

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM

Bulldog Bash brings charity opportunity to Starkville Foundation website, the relief fund is set up to help those students in need.

“An MSU Student Relief Bulldog Bash attracts an estimated 35,000 visitors to Fund is now in place to asStarkville each fall. During sist students who are affected this time, locals and visitors with day-to-day crises, or catare able to participate in the astrophic disasters which may Mississippi State University impact the university over Dawg Rally, the family orient- time,” the website states.

In 2005, ed Fan Fare, a the fund was home football Bulldog Bash is a established game and free live concert great opportunity to to aid MSU devhosted in the give back directly to students astated by Historic Cotthe students of this H u r r i c a n e ton District.

Katrina. Two What many campus.” years ago the do not know Spencer Pipitone, fund was used about Bullto benefit studog Bash is junior marketing dents affected the charitable major by the Smithwork the event brings to Starkville and MSU. ville and Tuscaloosa tornadoes.

Each year, Bulldog Bash man- Currently, the fund is used to ages to work with local organi- aid local Starkville students zations in order to raise funds and their families in times of tragedy. for various charities.

Spencer Pipitone, a junior In 2009, Bulldog Bash and the Student Association majoring in marketing and a worked to raise money for The current Foundation AmbassaUnited Way of North Central dor, said the Foundation stays Mississippi. Through physi- busy to raise money for the cal and mobile fund-raising, fund.

“Bulldog Bash is a great opover $7,000 was raised for the portunity to give back directly United Way. This year, Bulldog Bash is to the students of this campus. fundraising for the MSU Stu- The Foundation works hard to dent Relief Fund. The Dean assure that money gets back to of Students’ Office, athletic students,” he said.

Students are able to apply for department, SA and the MSU Foundation work to transfer the funds through the Dean of 100 percent of the donations Students’ Office. Funds are distributed based on need and also to MSU students in need.

According to the MSU distributed through the office.

friday , november 2 , 2012

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MSU STUDENT COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT

IN LELAND TO BE COMPLETED

NOV. 28

By Alex Monié Staff Writer

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zack orsborn | the reflector

MSU students work on community assessment project in Leland, Miss.

By RAchel BuRRow Contributing Writer

Mississippi State University’s Stennis Institute of Government and Community Development and senior landscaping architecture class have partnered together on a community assessment project for the city of Leland, Miss. The students’ completed projects will be presented to city officials and its citizens on Nov. 28.

Leland first partnered with MSU last year on the First Impressions program where a team assessed the city’s schools, housing and businesses and reported on how Leland looked to visitors. Leland had a lot of success with this program, and it also has a strong connection with MSU’s Delta Research Extension Center. This new partnership marks the first time students and the Stennis Institute have come together to work on such a project.

Leland’s community assessment involved the landscape architects and the Stennis Institute spending several days researching the city, its character and layout.

The students performed an “Inventory and Analysis,” which included looking at amenities such as housing and physical attributes and measuring street and sidewalk widths. Deer Creek, which runs throughout Leland, became a focus for the students as well.

Taze Fulford, the landscape architecture

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professor leading the class, said Leland is undergoing many changes.

“The city is changing and will be getting an interchange in the next few years.

The city wanted the students to look at the impact of the interchange and give recommendations of how to help control the growth that will come with it to help draw people back into the city,” Taze said. “We are looking at pedestrian connectivity along the creek corridor and an abandoned rail line through town to help provide healthy alternatives for people to use for moving around the city and so that children have a safe way to walk or ride a bike to school.”

Joe Fratesi, the project director at the Stennis Institute, said he is excited about the Leland partnership leading to more similar projects between MSU and Mississippi communities. A similar project on a smaller scale is already taking place in Water Valley, Miss., to help improve one of the city’s pocket parks.

“In the future, hopefully we will do more,” Fratesi said. “We work with local communities all over Mississippi. As we work with those communities, my job when I come back here is what resources do we have on campus that we can plug into that community.”

While the plans the students are creating will be graded for their class, Leland also will use their ideas for actual improvement within the city. Leland will be experiencing some

economic development within the next five to seven years, and these presentations will help city leadership see how to best prepare Leland for this growth.

Stephanie Patton, a Chamber of Commerce member, said Leland is looking forward to seeing what ideas the students bring to the table.

“These plans will jumpstart new development ideas in Leland – a town that hasn’t implemented anything of this size and scale in many years,” Patton said. “Once Leland’s leadership and citizenry see what’s possible, and that these ideas can actually be implemented, I believe it will give us the confidence to take on more community improvement projects.”

This partnership has been a great learning experience for the students as well, Fulford said. He said it has been rewarding and challenging for the students, as they try to tie a community together that is about to experience a lot of growth and change.

“Real world opportunities for these students to walk real sites, work on real places, and present in front of community leaders has helped them gain a new perspective on what they can do when they graduate with a degree in landscape architecture,” Fulford said. “There is much work to be done in our communities, and it will take dedicated individuals that can identify need and translate the local culture, climate and materials into places that people care about.”

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THE REFLECTOR

AN IN-CLASS DISTRACTION ...

11-02-12

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.

HELP WANTED Bartending. Up to $300 / day. No experience necessary. Training available.

Call 800.965.6520 ext. 213.

Seeking two female students to assist with a sampling program before the football game on Nov. 7. Work is for four hours up through 30 minutes before kickoff. Pay is $18 per hour. Email work@ brandextensionstaffing.com for more info.

FOR SALE Classic comics and albums. The largest collection of comic books and albums in the area. Also movie posters, sports memorabilia, DVDs, CDs and beer signs.

Located in Ziggy’s Buy & Sell, 434 Highway 12. Details on Facebook.

FOR RENT 100 King Richard Road, 3B, 2B brick house near campus. Two-car garage, fireplace, fenced yard. $1250.00. Call 228.324.2289 after 4 p.m. Available Dec 15.

MISCELLANEOUS

Solutions for 10-30-12

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

MSU student organizations may place free announcements in Club Info.

Information may be submitted by email to club_info@reflector.msstate. edu with the subject heading “CLUB INFO,” or a form may be completed at The Reflector office in the Student Media Center. A contact name, phone number and requested run dates must be included for club info to appear in The Reflector. All submissions are subject to exemption according to space availability.

WESLEY FOUNDATION Insight Bible study and worship on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at the Wesley Foundation Worship Center on East Lee. Boulevard next to Campus Book Mart.

MSU CATHOLIC STUDENT ASSOCIATION The MSU Catholic Student Association invites you to join us for Sunday mass at 5:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 607 University Dr. All are welcome to $2 Tuesday night dinner at 6 p.m. in the Parish Hall. Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/msstatecsa MSU STUDENT CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MICROBIOLOGY

Think you might be pregnant? Free testing and confidential counseling is available.

Call LifeChoices Pregnancy Care in Columbus at 662.327.0500.

Contact msuasm@yahoo.com or like us on Facebook, “MSU ASM,” for membership information.

CLUB INFO

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 5 to 6:30.

Like Yoga Moves Club-MSU on Facebook.

SOCIOLOGICAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION The Sociological Student Association is based in the Department of Sociology.

Undergraduates of all ages are welcome.

Meetings are held the last Thursday of every month in Bowen Hall room 250 at 5 p.m.

STUDENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS SSC meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. in McCool room 212. Come and meet really cool people who all share interests in saving the environment. Don’t forget to opt-in for the Green Fund.

ALPHA PHI OMEGA Diabetes Awareness and Prevention Presentation: A diabetes expert will be presenting on Nov. 5 at 5 p.m. in McCool 124.

MSU PRE-VETERINARY CLUB Cow patty bingo: The MSU Pre-Veterinary Club will host its annual fundraising event at the Oktibbeha County Co-Op on Nov. 9 at 4:30 p.m. and Nov. 10 at 10 and 11 a.m. Tickets are $5 and winners receive cash prizes. For more information, contact msstatepvc@gmail.com.

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REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM

OPINION

EDITORIAL

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A7

the voice of MSU students

THE WORD ON JOHNSON STREET | MATT TAYLOR

Do not take our Many claim credit to Bin Ladenʼs death state for granted A

W

ithout a doubt, being students at Mississippi State University has changed our lives. When we first arrived to campus as freshmen, we never could have imagined having the opportunities we have at the People’s University. MSU radiates school spirit for more reasons than football games. We really are a part of something special at State.

Think about the great state of Mississippi: how many of you have the mindset of being ready to leave as soon as you graduate? Did you grow up in Mississippi? Do you feel trapped in the Deep South and suffocated for escape? Do you buy into the idea of Mississippi being the poorest, fattest, most pathetic state in the United States?

If you do, we, as the editorial board of The Reflector, challenge you to something. Ask yourself, “why am I here?” What is your purpose at this great institution? Why did you choose MSU over other schools? While reasons and circumstances may differ, ultimately, you made a decision to come to this university.

Think about where you are. You are at arguably the best college in the state taking the opportunity to obtain a higher education.

Mississippi is full of culture, history and hospitality. Natural beauty exists from the coast to the Tennessee state line. Mississippi is a wonderful place to be.

Think about what your parents or loved ones have sacrificed for you to go to college. Whether you realize it or not, going to college isn’t a four-year vacation you are entitled to. You aren’t the only person who worked hard to get you to MSU. Why then, would you not want to take every opportunity MSU has to offer?

Our university is about more than SEC football, clubs, organizations and even academics. MSU was founded on service. If you don’t believe us, check out the seal of the university on the floor in the Union. For four or more years, we are part of an institution that molds us to be servant-minded.

We are surrounded by professors and instructors who dedicate their lives to helping us become the best possible versions of ourselves. That’s why we are passionate about the concept of “True Maroon.” That’s why we carry out the “We Believe” campaign. And, most importantly, that’s why we believe in Our State.

The 2012 presidential election is less than a week away. For many of us, Tuesday will be our first time to vote. We hope each of our readers intend to vote next Tuesday with informed opinions in mind behind their choice.

Voting is a conviction and privilege many of us take lightly. Casting your vote is a small step in the direction of a much bigger picture. We are exercising our hard-fought rights of democracy and freedom. Thousands of people have sacrificed their lives, many to the point of death, so we can vote next week. You may think your voice doesn’t matter, but it does. Your vote matters.

We have the opportunity to make a difference in our nation as well as our state. State elections are also taking place on Tuesday, not just presidential.

If we want to claim Mississippi as our state, we have to start by giving back to it. If you want to see change and reform, then do something. You could stay in our state and dedicate your life to helping the obesity problem; you could work your way up to serve in state government to help the economy.

Casting your vote on Tuesday is a step toward creating a better future for Mississippi. Voting is part of a bigger picture, and that’s why we believe so passionately about having an informed opinion on matters that matter.

The opportunities to give back to Mississippi are endless; but running away as soon as you get your degree will not help solve anything. Take pride in Mississippi, and give back to something bigger than yourself.

*** The Reflector editorial board is made up of opinion editor Mary Chase Breedlove, news editor Emma Crawford, campus news editor John Galatas, sports editor Kristen Sprink, entertainment editor Zack Orsborn, photo editor Jay Johnson, copy editors Rachel Burke and Candace Barnette, multimedia editor Eric Evans, managing editor Kaitlyn Byrne and editor in chief Hannah Rogers.

The

Reflector Editor in Chief Hannah Rogers

Managing Editor Kaitlyn Byrne

Life Editor Zack Orsborn

Multimedia Editor Eric Evans Sports Editor Kristen Spink

Campus News Editor John Galatas

Photography Editor Jay Johnson

Copy Editor Candace Barnette

News Editor Emma Crawford

Opinion Editor Mary Chase Breedlove Copy Editor Rachel Burke

CONTACT INFORMATION

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Editor in Chief/Hannah Rogers

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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CORRECTIONS

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.

George Bush: As much as week ago, I had the choice to write an ar- Obama would like to keep it ticle on the killing of hush-hush, George Bush deOsama Bin Laden: I jumped serves a great deal of credit, as at it. So like any creature of well.

The amount of intelligence habit, I went to the coffee shop Sunday afternoon, ordered my that went into pinning down dark roast with cream and let Bin Laden started in the Bush the juices flow. I did my due administration.

The enhanced interrogadiligence and researched more than I have for any political tions which Obama disapsubject; here is what I found. proved of actually allowed the Obama: Let’s first look at CIA to hone in on the terrorour commandist’s wheree r - i n - c h i e f ’s I can only hope most abouts. Some role in this. would people can remove righties To deny that say it was the political blinders Obama’s luck Barack Obama gave the orto see an operation the plan was der to take a only executed like this isn’t the clear shot at on his term responsiblity of one and that all he Bin Laden is simply asinine. person but of many.” had to do was All major deciget out of the sions that have as much gravity CIA’s way. This doesn’t make as this must be filtered through George Bush responsible eihim. In his book “The Finish,” ther, though.

Mark Bowden writes from the The Navy SEALS: Next let’s perspective of our president, look at the men behind the saying on the night of 9/11 trigger.

The amount of training that Obama was worried about the future our country would hold went into executing the decifor his daughters as they grew sion to take out the terrorist was extremely calculated. For up in such turbulent times.

There is no doubt this fear months, Navy SEAL Team 6 was a very strong agent in his trained on a replica of the large giving the go ahead on the red “X” we marked in Abbot“50/50” decision to take the tabad.

An account of Operation shot.

Did this mean Obama Neptune Spear by a Navy pulled the trigger and deserves SEAL under the pseudonym Mark Owen in “No Easy Day” the credit? Laughably no.

“

brings light, as well as more questions, to the assassination.

According to the book, Bin Laden was shot in the head as he peered out of his room while the SEALS were running up the stairwell.

Once the team entered the room and saw his body on the floor, the SEALS followed Rule two: always double tap.

Though the order was “kill or capture” the men were a bit apprehensive of the latter because of a possible suicide that would take not only his own but their lives as well.

I guess if you wanted to pin it down, then it was Navy SEAL 1, with the HK416 rifle, in the upstairs bedroom. This still isn’t enough though.

Mitt Romney: Our last possible suspect for the killing of Osama bin Laden is none other than the Republican candidate himself. Are you laughing yet? Though this sounds preposterous and part of some skewed Fox News headline, it is quite true.

In perhaps the most crucial state in the upcoming election, 17 percent of Ohio Republicans give Mitt Romney the credit.

At best, this is simply a reflection of a psychological influence where lefties and righties will refuse to give the opposing party credit for a policy or action they approve.

Smitten for Mitten? I think so.

MATT TAYLOR Matt Taylor is a senior majoring in mechanical engineering. He can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.

Closing Statements: Aside from all the evidence presented, still we have no clear guilty party. That is because there is no “one person” who is responsible.

I can only hope most people can remove the political blinders to see an operation like this isn’t the responsibility of one person but of many.

This is one reason why most anything political is hard to put a tag on: everything is woven and elided so smoothly when you look at it under a microscope a clear answer cannot be derived.

Though I don’t think Hammurabi’s Code is the best way to assess a punishment, I will say that through the actions of all the involved parties I do feel a little better knowing someone who can justify the acts of 9/11 is absent from this earth.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR | EUGENE DENT

Band’s incarceration foreshadows clouds of Cold War

L

ast spring the international news scene exploded with news of the trial of the somewhat uncouthly named Russian punk band Pussy Riot.

PR was accused of “hooliganism motivated by religious hatred,” which the Wall Street Journal reports has a maximum sentence of seven years in prison.

The story broke back in February when the band (approximately 12 members) did a Putin protest prayer in Moscow’s main Orthodox Church building the Cathedral of Christ the Savior.

The story received more international coverage, however, when three members were arrested and put on trial for their dissent.

They have all received two-year sentences, though early this month, Moscow courts dismissed one woman’s charges. Russian Premier Dmitiry Medvedev has criticized the trials as being “very

strong” and a “horrible bur- way of putting it, but I think it den.” captures the fervor with which The stunt has come to journalism is supposed to seek embody the Russian peoples the truth. These arrests do growing dissatisfaction with not seem to belong in today’s the Putin regime and its often Russia. They harken back to tyrannical the Sovipolicies, as et Union, These arrests do not well as the when peoseem to belong in today’s ple would support he is receivjust “disapRussia. They harken ing from pear” and back to the Soviet Union, would likethe Russian Orthodox where people would just ly never be Church. heard from ‘disappear.’”

During again. the trial, reporters and proThis is not something we testors were arrested for their expect to hear from a develinvolvement. oped, G8 nation that we do Paul Kemp, Johnny Depp’s business with. character in the “Rum DiaOne would expect news like ry” film based on Hunter S. this to come from Venezuela, Thompson’s novel of the same where two-time president and name, is a journalist who talks longtime strongman, Hugo about using a “voice made out Chavez, was just elected by a of ink and rage” to “speak for margin into a third six-year his reader” and “let the bas- term as president of Venezutards know that he does not ela. have their best interests at The past three weeks, stories heart.” of corruption and “hyperinflaThis may be a flamboyant tion” have surfaced, as well as

“

pictures of pictures of (not a typo) the former Venezuelan vice president glad handing with the infamous communist leader of Cuba, Fidel Castro.

Oct. 18, the Wall Street Journal reported the Kremlin crackdowns and investigations have persisted on opposition groups in Moscow.

The situation could certainly be worse in Moscow, but the fist Putin is bringing down is a bit disturbing.

I am neither endorsing nor bashing either candidate in the upcoming United States presidential election, but perhaps Gov. Romney’s “Cold War” foreign policy stance is not so silly and outdated with these clouds of the Cold War creeping into view.

I am not saying a second standoff with Russia is imminent, but I do think some discussion and recognition of world news and politics is necessary to understand how America fits into the world today.

THE JEW POINT | JOEY FROST

Open minds needed among college students

A

merica: the land of the the Deep South. I recognize free, if you believe like most people here are going be me. With this being an staunchly conservative. election year, people have deAs I said earlier there is nothcided to temporarily take an ing wrong with that. However, interest in the political game. If when it does become wrong is you happen to be a part of the when someone feels persecuted social media phenomenon, I’m for their beliefs. For the past two sure you’ve noticed this, too. If and half years here at college, I you haven’t have kept seen posts by quiet about I have felt like I would my political your friends, then consider and social be seen as a pariah yourself lucky. convictions. to the preconceived It seems I have felt notion as to what a most people like I would I know are fraternity man should be seen as a extremely set pariah to the think.” in their ways. preconceived Whether they’ve inherited notion as to what a fraternity these beliefs from their parents man should think. For the most or formed them on their own, part, this has held fairly true. they are reluctant to hear others’ About a month ago, I tweeted opinions. about the news coverage of the There is absolutely nothing embassy attack in Libya. Specifwrong with standing up for ically, I said “Interesting to see what you believe in, but you how @CNN is reporting on the have to approach life with an attack in Libya, while @FoxNews is taking this as yet anopen mind.

I can say with great certain- other chance to bash Obama.”

From my experience, just sayty I have different opinions than most people I know. I was ing that should not label me as born, raised and still am Jewish. a liberal, right? Apparently I was Growing up in a Jewish house- wrong, because I’ve been called hold, I feel I was brought up to a “dirty liberal” for that tweet. believe in a different manner I would like to set the record than most people around me. straight here. I am not a liberal.

I am in a fraternity in I am also not a conservative.

“

To quote a man who has been persecuted in the past 11 years, Feisal Abdul Rauf said “The real battlefront is between the moderates of all faith traditions against the extremists of all faith traditions.”

In my opinion, this could not be a truer statement. I have the same aversion for radical Christians that I have for the radical Muslims who perpetrated those terrible attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

This past week I was on a recruiting trip with the Mississippi State University Wind Ensemble.

For the first time, I was able to have a political argument in which I did not feel the need to constantly be looking for the exit, out of fear I was about to be punched.

We all took our turns giving input and listening to the other viewpoints that were presented. There was no hostility toward anyone in our group.

I think it was the lack of animosity that bothered me.

It stirred something inside of me. I realized what I was used to, this antipathy for ideals different than one’s own, is wholeheartedly wrong. Call me corny, but I believe our founding fathers envisioned a

JOEY FROST Joey Frost is a junior majoring in political science. He can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu. country where you would be free to believe as you please.

Everyone has his or her separate viewpoints. If you have a very conservative or liberal stance, I am in no way asking you to change.

All I ask of you is to be at least the slightest bit open-minded. Yes, you have a stance on an issue and you feel strongly about it. But what you need to realize is you are not the only one who has a belief on that issue.

You should realize there are a lot of people in this world, and just like you, have reasons behind the things they believe. Whether their reasons are moral, religious or simply because they feel like it, people believe differently than you do.

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OPINION

FRIDAY , NOVEMBER 2, 2012

THE REFLECTOR

WHO SPEAKS FOR EARTH? | CAMERON CLARKE

Possible life outside our planet is still created in God’s image

I

have already discussed in previous articles the mathematical or cosmological argument for why extraterrestrial life probably exists and I have addressed at face value some philosophical concerns, but now I would like to undertake a theoretical examination of the implications aliens have for Christianity.

I am sorry if you really do not care, but this is where religion gets interesting. It is fine and dandy to simply say God only created mankind with souls, or even he only created life on Earth out of all places, but the moment we find real alien life or intelligences any argument for the uniqueness of man falls away.

How would you like it if some Vogons or Twi’leks landed here and started to tell us they alone possess any sort of metaphysical soul?

If and when we make contact, this is what we would be doing if we totally ruled out any spiritual or religious existence for aliens.

You could just say we are alone in the universe, meaning your religion does not need to change to fit a universal perspective, but I would be sure you have a backup plan in case some intergalactic monks come knocking on Earth’s

door to inform us about our infidelity and their religion’s superiority to ours.

Basically, what I am trying to argue is this: if there is any sort of spiritual, metaphysical realm to this world, then any religion which makes use of it must take into consideration the possible existence of multiple races of intelligent, soul-possessing entities.

The Bible does not explicitly say anything about anyone not directly descended from Adam, and Adam is generally accepted to have been on Earth, and in very recent history.

In addition to the local claim of humanity’s fallenness is sometimes made the claim of the fallenness of the entire universe as a result of Adam’s sin.

One view says the universe itself is not inherently fallen but it is only the humans who interact with it that are fallen, and another view says the entire universe has been cursed and altered drastically from its original form as a result of the fall.

Now this theological question becomes central when aliens show up. If those aliens are also souled beings like we are, then how could they have been cursed as a result of

Adam’s sin; Hopefully Adam to not fall in the first place as only represented humans. well as the precarious danger But at the same time, how of our meddling with such a could the entire universe not race. be fallen if even one of all the I would suggest you read civilizations were fallen? these works by Lewis as they Would not interaction be- are both entertaining and tween sinful and sinless races helpful to broaden ones perbe just about impossible with- spective. out something terrible hapSo, assuming every race pening? gets its own chance to fall or This is what C. S. Lewis to pass the test, if it is fallen, addresses in his essay “Reli- then does the atonement of gion and Rocketry” in which Christ on the cross count for he talks about how there most them too, is it even possible likely are other alien civiliza- to not fall, and did he die for tions but they are not neces- their race on their world as he did here, or is it our unique sarily fallen.

He suggests they could be responsibility to tell the unicompletely unblemished, and verse about Christ?

As I said before, the option so we should avoid contact which sounds most reasonable lest we pervert them.

In addition, C. S. Lewis’s to me is this: the universe itbook “Out of the Silent Plan- self is not fallen; the only attriet” covers the bute of man I find it hard to believe we which really potentiality for other alone of all civilizations changed afraces to have ter the fall would be charged with of their own Adam salvation spreading the good news was the inistructure, as tiation of to all worlds.” the Martians the death of have come to terms with natu- the soul as a consequence of rally occurring death, seeing it rebellion, whereas death and as how the world works rather hardship and pain had already than some terrible painful ex- existed, but the perfect moral perience to be avoided. standing and afterlife made it Lewis’s sequel, “Perelan- pleasant anyways. dra,” examines closely the In this setting, it would ability for a newfound race make sense for each souled

“

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race to have its own Adam figure and if they fell then later to receive a functionally identical embodiment of God the Son to bring knowledge of his singular act of redemption of all souls.

Now it could also be the case there was some sort of proto-Adam, before the universe as we know it either developed or was caused to exist and this proto-Adam represented all sentient beings and when he fell caused all to fall and did cause the entire universe to fall, initiating death, pain, etc.

If this were the case, Jesus would probably come to every single civilization incarnate into its flesh to bring the news of his intercession for the punishment of the soul in his own spiritual death.

I find it hard to believe we alone of all civilizations would be charged with spreading the good news to all worlds.

It is fine to say evangelicals must minister to all nations, because at least everyone on Earth is the same species and shares common ancestry, but to be responsible for every other world is a bit of a stretch unless we soon discover how to travel the universe rapidly or are given divine assistance to do so.

CAMERON CLARKE Cameron Clarke is a sophomore majoring in physics. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.

MSU’s Reformed University Fellowship campus minister, Brian Sorgenfrei, in an email interview, said for him, the existence of aliens has no major impact on his worldview.

Sorgenfrei remarked about the meat of Christianity, salvation.

He said what matters the most is the image of God in mankind, as it is why God can become man and be our substitute. From Sorgenfrei’s analysis, we can acknowledge our own ignorance of the universe and its intricacies and in the meantime remain content with God’s control of everything.

Therefore, from a Christian perspective, other intelligences different than us could also be made in his image and consequently be candidates for Christ’s salvation in whichever way God sees fit.

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Bulldog Bash celebrates many years

By Catie Marie Martin Staff Writer Mississippi State University celebrates its 13th annual Bulldog Bash, the largest free outdoor concert in the state of Mississippi, this weekend. Over the past 13 years, Starkville has welcomed performers such as The Avett Brothers, Jason Mraz, Third Eye Blind, Gavin Degraw, Matt Wertz, Sister Hazel, Edwin McCain, Eric Church and Bobby Valentino. This year, MSU boasts country group Eli Young Band as headliner, with Gloriana and Andy Grammar as supporting acts.

Shelby Balius, SA President, said this year’s Bulldog Bash differs from previous years in its setup.

“In years past, we have actually had at least two stages in the Cotton Dis-

trict,” she said. “This year, we decided to just have it on one so that we could have a wider array of a variety of music on the main stage, so instead of having to go from one place to another, the crowd can stay in one place and enjoy all the different genres of music. It makes it a little easier for the fans’ experience.”

Not only is the physical setup of the event different this fall, Balius said the music also appeals to a larger variety of students; whereas, last year The Avett Brothers appealed to a very specific fan base.

“I think we really lucked out last year with The Avett Brothers having such a strong fan base in our college town, and one of the goals of our directors this year was to create a little bit more of a main-

stream lineup.”

In the same way The Avett Brothers appealed to Starkville residents specifically, Balius said she hopes the country feel of this year’s lineup will contribute to the southern feel of the event and make the event even more distinctive to Starkville.

“Even though we had to make a change to where it was a mostly country lineup, we have gotten really great and positive feedback, so hopefully we will be able to continue that success for this year,” she said. “The country music atmosphere is very strong in Starkville, so I think it’s going to be a very great time for students and community members to come out and have a good time.”

Balius said her involvement with Bulldog Bash

has allowed her to be privy to many opportunities to interact with the performers and see the ways that different artists act when presented with opportunities such as this.

“You have some artists that just want to stay on the tour bus until it’s ready for them to go on, and then you have others, like last year. You have The Avett Brothers who hopped in the van with us, and we went to City Bagel for a little bit during the day,” she said. “It was a really neat experience, and it just shows you the ability for someone so professional and a music artist to really be a downto-earth person.”

This year’s event promises to exceed standards of previous years and, in turn, raise the bar for Bulldog Bashes to come.

Bash differs from other events

By Magan Ford Staff Writer

Here are some ways Bulldog Bash stands out from other college events: • Bulldog Bash has at least six different bands each year.

• This year’s Bulldog Bash will work to raise money for the MSU Student Relief Fund.

• Bulldog Bash was created in 1999 to help kickoff MSU football and is designed to help bring the students, alumni and community together.

• The first year of Bulldog Bash brought a crowd of 2,000. It now brings crowds beyond 35,000 people.

• Bulldog Bash is held in one of the most charming areas in the state, the Cotton District. The Cotton District is filled with New Orleans-style buildings, color, fountains and courtyards, making the experience even more enjoyable.

• Bulldog Bash is one of the most highly successful student-led events in the Southeast.

• Bulldog Bash allows people to see their favorite bands in concert for free.

• Bulldog Bash is an all-weekend event. Vendors are set up in the Cotton District, as well as the 2012 FanFare and Maroon Rally.

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LIFE

friday , november 2, 2012

THE

ELI

THE REFLECTOR

Eli Young Band members include Mike Eli, Jon Jones, Chris Thompson and James Young.

BULLDOG BASH PRESENTS:

courtesy photo | eli young band

ELI

BAND

YOUNG BAND

Eli Young Band to headline Bulldog Bash

By Casey smith Staff Writer

Country music band, Eli Young Band is set to headline this year’s Bulldog Bash.

The Eli Young Band is a nationally renowned country-recording artist from Denton, Texas. The band members formed when they were in college and have been recording and playing music together ever since.

Mike Eli, lead singer and guitarist, said when they met they all had an interest in music but were unsure where it would take them.

“We all had individual interests in playing music and pursuing it,” he said. “I don’t know how much we knew we would pursue it as our future, but when we met each other in college it just made sense.”

As for the band’s music, he said their own lives are the inspiration behind the songs.

“Our music tends to be a reflection of where we are in our lives,” he said.

The band won an Academy of Country Music award in 2011 for its single “Crazy Girl,” a moment he describes as being surreal and a lifetime in the making.

“It was an unbelievable experience to actually be in a moment you have dreamed of your whole life is completely surreal,” he said. “You think back through all of the hard work and moments leading you to that day, and it takes you back through the journey — it’s amazing.”

The band might be expanding its trophy case. It was nominated for Vocal Group of the Year at last night’s Country Music Association awards. The winner of this award had not been announced at the time of print. The band also performed for a sold out crowd at the awards.

He said the band was nervous and excited about playing in last night’s show.

“We are excited,” he said. “It’s a bit nerve-wracking to be performing in front of our peers, all these artists we respect.”

He said it would be much more relaxing to play for everyone at Bulldog Bash Friday and the band members are excited to play the outdoor concert.

“We’re looking forward to everyone coming out, and the energy of a show setting like that is something you can feel when you’re on stage,” he said.

Bulldog Bash co-director Sara Vance said the Student Association has been working hard since April to plan this year’s bash and she cannot wait to see Eli Young Band tonight.

The original lineup was shaken up a few weeks ago when SA announced original headliner Neon Trees had canceled its fall tour. She said the cancellation was very unexpected.

“You kind of get thrown into a situation of what is available to us and we worked with our talent agencies right away doing the best we could to get someone of quality on such short notice,” she said. “We were really happy to see Eli Young Band as one

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of our options, and we went after them right away.”

Despite the setback of the Neon Trees cancellation, she said she is very happy about the Eli Young Band and said it should be a fun time for all.

“We were so thrilled about Eli Young Band, and we think it is going to be a great concert,” she said.

“They have a great sound and are a really well-known group.”

Junior kinesiology major Caroline Brannon said she was excited Eli Young Band is the replacement.

She said she would be on the very front row.

“When I found out Neon Trees couldn’t come anymore, the first replacement band I thought of was Eli Young Band,” she said. “When I saw a tweet saying they were coming I died.”

Katie Ruth Robertson, senior communication major, said she is also enthusiastic about the show.

“They are excellent, well-known country musicians, and I am so ready to see them at Bulldog Bash,” she said. “I was really impressed the Student Association was able to get

someone like them on such short notice.”

Vance said she has received a great response to the new headliner and is looking forward to tonight.

“We’ve had such a positive feedback from the student body, especially considering our late headliner change,” she said. “People seem really excited, and Bulldog Bash is an event that just continues to build each year.”

Eli said everyone attending the concert Friday is sure to have an awesome time.

“We’re ready for a big show and are excited to be coming to Starkville and Mississippi State University,” he said.

The Eli Young Band will hit the stage at approximately 9:45 p.m. after opening acts Surviving Allison, Gloriana and Andy Grammer perform. The stage is in the same location as last year, stretching in between Sweet Pepper’s Deli and Chuck’s BP on University Drive.

It will face toward downtown Starkville. To learn more about Eli Young Band or discover its music, visit eliyoungband.com.

LIFE

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM

BULLDOG BASH PRESENTS:

friday , november 2, 2012

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Andy Grammer, Gloriana

By Catie Marie Martin

By Kaitlyn Byrne

Andy Grammer arrives in Starkville for Bulldog Bash this weekend all the way from his home in Los Angeles, Calif.

A prime example of an artist who has climbed to the top of the music industry ladder, Grammer started out as a street performer in California. On his website, Grammer said his passion for music led him to the streets.

“I didn’t know what else to do. So I just went out there and started playing,” he said.

The escalation of Grammer’s career is especially impressive considering the big names with which he has performed. Grammer has performed with record-breaking artists Taylor Swift, Colbie Caillat and Natasha Bedingfield, as well as recorded an award-winning video for his popular song “Keep Your Head Up.” His first headlining tour is set to take place in 2013.

With this year’s Bulldog Bash primarily showcasing country music, Grammer is a breath of fresh, country twang-less air for the pop fans at Mississippi State University. With his optimistic, feel-good, singer-songwriter vibe, Grammer is reminiscent of previous Bulldog Bash performers Jason Mraz and Gavin DeGraw.

His music is characterized by smooth and relatable lyrics, and fans are bound to hum along to the catchy melodies and tap their toes to the steady rhythms of songs like “Miss Me” and “Keep Your Head Up.” Although Grammer is technically classified as a sing-

Gloriana, comprised of brothers Tom and Mike Gossin and Rachel Reinert, will perform its country hits in Starkville on Friday at Bulldog Bash.

After its self-titled debut album reached No. 2 on the Billboard Country Albums chart in 2009, Gloriana toured with country artists such as Alan Jackson, Taylor Swift, Zac Brown Band and Brooks & Dunn before launching its first headlining tour in 2010, according to the band’s website.

In July, Gloriana’s second album A Thousand Miles Left Behind debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Top 200, according to billboard.com. A Thousand Miles Left Behind also features the band’s first top-5 single, “(Kissed You) Good Night.”

In an interview with OurStage Magazine, Tom Gossin said the second album reflects the changes the group has undergone during the three years since its first album was released.

“There’s a sincerity and honesty to this record,” Gossin said. “Our lives have completely changed, going from kids playing in bars five nights a week for 10 years to living in a tour bus and playing arenas, meeting some of our idols.”

Gossin said he thinks openness is what resonates with fans.

“It’s about the things that happened to us on the road, in relationships or about personal events that happened to us in that time period,” Gossin said.

Staff Writer

Managing Editor

courtesy photo | the reflector

er-songwriter, his songs are accented by percussion instruments, giving his songs a unique hip-hop vibe.

“For me, it’s always been about a mix of hiphop, acoustic singer/songwriters and piano rock. I pull all those together. Each song may lean more heavily on one than the other, but they all have all three pieces,” Grammer said.

This hip-hop vibe presented by Grammer gives his music less of a bubble-gum pop feel and more of a hard-hitting and passionate vibe.

GLORIANA courtesy photo | gloriana

“That really is the connection with the fans; honesty and speaking from the heart.”

In an interview on Gloriana’s website, Mike Gossin said Alan Jackson gave him valuable advice in 2009 that still influences the band.

“We asked (Alan Jackson) if he had any advice, and he said, ‘Man, it’s all about the music, make sure you stay true to the music,’” he said. “And I think through the growth of this band and all the ups and downs of this rollercoaster ride that we’ve been on, it feels like we’ve finally found our place.”

Cotton District prepares for Bash

By Daniel Hart Staff Writer

Billed as the state’s largest outdoor concert and drawing around 35,000 visitors to the Cotton District in one weekend, Bulldog Bash is a pivotal event for Mississippi State University and Starkville alike. But when these huge numbers stack up against the compact two-lane chunk of asphalt the event occupies, the question arises: how do businesses and residents of the Cotton District prepare for and deal with the floods of people washing into the streets?

Robert Camp, partner of the Cotton District (owners of the blue and purple mixed-use buildings, among others) said they take security measures to prevent overcrowding and unauthorized persons from making their way into the apartments on the upper floors, above the bars.

“We have security guards that stand at the bottom of the buildings. Our primary concern is keeping random people from walking in,” he said. “We have predetermined wristbands and designate a certain number to lower the number of people actually in the building.”

Camp said the event takes a certain amount of faith and less anxiety over more inconsequential issues.

“We basically keep our fingers crossed and pray to God no catastrophes happen,” he said.

“The fountain gets soap-sudded all the time; you get used to it.”

Robert Ledet, junior architecture major and former apartment resident in the Cotton District Plaza (the blue building), said getting to his apartment became a bit complicated during Bulldog Bash.

“When you’re walking around, you don’t have space to move your arms when you’re in the audience and even in that bar area,” he said. “It was frustrating; it’s more crowded than a football game in the student section.”

Paul Brasfield, a general manager at Bin 612 restaurant and bar, said for the restaurant, the weekend’s positives are well worth any congestion that occurs.

“Bulldog Bash and Super Bulldog Weekend are the two biggest (weekends) of the year, without a doubt,” he said.

Brasfield said Bin 612 will shuffle up their regular menu to adapt to the influx of the masses with food that is quicker to prepare.

“We’ll open our late-night menu early on Friday and Saturday. It usually runs from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., but because so many people are in town, we

change it to fast, cheap, good food,” he said. Brasfield said furniture is also cleared and rearranged in exchange for additional standing room.

“We’ll move some furniture into the basement, take away some seating so we can have more standing room, just to accommodate a lot more people because there will be so many,” he said.

Like other Cotton District businesses, Brasfield said they will ratchet security up a notch.

“We work with Cobra Security; we’ll beef that up and have 12 security guards.

They’ll be carding, checking IDs and keeping it straight because a fight or anything we don’t want could happen,” he said. “We’ll do a $5 cover on Friday night for bathroom usage. There’s just so many people everywhere, every inch of space.”

Brasfield said all the work done at the restaurant is to keep the environment fluid and enjoyable for the surge of visitors here for a pleasant weekend.

“It’s hard work, but if we cover our bases we should be good,” he said. “We want to have a good time; we want all our customers and employees to have fun.”

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barton dinkus | the reflector

The Cotton District prepares to opens its streets for the biggest show of the year, Bulldog Bash.

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LIFE

2, 2012

THE REFLECTOR

STALKERS PREFER SESTINAS

by Mary Chase Breedlove

STARKVILLE ARTIST SHOWS PASSION THROUGH ART, PAINTINGS

BY MAGAN FORD Staff Writer

Vicki Burnett, a local Starkville artist, enjoys painting and sells her work around Starkville through Facebook and commissions.

Burnett attended Hinds Community College and Mississippi State University where she took several classes to enhance her education in art. Burnett said she has always been passionate about art.

“I’ve always been very visually observant. I can still remember paintings or designs that I observed as a small child. I’ve always drawn, but during college I took several classes in painting, art history and design to further my education in art. Even now, I still enjoy taking workshops and trying new techniques,” she said.

Burnett began painting in junior high and took lessons from a Louisville artist, Melanie McNeil. She went on to become a fulltime teacher and mother. Although she stays busy with teaching, she still loves to paint in her spare time. She said she enjoys paintJAY JOHNSON | THE REFLECTOR ing in the comfort of her own home.

Vicki Burnett is a local artist.

“Usually, I work from my studio in the bonus room or at our

kitchen table. I love to paint my own children, favorite outdoor scenes, old homes and even antique cars,” she said.

Burnett participated in the Juried Art Show through the Cotton District Art Festival and has received purchase prizes and awards for the past two years. She has also given painting demonstrations through Art in the Garden.

Burnett said she is passionate about art and enjoys being able to share what she sees with others. She said drawing is satisfying and a blessing from God. “I think my own joy in art comes from honing the skills with which I’ve been blessed. There’s a wonderful satisfaction in trying to skillfully represent the beauty that I see in a person’s face or in my surroundings. I never do justice to God’s creation, but I have a blast trying,” she said.

Burnett said she believes we can all make our own version of beauty through art.

“I would just reiterate that I truly believe that there’s an artist lurking in all of us. We just have to open our eyes to the beauty of the world and express our own version of it,” she said.

i love sex :) by Zack Orsborn SHORT STORY WWWWWWhhhhhhiiiiir-ding-da-ding, schurrrrrrrr-SCHURRRRRRRRRR- whir-ding-ding SCHURRRRRR. Dial-up discordance.

The sound filled my childhood room, and I waited patiently, nervously, for AOL to connect to the “high-speed” Internet. My mom had just left the house to run some motherly errands.

And you know what that meant: web-surfing shenanigans.

What would I do? Play games on disneychannel.com? Ask obnoxious questions on ask. com like “why is the sky blue?” or better yet “what is 2+2?” just to see how magical the Internet was? It was a time of exploring.

It was a time of wonder. Everything at the tips of my chubby, 10-year- old fingers.

But no. I figured since my mom was picking up milk or something (you know, whatever mothers pick up), I would do something that would get my adrenaline pumping. I wanted a quick thrill. A taste of danger.

There was only one place where I can stir some trouble.

A place where words collided in a fascinating rainbow of lime greens, bright purples and fluorescent blues. A place of Comic Sans and Papyrus. You know, the cool fonts.

The AOL Chatroom for Kids.

Typing in my username (which happened to be ignition005. I was inspired by the hit R. Kelly song, “Ignition Remix,” that taught me how to be a little man. I felt the joys of being a pimp through those lyrics), I was ready to go. I didn’t have time to change my font — it was now or never.

My eyes focused in on the plethora of “asl?” and “hey wut ^ evry1!!!” Children. They had no idea what was about to hit them.

Actually, I had no idea what I was going to drop on these fools. What was the most forbidden act that no one dared speak about? Sixth grade math? Nah. Worse. What made youngsters gasp? What made eyes grow wide?

The “s” word. Calm down, now; I know you shudder at the thought.

I had walked through nature

enough to know a little about be alright. Man, I’m so dead. the birds and the bees. And by I sat in my roller chair in sheer nature, I mean eyeing magahorror until I heard the living zines with promiscuous women room door open as my mother on the front every Saturday at walked in, the sound of grocery Books-A-Million. But I had no bags rustling. With big doe eyes, idea about the impact of sex. It I quietly and innocently told her was a foreign to me as Taco Day the Internet was down. in the cafeteria.

The calm before the storm.

On a mission, I typed “i love All was still in the house. No sex.” dial-up sounds. No rustling Enter. grocery bags. With calm fingers, Ignition005 has been banned my mom dialed AOL services. from this In just a few minutes, Winds began chatroom. to pick up. I sex was a deadly Please contact could feel the AOL services force that destructed rain cloud over to renew my time playing The my head. I your banned still wanted to Sims. Sex was evil.” throw up. connection.

What had “Hi, yes, I’m I done? The bold letters pointed calling about a banned Internet straight at me, cursing my name. connection…….Oh……igniI wanted to throw up. Man, my tion005 said that?-” mom was going to kill me with Her dagger eyes cut to me, her the milk she had just picked up. jaw clenching in anger. This was Just beat me over and over with it. The end of my life. I would the milk carton. I was a dead pass on my old Furby with corfourth grader. I would never get roded batteries to my best friend. to learn my fifth grade teacher’s Zack, a young sexual deviant, name. may he rest in peace was what Okay, just play dumb, Zack. my headstone would surely say. I Just tell Momma that the Inter- was flooded with shame. net is blocked and that she has to “I apologize for the inconvecall to get it back up. It’s going to nience, and I appreciate your help,” my mother said sweetly with a smile. Oh, what a fake smile. Well played, Momma. I knew she was raging on the inside.

Hanging up the phone, my mom said, “Go to my room. We are about to have a serious talk.” Even though her room was like a couple of feet away from mine, it felt like a death march.

She closed the door, which I thought was

“

weird because we were literally the only people in the house.

Moms are weird, right?

“What in the WORLD do you know about sex?!” she yelled fiercely.

I was dumbstruck. What DID I know about sex? I knew it was a powerful word with serious consequences. But I didn’t know that it was such a big deal until I typed in those three little words.

“I don’t know... I’m really sorry, Momma. I promise I won’t ever do it again!”

“Why did you even write that?!”

“I thought it would be funny,” I said. I was desperate.

“That’s not funny, Zack! Don’t EVER say anything like that again, do you hear me? I mean it.”

I waited for my punishment with my head down. I was a bad child with a bad mouth who never deserved a trip to ChuckE-Cheese.

“And you’re grounded from the computer until I say so.”

“Even from The Sims!?”

“No computer. Period.”

Sulking back to my room, I learned even more about the act of getting naked and wrestling: sex was no laughing matter.

It was a serious thing that I never wanted to think about ever again. In just a few minutes, sex was a deadly force that destructed my time playing The Sims.

Sex was evil. And apparently, sex made my mom really mad.

Really mad.

So all I could do now was lay in the big pile of boredom otherwise known as my bed and yearn to feel the glow of the computer screen on my face as the screeches and caws of dial-up tones echoed loudly in my ears.

POEM

Memphis, Nashville, Birmingham, and Atlanta have each held my heart in their hands.

I locked eyes with him in the Nashville Airport; now I live on the interstate. I begin in Memphis, where my heart started to beat — then meet Birmingham for the sake of I-459 and relief from the state of Alabama. Two hours in, I’ve made good time.

My chest thumps and echoes in my throat when I meet the time change. Only 61 miles to Atlanta.

The excitement peaks when I see the skyline, but relief fades to terror. Knuckles white, neck tense, hands sweating. I always think I’ll finally beat the sea of angry drivers on Ponce, and don’t. Mercifully, I live.

John Mayer asks the right questions on the radio: Am I living it right? Why, Georgia indeed. But this time I think I am doing it right. He’s perfect. He certainly beats the last one. Or three. Tracking him all the way to Atlanta has been exhausting. I watched him in the airport that day — I watched his hands holding the boarding pass and lungs rise and fall with relief that Flight 353 to Hartsfield-Jackson was on time. The relief for me was I remained unseen. That look was all I needed. We will marry and live happily ever after, I’m sure of it. He’ll put a ring on my hand, he just doesn’t know yet. He can’t know yet, it’s not the right time.

Now that I’ve mused about our first date, I park my car and greet Atlanta, I’ll walk down Tenth Street until I find him. Maybe I’ll beat the crowd of Techies swarming the street. You can’t beat a spring day in Atlanta — they’re all out to play. I’m filled with relief when my eyes find his car. Yes, that must be his. It’s suitable for Atlanta traffic. Red body, strong tires, seatbelts. It keeps him safe so we can live together forever. That’s all that really matters. I remember the time I watched him lift his suitcase. He was so careful and deliberate with his hands and I knew then — he is the man of my dreams. Now I watch his hands open the car door and climb in. The sun beats down on my back. It’s time to meet your future wife, darling. It’s time.

He tries to start his car. Tries again.

And again. What relief to see he needs my assistance. It’s meant to be. I’ll live as the hero in our love story that blossomed in Atlanta.

I walk towards him — happy, eager, and ready to start our lives in Atlanta.

We make eye contact for the second time, and he sees how I live for him now. He looks shy, but soon he’ll feel relief.

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SPORTS

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FRIDAY , NOVEMBER 2, 2012

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B5

THE COACH’S CORNER | FORREST BUCK

Ray sets bar high for basketball team A new era of basketball has officially begun at Mississippi State. Most of the notable players from last year’s team are no longer here, and former head coach Rick Stansbury resigned after the season.

To replace Stansbury, State hired Rick Ray, who served as an assistant coach at Clemson. Ray will be bringing the motion offense, which focuses on playing without the ball and involves a lot of cutting and moving of the basketball. The team lacked these aspects in the Stansbury era. So, if Ray’s offense gets going the way he wants, it should be a welcome change.

Ray said being the new head coach at MSU is a great opportunity.

“Mississippi State has a long-standing tradition of being good at basketball,” Ray said.

“Anytime you got a fan base like the fan base Mississippi State has, it’s always going to peak interest.”

Ray said the main thing he wanted to bring to this program in terms of philosophy was a new sense of accountability.

“The biggest thing I want to bring is I want to make sure our guys are being held accountable,” Ray said. “Not just on the court in the way they play basketball, but off the court, as well.”

It’s no secret a lot of MSU fans felt Stansbury didn’t always hold his players accountable. Renardo Sidney was the most recent example under Stansbury’s regime.

Last season, State had the talent of a top-25 team yet did not make the NCAA tournament.

The Dogs did not even make the NIT tournament. The lack of discipline was a huge reason why the team underachieved so much last season. So, for Ray to be so focused this early on accountabil-

FORREST BUCK Forrest Buck is a junior majoring in sport pedagogy.

He can be contacted at reflectorsports@gmail.com. ity, is a great concept and bodes well for the future of our basketball program.

Senior center and team leader Wendell Lewis raved about his new coach.

“He’s a great guy. He’s a guy that makes us work hard and compete every day in practice and makes sure we get better,” Lewis said. “When we are at practice, he wants everything executed and done correctly. He’s a fiery guy and always comes to practice with great energy, and he just wants everyone to get better.

He’s definitely the right guy for the job.”

The main attribute we as fans and spectators must have as it relates to Ray and this new era of basketball at MSU is patience.

With five freshmen on the team and only one senior really playing a key role on this year’s team, it will not be an easy process.

It will take time for the players to learn the system and get acclimated with the way Ray wants them to play. But this year’s recruiting class was really strong, and Ray is only going to continue to bring in more quality talent.

He strikes me as a great fit for our school, and given time, he can get the MSU basketball program back in the NCAA tournament and among the best in the SEC.

COURTESY PHOTO | THE REFLECTOR

The MSU utimate Frisbee team was started seven years ago, and this year’s team is already practicing to prepare for the spring season.

club sports feature:

ULTIMATE TEAM FOCUSES ON CAMARADERIE

BY ANSON KEITH Staff Writer

Seven years ago, underneath the bright lights of the intramural fields, a new sport was introduced to Mississippi State University. Students throwing Frisbees in an organized fashion seemed a bit different at first, but the sport slowly became popular over time.

Ultimate Frisbee was first created in 1968 in Massachusetts by Jared Kass and Joel Silver. People of all likes and kinds began to flock to the new fad over the next

few years. As time passed, teams swap directions and the “football Frisbee game,” the team that scored pulls to quickly transformed into a the other team. If a pass is sport instead of just a game incomplete, intercepted or played at children’s birthday caught out of bounds, the parties. Now, in 2012, there opposing team immediately are several college teams takes possession and tries to across the nation competing move the disc in the other direction. in many tournaments.

The game is decided when Max Moseley, a graduate student majoring in busi- either team reaches a total of ness, said he started playing 13 points. No physical conultimate as a hobby in high tact is allowed, and players school. He said he was sur- call their own fouls. Substiprised on the seriousness tutions can only be made of the sport when he got to after a team scores or during an injury timeout college.

The MSU ultimate team “I didn’t play my freshman year, but I got to know some holds practices where the of the guys on the team. players run sprints and drills They got me interested, and and work on strategies and I saw how serious and in defenses. In fact, while most depth the practices were,” teams across the country are Moseley said. “It was then I enjoying the offseason, the decided to get involved my MSU team is currently pracsophomore year. It was defi- ticing every Tuesday and nitely a lot more than I ex- Thursday from 8-10 p.m.

Robert Stroup, a senior pected after I became a part biological of the team.”

We hang out with engineerHere is the ing major premise for teams from around and a vetultimate: two the country ... Most eran on the teams of seven team, said begin at opposports teams can’t team has site end zones even sit in the same the seen success and try to adroom together, but lately, comvance the disc peting in reto the other almost everyone in gional play end zone. The the ultimate world the past five disc is put in gets along.” seasons. play by one “ W i t h team throwing Erek Allen, t e a m s to the other, senior steadily called the pull.

After the disc is in play, popping up and getting it can only be moved by into competition play, this throwing it. The only phys- puts us ahead of the growical movement allowed is ing pack,” Stroup said. “The pivoting on one foot. If a teams are broken down into team successfully advanc- different conferences across es a disc into the end zone, the country. We are in the that team scores a point, the Gulf Coast Conference,

“

which is basically the SEC of ultimate.”

The players said camaraderie plays a big part in how things go on and off the field. They said, for the most part, everybody they hang out with is involved with the sport. They travel together, practice together and, in some cases, they even live together.

Some players said they have even made lifelong friends from the teams they compete against. Erek Allen, a senior industrial engineering major, said the sport is ultimately a medium to meet new people and make new friends.

“We hang out with teams from around the country.

We fellowship with them and really celebrate the sport of ultimate. Some of the guys from other teams have even stayed at our house during tournaments, and we still communicate on a regular basis,” Allen said. “Most sports teams can’t even sit in the same room together, but almost everyone in the ultimate world gets along.”

As the team prepares for the upcoming season in the spring, the players are looking to be in prime condition for their first tournament.

The Cowbell Classic is scheduled for the early part of next year.

For any who would like to be involved or for information about tournaments, one can follow the team on Twitter, @MSU_Ultimate, visit the page on Facebook, MSU Men’s Ultimate Club or just visit msuultimate. com.

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B6

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friday , november 2 , 2012

SPORTS

Volleyball hosts Tennessee, Alabama in search of SEC win

By Brittany young Contributing Writer

Still seeking its first conference win, the Mississippi State volleyball team hosts Tennessee and Alabama this weekend. The matches will return to the Newell Grissom building after the team’s last home matches were played at Humphrey Coliseum for Homecoming.

Senior outside hitter and co-captain Chanelle Baker said she is more comfortable playing in the Newell Grissom building as opposed to the Hump.

“The Hump is large and spread out,” Baker said.

“Newell Grissom has a better environment. It’s smaller and the fans are closer, creating a greater impact on the game.”

The Bulldogs will need an exciting environment Friday at 7 p.m. as they host the Tennessee Volunteers. The Volunteers are the defending SEC champions and are currently No. 3 in the Eastern division and No. 5 overall in the conference.

MSU head coach Jenny Hazelwood said Tennessee is an experienced and talented team, returning everyone from the previous season.

“Tennessee is a strong and athletic team,” Hazelwood said. “We have to play great defense, stop its best hitters and keep the team off balian prester | the reflector ance.”

After dropping back-to- Freshman middle blocker Sarah Nielsen is second on the back road matches against volleyball team with 174 kills and 37 blocks on the season.

Florida and LSU, Hazelwood said there are some areas that ing to be a tough month, so it’s with 420 so far. need improvement before en- great to be back at home with McVey said she credits her tering this weekend’s match- the support of our fans,” Hazel- accomplishments to hard work ups. wood said. and dedication.

“This week in practice we’ve According to Baker, the girls “It feels great to lead the conreally been focusing on fun- have more opportunities to ference in digs because I have damentals,” Hazelwood said. practice and work on things worked my tail off, and the “We’ve really when they are at coaches have pushed me to be a struggled on better player,” McVey said.

It feels great to lead home. defense and “We have After registering her fourth the conference in passing the shorter practic- 25-plus dig match Sunday ball offensivedigs because I have es preparing for at LSU (26 digs), McVey is ly.” away games be- 91 digs away from tying the worked my tail off, To n i g h t cause we spend school’s single-season digs reand the coaches will be bitmost of our cord of 511, set by Megan Lutersweet for time traveling,” kasek in 2007. have pushed me to Baker as she Baker said.

McVey said was not aware be a better player.” goes head-toF r e s h m a n she was so close to breaking this head with her libero Roxanne record, but if she continues to Roxanne McVey, younger sister, McVey said al- register 20 plus dig games, then freshman libero Tiffany, who though she loves she will be well on her way to is an outside hitter for the Vol- home matches and playing in either tie or break Lukasek’s reunteers. front of fans, playing on the cord.

“My sister and I are very road is also exciting.

“My main focus is helping close, so we want each other to “This is my first year, so it’s my team win, but if I’m able perform well,” said Baker. “But exciting to travel and experi- to do it, I would love to get it we’re both competitive and ence other SEC schools and done,” McVey said. want to win, so there may be their environments,” McVey Not only will the Bulldogs some trash talking.” said. need to be focused on TenWith six of their eight matchWhether McVey plays at nessee, but they have another es being on the road during Oc- home or on the road, the chance at a conference win tober, Hazelwood said both the standout freshman has found Sunday at 1:30 p.m. against players and coaches are a little success. She currently leads the SEC West rival Alabama. The more at ease having more home SEC in digs and has earned Crimson Tide is currently No. matches during November. herself a position on MSU’s 6 in the West, one spot ahead “We knew October was go- top 10 list for digs in a season of MSU.

“

THE REFLECTOR

SOCIAL MEDIA

continued from A1

Thomas said so many people have smart phones and prefer TOP 15 Notable coaches without 1. Les Miles, LSU quick snippets of information MOST Twitter accounts: 2. Brian Kelly, Notre Dame instead of having to read a whole FOLLOWED 3. Steve Sarkisian, Washington article to find out information.

COACHES Nick Saban, Alabama 4. Bo Pelini, Nebraska “I think social media is another ON Chip Kelly, Oregon 5. Dan Mullen, Mississippi State effective communication tool to TWITTER Bob Stoops, Oklahoma 6. Mike Leach, Washington State our fans,” Thomas said. “I think 7 .

Joker Phillips, Kentucky we’ve got a decent grasp on what 8. Derek Dooley, Tennessee we want to do with it (Twitter 9. Mark Richt, Georgia and Facebook), but we still have 10. Will Muschamp, Florida questions on a regular basis. You 11. Lane Kiffin, USC just have to be careful you keep 12. Hugh Freeze, Ole Miss the entire fan base in mind when 13. Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State you’re making decisions on any 14 14. Al Golden, Miami front.”

15. Charlie Strong, Louisville MSU has dedicated a Twitter account for each team, which is zack orsborn | the reflector exclusive among NCAA colleges, She also said for recruiting pur- “We Believe” phenomenon struck to go along with its HailState account, @HailState, which has poses, coaches are allowed to mes- not only residents of Starkville, sage recruits on Twitter whenever but also Bulldog fans around the over 20,600 followers.

According to coachingsearch. they want. They cannot tweet country. State fans tweeted “We com, Dan Mullen has the fifth publicly at a recruit, but coaches Believe” pictures from Shang Hai, highest number of Twitter follow- can use the direct message feature the White House and even the ers of coaches who have accounts. to have general correspondence Nick Saban and Bear Bryant statAlso, ESPN’s Myron Medcalf with potential players via Twitter ues in Tuscaloosa.

In just six hours, a Facebook listed MSU basketball coach Rick at any time.

Hazelwood said social media post from MSU football concernRay as one of six NCAA basketball coaches to follow, saying Ray benefits her players, as long as ing the “We Believe” movement is, “raising the stakes among the they are wise with their tweets and accumulated over 2,800 likes and more than 100 comments.

Facebook posts.

SEC’s twittering coaches.”

Shelby Balius, Student Associa“You’ve got to make sure you One of the several service MSU Twitter accounts is @mstate- don’t tweet anything that could tion president, said her friend sent gameday. This account provides embarrass your family or you or her a picture of the “We Believe” updates on gameday, such as the program or the department. sign that was going to be put on which parking lots are full, when It’s about being smart about what Montgomery Hall, and she simroads will be closed and which you tweet,” Hazelwood said. “I ply tweeted it assuming the picdon’t stress a ton about our girls. ture would resonate with some ticket lines are the longest. students and be a quick deal.

Rhett Hobart, a graduate assis- They’re pretty good with that.”

Balius said when she woke up Along with the benefits social tant for athletic marketing, said social media is distinct in market- media provides for coaches, those the next morning, she could not ing because no money is required, outlets are an advantage for fans, open her Twitter App because of so social media becomes a form of who can follow their favorite play- all the retweets, so she had to deers to obtain a behind-the-scenes lete and reinstall the app on her free publicity.

Iphone. She said she would have “You can get out so much in- look into the players’ lives.

Players such as quarterback Ty- never guessed the movement formation in such a short period of time. I think it allows people ler Russell and cornerback John- would have grown so much, but to engage with us,” Hobart said. than Banks have over 10,000 fol- “We Believe” turned into more “I think one thing that’s real- lowers on Twitter and tweet about than just support for the Dogs on ly unique for us in athletics and football-related issues and off-the- the field.

“It became so much more marketing especially is the way field matters.

Thomas said social media ben- than that — the ability to have we can engage people in our marketing ideas. We can hear ideas efits both Bulldog players and everyone in the Bulldog family fans, who can come together and unite behind directly from fans get a glimpse of our team for a really tough game and students to It’s unique for the the hard work against the number one ranked create awesome fans. They are able to put in by the team,” Balius said. “It went beexperiences for our fans.” get an inside peek of MSU athletes. yond that in that we believe in “It’s unique our fan base. We believe in our Two additionwhat goes through a for the fans. team. We believe in our ability to al groups at MSU player’s mind when They are able come together and be Mississippi who are leading to get an inside State fans in every way beyond the way in social they are preparing peek of what athletics.” media use are the for a game.”

The “We Believe” movement goes through a Bulldog coaches player’s mind proved the value of social media and players. As Chad Thomas, they are in athletics. When used the right far as coaches director of marketing when preparing for way, social media has the ability are concerned, volleyball head coach Jenny Ha- a game,” Thomas said. “But for to not only encourage players and zelwood said she finds it hard to them (fans) to be able to write inform fans, but it also possesses tweet a lot but uses Twitter to pro- back and say, ‘Congrats,’ it’s good the potential to connect individuals around the country into mote match times and keep State for the players too.”

This past week, MSU took so- a family united in support of a fans updated on other volleyball cial media use to a new level as the community. scores around the country.

“

Soccer coach dismissed from team

By Kristen spinK Sports Editor

Athletic Director Scott Stricklin announced Tuesday former soccer coach Neil MacDonald had been dismissed from his position.

MacDonald will be re-assigned within the Mississippi State Athletic Department until June 30, the date his contraction concludes.

In a news release, Stricklin said MacDonald was a tireless worker and gave the soccer

program everything he had while he was on staff.

“We appreciate the nine years Neil has given Mississippi State as head of our soccer program,” Stricklin said. “We just felt a change in leadership was needed to guide our program to the ultimate goal we have for all of our student-athletes — to win consistently in the Southeastern Conference and compete for championships.”

In his nine seasons as head coach, MacDonald was 58-

103-14, and the team finished 9-10-1 this season (210-1 in SEC play).

Ma c Do n ald came to MacDonald MSU in 2003 and was an assistant coach before taking over the reigns in 2004.

According to The Dispatch, Stricklin, along with MSU Executive Associate Athletic Director Duncan McKenzie and senior associate athletic director in charge of women’s sports Ann Carr, will begin the search for a new coach immediately.

MacDonald and players were unavailable for further comment.

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friday , november 2, 2012

|

B7

Sullivan stays humble in record-setting year

By Forrest Buck Staff Writer

As only a junior, soccer forward Elisabeth Sullivan broke the Mississippi State record for career goals in the final game of the season.

Although taking credit for her success and achievements would be easy for Sullivan, she said she credits her teammates and does not care too much about breaking records, and her teammates confirmed Sullivan’s humble demeanor.

Amidst a season of highs and lows for the Mississippi State soccer team, Sullivan was a model of consistency and humility, being one of the least-praised and best players in the SEC. Morganne Grimes, fellow junior on the field and a close friend of Sullivan’s, said everyone on the team looks up to “Sully,” as she is called by her teammates.

“Honestly, she is the nicest, sweetest girl I’ve ever met. She would do anything for anybody, and she just has so much determination and dedication in everything she does, not just on the field but off the field, too,” Grimes said. “She’s so

religious, so inspiring, she’s fender or take her defender so good academically and head on. an amazing athlete. She’s “Sully’s just an excepjust an amazing girl.” tional talent,” MacDonald In the last game of the said. “She’s a huge threat. It season against Ole Miss, doesn’t matter if they douSullyivan scored two goals, ble-team her or throw three including the game-win- players on her, she still beats ning goal in double over- them. She’s an incredible time to seal the deal and striker.” win the Magnolia Cup. Despite all her success Her final goal was the and accolades, Sullivan’s hu23rd of her career and mility and team-first mindbroke the school record for set was still evident, as she career goals at MSU. For said she was more excited the season, she scored 12 for the seniors to beat Ole goals, which led the team Miss on senior night than and tied for second most in she was to break the record. the league. She also finished “I wasn’t necessarily third in the SEC in points thinking, ‘I want to be the with 28. one to score the goal.’ All I Her fantastic perfor- wanted was for anyone to mance throughout the en- score it so we could win the tire season game,” SulHonestly, she earned her livan said.

(Sullivan) is the a spot on “I’m really the All-SEC nicest, sweetest girl excited to second team break the reI’ve ever met. She and a first cord because team allwould do anything for I feel like my league selecanybody ... She’s just hard work tion by Colhas really an amazing girl.” lege Sports paid off beMadness. cause of all Morganne Grimes, Former the hours my junior defender head coach team puts in.

Neil MacDonald said Sul- I think it was a mixture of livan is absolutely outstand- my coaches helping me, my ing and can turn any de- teammates encouraging me

“

and working hard on and off the field.”

Grimes said it was fitting for Sullivan to score the game-winning goal on senior night because she always plays for others, not herself.

“If anyone on the team was going to do it, it was going to be her,” Grimes said. “When we had the ball, it was ‘where is Elisabeth Sullivan on this field?’ and ‘we’re going to get it to her feet.’ She is magic on the ball.”

Since she broke the record her junior year, Sullivan has a chance to build on her mark and continue her legacy on and off the field.

Senior Katy Hoover said Sullivan’s focus will remain on the team’s success instead of her own performance.

“Sully has a really great work ethic. She really wants to get better at everything she does. She really loves soccer, so it’s fun to watch her play,” Hoover Said.

“Off the field, she’s a really sweet person and really fun to hang out with. She’s a great friend and a good, Christian girl, and it’s nice to see that at a D-1 SEC school.”

Robert Johnson, sophomore, wide receiver

Lauren Morgan, senior, soccer

Favorite Movie: “Any Given Sunday” Biggest Fear: Failure Favorite Food: Seafood Favorite Pump-Up Song: “300” by Chief Keith Dream Job: Play in the NFL

GET TO KNOW YOUR ATHLETES

ian prester | the reflector

Junior Elisabeth Sullivan broke the MSU record for career goals with her game-winning goal in the season finale against Ole Miss.

Favorite Artist: Luke Bryan Favorite Pre-Game Meal: McAlisters Favorite TV Show: “Keeping Up with the Kardashians” Major: Psychology Favorite Pump-Up Song: “Pop That”

Tobias Smith, senior, captain, offensive line

Alex Warren, freshman, volleyball Favorite Band: Kings of Leon Favorite Sport Other Than Volleyball: Football Favorite Pump-Up Song: “Skrillex” by Cinema Favorite Movie: “Mulan”

Favorite Icecream Flavor: Cookies and Cream Favorite Book: The Bible Favorite Food: Spaghetti Biggest Fear: Snakes and Spiders Favorite TV Show: “Sportscenter”

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friday , november 2 , 2012

THE REFLECTOR

on the tube:

stat of the day:

43-41: the score of the Game the last no. 4 oregon at no. 17 uSC time texas a&m and msu met in 2000, with the BulldoGs winninG in overtime. Saturday, 6 p.m. foX

Dogs, Aggies set for first meeting since 2000 Snow Bowl

By John Galatas Campus News Editor

Following last weekend’s 38-7 loss to Alabama, Mississippi State head coach Dan Mullen said he is eager to see how his team will respond to its first loss of the season.

“You always define yourself in November. To me, it is a thing of how you are going to close out the season,” Mullen said. “We put ourselves in a great position for the month of November right now. Now, you have to see what separates a good season from a great season to a championship season.”

The Bulldogs seek to bounce back against the Texas A&M Aggies (6-2, 3-2). A&M’s two losses came against Florida in the season opener and LSU two weeks ago.

If the Maroon and White thought it had seen enough offense from the Tide, the Dogs better be prepared for a heavy dose of pass and run from the Aggies, as well.

Texas A&M leads the conference in scoring offense, rushing offense and total offense, and the attack starts with freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel.

The Aggies are one of just three teams in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision that rank in the top 20 in rushing, passing, total and scoring offense (the others are Louisiana Tech and Oklahoma State).

Manziel is first in the SEC in rushing with 793 yards, which is only 30 yards better than MSU running back LaDarius Perkins. Manziel has totaled

ian preSter | the refleCtor

Dan Mullen and the Bulldogs look to bounce back this weekend against Texas A&M after suffering their first loss of the season.

2,216 passing yards for a grand total of 3,009 yards of total offense. Manziel is also best in the conference with 29 touch-

downs (16 passing, 13 rushing).

Running back Ben Molina has 525 rushing yards with five touchdowns and provides

a good balance in the backfield behind Manziel.

The Aggie receiving game is led by freshman Mike Evans, who has 705 yards receiving, along with Ryan Swope who leads the team with five touchdown receptions.

Swope also sits second in career receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns in the Aggies’ record book.

Defensively, Texas A&M sits right in the middle of the conference in scoring and rushing defense and is No.10 in total defense and No. 12 in pass defense. With MSU’s pass offense ranked toward the top of the list, the Dogs have plenty of targets to go against a struggling Aggie secondary unit.

One aspect that may factor into the game is in the special teams department. A&M averages 15 yards per punt return, which is second in the SEC, whereas State only averages eight. The Aggies have only punted 26 times this year, a league best.

The two teams rank side by side in kickoff returns, kickoff coverage and field goals, and with points coming at a premium in conference games, the team who executes better on special teams will be in a better position for a win.

A&M first-year head coach Kevin Sumlin said since his team is new to the SEC, it will have something to prove in Starkville Saturday.

“We’re new guys. We’re the new guys in the league. I don’t see that as derogatory. You’re always going to be skeptical about anything that’s new or that you don’t know about. I don’t see it that way,” Sumlin said. “I do see it as

BY THE

NUMBERS

#

MISSISSIPPI STATE

TEXAS A&M

Tyler Russell: 137-233, 1,742 yards, 2 INTs, 15 TDs

Johnny Manziel: 173-269, 2,216 yards, 6 INTs, 16 TDs

LaDarius Perkins: 140 carries, 778 yards, 8 TDs Chad Bumphis: 30 receptions, 486 yards, 6 TDs Chris Smith: 29 receptions, 366 yards, 2 TDs Benardrick McKinney: 59 tackles, 3.5 for loss Cameron Lawrence: 59 tackles, 6 for loss

PASSING RUSHING RECEIVING DEFENSE

Johnny Manziel: 117 carries, 793 yards, 13 TDs Mi Mike Evans: 47 receptions, 705 yards, 2 TDs Ryan Swope: 36 receptions, 520 yards, 5 TDs

Damontre Moore: tackles 18 for loss 65 tackles, Jonathan Stewart: 51 tackles, 1.5 for loss

zaCk orSborn | the refleCtor

we do have something to prove.

I’ve said that from the beginning.”

Although A&M is new to the conference, Mullen and his staff are familiar with Sumlin. Sumlin coached the University of Houston Cougars from 2008 to 2011 and faced MSU twice. Houston bested the Dogs in 2009 31-24, with MSU getting revenge 47-24 in 2010.

Mullen said Sumlin’s offensive philosophy transitioned from his time with the Cougars, and it is evident with the success of the Aggies.

“I don’t think that the offense

has changed much, and the philosophy of the offense certainly hasn’t changed,”Mullen said. “I think that their coach has done a good job tweaking around the players. You build around the strengths of your quarterback, and they obviously do that now with his playmaking abilities.”

MSU finishes the season at LSU, at home against Arkansas and a finale in Oxford to play Ole Miss. With a tough slate of SEC Western division foes, the Dogs’ response against the Aggies will be an indication as to the success of the season.

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