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REC A L L S PA S T HALLOWEEN COSTUMES DAWGS VS HOGS

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

128 th YEAR | ISSUE 18

THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1884

Department of state considers changing election system

by Pranaav Jadhav Staff Writer

The Mississippi Secretary of State’s office has formed a committee to review and study Mississippi’s election laws. One of the issues the group has been studying

regards the primary election system in the state.

According to the Secretary of State’s office, the committee consists of more than 50 business, community and political leaders from across Mississippi. Every chosen member was highly recommended within his or her community.

Every member was assigned one of the four sub-committees to discuss and debate several election issues. The committees were formed on four types of election primary systems including the open primary, closed primary, semiclosed primary and top-two primary.

Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann said for several years his office believed it was time for Mississippians to come together and have a healthy, positive discussion about several election issues.

“We wanted Mississippians to be able to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of our

primary election system, early voting, online voter registration and other issues. This discussion was predicated on our ability to successfully complete the implementation of a constitutional voter identification,” Hosemann said.

The group has not finalized one single

primary system, but after a few rounds of meetings and discussion it has chosen the open primary and the toptwo primary system, which will then be further discussed and debated in the following meetings after which it will move forward as a recommendation to the legislature.

ELECTION, 2

Profits on student athlete identities break NCAA Rule

Academic Integrity Week hosts events, promotes student honesty

by Taylor Bowden Contributing Writer

MSU’s No. 1 ranking has put a lot of eyes on MSU and its athletic program.

Across the state, people look to show support for the teams and players they love. Unfortunately, this increase in demand for all things Maroon and White has lead to some legal concerns for MSU. One of several problems that have arisen, Bracky Brett, associate athletic director for compliance said, involves a by-law of the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

“NCAA legislation prohibits the use of the name, picture or likeness of a student-athlete who has current or remaining collegiate athletic eligibility, on a commercial item or to advertise, recommend or promote a commercial item or service of any kind,” Brett said in an email sent to the Alumni Association.

“Such activity could jeopardize the eligibility of the student-athlete depicted.”

These are things that can seem harmless, like a T-shirt that says ‘Dak Attack’ or a jersey with an active player’s name printed on it. Even things as simple as a business posting a sign in front of its store with a picture of the team on it is an issue, according to Brett.

Brett said the reason things such as those carry a legal implication lies in the fact that student athletes, along with professional athletes and anyone else who may fi nd themselves in the spotlight, have a right to protect against the use of their own name and image without their consent.

Furthermore, by NCAA’s ruling, no student athlete may profit from being an athlete and therefore cannot consent to his or her image being used for anything commercial, lest he or she be suspended.

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Lacretia Wimbley| The Reflector

Honor the Code:

The Honor Code Officeʼs Academic Integrity Week Planning Committee hosted its kick off Monday on the Drill Field. The group handed out promotional items, information about the upcoming week and information about how to win prizes from attending events. The Writing Center also provided information on how to avoid plagiarism and provided citation assistance. Other events during the week included ʻIntegrity through service,ʼ ʻCheaters,ʼ ʻDefend the code superhero night,ʼ and movie night at the Amphitheatre.

MSU’s Reported Cases of Academic Dishonesty Academic Year Students Reported

07-08 157

Academic Year Students Reported Plagarism Cheating Complicity Multiple Submission Other

07-08 157 92 56 6 2 1

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY CASES ADJUDICATED 08-09 09-10 10-11 11-12 212 220 271 333

12-13 296

13-14 369

TOTAL 1858

TYPES OF ADADEMIC DISHONESTY 09-10 10-11 11-12 220 271 333 122 148 170 93 109 123 2 8 19 0 1 7 3 5 14

12-13 296 156 102 20 4 14

13-14 369 179 139 34 9 8

TOTAL 1858 990 696 95 29 48

08-09 212 123 74 6 6 3

53.5% 37.5% 5.1% 1.6% 2.6%

Austin Grove| The Reflector, Information from the Student Honor Code Office

Cowbell Cabs provides free taxi services

by John Williams Staff Writer

Cowbell Cabs is a free taxi service implemented by the Student Association at Mississippi State University.

The service was started in the August under the administration of SA president Brett Harris.

Harris, senior marketing and management major, started Cowbell Cabs with the intent to help students be safe during their weekends in Starkville. The service is allowed to remain free due to funding that the SA receives.

“The Student Association receives some of its funding from the Starkville food and beverage tax,” Harris said.

“That funding has gone to several SA initiatives along with Cowbell Cabs.”

According to Harris, the service was created after seeing success at other universities.

“Several SEC schools implement a similar program,” he said. “We saw the success that they were having and decided we would start Cowbell Cabs at MSU.”

The now Cowbell Cabs service was the product of an effort by the SA to improve the previous safe-ride program, the Night Route. This was a late night shuttle that serviced the Cotton District and campus.

SA Chief Administrative Officer JoJo Dodd, junior economics major, helps with the logistics of the cab service.

“We were not satisfied with the number of students using the service and sought out better arrangements to offer a better, more widely used service and to spend the Student Association budget most efficiently,” he said.

Any student with a valid ID can use the cab service.

“Hailing a cab is incredibly easy,” Dodd said.

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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

Celebrating Women’s Appreciation Week

ʻHe ainʼt a manʼ: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and I.D.E.A.L. Woman hosted a discussion event Wednesday evening in collaboration with Womenʼs Appreciation Week. The event featured skits highlighting

Noah Siano| The Reflector

healthy and unhealthy relationships and guest speaker Yvette Haris from Student Counseling Services, who discussed rape, domestic violence and sexual assault. Members from the Health Education and Wellness Department were also present and discussed the White Ribbon Campaign and its platform of helping men stand with women against violence. Bianca Tatum, Jackie Bingham and Roderick Davis directed the event.

ELECTION

CONTINUED FROM 1

According to fairvote. org, “In an open primary system voters of any affi liation may vote in the primaries of any party they choose, they cannot vote in more than one party’s primary.”

Additionally, voters are given an option of not declaring their party affi liation.

During the discussion of this particular system, the Mississippi Secretary of State sub-committees

looked at various events in the past concerning the open primary system, such as the Democratic Party of Hawaii’s challenge to this system which argued open primaries placed a severe burden on its fi rst amendment right to association and ability to “limit its association to people who share its views.”

The group studied the federal district court’s ruling on the matter which ruled against the plaintiffs

and upheld the state of Hawaii’s primary system.

Haley Grantham, senior political science major at Mississippi State University, was selected to be a member on one of the sub-committees. She is the only representative from Starkville and MSU. Grantham said Mississippi currently has a law that states a person cannot vote in a party primary unless they intend to support that party’s nominee

in the general election.

Grantham also said presently, this law is unenforceable and it is evident there needs to be an update made to the Mississippi election law.

“At the conclusion of our research, hopefully the committee can come to an agreement so that the Secretary of State’s Office can submit a proposal to the legislature on our fi ndings. They are ultimately the ones who have the power to

change our system, so all the work of the committee will be complied and submitted to them,” Grantham said.

The state of Mississippi is one of the 19 states in the U.S. that currently has an open primary system.

The other option this committee narrowed down is the top-two primary systems.

The top-two primary system allows all candidates to appear on the same ballot regardless of party

affi liation. The top two candidates with the maximum votes move on to the general election.

According to fairvote. org, “the top two system is used in California and Washington, as well as Nebraska for its non-partisan elections to the state’s legislature.”

Secretary Hosemann said he will wait until the committee makes its recommendation to shape his opinion on these election issues.

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REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

CABS “Students can either call (662) 813-0084 and arrange to be picked up, or if they see a cab in town, they can just hop in a cab and head home.”

Cowbell Cabs operate Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. on non-home game weekends. On home game weekends, Cowbell Cabs

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Brett also said this extends even to their autographs, of which they have been told to always make as personal as possible in an effort to make them undesirable to others, as an increasing amount of people request signatures with the intent of selling them online.

“They don’t just have a ball to sign, they have a whole sack of stuff,” Brett said.

“Helmets, balls, they’ve got all this stuff. Coach Mullen does a great job with our football team and talking to them about these things.”

Brett said people seeking autographs do not just limit themselves to pursuing the team as they leave the locker rooms to board the buses, but will also go as far as to wait for them at the hotel they are spending the night in.

“Those are the people we have to be really diligent about,” Brett said. “Those who want to take advantage of our program and our kids for their own personal gain.”

The Georgia Bulldogs have already experienced similar issues when a predominant player, Todd

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operate only on Thursday nights.

“We are in the assessment process now,” Dodd said. “We will be contacting students who have used the service and seeking their input into the program’s future. We expect to know more details later in the year.”

Brad Ward, student

affairs graduate student, has fi rst hand experience with the Cowbell Cabs service during one of the fi rst nights Cowbell Cabs was introduced to Starkville.

Ward said he was satisfied overall with his riding experience with Cowbell Cab service.

“It was good,” Ward said.

“The driver was really nice

when he picked us up.”

Ward along with his two other friends were asked to provide at least two valid student IDs per the Cowbell Cabs usage policy of at least one ID per every two riders. Ward said he recommends the service to any student and said he may utilize Cowbell Cabs again in the future.

CONTINUED FROM 1

Gurley, willingly accepted more than $3,000 for autographs and, according to ESPN, has been suspended until Nov. 15.

“That’s the kind of issues we hope we don’t have, where a student athlete is knowingly doing things like that. We have obtained legal counsel for Dak to protect his name and likeness,” Brett said. “My obligation is to send [offenders] a cease and desist letter. It doesn’t mean they stopped, just that we told them to stop. I don’t have legal authority to go after them past that, but the student athlete’s attorney does.”

Another legal concern MSU faces is the unlicensed sale of merchandise with the MSU athletic logo or any other registered trademark belonging to MSU. Like the student athletes, MSU itself has the right to control the use of its image and logos.

Unlike the student athletes, however, State can indeed profit from its use and the sale of those items in cooperation with vendors and manufacturers who pay them licensing fees.

For the most part, Brett said, established businesses

within Starkville and around the state are not the main offenders of unlicensed sales.

“The social media boom has complicated things,” Brett said. “Facebook is where a lot of this is going on.”

According to Joan Lucas, General Counsel, MSU has sent at least 50-60 violation notices, including actual cease and desist letters and social media complaints on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. “ I think that most people who break the rules are simply unaware of the rules,” Lucas said. “We try to educate people on the rules through our C&D letters.

Once receiving the letter, most people are generally happy to comply with our trademark and licensing policies and help MSU comply with NCAA regulations.”

Mark Anthony runs University Screenprint, a business in Starkville that prints custom images onto apparel and other merchandise. According to Brett, Anthony has the same opinion as most who operate businesses in Starkville.

“We are a team player and we want the university to do well,” Anthony, who is licensed to use MSU’s various logos but refuses to print player names or pictures, said. “We aren’t going to jeopardize anything.”

There is another issue accompanying MSU’s recent success that involves the NCAA, but it has less to do with T-shirts and more to do with professional drafts. According to Brett, the NCAA does not allow student athletes or their families to receive benefits, bribes or otherwise gain from signing on with a professional agent.

“We can protect our players to an extent,” Brett said.

“But you can’t know what these people are doing with a player’s uncle, or brother, or dad, or mom, wherever they live. The State of Mississippi has been a huge help, Delbert Hosemann, Secretary of State, got the Uniform Agent Act strengthened in our state.”

Agents now must be registered with the state, and must also notify the universities if they intend on contacting a player or any member of their family.

Thursday, Oct. 23, 2014 12:39 p.m. An employee reported missing property during departmental audit at Freeman Hall.

12:59 p.m. A student cut her finger at Briscoe Hall. The subject was taken to the Student Health Center.

Friday, Oct. 24, 2014 10:36 a.m. A student reported her laptop stolen from her vehicle on October 13, 2014 while parked at the gravel parking lot on Hardy Road.

9:51 p.m. A resident of the city reported damages to her window seal caused by an air conditioner falling out of the window on Morgan Ave. Monday, Oct. 27, 2014 1:00 a.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for felony armed robbery.

3:01 a.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for felony armed robbery.

Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2014 6:06 p.m. A student was transported by an officer to Baptist Memorial Hospital in Columbus, Mississippi.

9:50 p.m. Students were issued student referrals for causing a disturbance in Sessums Hall.

Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2014 11:15 a.m. A student reported his MSU Bully Bike stolen from the bike rack at Mitchell Memorial Library.

Thursday, Oct. 30, 2014 1:28 a.m. An employee fell behind Butler Guest House. No transport needed.

5 THINGS TO KNOW FOR YOUR FRIDAY 1. CEO of Apple comes out. The current CEO of Apple, Tim Woods, declared his homosexuality to the media Thursday. Though he has been “out” in his private life for quite some time, this is the first time Woods has publicly referenced his sexual orientation, saying, “I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me.”

2. Animal assists in owner’s arrest. An Alabama meth manufacturer was pursued by both the police and his pet dog Wednesday. The dog chased his master through tall grass and a ravine and eventually led the police to him.

3. “House of Cards” actress passes away. Elizabeth Norment, best known for her role on the Emmy award-winning show “House of Cards,” passed away October 13. Norment played the loyal secretary to Kevin Spacey’s character Frank Underwood for two seasons of the show.

4. Ferguson police chief denies resignation. Chief Thomas Jackson stated Thursday he will not be resigning his post as police chief in Ferguson, Missouri, even in light of Michael Brown’s death. He states he still feels compelled to complete his duty to the police department and surrounding community, even throughout the investigation currently being conducted in the town.

5. Girl banned from school after Ebola scare. Third grader Ikeoluwa Opayemi was banned from her Connecticut school for 21 days after her family attended a wedding in Nigeria. Parents of the girl’s fellow classmates complained even though the girl showed no symptoms of contracting the Ebola virus.

Opayemi’s family has elected to sue the school for the girl’s mistreatment.

THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

Impaired Driving Safety Fair: Hosted by the Health Education and Wellness Department at MSU, the Impaired Driving Safety Fair aimed to create awareness and prevent individuals from making poor decisions like driving and drinking. Individuals were allowed to wear ‘drunk’ goggles and experience being in a drunken state. Free prizes, T-shirts and sandwiches were available as well.

Noah Siano | The Reflector

Diversity mixer unites students, bridges cultural gaps

by Katrina Smith Staff Writer

Mississippi State University’s Student Association’s Diversity Committee hosted a Diversity Mixer Tuesday in the Dawghouse. With the goal of spreading diversity on campus between the international students and students from the United States, it came up with this idea. Starting the program with an icebreaker and a brief mingling session, were served refreshments,

and the room was sectioned into groups.

The small groups began by introducing themselves before heading into a question-and-answer portion with the group as a whole.

The moderators posed questions about culture shocks and cultural differences between foods and customs and some similarities between countries.

Jhona Gipson, co director of the Diversity Committee said the event had an amazing turnout.

“I really was surprised by the turnout because of such short notice on

publicity, but this is definitely something we will do again. It really exceeded my expectations,” Gipson said.

According to the Diversity Committee, some of its missions are to bridge gaps between cultures and make people more comfortable with what they do not understand.

Wilburn Smith, Diversity committee member, said informing students and the community of various cultures is critical to community growth.

“We aim to make the being truly diverse. interactive programs. community more diverse “ One of our goals is to According to Gipson, by starting on campus with make MSU have a more the goal is to expand the these programs diversity proto get people to gram and create “One of our goals is to make programs for get to know one minorities and another,” Smith MSU have a more unity feel.” the majority of said. all individuals Katja Walter, not limited to a Germany native - Katja Walter specific category. and co-direcFuture plans tor chair of Codirector of Diversity Committee for the Diversity the Diversity Committee Committee, said include a fashinternational ion show on Nov. 20 in students desire to learn unity feel.”

American culture, but with SA’s Diversity the Junction on camso many diverse cultures Committee said it strives pus displaying different at MSU, being informed to give insight to differ- native attires of different make it difficult to achieve ent cultures through these cultures.

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

An In-Class Distraction

CLASSIFIEDS POLICY

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

Classifieds are $5 per issue.

Student and staff ads are $3 per issue, pre-paid. Lost and found: found items can be listed for free; lost items are listed for standard ad cost.

FOR SALE

Oct. 21 solutions:

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Looking for tailgate space for your next road trip (‘Bama maybe?). Checkout GreenDotParking.com; be part of the largest network of private party parking listings.

FOR RENT Subleasing a 1 bedroom/ bathroom in a 4 bedroom/ bath apartment at 21 Apartments. Starting January through July. Other 3 roommates are male.

Please contact Wes at 601-906-7582.

Canterbury Townhouses 2 minutes from campus! 1 br. $450, 2 br. $540, 3 br.

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Price for the whole apartment, not just per bedroom. Get 1 month free rent with a 12 month lease. Call 323-9216.

CLUB INFO

The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. MSU student organizations may place free announcements in Club Info. Information may be submitted by email club_info@reflector. to with the msstate.edu 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.

ONE-NIGHT ONLY ART SHOW

all are invited to attend.

HILLEL - STORY OF SURVIVAL

Junior Joseph Metz will present his grandfather Gilbert Metz, inmate 184203, the state of Mississippi’s only Holocaust survivor’s story. The event is free on Thursday, Nov. 6 in Taylor Auditorium at 7:30 p.m.

Friday evening at 5 there will be a one-night only exhibition displaying work from a few MSU artists.

Come out and support them and enjoy their work and eat free snacks. Howell 111 in the metal shop.

ASTRONOMY CLUB

The Mississippi State Astronomy Club will host a regular meeting this Friday at 3:00 p.m. in Hilbun 150.

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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

Ponder This

Red Herrings

thinking shows potential to improve life Halloween provides needed Positive Netfl ix has proved itself ways in which a person who said he would never be able to be a handy tool within has the tendency to think to move anything more last few years; one can negatively can shift toward than his eyeballs. “It didn’t revelry during the holidays the access every genre in the positive thinking that matter what they thought,”

Managing Editor Catie Marie Martin

Editor in Chief

Emma Crawford

News Editor Lacretia Wimbley

Multimedia Editor

Opinion Editor

Kelsee McKim

Cameron Clarke

Life Editor

Photography Editor

Copy Editor

Noor Mujahid

Emma Katherine Hutto

John Galatas

Graphic Designer

Sports Editor

Austin Grove

Blake Morgan

CONTACT INFORMATION

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Editor in Chief/Emma Crawford

Letters to the editor should be sent to the Meyer Student Media Center or mailed to The Reflector, PO Box 5407, Mississippi State, MS. Letters may also be emailed to editor@reflector.msstate.edu.

Letters must include name and telephone number for verification purposes. The editor reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish a letter.

325-7905 editor@reflector.msstate.edu Managing Editor/Catie Marie Martin managing@reflector.msstate.edu News Editor/Lacretia Wimbley news@reflector.msstate.edu Opinion Editor/Cameron Clarke opinion@reflector.msstate.edu Sports Editor/Blake Morgan reflectorsports@gmail.com Life Editor/Noor Mujahid life@reflector.msstate.edu Photography Editor/Emma Hutto photo@reflector.msstate.edu Multimedia Editor/Kelsee McKim multimedia_editor@reflector.msstate.edu Advertising Sales/Alex Anthony 325-7907 advertise@reflector.msstate.edu Newsroom: 325-8883

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.

movie or television indus- works in his or her favor. It he said. “It just mattered try. Most people tend to has attracted the attention what I thought. I couldn’t ignore the documentary of media figures such as let anyone distract me from and inspirational genres. Oprah Winfrey and Larry my goal.”

There is, however, a docu- King, who both happen to Making use of positive mentary posted right now be very successful in their thinking may seem like a that discusses a concept careers. While there is lack lot of work at fi rst, but it’s that applies to everyone. of scientific evidence for not. Jessica Swindle, now Its producers titled it “The this philosophical concept, a student of Mississippi Secret,” which doesn’t there are many cases in life State University, continreveal much. But if you take where apparent miracles ues to represent her former the time to watch it, you were the result of positivity. college as Miss Alabama won’t be disappointed. The In short, positive thinking University 2013-14. topic of the documentary is defi nitely doesn’t hurt. If According to Jessica, the the law of attraction. nothing else, it offers every- secret applies to the pagThere are several laws of one a chance at a healthier eant stage. attraction, so it is important lifestyle and better outlook “It is all about confito understand this concept on everyday events. dence,” Jessica said. “When in its purest form centers Fred Alan Wolf, a quan- you step on that stage, you on a philosophical stand- tum physicist, said “every have to believe you have point. In theory, the law of ‘I can’t’ is a creation.” Later talent, that you can speak, attraction is the belief you in “The Secret,” the theory model or walk well. If you are what you do or have confidence, the do not want to be, judges remember it. or it is the belief the If you don’t believe things one most fre- “You might find things have in yourself, no one quently thinks about else will believe are brought about always gone your way, but it either. People can see by the universe or through an act.” some higher being was just your worrying about It turns out whether the thought Jessica’s biggest triis good or bad. how things would turn out that umph on the stage In short, positive came about by use thinking brings pos- kept you from seeing the real of this very princiitive outcomes while ple. In 2010, Jessica negative thinking positive outcomes.” became the fi rst brings negative outAfrican-A merican comes. For college to win the title of students, positive Chilton County Miss thought is essential for a goes that this concept was Peach. The title came with good life. It is easy to miss concealed for years and only much responsibility, as what is good in life if no a few of the world’s most Jessica was expected to repone stops to think about successful and wealthy resent the peach industry it. In some cases, changes people knew it. This con- that makes over 80 percent in thought patterns could text makes sense of Henry of Alabama’s peaches at make all the difference. Ford’s enigmatic statement, the age of 15. Her responAccording to “The Secret,” “Whether you can or you sibilities were many, includit may even make the world can’t, either way is right.” ing billboard pictures and work in your favor.

Morris E. Goodman, also interviews, but she loved “The Secret” was pro- known as “The Miracle every minute of it. duced in 2006 by Prime Man,” reveals the story of She didn’t know it then, Time Productions and had how he came to walk out of but she now knows her conmany psychologists and the hospital after his plane fidence was built by belief in philosophers discussing crash, even though doctors the law of attraction.

African-American Voting Rates in Presidential Elections from 1996-2012

Percent African-American Population Voting in Presidetial Elections

Even though the weather app on my phone currently shows 85 degrees as the high temperature, it’s safe to say we are finally beginning what I deem the “Big 4” of holidays: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Although all have their Claire Mosley respective charms and calorie-laden foods (looking at is a senior majoring in accounting. She you, Thanksgiving), I would can be contacted at opinion@reflector. msstate.edu. argue it wouldn’t be amiss to claim Halloween as the most fun holiday. Halloween is out, throw candy at strangers the friend that shows up to and consume large amounts your house and makes it a of food and drink simply party, the one that just hap- because the date happens pens to have drinks and food to be Oct. 31. What a time and likes to liven things up. to be alive, when there is a There are no warm casse- government mandated holroles, harmonious carols or iday where the sole purpose sparkling champagne glass- is to decorate one’s house es with Halloween. Rather, with fake corpses and skeleHalloween brings all the tons and throw Milk Duds at loud music, fun and partying adorable children.

Is Halloween the most without requiring any introimportant holiday of the spective look at one’s life.

There’s nothing wrong year? Well, that remains with having holidays cen- up for debate, but I think tered on serious subjects. most people can agree the Thanksgiving and Christmas more fulfilling holidays are both aim to highlight the Christmas, Thanksgiving or New Year’s importance of Day (sorry, family, friends Independence and religion, while New “People sometimes andValentine’s Day lovers — Year’s Day tends to call forget about these two are off the ballot). attention to I the self (I can’t holiday fun with However, have yet to find wait to begin yet another the weight of a person that doesn’t love round of failed New Year’s the real world at least one of these things: resolut ions). spirits c o s t u m e s , This is won- crushing candy, friends, derful, and decorat ions, it’s import- left and right.” spooky movant to have ies and pumpthese special kins. And if days set aside for reflection and reevalua- such a person actually exists, tion. Halloween lacks sore- clearly they have never ly in these departments. dressed up as a lumberjack, However, what Halloween consumed 8,000 fun-size lacks in worthy human and peanut butter Snickers and spiritual values and tradi- watched “Halloweentown”, tions, it makes up for with twice.

People sometimes tend to copious amounts of sugar and terrifying costumes, forget about holiday fun with which I find tends to put it in the weight of the real worlda category apart from all the crushing spirits left and right. other holidays where it’s free People have jobs, schoolto tout its numerous charms. work, tests, chores, errands People dress up in ghoul- and family matters to take ish attire or other suitably care of. It’s very easy to turn fun costumes, candy and off all the lights at your house sugar are available in abun- and refuse to buy Halloween dance and magically appear candy or to put on a coson every street corner and tume. However, I urge you all sorts of pumpkin-themed to reconsider. Halloween is a festivities crop up. Pumpkin night for spooks and ghouls carving, hayrides, pumpkin and needlessly gory movies spice lattes, haunted houses, where teenagers get sawed sexy pumpkin costumes… in half and where it’s socially you get the drift. As far as I acceptable to eat 100 pounds can tell, Halloween is one of of candy while dressed up as the only holidays that — for Beyoncé. Can New Year’s the majority of the popula- Day boast that? I didn’t think tion — is just an excuse to go so.

Brooklyn Tucker is a senior majoring in kinesiology. She can be contacted at opinion@reflector. msstate.edu.

“It was my dream to be Miss Peach, but to believe I could win I had to set my own reality instead of going by the world’s negative reality,” she said. “I started by saying that this wasn’t too big for me. Every time I looked in the mirror, I said ‘I am 2010 Miss Peach.’

I thought about what my reaction would be when I won. Then I spoke it into existence. I visualized. But to win was inexplicable.”

Jessica still looks to win the title of Miss Alabama 2014-15 when she competes this year. She says she still plans to use the law of attraction to her advantage on the stage.

Even though there is a dearth of scientific evidence to support “The Secret,” positive thinking is rarely harmful. To start with a small goal of one positive thought is a good way to start. It couldn’t hurt to give it a try. Whether you fi nd the law of attraction to reflect reality or not is up to you. You might fi nd things have always gone your way, but it was just your worrying so much about how things would turn out that kept you from seeing the real positive outcomes.

However you think, a positive mindset is always the best way to go.

Austin Grove | The Reflector, Information from U.S. Census Bureau

Remembering Freedom Summer conference shows how society can improve regarding civil rights because of its impact in the Civil Rights Movement during the 1960s.

This year is the 50th anniversary of Freedom Summer.

Last week a conference called “Remembering Freedom Summer” was held on campus, hosted by Mississippi State University and the Department of AfricanAmerican Studies. It served as a celebration of the past

in Mississippi today. The audience sang songs in Contributing Writer unison and the speakers brought smiles to the faces The fight for social equalof many recalling how the ity is a battle still being 1964 Freedom Summer fought today. The Freedom left a great impact in its Summer of 1964, also wake and helped make the known as the Mississippi way of life now better for Summer Project, was a many citizens of the state continued effort to proof Mississippi, as well as vide more rights to citizens across the South. who were previously disMany among the youngenfranchised and did not er generations today have have the same rights forgotten or never as the rest of society. learned about the past, It was a campaign that and it’s up to our genmobilized and gath- “Election day is Nov. 4. I eration now to come ered the support of up with solutions to thousands in a large believe this to be one place to some of the same effort to register votproblems we still face ers who had previous- start to make changes around today. Our generaly not been allowed to tion should be more register to vote until us and to continue letting our passionate about the the Civil Rights Act issues we face and try of 1964, and later, the voices be heard.” to fi nd creative ways to Voting Rights Act of better our surround1965, both of which ings. The right to vote outlawed segregation is a powerful tool all and voting discrimination. and a time to remember citizens should be able to Freedom Summer also those who helped fight for use to their advantage. It’s served to combat a lack of equality in our state. This a way to make voices heard proper education, health- three-day event served as a and force action to occur. care and worker rights. time to have a healthy dis- A lack of education leaves There were many sit-ins cussion of the past and how a larger impact on society and “freedom rides,” which we can build now and into than we think. It enables went against the system of the future. When I looked a community to become segregated service in pub- around the room, I noticed weak and devalues the quallic places and buses. Dave people of all colors and ages ity of life. One of the days Dennis, who served during came together because their I attended the conference, the 1964 Freedom Summer, interest or past involve- NAACP state president called the Freedom Summer ment brought them there. I Derrick Johnson discussed the “Trojan Horse of the saw many who helped pave how many of the areas in Civil Rights Movement” the way to more equality our education system have

by Frank Bradford

RE F L E C T I O N S Henry David Thoreau “Walden” - 1854

inadequate funding or lack proper administration and teachers. He brought awareness to the website betterms.org, which promotes better jobs and schools in Mississippi.

The conference had a great turnout with leaders from the local community and across the state. One of the conference organizers, Stephen Middleton, said the conference solidified the progress its leaders expounded and opens doors for further progress.

“By hosting the Freedom Summer Conference with the direct involvement of Dr. Mark Keenum and his administrative staff, as well as colleges and departments, Mississippi State clearly demonstrates that we are a new Mississippi.

We honored the 1964 volunteers for helping to make our state and country a better place.” Middleton said, “They did the hard part; now, it is incumbent on all people of good will to secure those gains by affi rming our nation’s creed, that we are a society that offers liberty and justice for all people.”

Election day is Nov. 4. I believe this to be one place to start to make changes around us and to continue letting our voices be heard.

I challenge everyone to try and make a difference.

“If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.

Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.”

REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

Sports mascots spur insensitivity

Annenberg Election Survey is at least 10 years old.

Contributing Writer However, according to this survey, only nine percent Sports have been in the of American Indians felt news quite a bit lately, and the nickname “Redskins” for many issues bigger was offensive. Conversely, than sports themselves. the National Congress of Issues of domestic violence American Indians in a 2013 child abuse have brought press release said, “(It’s) the arena of sport a great time for the NFL and the deal of attention in recent Washington football team weeks and months, movto join the 21st century ing sports from the sports and leave the mockery and page to the front page. racism of the past where it Some of these issues have belongs, in the past.” recently made their way The data and the stateinto the mainstream, and ments of the National some have commanded Congress of American a place in the media spotIndians, in addition to light for quite a while. The other groups, appear to be insensitivity of the mascots at odds. However, what is of certain teams, such as, undeniable is the number perhaps most visibly, the of groups who take offense Washington Redskins, is to the word “redskin.” It is yet another issue which worth noting and taking has been at the forefront of into consideration as we, social conversaas a society, try tion recently. to resolve this Many public disagreement. figures, such “Cries of hypersensitivity on one side NBC broadas President caster Bob Obama and and of bigotry on the other contribute Costas brings actor Matthew to a great deal of white noise on attention to McConaughey, the nickname have taken either side, which makes intentional as a dictionary sides on this defi ned racial issue of per- conversation on the topic between the slur, which ceived callousmakes the arguness. Some, like two perspectives almost impossible.” ment against Obama, believe the term robust. the Redskins Phil Simms, forshould considmer NFL star er a name change, while knows someone who is and current NFL comothers, like Dan Snyder, directly offended by the mentator, has committed the team’s owner, and term. The origin of the to trying to stop saying the even McConaughey him- term is critical to under- word “Redskins” because self, believe the franchise standing the offense that “it offends a certain group should be allowed to keep comes with it. Halbritter of people,” according to its name while shedding the said, “Its origin is hate, use a Sept. 25 article in The negative publicity accom- is hated, it was the name Washington Post .

The offensive nature of panying it. Cries of hyper- our people — that was used sensitivity on one side and against our people when we the term seems obvious. No of bigotry on the other were forced off our lands at amount of history or pagcontribute to a great deal of gunpoint… So, it has a sor- eantry is worth the offense. white noise on either side, did history. And it’s time Ultimately, it seems bold at best and nefarious at worst which makes intentional for a change…” conversation on the topic An equally important to tell a population which between the two perspec- question to ask is to what words should and should not tives almost impossible. degree are the people refer- offend them. Would we find One topic to address in enced by the term offended? it acceptable to attach a nickthe midst of this contro- This question is more diffi- name to a professional sports versy is the natural tactless- cult to answer. According team which marginalizes ness of the word. The nick- to FiveThirtyEight.com, other ethnic groups? If the name is insensitive. About there is not a wealth of data answer is no, then the next this much we can be sure. on this topic, and the data question is why is it acceptTo characterize a group of available from the National able in Washington?

by Tucker Fleming

people by the color of their skin is wrong. The word “redskin” is even listed in the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary as a “usually offensive” term.

In a 2013 CNN article, Ray Halbritter, leader of the Oneida Indian Nation, offered his own commentary on the issue saying, “It’s a racial epithet. It’s a racial slur.”

Shouldn’t we support diversity and relish different perspectives? Perhaps the reason this name is still even a name, even amidst the controversy, is because the nickname “Redskins” has been a fi xture in the National Football League for over eight decades, and the American population at large takes the term for granted. Perhaps it is because not everyone

From The Corner

Ebola unveils lack of urgency in U.S. I was walking to class last week when I overheard a group of people laughing over the prospect of them contracting the Ebola virus, which has found its way across U.S. borders over the last couple of weeks.

Apparently the idea of catching a virus that currently carries a mortality rate of 70 percent throughout the world is just like a day at the park for these candid individuals. Their discussion of how coming down with Ebola “is less likely than finding Bigfoot in your backyard” brought a smile to my face but at the same time assured me of what I had been thinking for the past couple of weeks.

People’s attitudes toward getting Ebola in this country are entirely too laid back, especially when you consider what could potentially occur.

We didn’t have a cure for influenza until 1938, and it is estimated roughly 675,000 people died in the U.S. between 1918-19 alone during the deadly pandemic.

Additionally, the Swine Flu virus killed 10,000 people in 2009 before a new vaccine finally got things under control. The HIV virus, responsible for AIDS, has lead to as many as 25 million deaths worldwide, and while we can control the virus today, we still don’t have an actual cure for it. Just like Ebola, HIV cannot be transmitted through the air, and yet 35 million have still been diagnosed with it since 1985, so let’s be careful in saying, “since it’s not airborne, we are safe.”

My point with all of this isn’t trying to make everyone paranoid, but rather just to make people aware there isn’t anything to worry about as long as the proper attitudes and steps are taken to assure us that this will pass just like the many other potential dangers we have faced in the past. This discussion isn’t just aimed at the everyday citizens, but also at the Centers For Disease Control

& Prevention (CDC) and Dallas Health Presbyterian Hospital. In terms of urgency and taking the proper steps in preventing an Ebola outbreak in this country over the past three weeks, they could have done much better.

Upon Thomas Eric Duncan’s arrival at Dallas Zach Wagner Health Presbyterian Hospital on Sept. 26, he told a nurse is a senior majoring in kinesiology. He he had a fever and had just can be contacted at opinion@reflector. msstate.edu. recently traveled to Liberia, the country hit the hardest with Ebola over the last seven Duncan while he was still to eight months. Instead alive. With one nurse already of putting two and two infected and her reported together, Duncan was sent fever, Vinson was unbelievhome with antibiotics and ably granted permission to Tylenol. I repeat, antibiot- go on her trip home for the ics and Tylenol. Predictably, weekend. On her way home Duncan was rushed back to while on a plane, Vinson the hospital started feeltwo days later ing fatigued, her muscles in an ambuand lance and “We are extremely ached malaise was immediately isolated from lucky there are only o c c u r r i n g , according to the other patients. Two a few people in the federal officials with days later, U.S. infected.” knowledge of the CDC was the case. Two able to condays later she firm Duncan did indeed have the Ebola found herself sitting in a virus. At this point the hospital bed in Atlanta getCDC, instead of transferring ting treated for Ebola, and Duncan to one of the four at the same time officials in hospitals in America that are Cleveland began to brace for trained to deal with such mat- their first potential infection; ters, including one at Emory schools canceled classes and University in Atlanta that has nurses who were also on the been very successful over flight with Vinson were given the last couple of months in a paid leave of absence to be dealing with Ebola victims safe.

It is easy to see where the in particular, they instead decided to keep Duncan breakdowns occurred, mainly due to not having enough housed in Dallas.

This ill-fated decision foresight to stop potentially not only lead to the death of dangerous situations that Duncan, but also resulted in could have led to more infectwo Dallas nurses catching tions than they in fact did.

Ebola after breaching some Truth be told, with all of the protocols in dealing with missteps that occurred as of Duncan while he was cared late, we are extremely lucky for at the Dallas hospital. there are only a few people The second infected nurse, in the U.S. infected. The lack Amber Vinson, asked the of competency displayed on CDC whether it would be all the part of our national offiright to fly to Cleveland even cials and public health care though she had an elevat- members has been mediocre ed temperature of 99.5 and at best, and they need to get had been one of the nurses their act together so we can to have steady contact with stop this disease in its tracks.

Ponder This

School computer systems could negatively impact education before college The media has been working with the educational system in recent years to unveil the culprit behind declining grades among elementary, middle and high school students.

College students may be scrutinized to a certain degree, but grades were still on the rise at that time.

The topic is more relevant to college students in that every student will most likely work with the educational system at some point before entering college or the work force. Many could likely have careers in the system or work with the system. If nothing else, college students are next in line to decide where in the educational system to place the next generation of schoolchildren and how to handle the system as it

pertains to their children.

The educational system continues to explore the possibility that grades decline due to insufficient amount of time spent in school. Some schools invest in this and choose to have school year-round.

Other schools gradually extend their years and shorten end-of-term and holiday breaks. This argument might be valid if grades weren’t still declining. If time was the issue, grades should be at a peak in schools that still take a short summer break. The educational system also explores options for sending children to school even earlier or making accelerated preschool programs mandatory rather than letting parents choose. This sounds better, but it also

means the time spent with toddlers before they reach school age is cut in half.

One potential study school systems tend to overlook is the grades of students that attend schools

computer system works well for college students, as most already know how to study and can use computers to the advantage or convenience of students and staff. The school systems

“Students that come from public school systems that rely on computer technology for educational instruction might enter into college behind in note-taking, problemsolving or study skills.” using computer systems, such as MacBooks, and the grades of students that attend schools that have not yet adapted to this new style of teaching. The

that use computers use it for much more, including attempts to teach complex concepts of math and science.

Are computer lessons

really the best way to teach young students still lacking in learning and study skills?

Are they the best testing or study tool? Maybe they work for college students, who have already built learning and study skills, but does it have the same effect for elementary students? Are schoolchildren really getting quality education from MacBook systems?

Computer systems in public schools seem impractical compared to colleges, where it is strictly up to the student to provide his or her own computer.

Students that come from public school systems that rely on computer technology for educational instruction might enter into college behind in note-taking, problem-solving or study

Brooklyn Tucker is a senior majoring in kinesiology. She can be contacted at opinion@reflector. msstate.edu.

skills. This could have an impact on university level success rates within the next few years. Given the circumstances, further study into this might prove very beneficial. If school systems still favor reliance on computer systems, other options will most likely be explored within the next few years.

A Little Birdie Told Me

Misconceptions surrounding feminism should disappear once respect is common Over the past few years, feminism has become as trendy as mirror sunglasses and as misunderstood as I was at the age of 16 (when I listened to Dashboard Confessional and painted my nails black – but that’s a completely different story).

Although it is one of the most ambiguous and misinterpreted concepts of our generation, feminism is, simply put, a plea for equality (political, economic, social, sexual, you name it) between the sexes.

To me, the word “feminist” has become so overused that it’s not actually “feminist” to be a “feminist” anymore. It’s become less of a word and more of a frame into which people can thrust their faces and their meanings. It’s a politically, economically and socially charged buzzword, and it

has been thrown around world. Because of the avail- to formulate and post an so much in the media as of ability of the Internet and opinion infi ltrates the defilate I believe the poor word iPhones, people no longer nition of feminism pretty probably wants a break need an editor or an inter- quickly. Because feminism from the washing machine view to share their opin- is so prevalent in the media, of opinions and scathing ions with the world; all people feel obligated to speeches so it can form an opinion just take a well-deon it, and because served nap. people are people, People have “If we draw from one aspect of a they often neglect become enthralled to get their facts with the idea of person’s being to create his or her straight. having something identity, then we neglect all other There’s an artimeaningful to say. cle called “Meet It’s in our nature; as laudable attributes.” the Badass Female a species, humans Pilot Who’s are desperate to Dropping Bombs leave something on Isis” that’s more than a carbon foot- people need is a keyboard lately circulated websites print after death. We’re and some Wi-Fi to make a such as “Total Sorority terrified of passing away statement. Today, people Move,” “Business Insider” without making a valuable fi nd catharsis in Facebook and “Wounded American contribution to history, rants, in cowardly Twitter Warrior.” The title of this science, art, etc. However, messages to political fig- article sums up everything this desire to make a mark ures and celebrities, in I think is wrong with our on the earth has become sending cruel, anonymous culture’s perception of femdistorted into a selfish cry messages on gossip apps inism. Would this woman for attention in the modern like YikYak. This quickness still be equally impressive if

she weren’t female? The title suggests not. This is called reverse sexism. The article draws attention to the gender of the person rather than to the nobility of their actions. I’m reading a book of poetry by Gwendolyn Brooks, the cover of which deems her “the greatest black poet after the Harlem Renaissance.” Applauding Brooks’ work just because she is African-American completely discredits her credentials and high education. This isn’t a racist comment, but it does draw attention to Brooks’ race rather than the quality of her work.

The problem lies not within disrespecting women; rather it lies within disrespecting people. If we draw from one aspect of a person’s being to create his or her identity, then

Catie Marie Martin is the managing editor of The Reflector.

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

we neglect all other laudable attributes. If we could all just pat one another on the back for doing good deeds and making awesome things happen regardless of gender/race/religion, I believe the misconceptions surrounding feminism would gradually disappear, and the tired, abused word would fi nally get to catch up on some rest.

THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

Punny costume ideas save time and money

by Kaitlin O’Dougherty Staff Writer

Halloween is a day associated with ghosts, goblins and other terrifying creatures. However, what is even more terrifying is realizing that day is upon you and you still do not have a costume.

With the stress of the week, it is easy for this day to sneak up on students.

However, all hope is not lost, and students still have time to create a DIY costume with items already located in their closets.

First, there are several simple costumes students can pull together at the last second. It is easy to be an “identity thief” by taking nametags with different names written on them and sticking them all over any T-shirt.

Students can also embody the phrase “When life gives

you lemons, make lemonade.” All one needs is a white T-shirt with the word life written across it in Sharpie and a basket of lemons to carry around throughout the night.

These costumes work well for those with a sense of humor. Another simple Halloween costume is any superhero. Just take any superhero T-shirt and pair it with an optional cape or mask.

Jake Slinkard, senior kinesiology major, said he looks forward to Halloween night and showcasing his costume with friends.

“My friend and I plan on being Barnacle Boy and Mermaid Man for Halloween,” he said.

Finally, for the ultimate last minute look, a student can simply write ‘Book’ across their face. They are now “Facebook.” This look can be paired with business

casual attire and is perfect for those who prefer not to wear actual costumes.

Students can also assemble costumes just minutes before heading out to a Halloween party. One of the most effortless looks is to take a white T-shirt and write “404 Error Costume Cannot Be Found” across it. This is best paired with a black skirt or pants and any Halloween-inspired accessories.

Another suggestion is to be a scarecrow. This look requires a plaid shirt, jeans and a straw hat. All that is needed after these main clothing items is black eyeliner. Students can draw stitches coming from both sides of their mouth as well as around their nose in order to further develop the scarecrow look.

A humorous idea for students is to be a “candy rapper.” Simply tape some

‘Haunted Horse Park’ spooks students, raises money for charity

by Bailey McDaniel Staff Writer

With the colder months approaching students and Starkville residents prepare for many fall festivities.

One way MSU welcomes the Halloween spirit is through the Haunted Horse Park. The Residence Hall Association will host its 5th annual Haunted Horse Park to help raise money for local charities today.

Ghouls, goblins and ghosts will haunt attendees as they journey through the multiple-scene park.

Along with a walk-through of many different haunting scenes, a few students will be costumed as horrific creatures throughout history to frighten the passersby.

Bret Giles, sophomore

mechanical engineering major, said he will help with the event by volunteering as a scarer. Giles shared his hopes for the event in how it will provide a fun and safe getaway for students and local residents to enjoy the holiday.

“As part of the Residence Hall Association, we wanted to provide a fun and safe experience for Halloween.

This event will hopefully deter students from drinking and making poor choices and instead have them engage in a fright-filled night of fun,” he said. “Plus, we are helping out local organizations like Boys and Girls Club and The Salvation Army.”

Friday, departing from the Colvard Student Union starting at 8 p.m., buses will begin shuttling students to the Horse Park. Admission into the park is $5.

candy wrappers to a hoodie and add some shades and a chain necklace.

Jordan Welch, sophomore aerospace engineer major, said the “candy rapper” costume is simple and hilarious.

“I appreciate a sense of humor in costumes and would enjoy being something like this,” she said.

Lastly, women can easily be Sally from the movie Greece. All one needs is a black shirt (preferably off the shoulder), black pants or leggings and red heels. If it is chilly outside, a black jacket should be added. Finalize the look with curled hair and a red lip.

Couples often find themselves scrambling for a look just before Halloween night.

They usually want to be creative without dishing out too much money on a costume.

One financially feasible look is to be “point A” and “point B” from Google

Maps. Just take two pieces of cardboard, cut them into pin-like shapes and label each with an A or a B. This look can be enhanced by taping street names onto a gray shirt to represent the road.

Another creative look is to be lightning and an electrified person. Simply cut out a lightning bolt from cardboard and hang it around one person’s neck. The other person should tease their hair to make it look frayed and wear a shirt with holes burnt through it or cut out of it. This costume takes minimal time to achieve but will surely catch everyone’s attention.

A third costume for couples is to be “peace and quiet.” One person should embody peace by wearing a tie-dye shirt, round sunglasses and flower accessories. The other can be “quiet” by dressing up as a mime. Just take a black

and white striped shirt, black pants, black suspenders and add a matching hat and gloves. Add white face paint and dark eye makeup if time permits.

Peter Nguyen, senior biochemistry major, said convenience is vital when choosing a costume for Halloween.

“I like making costumes out of things I already own, and these would be perfect for the occasion,” he said.

These costumes are simple, affordable and can be put together given a very short time limit. They are perfect for those that procrastinated on finding a costume or simply forgot about the holiday altogether.

Whether one is going solo or with a date this Halloween, the options are endless when it comes to costumes.

SA hosts ‘Glow Th row’

As people enter into the facility, buckets with the charity names will be set up for everyone to choose from to for entrance fees.

After admission into the park, people will be split into groups and assigned a guide to help them through the tour.

Ailish Lynch, freshman industrial engineering major, said she will help guide the groups through each scene of the park.

“I think this is an awesome opportunity to help MSU students broaden their knowledge of Starkville. This event is also a wonderful opportunity for students to get community service,” she said.

Jacob Follinl | The Reflector All students and local residents are welcome MSUʼs Student Association hosted ʻGlow Throwʼ Wednesday night. The event consisted of an and encouraged to attend and help support the local ultimate frisbee tournament. Teams of up to six people competed in the glow-in-the-dark frisbee tournament on the Drill Field. Glow sticks were provided, and winners received prizes.

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REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

Haunted places lurk all around Mississippi

by Bo Vaughn Staff Writer

Mississippi is wellknown for its history with ghosts. Old Southern tales of people living on plantations and soldiers from the Civil War who still roam the battlefields have been repeated down the line, generation after generation.

A few haunted places on the Mississippi Gulf Coast are the Ocean Springs Rock n’ Roll Graveyard, the Old Place in Gautier and the Grandgulf in Gulfport.

Back down a long drive in some woods, there is a small graveyard. You enter through a gate, and it is said that at night one might see a lady ghost in white, rocking back and forth in a rocking chair. Some visitors have encountered problems like the gate closing on them when they were trying to leave, and then they have reported the lady ghost coming closer and closer to them. Others have noticed that the number of curves taken when driving up the driveway have increased in number on the way out. It is well advised not to visit the Rock n’ Roll Graveyard after hours.

The Old Place in Gautier is the only standing plantation in the city; the family graveyard is across the street from the home.

Some sightings of a small child and sea captain as well as the workers and owners of the house have been reported. The young child supposedly fell down the stairway, and years later, some carpenters who were doing work on the house

heard her singing. Others have seen the sea captain walk up the front porch steps of the house, and when he turns around on the top step, he disappears.

The Grandgulf in Gulfport is a haunted Civil War park. At night, people have claimed to have seen a headless man walking around looking for his misplaced body part.

Closer to Starkville, there are a few other notable places.

In Meridian, the Grand Opera House is apparently haunted by “The Lady” as she is called, and she has been heard singing on the stage.

In Nachez, the King’s Tavern is haunted by a woman named Madeline, and she has been seen by hundreds of people. She is believed to have been buried in the walls of the tavern.

In Tupelo, the Barnes Crossing Mall Theater is haunted by yet another female ghost, Lola, who likes to move things around and to hang out in the concession room and arcade.

In Vicksburg, there is a National Military Park where parts of the Civil War were fought. Visitors have claimed to have seen soldiers battling, and they have also heard gunshots.

Also, in West Point, there is a house called Waverly Plantation. It is believed to be haunted by a young girl and a man in a military uniform who is prone to appearing in mirrors.

If you travel through one of these cities, you might want to stop and take a quick tour at these locations.

Jacob Follin | The Reflector

Halloween Costume Carnival: MSUʼs Student Association put on its annual Halloween Costume Carnival Thursday at the Junction.

‘1989’ marks change for Swift

by Jessi Cole Staff Writer

Taylor Swift has done it again. Her newest album, “1989,” released Monday became an instant sensation. The album is on track to have a million sales in its fi rst week, making Swift the fi rst artist to have three albums to sell a million copies within the album’s fi rst week.

“1989” features 13 upbeat tracks, and the physical copies come with several Polaroids of Swift.

Swift’s transition from country to pop is fi nally complete with “1989.”

After four albums of different styles and sounds, “1989” is the album that features the best of Swift.

She has found her niche, and the fun, sugary songs

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featured in “1989” show a confident and capable Swift.

“1989’s” clean, powerful and simply catchy tunes will have people singing all day will be songs that stand the test of time.

The album opens with “Welcome to New York.” The song further illustrates Swift’s move from Nashville and country music to her present state in New York and pop music. Though this type of song has been done plenty of times, Swift’s version is light and dazzling, making for a great lead-in song for the rest of the album’s happy theme.

The second song, “Blank Space,” illustrates Swift’s attempt to make fun of her reputation for

dating multiple guys, and she shrugs off the negativity surrounding her by creating a hit song.

“Style” is about Swift’s relationship with Harry Styles. This song is already a favorite among many listeners, and Lorde tweeted about the song, “I fi rst heard ‘Style’ driving down the Pacific Coast Highway, and it was so EVERYTHING I chairdanced so hard you have no idea.”

Swift does not criticize Styles or the relationship; rather, the song is just the captured feeling of freedom and the invincibility of youth.

“Wildest Dreams” has a sleepy, alluring sound as Swift croons, “he’s so bad, but he does it so well.”

This song has the tone of a grown-up Swift without being overly sexualized.

“Bad Blood” refers to Swift and Katy Perry’s tense relationship. The song is brutally honest and powerful, and her lyric, “Band-aids don’t fi x bullet holes/ You say sorry just for show/ If you live like that you live with ghosts,” is a pretty straight-forward slight. The song is akin to “Mean” and will resonate with many people.

Swift keeps to her traditions of using personal heartbreaks and struggles to influence her songs and albums, and the overall lively theme of the album relates back to her happiness and contentment in life right now.

#BrightFutures

Jacob Fallin, Noah Siano

Missississippi State Universityʼs Fashion Board kicked off the semester with its first show Wednesday. The models showcased typical elements of gameday fashion. Local clothing stores such as Libby Story, Deep South Pout, Style Revel and others lent out their clothes to the models to wear in the show, so all of the clothes and styles were community-based. Bully, MSUʼs mascot, also made an appearance at the show.

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REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

MSU prepares for Arkansas Razorbacks

by Zach Wagner Staff Writer

It was just about this time last year when the Mississippi State Bulldogs traveled to Little Rock, Arkansas to take on the Razorbacks in what would turn out to be a very closely contested game. The Bulldogs came away victorious 24-17 in overtime in their first win in the state of Arkansas and were truly lucky to escape the state with the win. Quarterbacks Damian Williams and Tyler Russell both saw time under center, while Dak Prescott watched helplessly from the bench.

The mood around Starkville was particularly bleak, as it was another year of seeing the football team with five wins or less going into the Egg Bowl, and there were even a couple of mutterings about head coach Dan Mullen’s job security. To put it simply, no one felt overly galvanized about the direction in which the football team was headed.

Fast forward to this year’s SEC West clash with Arkansas, and it may be safe to say all of the built up animosity over the last couple of seasons has been put to rest.

This would be because the Bulldogs are currently riding high as the newly-selected No. 1 team in the nation, according to the College Football Playoff selection committee, whose opinion is the one that will ultimately matter come December.

While the ranking is a great accomplishment for the Mississippi State program, star running back Josh Robinson summed up the news by bluntly acknowledging the most important ranking won’t come until the end of the season.

“I mean it really doesn’t

Josh Robinson makes a move against the Auburn defense. Robinson is a key factor in MSU’s rushing attack, which is ranked fourth in the SEC.

matter,” he said. “As long as we’re No. 1 at the end of the year because that’s all that we’re working towards.”

Josh Robinson was named the SEC Offensive Player of the Week must be a main component for the explosive Bulldog’s offense, who are currently averaging 42.3 points per game for the season, if they want to look to remain one of only two teams in the entire nation to be still undefeated. This would be because the Razorbacks have been vulnerable in defending the run this season. They rank middle of the road in the SEC in this category, as well as in the bottom half in both sacks and interceptions. Look for the SEC leader in rushing

yards and touchdowns to continue his stellar junior season this weekend, as the running lanes should be there, as they have been all year long.

These same Razorback corners will next have to try and contain a Mississippi State passing attack that likes to spread the ball around.

Whether it be De’Runnya Wilson, Jameon Lewis, Robert Johnson, Gabe Myles or Malcolm Johnson, the Bulldogs have numerous offensive weapons capable of making big plays. If you couple this with the fact that Arkansas has relinquished the fourth-most passing yards of any team in the SEC at this point in the season, one may start to wonder

if the potential is there for Dak Prescott to add another impressive showing to his Heisman resume.

Prescott, who has worn a protective boot over his left foot all week, was asked on Tuesday night how his foot felt and whether the injury would impact his play this weekend against Arkansas. The calm quarterback shrugged off any notion of his injury being an issue come Saturday night.

“I’m fine. I don’t think I’ll have anything wrong with me come game time. It’s purely precautionary,” he said. “It’s just to make sure nothing else happens, so I’ll be all right.”

Considered by many to be the current front runner for the Heisman, Prescott will

Noah Siano | The Reflector

look to bounce back from what, by his standards, may have been his worst showing of the season. He finished last weekend’s game against Kentucky with 212 yards passing and 88 yards rushing for the day. He also compiled three total touchdowns against one interception as the Bulldogs were able to pull out the 45-31 victory.

Up until this point in the season, Prescott has been almost a certain lock to post at the minimum 200 yards passing and 80 rushing yards for the Bulldogs on a game-by-game basis. He’s averaging 242 yards passing per game this season and 94 yards rushing as well and has a quarterback rating of 156.5

for his first seven games this year. Even with all of his eye popping stats, Prescott knows he can be even better. After examining the tape from last week’s win, Prescott pointed out a couple of areas he thinks he can improve going forward with the rest of the season.

“I think me specifically, I can improve upon not hesitating in throwing the ball, getting it out of my hands and not being worried about making mistakes, as well as making quicker decisions,” he said.

On the other side of the ball, the Bulldog’s defense struggled last weekend to contain Kentucky quarterback Patrick Towles, who had a combined total of 466 yards and four touchdowns for the Wildcats. Luckily for MSU, the Razorbacks’ strength on offense is running the football, as they rank No. 11 in the entire country in rushing yards.

This is good for the Bulldogs because their strength on defense is stopping the run.

They have only give up on average 118 rushing yards to their opponents so far this season, making them one of the best teams in the nation in this category. At the end of the day, something has to give, and if the Bulldogs can halt the Razorbacks’ rushing attack and force junior quarterback Brandon Allen to put the game on his shoulders rather than their very good running back combination of Jonathan Williams and Alex Collins, then the Bulldogs will like their chances.

Head coach Dan Mullen spoke very highly about the Razorbacks offense, and in particular, pointed toward their efficiency as something that gives most teams they play fits.

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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2014

From Downtown

MSU ranked No. 1 in Playoff Top 25 The inaugural College Football Playoff Top 25 Poll was released on Tuesday, with the Mississippi State Bulldogs ranked No. 1.

The College Football Playoff Top 25 Poll is developed by the new college football playoff selection committee. These 12 committee members include former football coaches and players, sports reporters, athletic directors, superintendents and other administrators. This list also includes former Secretary of State and National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice. These committee members will have the task of revealing on Dec. 7 which four teams will make the fi rst ever college football playoff. Until then, every Tuesday the committee will release its current rankings.

The fi rst of these rankings was released Tuesday with Mississippi State No. 1, Florida State No. 2, Auburn No. 3 and Ole Miss No. 4. Oregon and Alabama were ranked No. 5 and No. 6, respectively, which gave the SEC West four out of the top six teams in the rankings. This has made many fans question whether or not the se-

FOOTBALL

lection committee has any bias toward the SEC. Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics for the University of Arkansans, Jeff Long, is the chair of the selection committee. After the fi rst rankings, Long told ESPN the committee does not have any conference bias.

“We do not analyze it by conference,” Long said.

“We look at those teams and evaluate the teams they played and the success they had or the failures they had.”

If the season ended today, three SEC West teams

season for Auburn came against No. 1 MSU on Oct. 11. The loser of the Auburn Ole Miss matchup this weekend will face an up hill battle to rejoin the ranks of the top four at the end of the season.

The Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Florida State Seminoles are the only undefeated teams from the big five conferences. FSU looks like a lock to get into the playoffs as they do not have another ranked opponent on its schedule. However, MSU still has to play No.

Kevin Simmons Kevin Simmons is a senior majoring in communication. He can be contacted at reflectorsports@gmail.com.

would be in the playoffs.

However, that does not mean three or even two SEC West teams will be in the playoffs when the season ends. Auburn will travel to Oxford to face the Rebels Saturday. The Rebels are coming off their fi rst loss of the season at Tiger Stadium against LSU. The only loss of the

6 Alabama and No. 4 Ole Miss on the road. If the Bulldogs win these games, they will likely play No. 11 Georgia in Atlanta for the SEC Championship.

There are 15 teams with one loss ranked behind the two undefeated teams.

All of these teams come from the big five conferences, other than No. 10

Notre Dame, which is independent. This will make it close to impossible for a school to make it to the playoffs with two losses. This means teams like Alabama, Oregon, Texas Christian and Michigan State are all one loss away from being eliminated from playoff contention.

Although some critics believe a two-loss SEC team is better than a one-loss team from another conference, a two-loss team still has a small chance of making the playoffs. This gives FSU and MSU a distinct advantage, as they would have to lose two games rather than one. The goal for all of the top 17 teams must be to fi nish the season with no more than one loss and hope the selection committee calls its name on Dec 7.

this season at the tailback position and a quarterback that can really throw the football.”

One area of concern for the Bulldogs this season has been their pass defense, which has given up an average of 321.6 yards per game this season, ranking No. 118 in the country. While many have pointed to the fact the Bulldogs are so good at

stopping the run that teams are constantly having to utilize the pass to move the ball against them, the fact State is No. 118 in defending the pass is still something to worry about. In particular, giving up big plays has contributed a lot to its overall problem, as over the last two games the Bulldog defense has given up six plays of 30 yards or longer to their opponents. If

the Razorbacks find themselves in a position where they need to get themselves back into the game quickly, they could be able to look to their passing game as a means of doing so.

The game begins at 6:15 p.m. Saturday at Davis Wade Stadium as the Bulldogs play hosts to the Arkansas Razorbacks. The game will be televised on ESPN2.

“We do not analyze it by conference. We look at those teams and evaluate the teams they played and the success they had or the failures they had.” - Jeff Long

CONTINUED FROM 10

“On the offensive side of the ball, what makes it a challenge is how good they are on defense,” he said. “You don’t get many opportunities with the ball. They’ve got the biggest offensive line in the United States, including pro football. So they’re a big physical outfit. (They have) two of the top tailbacks in the country and two guys over 700 yards already

Emma Katherine Hutto | The Reflector

(Above) Mississippi State University volleyball sophomore Chelsea Duhs serves the ball against Missouri earlier this season. Duhs leads the Bulldogs with 227 kills throughout the season. She averages 2.49 kills a game. MSU has struggled to get into the winning column most of the season, winning six games the entire season.

MSU is currently 1-9 in the SEC this season as well. With eight games left in the SEC this

regular season, the Bulldogs are running out of chances to make a statement on the volleyball court this year. MSU ranks last in almost every statistical category this season in the SEC. The Bulldogs rank 13th in hitting percentage, opponent hitting percentage, assists, kills and blocks. MSU does however lead the entire SEC in digs during the season. MSU will play the Auburn Tigers at the Newell-Grissom Building Oct. 31 at 6 p.m.

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What College & University Students need to know To vote vote oonn November November 44th, th, yyou ou MUSTT present an acceptable cceptable VVoter oter o ID at the polls. polls

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