FINANCIAL FAIL
Laci Barrow / The Maroon
FAFSA’s new website update causes problems
By Gabbee Bonura gbonura@my.loyno.edu
Almost all college students know the long and draining process of filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid forms and applications. It is a dreaded, but necessary part of being a college student. Federal Student Aid has resorted to an easier application process for students and parents, but many do not feel that these changes have helped at all. Some students feel that there have been more troubles since the reboot than less. Federal Student Aid updated the
process for the 2024-2025 college school year, causing a three-month delay in the application process. Normally, the process begins in October, but now students have just begun applying in January. During this delay, the goal was to fix problems that students and parents have faced during the application process, according to The Associated Press. Religious studies freshman August Bay has had multiple problems attempting to fill out FAFSA forms. The remodeling of the website has led to more frequent website issues for students like Bay. “The website would not load at
all. Every single time it would load, it would say, ‘You can not log in. Please come back later,’” they said. “I think my dad and I went three different days doing that and just nothing worked,” Bay said. Federal Student Aid says the application should be filled out in less than an hour, but it took Bay and their family over a week to be fully completed. “I don’t think we even decided to start working on it until the 10th of January because it was getting so confusing,” Bay said. “We didn’t officially start it and finish it until yesterday [Jan. 18th],” Bay said.
A problem that Bay faced while trying to complete the forms was a lack of communication. Bay explained how there were scheduled times when Federal Student Aid’s website would be shut down, but there would be no communication with students or parents. Bay would not receive notices that the website was going to be shut down. Instead, they would try to go on the website and fill out the forms, only to be denied access. Along with the technical issues Bay faced with the website, they also realized how much of a struggle it was to fully understand the forms, causing
even more concerns about FAFSA. “I do believe the way they communicate things, the way the writing is, it's specifically targeted for the highest literate people,” they said. “Even people with college degrees, it's hard for them to understand and communicate.” Bay added that the word choices in the application forms contribute to the lack of understanding that students and parents may feel. “It feels like regular humans can’t translate this. That’s always my biggest issue with FAFSA. I feel like I am sitting there with Google next to me trying to understand it,” Bay said.
Students boycott campus Starbucks By Ava Acharya aaachary@my.loyno.edu
Starbucks barista reports to work in an empty lobby on Loyola University New Orleans' campus on Jan. 19, 2024.
As students enter a new semester, some aim to leave behind their former favorite campus coffee spot – Starbucks. This shift comes following widespread calls to boycott the corporation due to their treatment of workers and political leanings, which is primarily a social media movement. On the popular video platform TikTok the hashtag #boycottstarbucks has received over 216 million views. Starbucks corporate has repeatedly denied these accusations, and said that they do not offer the Israeli government or military financial support and are in
support of workers’ efforts to gain better treatment. However, activists and workers disagree. Activists often point to Starbucks’ recent lawsuit against their nationally recognized union, Starbucks Workers United. This lawsuit is on the grounds of trademark infringement for use of the “Starbucks” company name and logo without proper permission. But, since this lawsuit came after a social media account associated with the union made a post in favor of Palestinian liberation, many feel that it is indicative of the company’s stance on the conflict. This is far from the first time Starbucks corporate has butted heads with their
workers. One such instance occurred right in Loyola’s backyard. Loyola freshman sociology major Em Bay said the recent trademark-related lawsuit was simply the last straw and finalized their decision to stop frequenting Starbucks. Bay added they have no intentions of supporting the corporation at any point in the future. “Honestly, after seeing how they are dealing with this genocide, I would stay away,” Bay said.
See BOYCOTT, page 13
PUZZLES
2 ACROSS 1. Thing you do with your ear 5. France, under Caesar 9. Self-defense weapon with high voltage 14. Ye ____ Antique Shoppe 15. You will get this if you go to Havoc’s Help desk 16. Hole homophone 17. Dachshund breed nickname 19. Serious in German 20. Loyola students get their mail sent to “200 ______ Court” 21. Small hotel 23. The song “Very Very Very” by this K-pop group 24. Ice Spice’s real first name 25. A layer of dead skin cells at the bottom of the nail bed 27. Loch Ness Monster’s nickname 30. Grover from Percy Jackson is this breed 31. Emerge 32. New Jacob Elordi movie “____ burn” 33. Tyler the Creator album with “Earfquake” 37. “Brave New World” drug 38. British slang for lollipop 39. Feeling after working out in Loyno gym 40. Association acronym 41. Skin care giant 42 You _____ not pass 43. Winged baby with a lovely bow and arrow 45. Send out, as troops 46. Utah is also nicknamed the State of _____ 49. U2 lead singer 50. Extinction level event abbr. 51. “Kill Bill” artist 52. “_______ day, _______ dollar.” 56. Traditional vietnamese dress 58. You’ll want this if you’re in a car crash 60. Made of wood 61. Aging issue for cars 62. Spanish jewelry brand with iconic bear necklace 63. “I’m as hungry as a _____” 64. Freud’s id counterpart 65. Open Capture and Analytics Tool abbr. DOWN 1. Havoc makes this noise
Jan. 26, 2024 THE MAROON
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Crosswords and Maroon Libs by Max Schweikarth & Kira Phillips
STAFF
Assistant Editors: Patrick Hamilton, Rodrigo Delgado Jr., Falyn Hardouin, Mabel RegaladoHernandez, Ruby Nieder, Chiara Faircloth, sam Guillotte, Chris Maldonado, Janssen Van De Yacht Comics Editors: Greer Jines, Grace Knight Authors Abroad: Callie Honeycutt, Athena Marks
2. Controversial Kazan 3. Lemony drinks 4. Beyonce’s new album title 5. Common loyola greeting among women “Hey ______!” 6. Mountain range in South America 7. Alien spacecraft 8. How your professors expect you to think 9. 2004 babies turn this age in 2024 10. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor abbr. 11. Iconic blue hedgehog 12. Spanish for “the sun” 13. “Go _____ your shoes or else you’ll trip!” 18. Borden cow 22. Sandy from Spongebob is this 26. What food was eaten during the Great Hunger? 27. They took us to the moon 28. God of love 29. Game that allows you to drown people by putting a fence around
the pool 30. Green meal with mostly lettuce 32. Card game on computer 34. Passing all your classes is a 35. Architect’s plinth 36. Depend on 38. JLO's last name 42. Madrid mister 44. Relating to bears 45. Cops favorite food 47. Spanish for “the gold” 48. Ceremonial dinner on the first night of Passover 49. Deep opera voice 53. Historic New Orleans Collection abbr. 54. Ecuador abbr. 55. “____ and relaxation” 57. American Education Services abbr. 59. Chicken nugget nickname
Maroon Broadcast Producers: Francisco Esteves, Hannah Darcey, James Hufnagel, Christopher Nesbit, Matthew Richards, Leonard Jackson III, Mabel Regalado-Hernandez, Maria DiFelice, Grace Agostino, Sadie Meade, Ashlyn Bobb Collins, Cecilia Calderin Digital Team: Addison Laird, Rin Andrews, Daniel Wong, Kennedy James, Lydia Hilt, Natalia Silva The Wolf: Dajah Saul, Taylor Falgout, Sophia Renzi Staff Writers & Photographers: Ava Acharya, Guelan Zaour, Nadir Benslimane, Brice Gutter, Dexter Earley, Gabbee Bonura, Sydney Piglia, Aaron Covin, Liz Snow, Heidi Herrera, Ryan Talley, Erin Gillen
CONTACT US Main Office 504) 865-3535 Business Office (504) 865-3536 Adviser’s Office (504) 865-3295 Correspondence maroon@loyno.edu Letters to the editor letter@loyno.edu Advertising ads@loyno.edu Website www.loyolamaroon.com Twitter @loyola_maroon Facebook The Maroon @loyola_maroon Instagram Our office is in the Communications/Music Complex, Room 328. Send mail to: The Maroon, Loyola University, Campus Box 64, 6363 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118 The Maroon is published every Friday. Unless otherwise noted, all content is copyrighted by The Maroon. All rights reserved. First copy free to students, faculty and staff. Every additional copy is $1.00. The Maroon is printed on 30 percent post-consumer recycled content.
Adviser: Michael Giusti
Oh no, it’s the first day of class! I’m almost late to ___________ [class name]. It was really _____________ [adjective] so I put on ________________ [article of clothing]. When I _____________ [verb] into class, I sit next to the open seat next to _____________________ [favorite celebrity]. My _________________ [favorite Loyola professor] then took roll and _______ [verb] the class. Suddenly, Havoc bursts through the __________[noun] and begins to __________ [adverb] howl. Everyone in the class then _________ [verb] and ran out the door. I walk out of the class to find a group of ________ [major] kids _________ [adverb] __________ [verb] Bobet construction. Why is everyone going nuts? A notification _________ [verb] on the TV, “Tulane students __________ [verb] Loyola students from ___________[Tulane behavior].” I sigh, “Oh, they’re just _________ [adjective].”
NEWS
January 26, 2024 THE MAROON
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Campus construction continues to impact student life By Pharrell Every pjevery@my.loyno.edu
Interfaith vigil for Palestine Students are invited to attend an interfaith vigil for Palestine organized by the Loyola Students for a Democratic Society and the Loyola Muslim Student Association. The vigil will take place on Jan. 29 from 5 - 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring flowers, candles, and Palestinian flags for a memorial shrine, according to an Instagram post made by the Loyola SDS and Loyola MSA. Included in the Instagram post is a notice that this is an educational vigil, not a protest. Contact cdcruse@my.loyno.edu or jmberthe@my.loyno.edu for accomodations or questions
25 years of Monroe Library This spring, the J. Edgar and Louise S. Monroe Library is celebrating 25 years since its construction. Monroe Library opened its doors to the public on January 11, 1999. The building cost $20 million, roughly $40 million today. The Mathes Group, a New Orleans based architecture firm, designed the 148,480 sq. ft. space that emulates the Tudor Gothic architecture of the original building.
Homecoming 2024 Students are encouraged to participate in Homecoming activities organized by the Student Government Organization. Homecoming takes place Jan. 27 to Feb. 1.
1/27 Day of Service 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. | the Fly 1/28 Kickoff with DJ PJ 10:15 p.m. - 12:15 a.m. | Residential Quad 1/29 K-pop Dance Club Karaoke 3 - 5 p.m. | Satchmo’s Lounge 1/30 Homecoming Boba 5 - 7 p.m. | Danna Center 1/31 Family Feud 6 - 8 p.m. | Satchmo’s Lounge 2/1 Countdown to Carnival 12 - 2 p.m. | Peace Quad 2/1 Basketball games 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. | USC
When students arrived on campus for the spring 2024 semester, they were greeted by construction at every corner – in addition to the existing construction of the Chapel of St. Ignatius and Gayle and Tom Benson Jesuit Center and the new residence hall. Construction outside of Bobet Hall, which has an opening in the ground and is entirely fenced in, is to create a chilled water flow from the main line to the new residence hall, according to chief operating officer and senior vice president of finance Carol Markowitz. “The work was supposed to be completed before classes started, but due to various issues we’ve run into, we will be closing that hole up by the end of next week and deferring the completion of that work to a later time in the year,” she said. Lucy Rhoades, a public health freshman, considers the construction outside of Bobet Hall a great inconvenience, as it has made walking around campus unnecessarily difficult for her. Rhoades added that moving back to campus following winter break was also frustrating. “The Uber driver didn’t know where to go, and I didn’t know where to tell her to go because I feel like every time I leave here and come back, different roads are blocked.” This is a result of the dorm hall con-
Fences surround construction in front of Bobet Hall on Jan. 17, 2024. The construction is to create a water line to the new residence hall. Sunny Bedford/The Maroon
struction expanding its areal space. Amid her struggle to navigate arrival on campus, Rhoades recalls immediately stepping into mud that covered her shoes and luggage. Instead of spending time in her dorm, she spent the first half hour on campus cleaning herself off. Although Rhoades believes that the construction of the new dorms will be useful, as a current student, she finds it to be disheartening to see university funding be funneled into a dorm that most current students won’t end up seeing the
New schedule for shuttle Glass recycling comes to Loyola By Falyn Hardouin fehardou@my.loyno.edu
Loyola University's Department of Public Safety released a revised shuttle schedule for the spring semester, aiming to better serve the needs of the university community. Rachel Bobadilla, the assistant director of support services, shared the details in an email sent to students, faculty, and staff. The key changes to the new shuttle schedule include on-demand services after 7:15 p.m. on weekdays and on Saturdays, which was to address the feedback received from the Loyola community. Additionally, adjustments have been made to the regular shuttle routes between the main campus and the Broadway campus. Broadway campus resident and junior Cason Cottrell said, “Me and my roommate used the shuttle all the time last semester to get to our classes. It was really great, but there were some days where I’d end up a few minutes late to class because we had to wait at the stop for another student who had called the shuttle,” she said. “I’m really excited for the new set schedule because now it’s even easier for me to get to campus on time.” Starting from the first day of classes
on January 16, and excluding Sundays and holidays, the shuttle will operate on a fixed schedule between the main and Broadway campuses from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. After 7:15 p.m., an on-demand option will be available alongside normal campus runs, providing greater flexibility to users during the evenings. On Saturdays, the shuttle service will be available on-demand from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Notably, a new option has been added for users to schedule shuttle rides to Target in Metairie. To utilize this service, appointments must be made before 3 p.m. on the Friday of each week for the following Saturday. Cancellations are accepted up to one hour before the scheduled appointment time by calling the shuttle service number at 504-865-3100. It is important to note that all riders must be currently enrolled and/or employed by Loyola University New Orleans to access the shuttle service. A signin log is available on the shuttle for user convenience and record-keeping. For more information or to access the complete shuttle schedule, students and staff can visit the department webpage. For any inquiries or to provide feedback, individuals can contact Rachel Bobadilla at 504-865-3000 or by email at rmbenton@loyno.edu.
A complete list of all activities can be found on the Loyola homecoming Instagram @loyno_hoco.
Staff departure Interim vice president of enrollment David Tracy has departed Loyola University as of Jan. 19, 2024. University president Xavier Cole stated in an email that Harvey Werner will be the administrative lead for enrollment management as of Jan. 2 as they continue the search for a permanent vice president of enrollment management.
inside of. Rhoades said she would much rather see the funding go toward the current dorms that have issues like mold, elevator outages, and other deferred maintenance. “I don’t understand why they won’t use the money that they clearly have to fix what we already have instead of building new things.” Markowitz said that the Bobet Hall construction is not being paid for by student tuition or fees.
“This cost is part of the construction budget for the new residence hall, none of which is being paid directly by student tuition,” she said. Carly LeBlanc, a freshman English major, shares similar sentiments regarding the ongoing construction. When she’s driving to campus, she finds herself having to guess the routes that are open and closed. Because much of the space between the Freret St. parking garage and Buddig Hall are blocked off due to the ongoing dorm construction, moving in was a struggle for LeBlanc. When describing the process she said, “Having to go back and forth as just one person and having to [navigate] through that to take the straight path walking was really inconvenient, tiring, and difficult.” Both Rhoades and LeBlanc said that the beauty of the campus was one of the main reasons they enrolled at Loyola. However, since then the campus has been overrun by ongoing construction, it lacks the look it had when they first toured. To them, it’s unfair and unfortunate that now they’re paying to go here, and they don’t get to experience one of the things that influenced their decision to enroll. Leblanc said, “It just sucks that the campus was so pretty before I got here, and it’s probably not going to look like that again until I’m gone.”
The Loyola University shuttle on Jan. 18, 2024. The shuttle has new schedule for the spring 2024 semester. Laci Barrow/The Maroon
Two side by side recycling bins depiciting recyclable materials on Loyola's campus on Jan. 19, 2024. Anna Hummel/The Maroon
By Ecoi Lewis ealewis@my.loyno.edu
Loyola is helping preserve Louisiana's natural beauty – one bottle at a time. Last spring, Loyola became an affiliate of Keep Louisiana Beautiful, which is an anti-litter nonprofit whose mission is to preserve Louisiana’s beauty through education, public awareness, and community engagement. According to KLB’s website, to become a university affiliate applying institutions must conduct a waste audit, litter survey and assessment, form an affiliate leadership committee, design an affiliate logo, create a work plan, and participate in “Love the Boot Week” – which Loyola accomplished during its annual Earth week celebration. Since then, recycling cans with graphic labels that glean “Let LA shine” have been scattered around campus for student use. On Feb. 1, Loyola’s partnership with KLB will expand to include recycling stations for glass products, which was made possible by a $4,800 grant from the
nonprofit. The added glass recycling stations will be placed around Monroe Hall and at the north entrance of the West Rd. parking garage, according to Mark Tobler, coordinator for the KLB program and environment program research associate. “It will reduce the amount of recyclables that are currently going to landfills,” Tobler said. According to QCR Recycling Equipment, it takes one glass bottle a million years to break down and making new glass generates greenhouse gasses and waste while recycling glass conserves energy, natural resources, and reduces waste/emissions. Along with the funding from KLB, the added recycling stations were further made possible by a collaboration with Glass Half Full, an organization dedicated to glass recycling and coastal restoration. The partnership, which was formed during last year’s Earth Week events, is putting the school closer to their goal of sustainability, according to Ellie Jackson, Glass Half Full’s outreach coordinator.
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THE MAROON
Jan. 26, 2024
REVIEWS
Jan 26, 2024 THE MAROON
5
"Wonka": A queer "Wonka": A real stomach-ache theatre kid's wet dream By Janssen Van De Yacht jdvandey@my.loyno.edu
By Kloe Witt kgwitt@my.loyno.edu
Editor’s Note: This review contains spoilers for “Wonka” If The Walt Disney Co. has taught us anything, it’s that remakes aren’t good. They only play on childhood nostalgia and always fail to live up to the expectations a person sets for themselves after seeing a favorite from their childhood become remade. When the trailer for the new “Wonka” film came out, fear instantly struck many, as they remembered the distasteful Tim Burton adaptation of the 1971 classic. It didn’t help that the trailer for this prequel showed the cringiest parts of the film, making it almost unbearable prior to watching the movie. Seeing Timothée Chalamet, whose resumé consisted of more dramatic films, like “Little Women” and “Beautiful Boy,” take on a much more comedic role wasn’t appealing to me, and, by the trailer, it didn’t seem like the role for him. But once I sat down in the theater and the opening scene began, it only took halfway through the first musical number, “A Hat Full of Dreams,” for me to know that this would be a movie-musical favorite for me. It’s rare for a trailer to make a movie seem so much worse than it is – usually it’s the other way around – but that’s exactly what this film did. It underplayed the film and also seemed to hide the fact that it was a musical, which was one of the movie's strongest points. The musical numbers truly made the film. They were catchy, fun, and well-performed. “Sweet Tooth” and “Scrub Scrub” have been stuck in my head for weeks, and as embarrassing as it is for both of these songs to be on my Receiptify this month, I have to admit they hit different (sly Taylor Swift reference). These musical numbers are exactly what this movie needed. It was a perfect mix of different musical beats with great play on lyricism. It tied the magic of the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory with a new, unique twist. Yes, we had the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical, and yes, the songs are good – great even – but it doesn’t compare to this musical.
Besides the music, the film added a great symbolism about our capitalist society. The three villains in the movie, all of which own different chocolate companies and control all chocolate, bribe the chief of police to kill Wonka once he threatens their profits. Wonka’s chocolate is tastier and more accessible to people with less money. It’s a perfect metaphor for how companies control our government in society and will do anything they can in their power to keep that control and make the most money. And now to the surprise of the entire movie: how truly great Chalamet’s performance was. From his past performances in other popular films, it was a quick judgment to think he wouldn’t eat this performance up. But, really, this type of role has always been in Chalamet’s resumé. Does no one remember his iconic “Saturday Night Live” performance with Pete Davidson or his Statistics music video? Needless to say, this man has ALWAYS had a comedic side. Sure, he mostly performs in dramatic films (and he does slay at every time), but he is much more versatile than that. He was a high school theatre kid. He was that white boy in every theater department that constantly got leads and every queer cast member fell in love with. Roles like the character of Willy Wonka were MADE for theater kids. This movie was definitely an underrated film setup to fail from the beginning. Bad advertising hurt this film. Don’t let the media scare you. Go see it. Enjoy it. Maybe you’ll get the ick. Maybe you’ll fall in love. Maybe you’ll finally find the courage to audition for that college play you’ve been thinking about but have been holding off from doing because of a bad high school theater experience…. Oh well, maybe I’m projecting.
The first time the character of Willy Wonka graced the silver screen, he limped down a red carpet, and in a 1920s silent-comedy fashion, turned a fall into a surprise barrel roll, a swift, simple gesture that immediately established the enigma he was. Mel Stuart’s 1971 “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” is a sweet-smelling, mouth-watering classic. Practically a ‘70s time capsule, there is a dreamy richness to the scary humor and brutal unconventionality of the film, especially for its time. Nothing beats the entirely-edible garden Willy Wonka con-
ceives, except for maybe Wonka’s shocking, colorful boat-ride monologue. Balancing childlike whimsy while, simultaneously, critiquing consumerism and the effects of our unquenchable hunger for it, is handled fantastically by Stuart in his “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory”: a cautionary tale made to warn, to inspire, and to make the unbelievable, believable. The prequel-piece, Paul King’s 2023 “Wonka,” loses the edge of both the original and its 2005 remake by Tim Burton, instead opting for a derivative iteration that basks itself in cheesy dialogue and clunky, computer-generated visuals. Budding actor Timothee Chalamet
stars as the titular madman, surrounded by an eclectic group of not-so-eclectic tropes. The film retells the classic Roald Dahl story, covering the origin that had not yet been put to film, but dawns a new perspective that appeals to a younger generation. Writers Paul King and Simon Farnaby toss anything subliminal out the window, opting for a straightforward, formulaic children’s comedy. “Wonka'' is infused with song and dance and strives for musical status. Unfortunately, the songs make about as much impact as rain on a windowpane. Its two predecessors also contained wonky, musical numbers, but each number would add more mystery or insanity to the already manic swirl of Willy Wonka’s nonsensical self and chocolate factory. Every version of Willy Wonka’s story tends to feature the most preposterous candy that transcends human conception. But in “Wonka,” there is nothing left to imagine. The lack of practical effects for something so simple as candy hurts the performances and the overall production design. The mysterious magic that lies under the chocolate-maker’s surface is put on full display, in glorious CGI. But that is not to discredit the work put into “Wonka,” as digital rendering is an often underpaid, underpraised job with impossible turnarounds. It is a shame that the vision was so misguided, as you can tell there was some passion all around. “Wonka'' reintroduces the antagonizing chocolate-makers Slugworth, Prodnose, and Fickelgruber, as the triad of tangible villains orchestrating life behind the scenes. Compared to their previous brief mentions in Stuart’s and Burton’s films, King offers them more screen-time and presence, but adds no dimension beyond their surface-level motivations and predictable arcs. Apart from relentless, outspoken acclaim, Chalamet has proven his strength as an actor.
Read more at loyolamaroon.com
Anyways, go see it, queers.
"Wonka" is now playing in theaters
“Wonka” is now playing in theaters
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“Rotting in the Sun”: Sebastián Silva’s most personal project By Janssen Van De Yacht jdvandey@my.loyno.edu Rot curdling its subject into nothingness is a real drag of a process. The first stage of human decomposition is the body’s digesting itself, or autolysis. When the heart stops, and all bodily functions fail, the fluids, gas, and waste marinate into an acidic, barely-human warzone. The skin loosens and gleams, blisters and bloats. Putrefaction gives the dead body its revealing smell. It would take one month for the human body to fully decompose into liquified remnants, like the moldy, rotten residue a buckling pumpkin leaves behind. In "Rotting in the Sun", you watch a tarped body rot, exposed by the delicate, open surgeries of a circling vulture that helps it along its process toward liquefaction. The mysterious circumstances behind the body left to bake in the sun atop a rooftop simultaneously bubble up and rot from inside everybody who played a part in it; guilt and dishonesty do not sit well in a stomach.
Sebastián Silva’s 2023 feature turns out to be one of the most refreshing takes on modernity. Dark comedy is paired perfectly with the imperfections of social media, fame and influence, unchecked privilege, strung-out sex, and heavy drug use in this nihilistic minefield. Silva inserts the relentless content that saturates the world today and gives a firsthand testimony of what becomes of it. Silva and co-star Jordan Firstman use their genuine personalities to build dramatic, believable caricatures. Silva needs a break from his artistic k-hole, ketamine dissociation, in Mexico City, so he opts for the ultimate sunbathing getaway – a nudist beach in Zicatela. Firstman’s character is a social media influencer, making unfunny jokes online and engaging in consistent, meaningless sex until he decides to collaborate with Silva on a television series after their life-or-death introduction at Zicatela. Silva is in a suspended state of decay throughout the film, constantly looking for the chance to leave his body. He gets what he asks for with the help of ketamine and Vero, his
underappreciated housekeeper – played by the incredible Catalina Saavedra. A central element of the film is a bottled drug made legal only in a select few places, including parts of Mexico, that has the power to euthanize, mainly used to put down dogs. It is also taken by humans with a death wish. Silva’s uncaring building-owner Mateo pushes the idea of it down his throat. Pentobarbital is the forbidden, poisoned apple from the tree of Silva’s Eden. With the power to transport Silva away from his feelings, as well as everything he knows, inspires, and loves at his fingertips, "Rotting in the Sun" is a rumination on wishing for, yet postponing death. The film occasionally dances with the possibility of becoming tedious, but like the slow process of rot and the sign of the tedium times, its pace is miserable and intentional, stonewashed by the shock value of each story beat. It is rare for a film to center around flawed, gay characters without making their sexualities comprise the entirety of the plot. Representation tends to fall flat
and ultimately feel one-sided, subtextualized, or recycled, but Silva is not afraid to probe the male form and explore the physicality of masculinity in his filmmaking. Full-frontal nudity and unapologetic, unsimulated gay sex, though jarring at times, acts as a burgeoning stomp forward in cinematic representation. The film only uses its accurate, unflinching portrayals in instances where the plot progresses. Nothing is explicit for the sake of being explicit, but for the sake of being sincere. Silva uses his suicidal fantasies as a means of actively steering the story’s trajectory. In a Variety interview, Silva says, “My deathwish is fully exposed in the movie for everybody to envy it or follow it.” Crafting a lightly fictionalized characterization of himself not only makes for a unique perspective in cinema, but it becomes a vehicle for self-transformation and liberation for Silva, who puts his depression in the sunlight to examine it and to “fictionalize it, so I could maybe leave it.” Silva writes what he knows in a world that he knows, which makes "Rot-
ting in the Sun" so successful, so personal, and so relevant. In such a damp, sick, and superficial environment, how can anything but rot flourish? Silva’s tenth feature will forever distinguish the time in which it was made. Modern life breeds blind consumption and mass corruption. "Rotting in the Sun'' mirrors life in a k-hole, whether it be induced by the influx of all-consuming online content, the arsenal of drugs available, empty hook-up culture, or the depression that follows. The film’s lack of empathy and selfishness serve as a reminder to sink your fingers in and dig through the state of things, lest the rot creep in through our very screens. “Rotting in the Sun” is available on Mubi.
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WORLDVIEW
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Jan. 26, 2024 THE MAROON
Pops of Nicaraguan presidential candidate illegally imprisoned Positivity By Sophia Maxim
svmaxim@my.loyno.edu
Walking for a cause Entering almost a century of life, World War II veteran Lance Corporal Harold Jones has walked hundreds of miles around his garden to raise money for charity. Starting in 2020, Jones has circled his backyard 30 times every day, rain or shine, according to Andy Corbley with Good News Network. Using social media, Jones has raised awareness and funding for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. Using his three-wheeled walker, Jones has walked a total of 661 miles around his garden, effectively raising over 43,000 euros, or $46,000 in just under four years. Jones has since been awarded the Points of Light award, which honors outstanding individuals, by the Prime Minister for his efforts, Corbley said.
Patch the pony Patch, the one-eyed pony, will keep the New Orleans Police Department horses comforted this year as they stroll the streets together for Mardi Gras. His presence will grace both parade onlookers and the anxious horses. For the first time since Hurricane Katrina, these NOPD steeds will be accompanied for their own emotional support, according to Missy Wilkinson with NOLA News. After superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick demonstrated her love for ponies, this 15 year old miniature horse joined the department. The NOPD refers to him as their “new one-eyed mascot,” and the other horses have been welcoming him with food and nuzzles, said NOPD public information officer Karen Boudrie.
Nicaraguan police startled politician Juan Sebastián Chamorro awake in his home one night to carry out an illegal search and arrest. Dictator Daniel Ortega ordered this abduction to end Chamorro’s opposing presidential campaign. Chamorro was one of seven presidential candidates arrested by Ortega’s regime in 2021 among over 200 political prisoners released last February. Chamorro spent 20 months in solitary confinement, uncertain of when he would see his wife and daughter again. He was brought to court and accused of "conspiracy to undermine national integrity" and sentenced to 13 years in prison in what he described as a fake trial. Yet, according to Chamorro, imprisonment was an anticipated consequence of campaigning against Ortega. Opposition candidates, such as Chamorro, ran in a primary process and held debates to discuss political and developmental issues affecting Nicaragua under Ortega’s regime. Ortega became concerned over their influence on the public and the increasing demand for a democratic government, Chamorro said. Ortega’s solution was to jail his opponents. “We are facing a cultural wave of democratic backsliding and this is happening everywhere,” Chamorro said. “And I think the Nicaraguan example, by being such an extreme, can be used as an example of a case where the backsliding went all the way back to tyranny.” Although the arrests were intended to take away support and attention from the politicians, they had the opposite effect, Chamorro said. “The act of putting us in jail created a lot of empathy from the people of Nicaragua, so it helped us politically speak-
ing,” he said. The arrests united the politicians inside the prison, Chamorro said. However, the subsequent exile of these politicians has complicated their political work, he said, describing it as “a detailed plan for the dictator to [inflict] on us as much damage as possible.” In prison, the wardens interrogated Chamorro every day, often multiple times, especially during the first month. He was sometimes interrogated up to
five times throughout the night, he said. After some months, Chamorro began to converse with the guards, as they all became more accustomed to this new reality. “At the beginning, I was really afraid of speaking,” he said. “But once I noticed that they were really weak, that they didn't have enough information, and that they were just following orders, we – and I say we because it was not only me – started to challenge more of their
ideas and their questions.” During these conversations, Chamorro defended his actions as attempts to protect democracy and freedom. The officials used the interviews to condemn the trials on social media and TV channels, Chamorro said. They would also ask him about his finances and his involvement in protests associated with the Central American University. See DEMOCRACY, page 13
Nicaraguan Juan Sebastián Chamorro talks to reporters in Chantilly, Virginia., Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023, after flying in to the Washington Dulles International Airport. Chamorro was among some 222 prisoners of the government of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega who was released last year. Jose Luis Magana/AP Photo
Loyola offers safety tips for Mardi Gras By Eloise Pickering
ple being in crowded situations,” Martin Loyola freshman, has celebrated Mardi Gras and attended parades since they said. According to Martin, pickpockets were a child, going to the festivities for With Mardi Gras just around the cor- tend to use a bumping technique to take nearly 19 years. They recommend the ner, campus energy is running high with advantage of stealing items from back same. “I will never be in a group less than pockets. He advises excitement and anto put items in your three,” Bay said. “Everyone says ‘one ticipation as students front pockets, or buddy system’ but then your buddy is in eagerly wait for the “First of all, drink in where front wearing the bathroom while you're out there by festivities to begin. moderation.” bags to lower your yourself. Always keep three.” Although the big When it comes to traveling with chances of being stocelebration occurs on — Patrick Martin friends, Martin, Bay, and Moss all adlen from. Fat Tuesday, which LUPD Lieutenant Psychology junior vise utilizing cell phone locations to is Feb. 13, parades Kruz Moss has at- know where your friends and family are, have already begun. Parades, however, bring large crowds of tended many Mardi Gras parades in the should you get separated. “Best thing I can say is use some type people (many of whom are under the past three years and suggests fellow stuinfluence of alcohol), and a greater sus- dents avoid parking along parade routes of tracking app,” Martin said. Moss recommends iMessage location both due to potential theft and a heightceptibility to crime. services or an app As Loyola students prepare for the ened risk of damage called Everbridge to Carnival season, Loyola University Po- to one’s car. “Everyone says ‘one ensure optimal safety “I will also recomlice Department Lieutenant Patrick in the event someMartin provides students with advice on mend that people do buddy system’ but then one becomes lost or how they can remain safe during NOLA’s not park along the padisjointed from the rade routes because your buddy is in the busiest season. main group. “First of all, drink in moderation,” Mar- your car could get hit bathroom while you're Martin further adtin said, “Best thing to do is if you're old with beads … or simout there by yourself. vises students to reenough to enjoy an alcoholic beverage to ply, you'll get robbed.” main respectful and to take your time drinking it, and mixing Moss said. Always keep three.” avoid conflict while When it comes water in between.” in large crowds. Additionally, Martin emphasizes the to walking and navi- — Em Bay “Be neighborly,” importance of refraining from drinking gating crowds, Moss New Orleans native Martin said. “When and driving. With drinking often comes a stays in large groups you’re in the crowd, lack of awareness and an increase in im- of friends, and advisit’s a great opportunity to experience the pulsivity, only escalating one’s chance of es other students to do the same. “I wouldn't think it's safe to travel by New Orleans community. Everybody's being a target for crime, he said. Martin added that a common form of yourself or just with another person,” friendly. It's like going to an SEC football game; you'll never go hungry. People will Moss said. crime throughout Mardi Gras is theft. Em Bay, New Orleans native and be your friend.” “Pickpockets take advantage of peo-
ewpicker@my.loyno.edu
The Krewe of Muses is an all-female krewe well known for their high heel throws. A Muses shoe is a throw parade-goers strive to catch. Angelo Imbraguglio/The Maroon
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COMICS
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LIFE & TIMES
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Film • Arts • Food • Music • Leisure • Nightlife
Isabella Castillo performs at the dance ensemble showcase on Dec. 8, 2023. Sophia Maxim/The Maroon
Sisters Nandipha and Aviwe DuBois perform at the dance ensemble showcase on Dec. 8, 2023. Sophia Maxim/The Maroon
"Mama Kai" builds dance community at Loyola By Mia Oliva mfoliva@my.loyno.edu
Each semester, dance professor Kai Knight holds auditions to create an ensemble of dancers ranging from all levels of experience and expertise. Better known as “Mama Kai” to her students, Knight believes she learns just as much from her students as they learn from her. This is the foundation
of her own artistic vision. “Every semester brings new challenges,” Knight said. While ensemble members from the previous semester are automatically in, Knight advises them to take part in the audition process to ensure commitment. In potential members, she looks for moldability. As long as dancers are willing to try a bit of everything, she’s content.
In terms of routine and choreography, Knight doesn't plan ahead for auditions, but rather lets her vision unfold at hand. “I get a feel for what I already have. The objective is to build a community for all levels of dancers,” Knight said. The goal of the ensemble as a whole is to touch every form of dance, ranging from contemporary, afromodern, ballet, and so on.
Members of dance ensemble perform at the showcase on Dec. 8, 2023. Sophia Maxim/The Maroon
Psychology senior Annie Figueroa joined dance ensemble in fall 2022. In addition to becoming her primary creative outlet, dance ensemble has allowed Figueroa to form meaningful connections and expand her craft. “There is something special about being a part of a club or group that creates a safe learning environment for people at all different skill and experience levels,” Figueroa said. “I
find myself admiring and appreciating the skills of other dancers in the ensemble that push me to be a better dancer.” Auditions for the spring 2024 semester will be held on Feb. 1 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in room 106 of the Communications/Music Complex.
Viviana Capasso performs at the dance ensemble showcase on Dec. 8, 2023. Sophia Maxim/The Maroon
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SPORTS
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Final Scores A member of Loyola's swim team racing in the Den's indoor pool, Jan. 20, 2023. Loyola's men and women's swimming teams faced Millsaps College in almost 30 events. Heidi Herrera/The Maroon
Senior swimmers reflect on their time at Loyola
By Samantha Guillotte slguillo@my.loyno.edu
At the teams’ final home swim meet of the season on Jan. 20, criminology senior Eve Thomas recalls her time on the team where she formed inseparable bonds with her graduating class teammates. Thomas began her freshman swim season amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, in her time at Loyola, Thomas earned NAIA All-American, Mid-South Conference Third Team All-Conference, and Mid-South Conference All-Academic, which are all the highest recognitions of individual athletic accomplishments. She finished 3rd, qualifying for nationals at the Mid-South Conference Championships in the 100-yard backstroke. Thomas also placed 7th nationally in the 50-yard backstroke at the NAIA National Championships. During her junior year, Thomas
earned NAIA All-American, placed in top 25 in two events at NAIA National Championships, had multiple season-best times, and took 3rd in the 100yard backstroke at the Sun Conference Championships. Graduate student Wesley Daniel has had many accomplishments while swimming at Loyola, including setting a school record in the 200-yard fly as a freshman, won the 200-yard IM in the season-finale as a sophomore, and earning season best times in 50-yard backstroke, 100-yard backstroke, and 200yard IM his junior year. According to Daniel, being a part of the swimming team not only helped with staying healthy, but also helped develop time management skills, “as well as making [him] smell like chlorine most of the time.” “The thing that I will miss the most about Loyola swimming is definitely going to be my teammates,” Daniel said.
Likewise, senior Eric Potter said he’d miss the atmosphere and unique bond with his teammates the most. Potter started off with a splash by finishing 2nd in the 100-yard freestyle during his first swim meet and earning his personal best as a sophomore in the 50 yard freestyle. Potter continued that momentum his junior year by having the best time of the season in multiple events, ranging from the 100-yard freestyle to the 100-yard butterfly. Potter also set another personal best time in the 50-yard freestyle. Biology senior Hannah Richard said swimming for Loyola has made her a more responsible, accountable, and loyal person. Richard earned Mid-South Conference All-Academic and had season best times many events including the 100-yard and 200-yard backstroke in her sophomore year. During her junior year, she achieved season best times in
the 50-yard backstroke, 100-yard backstroke, 50-yard and 100-yard butterfly at the Sun Conference Championships. “It takes great dedication to be a college athlete and the right environment to push you everyday,” she said. “It kept me grounded and kept my priorities straight, not letting me slip through the cracks.” As Richard reflects on her time at Loyola, she said she will miss the people who helped her grow, both in and out of the water. “I don’t think I would’ve gotten through COVID-19 athletics, not having a pool for a year after Hurricane Ida, or any of the other hurdles I’ve had during college with any other group of people.” The men’s and women’s swim teams aren’t done yet. They will have one more away meet this weekend before they compete in the Sun-Conference Championships at the beginning of February.
96 - 75 Women's Basketball vs. Thomas University, Jan. 20
83-49 Men and Women's Swimming vs. Millsaps College, Jan. 20
26 out of 28 first place finishes Men and Women's Track and Field, Jan. 21
Bryana Bazille, First in Shot Put, 12.41 M Loyola ESports vs. Southeastern University
Women's basketball sees success through cooperation
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Upcoming Games
By Jacob L'Hommedieu jllhomme@my.loyno.edu
If ever there was an example of cooperation being key to victory, then one has to look no further than Loyola’s women’s basketball team. The season so far has been filled with major successes for the team. They have managed to rack up thirteen wins in a row as of their Jan. 20 game against Thomas University’s Night Hawks. Lizzi Ratcliff, number 23 on the court and a junior in the classroom, led the team in points that night, adding 13 points to the final 83 to 49 total. Taylor Thomas and Caitlin Travis followed with 12 and 10 points, respectfully. Even with the slew of victories the team has achieved, Coach Kellie Kennedy is making sure to keep herself and the players grounded. “I just don’t want them or us to get ahead of ourselves,” Kennedy said, “I just want us to go one game at a time.” One of the things the coach loves most about the team is how “they mesh so well together.” And it’s not just her who has noticed this. Taylor Thomas, a graduate student and number one on the team, stated that they and their teammates like one another, even off the court. According to Thomas, the team’s chemistry has been one of their greatest strengths this season. “We all want each and every one of us to succeed,” Thomas said. Junior Bria McClure, who holds number 3 on the team, holds a similar perspective.
Men's Basketball vs. Thomas University, Jan. 20
Men and Women's Swimming January 27 @ Birmingham Southern College vs. BSC & Milligan Men and Women's Tennis January 31 @ City Park Tennis Center vs. Nicholls @ 1 PM Competitive Cheer and Dance February 1-2 @ Xavier University
Taylor Thomas driving up the court to score against Thomas University, Jan. 20, 2023. Thomas held the second highest point total for Loyola that game. Jacob L'Hommedieu/The Maroon
“I believe we’re a very unselfish team,” McClure said, “We all share the ball, and we know how to be there for each other.” The chemistry the team shares has not only helped in the social sense, either. According to graduate student Sandra Cannady, number 24, the team
has also developed their discipline and ability to grow. “I think our greatest strength has been us getting better and continuously progressing throughout the season,” Cannady said. “I think that everybody’s gotten a lot more comfortable with each
other.” Coach Kennedy also recognizes the journey of progression the team is on, and is confident in the team and what they can accomplish. “I’m so very grateful to be in charge of [this team],” Kennedy said.
Men and Women's Basketball February 1 @ Home, Women @ 5:30 PM and Men @ 7:30 PM vs. Stillman Baseball February 2 @ 2 PM vs LSU Alexandria @ Alexandria
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BOYCOTT: Students discuss Starbucks boycott Continued from page 1 Loyola computer science senior Zaynad Zeini said organized boycotts are an accessible and easy form of protest, as they operate by utilizing the publics’ monetary power. She added that even those who are unable to stop buying Starbucks completely can participate by limiting the amount of money which they spend on the company’s products. “It's really so simple. It's just a matter of not spending money,” Zeini said. She feels that participation in the boycott, as well as other protests, has
fostered greater community connection. Specifically, Zeini noted the ways New Orleanians have come together to show support for Muslim communities in the area. She further said that participating in the boycott has forced her to rethink her habits as a consumer and consider what companies their money goes to. “I used to be a pretty avid Starbucks customer, like an everyday kind of thing,” Zeini said. “But I just changed my habits and if anything, I would say it has changed for the better.” She added that she no longer feels that she is wasting money on “coffee that
isn’t that good” and has instead started frequenting locally-owned coffee shops, many of which they would have never explored otherwise. This sentiment is shared by environmental studies freshman Sophie Schnapp. “It’s clear where their position stands, and it doesn’t make me want to give them business when I can go to a local small business,” Schnapp said. While the boycott’s overall effectiveness is up for debate, both Bay and Schnapp said that they have seen considerably less people lined up, waiting to order at the Danna Center Starbucks.
Bay added that they have seen more people on campus carrying cups from alternative coffee shops, such as PJ’s Coffee or Dunkin’ Donuts. Additionally, recent discounts and deals publicized on campus have left students wondering if the location is strapped for cash. Former campus Starbucks employee and hip-hop and R&B sophomore, Spirit left the location to focus on music. However, during his time of employment, Spirit was involved with the campus Sodexo worker’s union. He said based on his experience while employed, there is a definite need
to protect workers rights both at Starbucks and beyond. Loyola-Sodexo’s general manager, Charles Casrill, said that he is personally unaware of any Starbucks boycott and has not seen a significant decrease in on-campus sales. Casrill added that, as a non-traditional location, the Starbucks on Loyola’s campus has access to different seasonal sales and that these sales account for discounted prices, rather than a decrease in the location’s revenue. Elinor Upham contributed to the reporting of this story.
DEMOCRACY: Nicaraguan presidential candidate advocates for democracy Continued from page 6 In 2018, students from UCA and other protesters held a series of demonstrations against political injustices. Ortega’s forces reacted by attacking these crowds, injuring thousands and murdering hundreds of protestors. During this period, Chamorro managed a foundation that provided medical attention to hundreds of people injured from the shootings. Chamorro estimated that hundreds – if not thousands – of students involved in protests lost their entire academic records after expulsion from state schools. “So say, for example, a kid that was in fourth year of school, almost a year to finish. They just erase the academic record, he doesn't exist anymore,” he said. “There's thousands of students that are in the air right now. Many have sought refuge here in the U.S., and they are extremely talented kids.” These students can offer unique contributions as leaders on campuses like Loyola New Orleans, Chamorro said. He urges universities in the U.S. to support these students by welcoming them into their programs and providing scholarships so that they can continue their education. “We can use the power of the network of Jesuit University Worldwide to find a place for the students,” he said. Chamorro remains in contact with the authorities of UCA, including the former president, as well as some priests and faculty. Many of these faculty members are dispersed worldwide, still in search of opportunities to continue their work, he said. Chamorro recalled that in prison, he took the interrogations as an opportunity to challenge the beliefs of his captors; he tried to explain to them that they, too, were also victims of the dictatorship. “We were in a group of obviously well-trained politicians, and we kind of moved the argument into the other direction,” he said. “So instead of being an interrogation victim, I became an interrogator myself, exposing their crimes, their violence, their intolerance.” The guards had varied reactions to being challenged by politicians like himself. “Some of them reacted very mad, very upset. Some of them looked a little bit reflective of what we were saying,” he said. “But they all were really, really confused about our attitude because our attitude wasn't really an offensive attitude. It was a respectful attitude, an educated one, like a nonviolent kind of approach.” Although some guards would threaten the prisoners, they were ordered not to torture them physically because of the prisoners’ political status, Chamorro said. Instead, the deprivations took other forms. He and his colleagues were not allowed to speak with one another, read,
or write. The prison conditions violated the U.N.’s Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, called the Nelson Mandela rules. These rules protect the right to read while imprisoned. To pass the time, Chamorro walked about 10 kilometers, or 3000 rounds, every day in his five-by-five meter cell. Chamorro attributes his spiritual beliefs as a source of strength during his nearly two years in prison. “Not a single day I did not pray for God to give me hope to give me strength and spirits, and I never lost hope that I was going to get out,” he said. In particular, Chamorro recited the prayer of St. Ignatius while in prison, reflecting on the seizure of his assets, including his house, properties, his nationality, and his freedom. “Take Lord and receive all my liberties, my memory, my understanding, my entire will. All that I have I call my own. You have given it all to me. To you, Lord, I'll return it. Everything is yours. Do with it what you will,” Chamorro recited. “No matter how many times they put you in jail, they cannot take away those memories, your family, your love for your daughter, your wife and parents, things like that are invaluable,” he said. Chamorro comes from a long, influential family legacy of political involvement, many of whom have suffered exile and incarceration by dictatorships. His uncle, Pedro Joaquín Chamorro, served as editor in chief of La Prensa, a newspaper that criticized the Somoza dictatorship of the time, until his assassination in 1978. Chamorro’s family history prepared him for the consequences of political activism and gave him strength and purpose to fight for freedom, he said. Chamorro believes it is his generation's responsibility to finish the job of ending the dictatorship and establishing democracy. “It is important to still have something to fight for, in my case, it is democracy. It doesn't have to be something as big as my case, but to embrace costs – social costs or political costs, something that is beyond what you might think is your possibility,” he said. Chamorro spent most of his education in Jesuit institutions. He says this influence taught him the importance of service and sacrifice and shaped his career as an economist and politician. “From a very early age, we were trained to be curious, to pursue the truth, and to defend the truth,” he said. “When you see an injustice, when you see something that is wrong, you have to defend it.” Chamorro’s current objective is to create awareness in the United States about the political situation in Nicaragua. This is not an isolated phenomenon of democratic backsliding, which is oc-
Chamorro reunites with his wife and daughter in an airport in the U.S. after 20 months of solitary confinement. Courtesy of Juan Sebastián Chamorro. curring in both developing and developed countries, he said. According to Freedom House, for the past 17 years the number of countries abandoning their democratic values has been greater than countries that have moved forward. Chamorro urges Americans to be aware of these injustices and the importance of fundamental values like democracy and freedom becoming universal.
“It's very important to keep awareness of what is happening in Nicaragua, not only to the students, to education, to the Jesuits or religious persecution, but to democracy in general and Ortega,” Chamorro said. In a letter to the U.S. House of Representatives, Chamorro wrote: “We need the international community to help us Nicaraguans, in our fight for democracy
and freedom. It is crucial to maintain pressure against those responsible of crimes, deaths and abuses. I believe that justice will prevail, but only if we maintain as an unified force to combat oppression.” Patrick Hamilton contributed to the reporting of this story.
OPINION
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Found family transforms literature Kai Wittke English sophomore kawittke@my.loyno.edu
COLUMN: Parade-mania begins with Chewbacchus Chris Maldonado Columnist
The found family trope has always been one of my favorite tropes in literature. The found family trope is when a group of people form their own family. This is usually done through shared experiences and connections. I love this trope for several reasons, namely that there’s a certain comfort in knowing that there are people who will love you regardless of biological relation. They become your home and make you feel safe. Then, there’s the fact that the people chose you not because of blood relation but because they genuinely love you. There is no obligation, just the deep bonds you share. One of my favorite books “The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune features the found family trope. Through character building and setting, Klune did a good job of executing the trope, making it a great example of a found family book. The book follows Linus Barker, a case worker in the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth who leads a solitary life with his cat Calliope. One day, he’s unexpectedly assigned to investigate the Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six ‘dangerous’ children live. These children are Talia (a gnome), Theo (a wyvern), Chauncey (a green blob), Phee (a sprite), Sal (a were-Pomeranian), and Lucifer ‘Lucy’ (the Antichrist). The orphanage’s caretaker is Arthur Parnassus, a man who has a deep bond with the children under his care. Due to negative experiences with pre-
cwmaldon@my.loyno.edu
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vious caseworkers, the kids initially don’t trust Linus until he shows them that he truly has their best interests at heart Even then, Linus tries to maintain his distance from the children since he has a rule not to get attached to the children he’s working with. However, that rule is tested at the Marsyas Orphanage, where Linus sees how much everyone there cares for one another and he starts to feel at home with all of them. The relationships Linus develops with the children and Arthur is touching to read about. One scene that highlights how close Linus has become with them is when Lucy has a nightmare. As the Antichrist, Lucy dreams manifest in erratic ways. In this case, Lucy's nightmares end up destroying most of his beloved record
collection. This is where we see Arthur and Linus working together, like a parental unit. As their primary caretaker, Arthur is familiar with the children and knows how to console them. It’s clear how much he loves and cares for the children, and that he will do anything for them. In the nightmare scene, Arthur helps Lucy calm down from his nightmares. He’s seen holding him close and whispering comforting words to Lucy. This allows Lucy to awake from his nightmares. As Arthur continues to comfort Lucy, Linus steps in to help too. Although he doesn't give physical comfort like Arthur does, Linus makes sure to give Lucy the verbal reassurance he needs. He acknowledges
how scary bad dreams are, but also reminds Lucy that what he saw wasn’t real and that he’s ok. He comforts Lucy about his broken records, leading to Arthur saying they can go into town to replace the records. The found family aspect made this book feel like a warm hug. All the characters know what it’s like to be the odd one out. As a result, they become their own family. The way personal relationships were shown and developed was wholesome. From Lucy calling Sal his brother, to Theo giving Linus a button from his treasure hoard, to any time Arthur encourages the kids. Moments like these add to the wholesome vibes of the book, and the found family aspect as a whole.
Destin Conrad’s new album redefines R&B from St. Louis who toured with 6LACK the past year, Masego, who is known for his saxophone instrumentals, and R&B English junior artist Alex Isley. asthaxto@my.loyno.edu Within “Submissive,” Conrad explores various sounds and genres like Latin music, jazz, reggae, and rock alternatives. He continues to produce the chilled R&B sounds that he has excelled at in Typically, when you think of R&B the past. artists from our generation, artists The first track “Mariposa” sets the like Summer Walker, Kehlani, SZA, tone for the rest of the album. With the Brent Faiyaz, Lucky Daye, and Ambré enchanting sounds of the instrumentals, come to mind. Destin Conrad’s album, inspired by the Latin genre, paired with “Submissive,” opens R&B in a way that Conrad’s vocals, it’s a song that you can makes it much more expansive and freer easily get lost in. than the genre sound we’re used to. Other tracks within the album that Conrad released a second part of the showcase Conrad’s genre exploration “Submissive” album, titled “Submissive and the vastness of R&B include “Low 2,” on January 19. If that isn’t exciting Tide,” “Luv N Devotion,” and “Tantrum!” enough, Conrad's first The third track, “Low headline tour starts "What makes this song Tide,” an exemplary next month, February R&B-styled song, is 4th, with Amaria, different from your contemplative as it an alternative neo- average R&B track is deals with Conrad’s soul R&B artist from feelings about an the instrumentals that Tampa. For one unrequited love, night only on this you don’t typically hear with the theme of tour, New Orleans’ His smooth a slow drum beat paired longing. very own R&B artist vocals, paired with Ambré will be joining with a saxophone the soulful melody, Conrad on February in the background and the saxophone's 11th. Conrad has subtle sounds shown off his ability in the genre." contribute to the to collaborate with song's melancholy other fresh R&B tone. What makes artists through the artists featured on this song different from your average both “Submissive” and “Submissive 2.” R&B track is the instrumentals that These collaborations include Jordan you don’t typically hear a slow drum Ward, an up-and-coming R&B artist beat paired with a saxophone in the Ajania Thaxton
background in the genre. The fourth track, “Luv N Devotion,” is a groovy song with a reggae rhythm and an infectiously catchy chorus. The song deals with themes of love and commitment to a partner, and Conrad’s heartfelt delivery of his lyrics give the listeners something to dance to and vibe with. The fifth track, “Tantrum!,” stands out. Its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics about desire and power dynamics in a relationship are heightened by the repetitive drum beat and bass guitar which easily engages listeners. A second part to Conrad’s “Submissive” was released Friday, January 19. In “Submissive 2,” he continues to explore new sounds. For example, in the third song titled “It’s Only You,” Conrad’s use of a synth electronic production paired with the lyrics is what makes this song especially unique. The seventh track of “Submissive,” is “If I Lie,” which switches up the tempo of the guitar from the first verse to the second one. In the first verse, the tempo is at an even pace, then with the chorus. During the second verse, the pace becomes quicker along with the delivery of the lyrics. Conrad’s “Submissive” album is a testament to his creativity. His ability to incorporate various genres within this project could be a model for other R&B artists in the future. Conrad’s blending of multiple genres must activate a conversation about the new genre of R&B. This isn’t to say that the original
R&B sound and genre is “old” or “repetitive” in its themes, lyrics, or production. Trust me, I’m an R&B girl through and through, and with artists from our generation like Destin Conrad, R&B is on its way to redefining itself. With the pulling and mixing of different genres, this could mean a new wave of R&B.
Ruth Brown/The Maroon
There was a buzz in the air that felt immediately palpable during the streetcar ride towards the Central Business District. Accompanied by two friends, I was ready to re-initiate myself into the “parade mentality.” Mardi Gras is still weeks away, but the Chewbacchus parade in the French Quarter offered all the things that make parade season so unleashing: a deluge of liquor, a reverie of cigarettes, a coterie of creative costumes, and that lovely and distinct lack of regard for how foul you’ll feel the next morning. All the sights and sounds of New Orleans and America seemed to coalesce as we got off the streetcar. Immediately, we were greeted - as if wanderers from a far off land - by a demonstration of Black Israelites who had such inspiring posters that read “America will die by fire,” which only helped to warm the festive cockles of my heart and remind me of the “joy” encompassing the entire world, especially where unopposed ethno-states are involved. As we made our way past the demonstration and began our walk down Canal St., we took in the glittering sights of neon testaments to unabashed wealth disparity: where “important” people spend thousands of dollars on luxury goods and fine dining, and the homeless are forced to huddle under balconies and down alleyways for warmth less than a mile away. Oh boy, how I love this time-honored season in New Orleans, even if it hasn’t officially started yet. There were great masses of parade-goers, all lining the streets ready to partake in every ounce of screaming, begging, and pleading their bodies could muster in the cold – hoping to gain those treasured and lovely disposable trinkets that always end up polluting the city’s drainage system. Before all that merriment could begin, however, it was time to settle a matter of greater importance than all else: securing that delicious and sacrosanct icon of bad mistakes made during parade season – a strawberry daiquiri. Journeying through the streets, like Marco Polo following the Silk Road to China, we finally chanced upon an establishment. Our liquor-hungry needs were met, and we were blessed with a decadent daiquiri that made the night feel ever so joyous. While we passed the daiquiri around and made our way back to the parade route, I lit a cigarette in the hopes of staving off the biting and unusual chill of New Orleans in January. After passing Jackson Square and carving our path through crowd after crowd of drunk parade-goers and fashion-minded (in their minds, at least) individuals, we finally found a spot to enjoy Chewbacchus. All manner of sci-fi references, elaborate costumes, floats, throwback music, exotic dancing, and general pop-culture parading were abound that night. The cold continued to bite viciously, but the warmth of the liquor & cigarettes, the music in the air, the friendly faces surrounding me, and the pounding corporeal energy of the event made my blood run hotter than it has in a while. This is just what Krewe of Chewbacchus had in store, so with Mardi Gras right around the corner, I might just be in heaven.
EDITORIAL
Jan. 26, 2024 THE MAROON
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HOWLS & GROWLS HOWL to Lily Gladstone GROWL to Starbucks HOWL to the 1st issue of the semester GROWL to The Academy HOWL to Wonka GROWL to Wonka HOWL to the Women's Basketball team GROWL to punctured water beds Grace Knight /The Maroon
Loyola students deserve diversity in programming
EDITORIAL BOARD Maleigh Crespo
Editor-in-Chief
Sophia Maxim
Managing Editor for Print
Kloe Witt
Managing Editor for Digital
Daniela Martínez Executive Producer
Programming is the heartbeat of our college experience. Whether it's spotting a flyer on campus or receiving a personal invite, it sparks plans that lead us to build our community and connect with others. It's how we gain new life experiences and expand our perspectives, fostering personal growth throughout our college journey. While Loyola aspires to support this crucial aspect of our college experience, a lingering question remains: do Loyola’s Black students receive fair support in this process? Last year, they didn’t. For the 2022-23 academic year, African and African-American students received minimal university recognition and programming support. Loyola’s official University Programming Board operates within the Student Government Association and aims to curate programming that give students the opportunity to engage with each other and foster a sense of belonging at Loyola, according to HowlConnect. However, other than a themed tote bag and an art gallery showing, UPB didn’t host many events for Black History Month. This placed significant responsibility on Black student organizations, such as Loyola’s Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Black Student Union, and the
Caribbean and African Student Association. These organizations were left to carry the weight of programming for Black students with shoestring budgets and little support from UPB. If UPB strives to develop experiences that meet the needs of Loyola students, where is that pursuit when curating experiences centered around Black culture? As stewards of the student body, SGA should ensure UPB allocations fund minority-focused programming. However, blame cannot solely be placed on student administration but on the larger administrative body of Loyola for fostering a community that turns a blind eye to the lack of attention given to our students' cultural awareness. Since the beginning of the 2023-2024 academic year, Loyola’s vice president of equity and inclusion position has been left unfulfilled, leaving our university without guidance on the best tactics to support our Black students, as well as students of color. This makes the search more imminent to find a vice president of equity and inclusion – ideally, one who influences and shifts the outcome of programming to embrace all cultures. UPB initiatives receive $36,000 of SGA’s $129,800 total budget, which is directly funded by student tuition and fees. Why isn’t this money being used to fund
Angry? Annoyed? Just chatty? Write a letter to the editor letter@loyno.edu
Black programming initiatives? Thus far in the academic year, UPB’s programming has consisted of their typical Wolf Pack Wednesdays and a mix of various trivial events like “Trap Bingo,” “Midnight Madness,” and “Brunch and Paint.” No programming tailored to Black History Month for spring 2024 has been announced yet. Meanwhile, many of the Black student organizations who are preparing for “Black Excellence Week'' to celebrate Black and Brown culture on campus, have begun announcing activities and events for students to look forward to. Still, there’s a chance that UPB could leverage its resources to support Black student organizations and celebrate them for a change. Looking ahead, the university and the entities working under its umbrella have to prioritize the planning and funding of our students’ cultural education. Students should be able to leave Loyola with more than a community partially connected through Wolf Pack Wednesdays and Third Fridays. We deserve a community woven together through intentional, inclusive programming, leaders that execute programs to support this, and students ready to share their cultural awareness beyond the confines of Loyola.
Quote of the week
"I don't understand why they won't use the money they clearly have to fix what we already have instead of building new things."
- Lucy Rhoades, public health freshman on construction
Dajah Saul
Wolf Editor
Taylor Falgout
Chief Visual Artist Wolf Creative Director
Zach Cesarini
Design Chief
Laci Barrow
Photo Editor
Tanesha Taylor
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Elinor Upham
News Editor
Maria DiFelice
Breaking News Editor
Eloise Pickering Mia Oliva
Worldview Editor Life and Times Editor
Jacob L'Hommedieu Lizzy Hadley
Sports Editor Op/Ed Editor
June Fernandez
Reviews Editor
Greer Jines & Grace Knight
Comics Editor
Max Schweikarth & Kira Phillips
Puzzles Editor
Ecoi Lewis & Pharrell Every
Senior Staff Writer
Sunny Bedford
Senior Staff Photographer
Ruth Brown
Senior Staff Illustrator
Heather Rabassa & Violet Bucaro
Copy Editor
EDITORIAL POLICY The editorial on this page represents the majority opinions of The Maroon’s editorial board and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Loyola University. Letters and columns reflect the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of The Maroon’s editorial board. The Maroon does not represent the opinion of administration, staff and/or faculty members of Loyola. Letters are subject to editing for length, grammar and style. Please limit submissions to 400 words. Submissions are due no later than 4 p.m. the Sunday before publication. Please send all submissions — The Maroon, 6363 St. Charles Ave., Box 64, New Orleans, LA 70118. Email us your letters — letter@ loyno.edu. Submissions may also be made online at www. loyolamaroon.com.
THE MAROON
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Jan. 26, 2024