What's Going On was the 11th studio album by soul singer and producer Marvin Gaye, which was released on May 21, 1971. “What’s Going On” is Gaye’s most iconic album, but his other notable and well-known albums include Let’s Get It On and I Want You,” which are highly regarded for Gaye's changing and experimental production and his four octave vocal style.

The album conveys themes of poverty, environmental issues, police brutality, and racism. The album also protests against the Vietnam War, after his brother, Frankie Gaye, returned from service and told Gaye what he saw and what happened during his time in Vietnam.

Gaye’s album stands out both in terms of protesting due to Gaye’s approach of a soft-sounding and unique record with such tragic topics, and musically, as it developed the idea of having a socially aware point of view in not just soul music but music of all genres.

What's Going On is the album's first single, which was released and appears as the first song on the album. The self-titled track was a smash hit, with it being the number two single on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1971. This song was the song that inspired this entire album to be created and was originally composed by Renaldo “Obie” Benson, Al Cleveland, and Gaye, who produced the song himself and released the single on January 21, 1971. The song is inspired by Benson, who witnessed police brutality and asked himself, “What's going on?”

The follow-up singles did just as well and were just as impactful with their introspective and innovative lyrics and their cry for a better nation and world.

For example, Gaye’s second single off the album, “Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology),” addressed the fact that we keep polluting our skies to the point that it's not blue. We are killing animals and birds with radioactivity, we fill our oceans with oil, and we overcrowd our earth. This song is one of the very first songs ever to address environmental issues.

Gaye's third single off the album “Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler),” give an image of what the ghettos of America looked like as Gaye expresses the poor economic position of the nation at the time and his dislike for the fact that the government was funding the space race instead of benefiting the people in the inner cities who thought they needed that money the most. The song explains that many people felt like they had to go into the military during the time of the Vietnam War in order to be able to survive during the economic struggles of the nation. The song also explains the fact that many people felt like they needed to commit crimes to live, which led to what Gaye describes as “trigger-happy policing,” because people, still to this day, are being affected by police brutality.

From these singles and the other tracks on the album, What's Going On, is one of the most impactful albums from the ‘70s as it changed the meaning of what a song could mean and how it could impact listeners from across the world and the nation, and even in today’s world, this album impacts listeners just the same if not more.

Personally, I think this is one of the best albums made for multiple reasons, ranging from the production of each song to the multiple themes that spread across the album, which come together to make a generational album that still impacts listeners to this day.

The Park and Recreation Department of La Porte is holding its fifth annual Downtown Ice Rink this season. The rink is located at the corner of State and Monroe Street by Mucho Mas and offers over 300 pairs of skates for rent in multiple sizes as well as skating lessons, sponsorship opportunities, and occasionally special deals.

It has become a favorite local place.

“We continue to offer our Free Skate Fridays, with admission and skate rental free to the public, as well as Buy One Get One Skate Sundays. The regular fee to skate is just $6 and includes skate rental. The final weekend of the rink will be WinterFest on January 23-25, with free skating all three days,” La Porte Park and Recreation’s superintendent Mark Schreiber said.

The skate rink isn't there specifically for the benefits of skating, however.

“The ice rink provides a fun, healthy activity for residents of all ages to enjoy. Outdoor activity improves physical health and mental wellness while bringing individuals together in a social setting. This is especially important in the winter months when residents tend to isolate more, making them more sedentary and prone to seasonal depression,” Schreiber said.

Those interested in reserving skate times must visit La Porte's Park and Rec website at https://laporteparkandrec.com/​

George Harrison was an English musician, singer, and songwriter most notably known as the lead guitarist of The Beatles. Harrison was often called "the quiet Beatle," as his songwriting took time to catch up with that of John Lennon and Paul McCartney, but by the late 1960s, he had become a one-of-a-kind musician. The hits "Something" and "Here Comes the Sun" featured not only catchy tunes but also the deep feelings that expressed the capability of his work. After the band members split in 1970, Harrison was able to see the positive of the band’s breakup and launch a large batch of songs that he had only partially explored within the band.

In 1970, George Harrison released All Things Must Pass, his first solo album after the breakup of The Beatles. The record is often cited as one of the most successful solo projects of any artist from The Beatles. The album spoke of topics such as spirituality, love, a change in life, and embracing one's fate, reflecting Harrison's perspective during the turning point of his life and career. Not only did the title reflect change and development, but it also resonated with those who followed the end of the world's most famous band.

In terms of sales, the album All Things Must Pass was quite a success. It topped charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom and sold millions worldwide. The impact of the album on the music scene informed the world that Harrison was not only the supporting member of The Beatles, but he was a major artist who could stand on his own. First of all, critics and fans were shocked at how confident and complete the album was, which is usually not the case with a debut solo release.

"My Sweet Lord" is the standout track from All Things Must Pass and became George Harrison's first number one single. Combining gospel and Eastern spirituality elements, the song features repeated chants of "Hallelujah" and "Hare Krishna." In the lyrics, the song portrays Harrison's longing for a meeting with God, no matter the religion or faith. The fusion of a spiritual message with an easy and catchy tune helped it to reach out to a wide audience and thus it became one of the milestone songs in Harrison's career.

“I’d Have You Anytime," the opening song of the album, was written in collaboration with Bob Dylan and presents a mellow, welcoming vibe to the whole record. The song is soft and intimate with concentrated usage of acoustic guitar and serene vocals as opposed to the grand sounds of most tracks. The words describe trust, openness, and emotional connection, all of which can be taken as indications of Harrison inviting the listeners to join him on his solo journey. As the album's first track, it acts as a low but subtle entrance to the themes and mood of All Things Must Pass.

All Things Must Pass can be seen as the landmark of George Harrison's career and a pivotal point in the history of rock music. The record was a representation of Harrison's artistic independence, emotional sensitivity, and spiritual perspective during a turning point for him. Moreover, its commercial success and influence over time were proof of the fact that Harrison's voice was as important as those of his ex-bandmates. The album is still being talked about today and praised for its sincerity, and timeless message that change is inevitable, albeit growth usually ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌follows.

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Each December, students in Mrs. Witulski's American Sign Language classes take part in a project that combines holiday spirit with language learning. Small groups travel throughout the school, visiting classrooms to perform Christmas songs entirely in ASL.

Mrs. Witulski believes that the project offers both expressive and cultural benefits.

“The students pick their own songs, no duplicates within a class,” Witulski said. “They relearn holiday signs from last year and analyze their songs for meanings that could be signed differently in ASL.”

A large part of the project involves translating English lyrics into ASL grammar. This process is more complex than it seems.

“For an English word, there is often more than one sign for the word itself because of the meanings the word expresses,” Mrs. Witulski said. She used bear as an example, as it's one English word with several meanings. “With this, we do not use the sign for the animal BEAR for all meanings.”

Students complete the project in groups of two or three.

“It’s rare for individuals to happen, but it may be due to student absence,” she said. “I tend to go with those students and sign with them so they're not alone.”

Depending on class size, each period can have anywhere from six to 10 groups.

Performances take place across many different classrooms. To organize this, Mrs. Witulski sends out a Google Form so teachers can request a visit.

“They sign up for the dates and times available,” she explained. Students also ask teachers personally if they would like a performance. From there, she builds a schedule and route for each group. “It’s not an easy task… sometimes there’s a last-minute request or classroom change, and I have to adjust.”

Students spend several days preparing their song, both in and out of class. They receive a handout with spaced-out lyrics to mark grammar structure and meaning.

“They practice first without the song playing, and once somewhat confident, they add the music and practice that until they become confident,” Witulski said.

Students may play their song on a Chromebook during their performance, but they are not allowed to sing.

“English and ASL have different grammars and will fight for the superior position of language use when expressed,” she explained.

The project also holds meaningful value for those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.

“Music is accessible,” Witulski said. “Some people may hear the music but not the words, so when signed, they may follow the music or pick up words as it goes. They could also feel the music and watch the signers. It brings awareness of ASL and accessibility to the school environment.”

According to Witulski, staff and teachers consistently respond with enthusiasm.

“They enjoy having the students come in and do the songs,” she said.

Many send her photos afterward, and others stop her in the halls to share how much they appreciated the visit.

“They consistently sign up every year,” she added.

What began as a classroom assignment has become a tradition that many look forward to that celebrates communication, creativity, and inclusivity. With each performance, ASL students share not only holiday cheer but awareness and expressiveness of their language.

The Rage Against The Machine album titled The Battle of Los Angeles came into the market on November 2, 1999, and recently had its 25th anniversary. This album is the third studio album for the band, whose albums include the commercially successful Evil Empire, which contains their most popular song, “Bulls on Parade,” as well as their self-titled debut album, which had hit songs “Killing In The Name,” “Bombtrack,” and “Know Your Enemy.”

Rage Against The Machine consists of a variety of metal genres in their music, including rap metal, alternative metal, and funk metal. The members are vocalist Zack de la Rocha, guitarist Tom Merrelo, bassist Tim Commerford, and drummer Brad Wilk, who, when combined, create a sound filled with rebellion and rage against the common culture of the world.

The album's title, The Battle of Los Angeles, is a reference to a World War II incident from February 1942 when Los Angeles fired over 1,400 anti-aircraft shells into the night sky at what was believed to be an attacking Japanese force, though no enemy aircraft were ever confirmed. The incident was then said to be caused by war hysteria and panic after Pearl Harbor. The title perfectly describes the themes of this album, which are authority, media manipulation, and how the government creates enemies to legitimize military action and increased control. Rage Against The Machine’s music describes their disdain for police brutality, racism, inequality, poverty, government oppression, and corporate power.

The Battle of Los Angeles was produced by Brendan O'Brien, who previously worked with the band on Evil Empire, with the result in a polished yet aggressive sound on this album. Tom Morello's guitar work features his signature experimental techniques, including but not limited to his guitar pickup toggle switching, whammy pedals, and unconventional playing methods that he uses to create sounds resembling DJ scratches and electronic effects. Tim Commerford's bass lines lay out the funk, groovy sound that sets Rage Against The Machine apart from most other metal bands at the time, the same with regard to Brad Wilk's drumming, which drives the songs onward with relentless energy.

"Testify," the opening track of the album, sets the aggressive and politically charged tone that defines The Battle of Los Angeles. The song criticizes media manipulation and how television and news outlets control public perception of political events. Zack de la Rocha takes aim at the way mass media shapes narratives to serve those in power, particularly focusing on how coverage of political candidates and world events is filtered and distorted. The song's title itself is a call to speak truth and bear witness to what's really happening behind the carefully constructed media image. One of the most powerful aspects of the song is how it questions the authenticity of what we see on our screens, with de la Rocha explaining to think critically about the information they consume rather than passively accepting the common story. The track's energy, driven by Morello's distinctive guitar work and the band's signature heavy sound, mirrors the urgency of its message about seeking the truth of what you hear.

The second track on the album “Guerrilla Radio” was written when George W. Bush and Al Gore were in the 2000 presidential election, and about how the media wrote about both of the candidates. Even though both candidates had their own opinions about things such as climate change or tax policies, many felt that they both had the same objective of increasing military spending, and with this song, Zack de la Rocha expresses that he wants none of what the candidates are offering. Zack de la Rocha also says in the song that he feels as though we use our power as a country to get rich by exploiting smaller, poorer countries and then making sure it doesn't spread through to the media. For example, the line “More for Gore or the son of a drug lord” refers to an allegation that while George Bush Sr. was president, the CIA was supplying drugs to inner city areas.

Another song from this album, and my personal favorite, is "Mic Check." Instead of talking about a particular subject like "Guerrilla Radio," it raps about the common themes found in '90s rap back then, like spelling names/letters out. However, Zack de la Rocha makes sure that this song hits just as much as everything else on the album. I really like this one verse in the song where he asks the question of who really has power and compares each answer to different people and things. "With this mic device I spit nonfiction, “Who got tha power?” this be my question. Tha mass of tha few in this torn nation? Tha priest tha book or tha congregation? Tha politricks who rob and hold down your zone? Or those who give tha thieves tha key to their homes?"

25 years later, The Battle of Los Angeles stands as it did in 1999-more relevant, more able to deliver a punch. Critiques on media manipulation, corporate power, and government oppression are as true as ever in today's world, wherein so much of public debate revolves around fake news, wealth inequality, and military interventions. Few have matched the dynamic yet critical significance where aggressive musical creativity combines with political messaging.

The Battle of Los Angeles stands as a reminder of the power of music as a form of protest and social commentary. While the specific political figures and events referenced in the album may have changed, the systems of power that the band rages against could still be found. This is what makes the album essential listening, not just for fans of rap metal or alternative music but for anyone who believes that music is an art that can challenge and inspire change.

La Porte High School’s lacrosse team is having a comeback, former Slicer Nick led by Mr. Korell.

Korell felt frustrated over the fact that LPHS was not able to have a team last year, which could have made a gap year for students who wanted to play. The Slicers were not able to field enough players for a team

“To see the program fold last year was heartbreaking because it meant this generation of Slicers would not have the same opportunities I had. I am incredibly honored and grateful to be able to bring the program back,” Korell said.

When asked, Korell could not emphasize enough how much not just the team this year, but lacrosse as a whole means to him from the connections he has made with others.

“As an alum, this program means the world to me. Being able to play for my high school allowed me to meet players and coaches from all over the state and go on to play at Purdue, which led to tons of professional opportunities in the industry and coaching after college,” Korell said.

Korell is accompanied by his coaching partner, Tim Walsh, and their vision for the season is significant.

“I have a talented coaching partner and a dedicated board with some big dreams for the future, so we hope never to see another decline in membership or performance.“

With this passion, Korell is confident in having enough players for a team

“We have received a good amount of engagement with starting the program back up. We have about 18 students looking to play in the spring and are accepting as many as we can!” Korell said.

Korell emphasised that while he understands lacrosse gear could start to be expensive, this will not affect new students in any way when starting up, and he will help in any way he can.

“Lacrosse is an expensive sport, so we are working on gear programs and fundraising to lower costs for prospective players. We will not turn a player away for cost issues. We are absolutely committed to ensuring that anyone who wants to play for our program will be able to.”

If students have even just a small interest in playing in our school's lacrosse program, please contact Mr. Korell from his email at nickkorell20@gmail.com or his phone number at (219) 851-3461.

Thebe Neruda Kgositsile, or Earl Sweatshirt as he is popularly known, is a rapper and a hip-hop icon who is famous for his distinct music and lyrics. Earl Sweatshirt was in the spotlight during the 2010s when he became a part of the hip-hop group Odd Future, which had members such as Frank Ocean, Tyler, the Creator, and Domo Genesis, who are all successful and highly regarded in the music industry.

His albums Doris, Some Rap Songs, and Live, Laugh, Love, his latest album, which was released this year, are some of his most recognizable albums among fans.

His debut studio album titled Doris, released on August 20, 2013, was extremely successful and has become one of his most recognized works. Among those who appeared on the album are Domo Genesis on “20 Wave Caps” and “Knight,” Frank Ocean on “Sunday,” “Whoa,” and “Sasquatch” with Tyler, the Creator, “Guild” with Mac Miller, RZA on “Molasses,” and even Pharrell Williams with his duo with Chad Hugo, The Neptunes, producing the song “Burgundy” and having Williams’s signature four count-in producer tag.

Doris has themes of growing up, self-awareness, and his general life and relationships with friends and family. My personal favorite off this album is “Chum,” which is a song that discusses the abandonment of his father when he was six and how it affects him constantly. The first verse of the song starts with, “It's probably been 12 years since my father left, left me fatherless, and I just used to say I hate him in dishonest jest. When honestly, I miss him like when I was six, and every time I got the chance to say it, I would swallow it.” Doris is overall a collection of songs that tell stories about his relationship with his friends and family, with some good, some bad, but also talks about his experiences in Odd Future, getting into trouble, and skateboarding.

After the breakup of Odd Future, the death of his absent father, and his struggles with substance abuse and depression, Earl Sweatshirt made his album Some Rap Songs, one of his, if not his best, albums. This album is almost a complete 180 in terms of instrumentals compared to Doris, with the main genres of this album being abstract and experimental hip-hop, and with some drumless hip-hop influence. With the change of instrumental direction, Earl Sweatshirt makes it up with his lyrics throughout the album.

On the album opener “Shattered Dreams,” Earl asks, “Why ain't nobody tell me I was bleedin'? Please, nobody pinch me out this dream,” showing his state of emotional numbness and dissociation following his father's death. The lyrics of this track are more abstract than the direct narrative storytelling of "Chum" from Doris, which depicts the sorrow and mental condition of Earl during this time. The whole album gives the image of Earl Sweatshirt's brain, and his way of communicating is in work with the lo-fi, sample-heavy production to form one of the most intimate and experimental works in his portfolio. Some consider this album to be the best because of the way he handles not only the music but also the lyrics.

Earl's newest release, Live, Laugh, Love, came out on August 22, 2025, and can be seen almost as a continuation of Some Rap Songs, just with a more cheerful disposition in the lyrics, addressing topics like his children, his wife, his age, his faith, and silly things like playing basketball or even baking. The album's production, mainly by Earl Sweatshirt with input from producers Black Noise, Child Actor, and Navy Blue, carries on the lo-fi, sample-heavy vibe of Some Rap Songs but with a cozier and friendlier sound that works together with Earl's lyrical transition from his new mindfulness.

Songs like “TOURMALINE” are stories of his family life, as he hints that his partner is the one who keeps him sane for the sake of his family, while the album's first track, “gsw vs sac,” is a reminder to those small things that one can enjoy, like watching basketball. The album name is a double entendre, poking fun at empty motivational phrases and a reflection of Earl's happiness with being a father and happily living with family. Live, Laugh, Love, which is a little over 24 minutes long, demonstrates that Earl can express through music a significant emotional experience without losing his experimental nature.

Out of all the reflections I have on Earl Sweatshirt as an artist, there are two main things and qualities that I personally love. Firstly, I am a fan of the fact that he was only 16 years old when he became a member of Odd Future, one of the youngest yet one of the most talented members of the group at that time. His way of delivery and rhyming is something that I have not seen any other rapper do as well as he does, and he definitely deserves the title of one of the best modern hip-hop artists.

Pioneer Days

Pioneer Days will be held on the 27th and the 28th at Creek Ridge County Park.

The event offers historical demonstrations such as wagon rides, food from ham and beans to applebutter, and even food trucks such as Cool Runnings and Day Dreams & Ice Cream Inc., and crafts such as soap making and candle dipping, where stations show and demonstrate how European settlers lived during the expansion westward.

“Pioneer Days is a great opportunity to come enjoy the park while joining the community in a little reminiscing about the simple life,” explained Lacie Baker, a worker of the parks department.

Parking is free; however, there is an entry fee of two dollars per person charged at the front gate when you come by car, foot, or bicycle.

The history of the event is an interesting one.

“The idea for Pioneer Days came to LaPorte County Parks through Dick Reel, the founder of Pioneerland at the fairgrounds, when he was active with the park board,” Baker said.

Baker said that Reel had a passion for the past and that they are honored to continue his legacy.