Reservation Dogs
William D. Tallackson
Most of us have that one TV show that we adore and cherish. It is the show that has us sitting on the edge of the couch alongside a box of tissues, fully engaged in its breathtaking story with rich characters and impressive direction and writing. We may cry or laugh, and we may even feel a bit angry or upset. Regardless, it is the one TV show that makes us rethink about the world we live in.
For me, that one show is Hulu’s heartfelt comedy-drama Reservation Dogs.
Co-created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, Reservation Dogs captures the lives of four Indigenous teenagers (the Rez Dogs) living on a reservation in Oklahoma. They spend each day committing crimes and hanging out, hoping to earn enough money to leave their reservation community behind and travel to California.
The four Rez Dogs: Elora, the responsible mama bear (Devery Jobs); Bear, the rebellious and impromptu leader (D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai); Cheese, the wise old soul who provides wise insight (Lane Factor); Willie Jack, the foul-mouthed tomboy that doesn’t let anything stand in her way, grieve over the death of their friend Daniel who died a year before the first episode and navigate their loss through humor and denial.
Throughout its three brilliant---with the series finale airing back in September---Reservation Dogs has rightfully received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike by breaking barriers of Indigenous stereotypes and caricatures to engrave a culturally rich story. It has made television history by having an entire crew of Indigenous writers and directors and featuring most of an Indigenous cast.
Making history allows Reservation Dogs to deal with important Indigenous and cultural themes and issues sincerely and respectfully. By showcasing the history and traditions of Indigenous people, this show creates an authentic representation of them that is both heartfelt and honest.
The first two seasons deal with grief and loss through the Rez Dogs. As they grieve over Daniel, their friendship becomes strained due to the scars they still carry. Jacobs and Alexis give breathtaking performances as Elora and Willie Jack, respectively, were the closest to Daniel and showcase their anger and scars through emotional scenes. One scene, in particular, allows Alexis to pour her heart and soul into Willie Jack by showcasing her grief and anger to Daniel's mother (Oscar-nominated Lily Gladstone), and both of them give powerhouse performances that deserve all the accolades available.
The third season expands beyond the Rez Dogs to focus on the elders, parents, and people on the reservation to handle the themes of community and identity that affect Indigenous issues. We dive into these side characters who have impacted the four Rez Dogs in some way and witness them embrace their identities as Indigenous people while also learning about their own stories.
Telling their stories allows Reservation Dogs to address the horrors of the American Indian boarding school system in a gutwrenching episode that made me upset, angry, and horrified, but, difficult subject matters like this need to be told. The show delivers this with painfully excellent direction and filmmaking, making that 30-minute episode burned in my mind forever.
But don't worry, Reservation Dogs isn't a three-season-long soapbox. It mixes tackling issues with absurd humor, wisecrack jokes, and heartfelt moments throughout the story. Multiple scenes have Bear see recurring visions of a spirit who died at the Battle of Little Bighorn and is on his horse, which changes every episode and attempts to give Bear life advice while making crude humor.
What makes Reservation Dogs excellent is its ability to portray accurate friendships. The four Rez Dogs have bumps in the road, but their connection brings them together closer as a family. They rely on each other. It brings a heartfelt authenticity that we don't see in other teen television shows such as Euphoria.
Reservation Dogs is one of the greatest shows television has to offer, and an amazing journey awaits on Hulu to binge. Even though Reservation Dogs ended its swan song early, it rightfully rocked out into the sunset to make history.
Student Apprentices Hit The Right Notes
By William D. Tallackson
La Porte County Symphony Orchestra (LCSO) gives six high school band and orchestra students the chance to become student apprentices by rehearsing alongside experienced musicians during rehearsals and performing with them in actual concerts. Out of the six students, four are active members of LaPorte High School’s music program: Zach Kabacinski (senior) on trumpet, Vada Albin (senior) on oboe, Felix Goff (junior) on percussion and Ava Godwin (sophomore) on French horn.
To be chosen as a student apprentice, students had to go through an online audition in front of LCSO conductor Dr. Carolyn Watson. They had to play an Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) Group One solo and all their major scales by memory. After each audition, they answered questions about themselves and how their musical experiences have shaped them. Then, students waited a week before receiving an email confirmation informing them whether they were selected.
“I was shocked when I opened my email to an invitation to play as an apprentice for this season! I was so excited, I told the other students to check their emails, and I texted my parents right away,” Albin said.
After being accepted, student apprentices are invited to play in four to five concerts during the season. If student apprentices choose to perform in a concert, they receive their symphony music two weeks before rehearsals. All four students are immensely dedicated to preparing for rehearsals. They spend countless hours a week going through the music, learning the notes and rhythms, practicing difficult spots in their music, and listening to the other parts to perfect their musicianship skills to ensure they are ready for the rehearsals. The actual symphony rehearsals to prepare for the concerts are held a couple of times a week before the concert, the night before, and a dress rehearsal on the day of each concert.
“Rehearsals are a really great time because I get to grow as a musician and a person,” Kabacinski said. “I’ve met a lot of really nice and helpful members of the LCSO who are always willing to help me get better at my instrument and playing in an ensemble. The sense of community that the LCSO has is also really great. During rehearsals, we are really productive and create great music while having an amazing, enjoyable time together.”
On the day of the concerts, the four students conquer their nerves, relax mentally and emotionally, and focus on their music one last time before each performance. In the concert, students are dressed in tuxes and gowns and showcase their talents in the spotlight by pouring their hearts and souls into the music and the performance. After the concerts, students can reflect on their growth throughout the season.
“I’ve learned a lot from performing with professional adult musicians. It helped me get over a lot of nerves of performing at a level I never had before, and it also showed me what it’s like to perform under a very professional environment,” Goff said.
All four student apprentices exemplify the qualities of being a LaPorte Slicer band member: commitment, dedication, and hard work. They bravely showcase their talent to the world, making a difference not only in their lives but also in the music program and the world. The next concert featuring these student apprentices will be on Saturday, February 10th at Holdcraft Performing Arts Center in Michigan City at 7:00 p.m. Visit https://lcso.net/ for more information regarding admission, program, and other important events.
O’Neal inspires learning
Nearly every great teacher possesses three essential qualities: They treat all their students with mutual respect and kindness, build meaningful relationships with them, and create a positive classroom environment to inspire a passion for learning that can make a significant difference in their students’ lives.
Sharita O’Neal, a fourth-grade teacher at Crichfield Elementary, is a perfect example of an educator who embodies these essential qualities. O’Neal inspires her students to develop a lifelong love of learning and equips them with the necessary behavioral and learning skills that will help them transition to the intermediate school and beyond. O’Neal contributes to making Crichfield a better school while also changing the lives of her students, one day at a time.
O’Neal draws on her elementary learning experiences to help her students reach and achieve their fullest potential. She can empathize with students who struggle to understand the content by building their confidence to ask her questions as she works alongside them to facilitate growth for the student's success. To do so, O’Neal creates a positive interactive learning environment that allows students to express themselves in any way possible. She incorporates creative hands-on activities that keep students engaged to help them stay on their learning pathways.
“I had amazing elementary teachers who didn’t allow these insecurities to manifest in me. With so many different personalities, backgrounds, home lives, and differences in general all in one place, it’s important to see and respect each individual,” O’Neal said.
As a La Porte native, O’Neal graduated from LaPorte High School in 2003. She attended three semesters at Purdue Northwest before transferring to Purdue West Lafayette, where she graduated in 2008 with a major in English and a minor in history. During her summers in college, O’Neal helped run childcare for infants and toddlers at Noah’s Ark Preschool. After graduating from college, she worked as a teaching assistant at LaPorte High School for three years. She received a Post-Baccalaureate teaching certification through an online course from Western Governors University in 2013. That year, she secured a job at Crichfield, where she has been for the past 10 years.
“My first year teaching at Crichfield, I cried the week before school. I received a letter in my teacher’s mailbox. When I opened it, it was a letter from my third grade teacher. She was writing to congratulate me! I couldn’t believe it! My eyes welled up because I remembered being in her classroom. And now I was a teacher like her,” O’Neal said.
Outside the classroom, O'Neal operates her baking business, Rita's Premium Bakes, baking homemade treats such as chocolate chip cookies, cupcakes, cakes, and hot chocolate from her home kitchen. At a young age, she started helping her mother in the kitchen and developed a love for baking. She has to balance her business and prepare her curriculum each week to ensure success for her students, making her business a second job.
Whether it is at home or in the classroom, O’Neal’s dedication to changing the lives of her students one day at a time, both academically and socially, is making an impact throughout the community. Crichfield is fortunate to have such a remarkable teacher in its halls every day.
Slicers travel to Costa Rica
Photo from left to right (Taylor Riley (11), Hannah Lewis (11), Christian McGuire (11), Benjamin Lee (11)
By: William D. Tallackson
Over spring break, four LPHS students embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Costa Rica, where they immersed themselves in the local culture, making for an unforgettable experience.
During their eight-day learning experience in Costa Rica, students had the opportunity to participate in various activities. It included visiting a coffee plantation, hiking and kayaking at Arenal Volcano, horseback riding, going on crocodile safari, working at a local wildlife research center for a day, spending time at the beach, and attending a traditionally holy week procession evening in San Jose.
“My favorite part of the trip was meeting groups from all over the world, one from Texas, another from Maryland, and being able to try delicious foods,” junior Christian McGuire said.
The students traveled with their Spanish teacher, Señorita Guzman, through Explorica. Explorica is a travel company that works with teachers to create educational tours that immerse students in new cultures and languages to enhance learning and knowledge.
¨This trip was an opportunity for my students to gain the type of culture from Costa Rica, to appreciate nature, and to observe the way that other countries' resources are compared to ours. And most definitely practice Spanish and learn more of what they know,¨ Guzman said.
To go on the trip, students were required to have standard academic performance and attendance records, as well as required immunizations, passports, and travel identification. Students helped fundraise by selling candy to pay for their expenses. Costa Rica is an experience that these students will be able to cherish forever.
Guzman hopes to travel with her students to South America or Spain in the future, again through Explorica.
"The Color Purple" surprisingly delivers
By William D. Tallackson
When I heard they were making a movie version of the Broadway musical version of The Color Purple, I didn’t hold out much hope for it. As a fan of the Spielberg-directed 1985 Color Purple, I knew it would be impossible for the new adaptation to recreate the same emotional resonance with a powerful message that the original movie told.
But boy, was I wrong. The original movie is still the greatest, but the new Color Purple does deliver. Powerhouse performances, epic encores, strong voices, and breathtaking direction carry the story to new heights.
I had not seen the Broadway version, though the story largely followed the original Color Purple adaptation and Alice Walker’s source material. In the first hour, the story follows the original film closely. Although the movie felt like a contemporary remake, I did admire the music. However, halfway through, The Color Purple diverges from the Spielberg adaptation by embracing Walker’s material to focus on Celie’s journey of self-discovery that transcends into a unique narrative.
Unlike some Broadway musical adaptions of motion pictures that fail, The Color Purple uses music to its advantage. Beautifully written lyrics help alleviate the characters' struggles and regrets through the power of dance and rhythm, with the help of masterclass acting performances through Fantasia Barrino-Taylor and Danielle Brooks in the roles of Celie and Sofia, respectively.
Barrino-Taylor, a former American Idol winner, showcases her powerful voice to deliver a jaw-dropping performance in the lead role of Celie. Barrino-Taylor masterfully incorporates Celie’s regrets and scars through her voice. Her magical rendition of “I’m Here” is the breakout moment of the film, transforming greatness into something exceptional. Brooks takes us on a journey by successfully capturing Sofia’s pain and rage through immaculate facial expressions through her powerful range, giving a breathtaking performance worthy of an Oscar nomination.
All credit goes to the brilliant director Blitz Bazawule, who effortlessly positions the film on the actors’ facial expressions to capture the realism and sensibility of their characters’ actions. He gives full attention to every little detail that can make the story fresh. He can weave the dancing and rhythm of musical numbers into cohesive storytelling. He incorporates the theme of nature and weather to create dramatic immersion through nicely crafted set designs, well-made costumes that bring color, and effective makeup and hairstyling that all three should be Oscar-nominated.
Spielberg's film will always be the best. However, I must credit the new The Color Purple for exceeding my expectations by giving me the perfect blend of wonder and delight.
Wonka Semi-Charms But Lacks Pure Imagination
Nothing can ever top the 1971 original Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory with Gene Wilder captures a world of pure imagination by telling a story full of magic and wonder.
Wonka proves that nothing can ever top the original film. Directed by Paul King, Wonka can’t decide whether it intends to serve as a prequel and origin story to Willy Wonka or simply just another musical film. Unfortunately, Wonka leans towards the latter. In the first 15 minutes alone, there were already four musical numbers that feature a handful of dance sequences and stylish costumes; however, all of these moments are unmemorable.
Rather than telling a compelling and character-driven origin story, Wonka presents the audience with a half-baked musical extravaganza that lacks the depth of imaginative storytelling that the original film created, which instead becomes a bland and repetitive origin story.
The story of Willy Wonka commences with Timothée Chalamet´s portrayal of the youthful Wonka arriving in an unnamed European city that resembles a blend of London, Paris, and Prague. Wonka sings about his hopes and dreams of becoming the world’s greatest chocolate maker and dances around showcasing his aspiring inventions of magical creations. All of the music distracts the story from its titular character and more on creating a campy musical production.
Instead, the story takes a different turn when Wonka is tricked into signing a contract during an overnight stay at a boarding house that turns out to be a ruse, leading him to become an indentured servant in a basement laundry facility beneath the boarding house. All of this comes out of nowhere, and I was left sitting confused than amazed by Wonka singing his sorrows to his fellow indentured servants- a telemarketer, an accountant, a failed stand-up comedian, and a little girl orphan named Noodle (Calah Lane).
After around 30 minutes, there is a gradual shift in the overall storytelling. The unnecessary singing and dancing start to die down, and Wonka decides to tell a semi-compelling origin story. Wonka begins to charm with its magical performances from Chalamet and Lane, as Wonka and Noodle strike a friendship that transverses into great chemistry between the two actors.
Chalamet doesn’t carry the film as great as Gene Wilder did. Chalamet allows us to glimpse into Wonka’s subtle emotions of despair and regret, able to express sorrow and optimism in one scene, making for a solid performance. However, Lane gives a breakout performance. Lane can make the audience care more about Noodle than Wonka. Noodle cares about Wonka’s dreams and wants to help him reach those dreams. And Lane mixes humor and childlike expressions, and she can carry the whole movie on her back. Lane had a musical moment that was so powerful that it made me reconsider the film's musical aspect.
I must give King credit for his ability to turn Wonka into something partially special. His excellent direction transforms the world of Wonka into incredible production designs, from the basement laundry facility to the architecture and design of the unnamed European city. The movie comes with creative costumes, a great score, and a hilarious cameo from Hugh Grant’s portrayal of an Oompa Loompa. However, I wish I could have seen this earlier, as it would have made for a great movie experience.
Wonka does deliver a sweet and satisfying ending, but it reminds us that nothing can beat the original film, a cinema classic with the pure imagination of a perfect story. Wonka fails to capture the imaginative ideas of the original, which made me leave the theater feeling weary instead of amazed.
LPHS choir adds Friday school spirit
By: William D. Tallackson
LaPorte High School ends every Friday on a high note when the choir performs the school song “Fanfare and Our Old High” over the intercom to welcome in the weekend.
Slicer spirit is in sync from the first note. Their performance is filled with enthusiasm, which ignites excitement throughout the school. Students and teachers display school pride by clapping their hands, singing along, dancing, stomping their feet, cheering, and chanting “S-L-I-C-E-R-S” repeatedly. The mood drastically changes, creating energy that brings a bang to the end of the day.
“I love it. It gets me fired up for the end of the day and the competitions over the weekend. It is exciting, and I always sing along,” English teacher Brenda Cooper said.
At the start of each school year, choir students learn the school song, which they sing every Friday for their vocal warmup routine; however, only Chorale, the top choir class consisting of students from grades 10-12, has the opportunity to sing. Performances are carried out by students in groups of three to five, taking turns weekly.
“It creates a little extra school spirit for the whole school, it definitely gives the choir students school spirit that lasts their whole life,” Choir director Tom Coe said.
The Friday tradition leaves lasting memories, and the choir proves what a Slicer is all about.
Talented Slicers perform at LPHS Variety Show
By William D. Tallackson
LaPorte High School held its annual Variety Show on Friday, March 1st where students and staff bravely showcased their unique talents to a crowd of family, friends, teachers, and the Slicer community cheering them on.
To be in the Variety Show, all performers had to apply and audition in front of the performing arts staff in mid-February, those who planned to sing had to provide backing tracks. After the auditions, they had to wait a few days to find out whether they were selected to perform in the show.
“I felt so grateful to have been given the opportunity to sing a song in my native language, and it turned out to be an enriching experience overall, not only because of having to prepare my act on my own, but also enjoying my amazing friends’ performances. I’m extremely happy with how my performance went, and proud to say I performed at the stage of my American High School,” foreign exchange student and performer Carmen Eguizabal Becerra said.
At the Variety Show, the performing arts staff gave high school students the responsibility of managing backstage technical equipment and other systems to make the show run smoothly. Students were in charge of numerous jobs: operating the soundboards and lighting equipment, pulling the curtain, set changes, ushering, and stage managers, who made everything run according to plan.
The Variety Show was hosted by English teachers Erin Parker and Brenda Cooper, who brought enough energy and enthusiasm to the stage by cheering on the performers and boosting their overall confidence.
“I really love to watch students take the stage and showcase their incredible talents. I am blown away every single year. We have such a talented student body,” Parker said. All pre-admissions from the Variety Show will go towards helping fund the audio equipment and personal costs for the spring musical Little Shop of Horrors.
Variety Show Acts*
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LPHS Jazz Band- “Locked Out Of Heaven”
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Nevaeh Nelson and Anaya Cunningham- “Glue Song”
- LPHS Junior Varsity Dance Team- “Hip Hop Dance”
- Elise Eldridge- “Part Of That World”
- Drew Oss, Ellie Hopper, Molly Cooper, Kaylynn Marshall- “Dentist”
- Mrs. Witulski- “Sound”
- Emilio Gonzalez- “Helmet”
- Mallet Trio (Molly King, Felix Goff, and Elliott Jongkind)- “Back Talk”
- Anna Donnelly- “New York State of Mind”
- Jai Vines- “Chicago”
- Carmen Eguizabal Becerra- “Me Quedo Contigo”
- Hard Copy (Molly King, Ellie Hopper, Ray Lear, Felix Goff, Mazie Huffman)- “ Black Sheep”
- Kaylynn Marshall- “Never Enough”
- Emma-Leigh Sheaks Osborn- “The Bottom of the Lake”
- LPHS Varsity Dance Team- “Kick Routine”
- Mrs. Brown- “Good Morning Baltimore”
- Molly Cooper and Camryn Ruiz- “Take a Hint”
- LPHS Show Choir- “Hernando’s Hideaway”
Kabacinski achieves success at LPHS
By William D. Tallackson
LaPorte High School senior Zach Kabacinski’s passion for music has left a lasting impression on his band teachers and classmates. His unwavering dedication to music has enabled him to succeed, and his talent and hard work have helped elevate the program to new heights. His leadership and talent at LPHS will undoubtedly leave an impact for years to come.
Kabacinski has made valuable contributions to the band program over the last five years. He has participated in a wide range of music extracurricular activities both in and out of school including Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Pit Orchestra, Marching Band, IBA All-District Band, IBA Junior All-State Band, IBA All-State Honors Band, IMEA Honor Band, United Sound; and he was selected to be a Student Apprentice for the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra during his junior and senior years. Additionally, he has performed ISSMA solos every year and played three trumpet and three flugelhorn solos, all of which have received a gold rating.
“Zach has been an integral part of our music department for the last five years, and we will miss him a lot when he graduates,” LPHS Band teacher Joe Clark said.
Kabacinski has dedicated all of his summers to participating in the marching band, which requires rigorous physical training, team-building exercises, musical proficiency, and physiological endurance. He served as a trumpet section leader for two years, demonstrating excellent leadership skills in musicianship and socialization, and he became a role model for many students. These qualities made him the perfect choice for assuming the leadership role of drum major in his senior year. He conducted the band to greatness as they placed 10th at the State marching band competition this season.
“Being drum major this year was a life-changing experience. I’ve further developed leadership skills like communication, integrity, and problem-solving, and I overall feel that I’ve opened up more and found my true self. I also loved being able to build relationships with so many band members, and I am grateful for the times I’ve spent with all of them. Being drum major was extremely rewarding, and I’m so happy that I could inspire others to continue chasing their dreams and passions,” Kabacinski said.
Kabacinski has managed to maintain an excellent academic performance alongside his passion for music. He is an honor student and has held a 4.0 GPA throughout high school. Despite his busy schedule of musical activities, he ensures that he keeps up with his schoolwork and divides his time between music and studies. His hard work has recently paid off as the National Merit Program recognized him for his exceptional performance on the PSAT and SAT exams during the last school year.
“The recognition was rewarding, and I was proud of myself for being able to accomplish that. It does get stressful at times trying to balance music and academics, but I stay disciplined and determined with my work,” Kabacinski said.
After graduating from LPHS, Kabacinski has decided to pursue a career in a field other than music. He is interested in studying fields related to mathematics, physics, and engineering. He is considering becoming a teacher as a profession; he still intends to keep music a hobby that he is passionate about and hopes to continue playing in college and municipal bands. He has also become interested in music composition and hopes to incorporate that as a hobby somehow.
Kabacinski is destined for success in any path he chooses. This is just the beginning of his lifelong journey of achievements and recognition and he will continue to make a difference one note at a time.
Sullivan conducts greatness at LPHS
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By: William Tallackson
Nearly every great teacher possesses three exceptional qualities: treat all their students with mutual respect and kindness, create meaningful relationships with students, and inspire a passion for learning and knowledge that can make a significant difference in their students’ lives.
LaPorte High School Band teacher Matt Sullivan is a perfect example of an educator demonstrating these qualities.
Sullivan inspires his students to appreciate music and goes above and beyond to empathize the positive effects music can have in everyday life. He is the epitome of what a Slicer is all about.
“I love teaching music to help others get to share that feeling as well. Music teaches all of the good things that sports and teams do. Discipline, flexibility, teamwork, it is all improved through learning an instrument,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan understands the importance of creating a positive classroom environment for his students. He achieves this by fostering an atmosphere of positivity and enthusiasm to elevate his students' emotional well-being. He enforces patience when providing individualized attention to help each student improve their playing ability. By doing so, Sullivan instills a sense of self-confidence in his students, which empowers them to push themselves further and reach their full potential.
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Sullivan began music at five, learning piano and singing in a choir at his church. He began playing trombone in sixth grade. He continued playing trombone in high school, participating in numerous musical activities such as concert band, pit orchestra, jazz band, and conducting the school’s production of The Wizard of Oz as a senior while also playing in the Massachusetts Youth Wind Ensemble during his junior and senior years. These experiences inspired him to pursue a career in music education.
Sullivan graduated from Longmeadow High School in 2004 and went on to attend Indiana University (IU), where he majored in Music Education. At IU, he was actively involved in various musical groups such as concert band, jazz band, marching band, pep band, string orchestra, and trombone choir. It was during this time that he met his current wife, who is also a band teacher over at Kesling Campus.
Sullivan taught band at Kesling Middle School for eight years. In 2016, he became the assistant band director at LPHS. This year marks his 17th year as an educator. Sullivan also holds the position of Director of K-12 Music in the LaPorte Community School Corporation, a role he has held for the last four years. In this position, Sullivan is the department chair for music teachers across the corporation, and he is responsible for coordinating schedules, taking inventory, curriculum, and numerous other tasks. Sullivan has to balance tasks of juggling responsibilities as both a band teacher and this position simultaneously.
Sullivan co-teaches three concert bands with Mr. Clark: Concert Band for freshmen, Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble for sophomores to seniors, and Jazz Band. Additionally, Sullivan helps coordinate the United Sound Program, which connects band students with special education students to help them learn to play instruments. Sullivan also assists with marching band and pep band while running the Tri-M Music Honors Society.
“Being a parent has changed a lot about working with students. I have more empathy for both students and parents and try my best to help,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan is making a difference in the lives of his students every day by spreading music and creativity to empower self-confidence and personal growth in his students. LaPorte High School is blessed to have a phenomenal teacher in the halls, changing the world one note at a time.
In The Spotlight
By: William Tallackson
LaPorte High School sophomore Layna Hannon shares her passion for music in her public performances while expressing that music can create a positive impact in life.
Hannon sings and performs at multiple functions and locations throughout the county such as Arts in the Park, The Farmed and Forged Market in La Porte, and Oktoberfest in Michigan City. Hannon occasionally sings on her worship team at State Street Church.
“Performing is one of my favorite things in the world. I feel so free and happy every time I play,” Hannon said.
Hannon’s passion for music began in fourth grade when she joined a children’s choir and learned to play guitar when she received it on her 13th birthday. Her first exposure to a public audience was singing at a middle school pep rally performing “Riptide” by Vance Joy and “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker. Hannon performed alone for the first time last year at Arts in the Park Open Mic Night, singing “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls and “All I Want” by Kodaline. She has been singing ever since.
“Music is my safe space, and I think that it is that way for people. Performing has become a way for me to express myself and have fun, and I think that experiencing music is just a way to have an absolute blast,” Hannon said.
Whenever Hannon performs out in public, she selects music that depends on the venue and on the dynamic of the audience. She copes with her nerves by immersing herself in the music, and she can push through with the support of her family and friends by her side.
“I generally get a lot of positive feedback from my performances. I’ve had a lot of people come up to me after performances and tell me that they were surprised by my performing abilities for someone as young as I am,” Hannon said.
Hannon's passion for music is making an impact in the world, and she is setting an example that people have the power to achieve something if they dare to put themselves in the spotlight.
One cookie at a time: Della Nonna bakes with love
There is always that one person who bakes the most mouth-watering cookies, the cookies we crave the most. The delicious cookies that, whenever we take a bite, we feel like we’re in heaven.
Lynne Budig is that person in the La Porte community.
She runs her own business, Della Nonna’s Cookies, out of her home kitchen. Her great sugar cookies and other plentiful desserts, such as her grandmother's Italian cookies, brownies, lemon bars, white chocolate raspberry bars, chocolate delights, snickerdoodles, and whoopie pies have filled the mouths of delicious customers since 2009.
“One of the biggest reactions I get is that people say, ‘I never liked sugar cookies until I tried your cookies.’ Another reaction I get is that ‘Your cookies have so much flavor,’” Budig said.
Budig is originally from Chicago, but moved to Palos Hills, IL., in second grade. As a child, she grew up in an Italian family where she helped in the kitchen to prepare meals beginning at an early age. Her grandmother taught her and her family the fundamentals of cooking and baking, instilling a lifelong appreciation for baking.
“We had so much fun baking with her. Baking takes patience, and she always told me I had a special gift. I watched and listened as she showed us how to do each step when making her cookies. I really loved baking with her, my sisters and my cousins,” Budig said.
Instead of attending culinary school and pursuing a career as a full-time baker, Budig became a wife and mother. The family moved to La Porte after her husband received a job offer. She worked various jobs, including managing a flower shop, a full-time classroom assistant, and a substitute teacher before opening Della Nonna’s Cookies in 2009.
“Deciding on a name was tough at first… but in the end, I really wanted a name that paid tribute to my grandmother, since it was her who taught me everything I know. In Italian, the name for grandmother is Nonna. Della Nonna’s means ‘of the grandmother’ in Italian. I thought that was perfect! She loved it as well and was so proud of me and honored by it,” Budig said.
Budig began operating Della Nonna’s Cookies in her girlfriend's husband’s kitchen at his restaurant, where she sold her cookies at private events and parties. As demand for her cookies grew, she considered opening up a bakery; however, she later decided to operate her business from home after realizing the challenges of running a bakery. Before she could start baking, she had to ensure that her kitchen met all the requirements for a licensed home kitchen.
“Looking back on that decision, I am so glad I decided to do that. I will be celebrating my 15-year anniversary on Oct. 9,” Budig said.
By operating Della Nonna’s Cookies out of her home kitchen, Budig can bake her cookies all year round. It requires a tight schedule, preparing the night before and waking up around 4:30 every morning to begin her baking process and organize her supplies for that day. She ensures that her kitchen is a clean working environment to prevent cross-contamination while also meeting health code requirements.
Customer service is essential to her business as she ensures a smooth process by keeping track of her orders and categorizing them by dates and times. Having her orders already prepaid makes her financial records efficient for tax days.
“It gives me so much flexibility with regard to my schedule. I am able to bake at all hours of the day if needed. I can close the door and make cookie deliveries if necessary and then come back home and start working again. It all allows me time when I am slow to do things with my family,” Budig said.
To publicize her business, Budig is active on social media by promoting events and posting her decorated cookies on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. She also gives back to the community through the New Day Foundation, an organization that helps families with cancer, by selling their cookies at the events. She also sells cookies at La Porte County Symphony Orchestra concerts and donates to schools for their fundraiser events.
“Giving back has such a positive ripple effect. It makes me happy. It makes them happy. And hopefully, it makes a positive impact on our community,” Budig said.
By sharing her delicious cookies and treats with the La Porte community to enjoy and savor, Budig is also inspiring others who hope to pursue baking or want to run a business by making one cookie at a time.
Anyone wanting to order some of her delicious cookies can call Lynne Budig at (219) 871-9262 on Mondays-Sundays from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. All orders are freshly made and can be picked up at Lynne’s home address at 4422 N. Vintage Hills Trail, La Porte, IN.
Remembering Matthew Perry (1969-2023)
By: William D. Tallackson
Actor Matthew Perry, known for his role as Chandler on the NBC sitcom Friends, was found dead at his Los Angeles home on October 28. He was 54.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) doesn’t suspect foul play was involved, and no drugs were found on the scene. No official autopsy has yet to be released.
Perry gained worldwide recognition and received numerous nominations and accolades for his portrayal as the affable, sarcastic, insecure Chandler Bing on all ten seasons of Friends. Chandler became a fan favorite due to his comedic appeal, sarcastic personality, insecureness, kind nature, and reliability, resonating with audiences and fans alike.
Tributes poured in across social media after his passing, which included multiple celebrities, his fellow co-stars on Friends, and fans giving their condolences online. Friends creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane released a joint statement mourning his loss and paying tribute to his brilliant talent that captivated audiences.
Born in Massachusetts and raised in Canada, Perry was open about his struggle with alcohol addiction and substance abuse and became an advocate for rehabilitation and drug prevention. He released the bestselling memoir Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing last year and previously appeared on the long-awaited Friends: The Reunion special back in 2021.
Perry is survived by his parents, stepdad, and five siblings. A private funeral ceremony was held.
Creating her story
By William D. Tallackson
English teacher Jenna Johnson empowers her students on the importance of reading and writing while spreading her passion for storytelling, making her a valuable addition to the Slicer community.
Johnson currently teaches English Literature for seniors, AP Language and Composition for juniors, and English 10. She has been a Slicer for five years.
“I believe that we are innovative and generous hard workers who are proud of our unique name. I’m proud to be a Slicer and add my contribution to our community through my own labor as a teacher,” Johnson said.
Born and raised in Chesterton, Johnson grew up in a household of high school English teachers. Her parents exposed her to Shakespeare at a young age, which had a prominent impact on her life. She spent her childhood reading different Shakespearean works, writing poetry, and attending plays with her family. She started acting in Shakespearean productions at the age of eight and had the chance to take Shakespearean acting lessons from expert actors in Canada during high school.
“We are a close family, and all believe that the power of storytelling can change lives for the better. I always knew that I wanted to incorporate storytelling in my life somehow,” Johnson said.
Graduating from Chesterton High School in 2005, Johnson attended three colleges. She completed her undergraduate studies at Valparaiso University and earned degrees in English, Theatre, Japanese Studies, and Humanities. She also holds a masters degree in Theatre History, Theory, and Literature from Indiana University and completed her teaching degree at Indiana Wesleyan.
Before joining the LPHS family, Johnson taught theater and acting classes at Chicago Street Theatre in Valparaiso for elementary and middle school students. She coordinated the Christ College Debates at Valpo for college freshmen.
“As a teacher, I have the opportunity to teach others how to appreciate storytelling and communication so that they can find ways to incorporate it into their own lives as well,” Johnson said.
Johnson creates a positive learning space for students to express themselves clearly through conversation and writing along with acknowledging the importance of reading has on a student’s life. She spends time at the beginning of the year to create a classroom culture that allows everyone to appreciate their knowledge and achievements. She empathizes with the importance of engaging in conversations with all her students at the beginning of each class, initiating communication and book discussions while observing the classroom climate on that particular day. Whenever the classroom environment is down, she participates in sing-alongs with her students, uplifting their spirits and bringing them joy.
“She is a bundle of energy, very kind, and actually cares about her students. Whenever someone is having a bad day, she sings in class to make them feel better,” junior Elliott Rozinski said.
Johnson is making an impact in this world by spreading positivity and empowering students about the power of storytelling, proving what a Slicer is all about.
LPHS debate team places well at Valpo
By: William Tallackson
The LPHS Debate Team had a strong showing while competing last Saturday at Valparaiso High School.
Many students performed well in their respective debating chambers. Among them were senior Ariyana Nelson, who placed first, and freshman Allison Little, who placed second. Both students and a majority of the team were debating for the first time, and many earned fourth and fifth place finishes.
“Our debate team last year had only 12 students. This year, we have tripled our number and have 36 active debaters,” LaPorte High School debate coach Edward Lake said.
The debate team participated in Congressional Debates, in which students mimicked members of Congress and debated over laws and bills. Judges evaluated students on clarity, quality of research, argumentation skills, and demonstrating good communication through asking and answering questions.
Their next debate competition will be at Bethany Christian High School on October 14th.
Mount counts
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LaPorte High School math teacher Jennifer Mount shares her vast knowledge and a lifelong passion for math with her students, and she enables them to develop problem-solving skills and appreciation that place them on a path toward success.
She embodies the qualities of a true LaPorte Slicer and educator.
“Being a LaPorte Slicer means being kind, passionate, helpful, and showing school spirit,” Mount said.
For 38 years, Mount has worked at LaPorte and has taught everything from Algebra l to Pre-Calculus. She is currently teaching Honors Pre-Calculus and Trigonometry and on-level Algebra ll.
Mount expects all of her students to take ownership of their learning pathways. She believes her students should be responsible for developing effective study habits and efficient work ethics to stay on track with the material and prepare for incoming content by reading ahead. By enforcing this, Mount hopes her students will ask questions to understand the material to succeed in her class.
“I want my students to think through things logically step-by-step. You may not use this particular math in life, but being able to go step-by-step and take an answer and work backward is an important step in thinking logically,” Mount said.
Mount attended Ball State University and majored in Mathematics Education while minoring in Psychology. During her first two years of college, she tried out five different majors: Med Tech, Pre-Med, Musical Performance, Musical Therapy, and Physical Therapy. While still in college, she began tutoring people in math and discovered her true passion was helping others. Consequently, she decided to pursue a major in Mathematics Education.
“With the tutoring and the practicing, I found I was able to communicate very well, and I might have a hard time in some regular conversations, but when it comes to math, I know math and know how to communicate about it,” Mount said.
In her free time outside school, Mount showcases her musical talent by playing viola for the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra (LCSO). She enjoys golfing, hiking, spending time with her family, traveling around the country, working on puzzles, and completing various crossword puzzles and Wordles.
Whether it is outside or in the classroom, Mount’s dedication to sharing her knowledge and passion is changing the lives of her students, one equation at a time.
AP exams kick off
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LaPorte High School will begin administering AP exams to students starting Monday. May 6.
Exams will be in the Small Gym, except for AP Calculus BC and AP Spanish and Culture, which are in Schultze Hall. Most exams will range from three to four hours.
Students should bring the required materials to their exams–sharpened pencils, pens, and a calculator if necessary. Students are mandated to leave all cellular devices (phones, smart watches, earbuds) in their lockers to prevent any distractions.
Fortunately, the state of Indiana automatically covers AP exams for English, math, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Environmental Science; however, other AP exams do require a fee of $98.
Many AP classes have been preparing for their exams. Students are utilizing resources on AP Classroom, diving into the Princeton Review, and teachers are giving mock exams that mirror the structure of the tests, making students feel ready on test day.
“From very early on in the year, we have utilized previous questions on AP classroom available for each of the units, and the tests starting way back at unit one have free response and multiple choice questions in the style that will reflect what will be on the test, so students have a lot of exposure,” AP Biology teacher Stephanie Ruff said.
Starting at the beginning of July, students can view their exam scores on “My AP” in College Board. Students will receive scores ranging from one to five, with five being the highest. An AP score of five is equivalent to earning an “A” in a college-level course, with four being a “B” and three a “C”. Scores three and higher are considered qualifying; however, most colleges in Indiana will only give college credit to scores four and higher.
The Slicer Family wishes the best of luck to any student taking their exams in the coming weeks.
Date/Time Test
Monday, May 6- Noon / AP Chemistry
Tuesday, May 7- Noon / AP Seminar
Wednesday, May 8- 8 a.m. / AP English Literature and Comp
Thursday, May 9- 8 a.m. / AP Environmental Science
Thursday, May 9- Noon / AP Psychology
Friday, May 10- 8 a.m. / AP US History
Monday, May 13 - 8 a.m. AP Calculus AB
Monday, May 13 - 8 a.m. / AP Calculus BC (Schultze Hall)
Tuesday, May 14 - 8 a.m. / AP English Language and Composition
Wednesday, May 15 - 8 a.m. / AP World History Modern
Thursday, May 16- 8 a.m. / AP Spanish Language and Culture (Schultze Hall)
Thursday, May 16- Noon / AP Biology