Over the summer, my friends and I walked into the Yellow Deli, which looked almost like a tavern out of a video game. It was nearly all wood and yellow. College students were studying, and the vibe was immaculate. We didn't find out until much later that we drank the juice, literally. The Yellow Deli is ran by a cult known as the 12 tribes. 

The 12 Tribes, a Christian fundamentalism cult that has been accused of child abuse, child labor, and racism, was founded in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1972. To understand the full extent of this cult, one has to go back to its origins. Originally, a ministry named the Light Brigade opened a coffee shop, The Lighthouse, which eventually became the Yellow Deli. The coffee shop was in the home of Gene Spriggs and Marsha, his wife. 

Soon, the Light Brigade started to live communally with each other. The majority of members attended different churches within the community before they all affiliated with First Presbyterian Church. This was before the fall out around the Super Bowl. Yes, there was a fallout over the Super Bowl. During the 1975 Super Bowl, the group arrived at the church only to be informed that services had been canceled due to the event. This led the group to open their church named ¨Vine Christian Community Church.” 

The soon-to-be cult opened many ¨churches¨ and restaurants in states such as Georgia and Alabama. They withdrew from the mainstream religion of the area, appointed elders, started baptisms, and held services without authority. They started to celebrate Saturday as the sabbath and followed many Jewish customs."The Parents Committee to Free Our Children from the Children of God" and "Citizens Freedom Foundation" described the church as a cult and Spriggs as a cult leader. 

In 1976, deprogrammer Ted Patrick started a series of deprogrammings to convince members of the 12 Tribes to leave the cult. The bad press and deprogramming of their members led to the decline of their current homes and movement to Vermont. After the movement to Vermont, the cult expanded to many different countries, including Brazil, Spain, and Germany. Eventually, the name changed from the "Vine Church" to "The 12 Tribes.”  It stemmed from the fact that the cult wanted over 12,000 members and 12 international tribes to restore the original 12 Tribes of Israel before they could sacrifice the 144,000 male virgins to bring about the second coming of Jesus Christ.

Having background information on the cult just makes them seem as if they are just a bunch of Christian hippies, but they are far more than that. They confidently teach the "Curse of Ham," which they use to excuse slavery, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. Not only are they extremely racist, but also labeled as anti-Semitic, which they claim is not true. They endorse child labor and abuse and have been raided on multiple occasions.

Looking back, those bubbly feelings from the restaurant no longer felt good. The restaurant now seemed eerie, like a fake type of happiness. I now understand how people were drawn in so easily to a place so dangerous. A place full of hatred disguised itself as a sweet tavern with delicious food. As a consumer, how do you know what restaurants are in support of at first glance? You can't, which is why it's important to research what you're putting your money towards.

Aspyn Beaty

12 Tribes

In predominantly white areas, many do not hear much about many African Americans committing to HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) due to a lack of knowledge about the topic. Specifically in Indiana, the closest colleges are all PWI (Predominately White Institutions). Dating back to 1837 when the first HBCU was created. Cheyney University, originally known as the African Institute; was established by Richard Humphreys. Cheyney was not degree-granting the first degree-granting institution was Lincoln University. 

According to pewresearch.org, 53% of African Americans attend PWI, while 7% attend HBCUs. Attending a PWI many of African American students aren't aware of HBCUs before they graduate high school. I wouldn't be aware of HBCUs if my family hadn't attended. The importance of African American teens being aware of having the option to go to an HBCU is overlooked, especially in predominantly white schools like La Porte itself. To be able to go to school with people who look like you and have experiences adjacent to yours offers something going to a PWI could never offer. 

Another reason for not being aware of HBCUs is that the majority of them are located in the South, leaving many young black girls and boys to not have an exact resource. Historically, the idea of many of these colleges being in the South makes sense. Racism and Segregation were still prevalent until the ´50s with the Brown v. Board Board of Education case. This case declared segregation and schools unconstitutional.  The people who came before me who integrated into this school did not have it exactly easy.  

The importance of attending black colleges doesn't stop on the surface of being around people who look like you or experience your experiences. The reality is that being on PWI grounds is still not always safe. Recently in 2017 at the University of Virginia, there was a Neo-Nazi rally leaving multiple injured and one dead. This is one of the many ways African Americans have been affected on predominately white campuses. 

Finding HBCUs that match your interests can be hard especially if you don't have a counselor knowledgeable on HBCUs.  For me, I used what was easiest for me the internet. With a quick internet search, you can find every single HBCU. Finding ones that match your cost, athletic achievements, and major is important, as well as good websites such as [HBCUs connect](https://hbcuconnect.com/colleges/). These websites give you the option to put exactly what you're looking for in a college and shoot one out at you. It also offers a multitude of scholarships and careers.

HBCUs

As the days get longer and the weather gets cold, we pull out our jeans and hoodies. Winter days are cold, boring, and sometimes hard to dress for. Here are my go-to winter basics.

During this time of year, I usually stick to wearing neutral colors. These include White, brown, black, and light pink. These colors match the weather and are good for the season. I steer away from bright colors or pastels.

It's also a great time to wear jeans. My favorite place to get jeans is [American Eagle](https://www.ae.com/us/en). AE has multiple different types of jeans and always has a good sale. Their jeans specifically fit well compared to other brands of jeans. They also have multiple styles of jeans depending on how you're feeling. The "Barrel jeans" are great to wear during the winter. Their slightly baggy and fit well in the waste. 

Another cute style of bottoms to wear during the winter are skirts and leggings. Although it is cold outside adding a pair of tights can allow you to still wear skirts. Tight leather and black skirts can match almost everything you pair them with. Pinstripe and pleated skirts also can add flair while wearing a simple top. 

Leggings are a comfortable staple piece to wear during all seasons. Specifically during the winter styling them with crewnecks in sweaters can make you comfy and stylish. I like to buy my leggings from [lululemon](https://shop.lululemon.com/) and [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/). In both of these places, leggings fit well and are still cozy.1While looking for tops, I try to look for long-sleeved shirts, crewnecks, and sweaters. Specifically, off-shoulder sweaters, offer comfort while still being fashionable. I usually look at Amazon and [Shein](https://m.shein.com/?lang=en) to look for these.

Shein has great body suits that come in packs for cheap. I choose to pair these with sweatpants, jeans, and skirts. These bodysuits come in many different colors and patterns and are an easy piece to pair. 

I thrift most of my crewnecks or get them from name-brand stores. [WhiteFox](https://whitefoxboutique.com/) is a great brand to buy crewnecks or hoodies for. Although they can be expensive, it's a well-known brand. I also always use Amazon which has everything you need.

Living in a small town and shopping can be hard. This is why shopping online and in the following cities including Valparaiso and Merriville is easier. While shopping online I use [Aelfric  Eden](https://www.aelfriceden.com/), [Sopula](https://www.sopula.com/), [thatssofetch](https://thatssofetch.com/), and [begginingboutique](https://www.beginningboutique.com/). 

These are my go-to places to stay comfortable during this cold time of year.

Aspyn's Closet: Winter Edition

As an African American growing up in La Porte, there aren't many girls who look like me. The majority of the girls in my grade are blond with straight hair and blue eyes. The boys are the same. 

I always knew I stuck out in a way. Especially with the daily occurrence of comments about my skin, my nose, or my hair. The fact that my hair was short and looked like a "rat nest" or that my nose was too "big and black." 

It wasn't until I entered my freshman year of high school that I realized the comments that were made to me felt like judgment or teasing. As of now, when anyone asks if I'm offended by the constant statements I just say no. In reality, if I were to act out on every comment made to me on the daily, I would then fit into the stereotype of me being "ghetto" and being an "angry Black woman."   

Living in La Porte my whole life consisted of me being the only Black girl in my class until middle school. Even now in the majority of my classes, I'm the only Black student. 2.7% of LaPorte High School's student body is African American and 75.1% is White according to usnews.com. 

I'm sure this is why my favorite comment made to me by my classmates is "You´re whitewashed." Because on a real note, what does that mean? Speaking a certain way does not change my experiences as a Black girl. It doesn't change the comments made about my skin, and it doesn't change what my ancestors dealt with. 

Would I rather fit into being ghetto and angry or would I rather be considered whitewashed? Both of these stereotypes tear away black girls' self-esteem. Knowing that if I act on my anger then I'm presented to always be mad and aggressive. If I wear specific clothing and if I speak a certain way then I'm whitewashed. 

That doesn't change anyone's experience. These stereotypes cause chaos within black communities. Although the "whitewashed" fit into the white cliques at school, they are then excluded from the black groups where they should fit in. I've seen it time and time again; racist comments by black boys and girls towards other black boys and girls even if their skin is the same and their ancestors came from the same place.

The reality is that these stereotypes don't just hurt the person that they're forced onto but also the community as well. Society cannot do anything about a person's skin, but they can change the way you react to it. The words someone says have power behind them, and understanding what is said can alter someone's life positively and negatively. Writing this piece I'm hoping that the black girls growing up now won't ever have to get used to what someone has to say about their skin.

Reality of a whitewashed black girl

Jazz lovers, mark your calendars! The LPHS Jazz Bands present their 34th Annual Jazz Fest on Friday, May 2nd at 7:00 PM in the LPHS Performing Arts Center. This exciting evening of exceptional music features renowned artists Sharel Cassity, Eric Jacobson, Lara Driscoll, Kirby Fellis, Clark Sommers, and Dana Hall. Adult tickets are $10, while students get in free! Come experience an unforgettable night of jazz performances showcasing both celebrated musicians and talented student performers. See you there!

La Porte Community School Corporation

Don't Miss the Beat! LPHS Jazz Bands' 34th Annual Jazz Fest Arrives May 2nd

The La Porte Educational Development Foundation would like to invite you to the [_Evening With the Stars_](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JXCDOu6odWJpDGFN5PS6LkLev7SfJHUG/view?usp=sharing) Staff Recognition Event on May 15, 2025. If you haven’t already done so, please take a moment to confirm your attendance by submitting your RSVP at your earliest convenience.

As a reminder, please note that RSVPs are only being accepted through the [event website](https://events.blackbirdrsvp.com/lpeveningwiththestars). **All staff and their guests are required to RSVP by May 1 to secure their spot.** This is a required step to ensure an accurate headcount for catering.

[**Please RSVP by**](https://events.blackbirdrsvp.com/lpeveningwiththestars) **May 1, 2025.** 

Your prompt response will enable us to make the necessary arrangements, and we truly appreciate your cooperation.

Join Us for an Evening With the Stars Staff Recognition Event on May 15, 2025

Alice in Wonderland Jr. opens at the Kesling Campus Auditorium on Friday, April 11th, and the cast and crew cannot wait to share this show with you. Make plans to see these talented and hard-working Slicers!

Get your tickets [HERE](https://golpslicers.com/Events)!

> **SHOWTIMES:**

> Friday, April 11 @ 7:30 PM

> Saturday, April 12 @ 4:00 PM

> Sunday, April 13 @ 2:00 PM

Alice in Wonderland Jr. Opens at the Kesling Campus Auditorium

Attention former students who received special education services through the South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative between 2018 and 2019: Please review the notice regarding the upcoming destruction of special education records. If you wish to obtain your records before they are destroyed on July 1, 2025, you must submit a request by June 15, 2025. These records may contain important information for future educational accommodations, disability documentation, or personal records. Don't miss this opportunity to secure your information before it's permanently removed. [Please read the full notice on the Special Education web page here](https://www.lpcsc.k12.in.us/en-us/special-education-cdf3bd4f).

Special Education Records Destruction Notice

### 🎙️NEW PODCAST EPISODE!

Step inside LPCSC early childhood learning with Little Learners Principal Becky Jeffers and Preschool Teacher Jeannette Raymond to discover the district's research-based curriculum, inclusion practices, and plans for a new Early Childhood Center. Learn how this center will expand opportunities for La Porte's youngest learners through full-day programs, transitional kindergarten, and greater access for working families.

Inside Early Childhood Learning

**Kindergarten Round-Up**

**Date:** February 19, 2025

**Location:** Elementary School Buildings ([See Information](https://www.canva.com/design/DAGedl5w0jM/ZO0EbieeZAu8ZHf29MBBQg/view?utm_content=DAGedl5w0jM\&utm_campaign=designshare\&utm_medium=link2\&utm_source=uniquelinks\&utlId=h19e18da5c9))

**Required Documents for Kindergarten Enrollment:**

*   Birth Certificate

*   Proof of Residency *(one of the following: Utility Bill, Mortgage Statement, Lease Agreement)*

*   Immunization Records

**Process**

The kindergarten round-up process will be the same as in previous years, with in-person registration at the elementary schools.

Kindergarten Registration

🎙️ NEW PODCAST! 

"Inside LaPorte Schools" launches with a special two-part series exploring the Kesling Campus. Join Dr. Wood as she sits down with Principal Bill Wilmsen, Counselor Melissa Mrozinski, and Teacher Laurie Scroggin to discuss the evolution and opportunities of our 5-8 campus model. From initial challenges to current successes, get the inside scoop on what makes Kesling unique .[Listen here!](https://www.lpcsc.k12.in.us/en-us/inside-la-porte-schools-district-podcast-d90fd1b9)

Inside La Porte Schools Podcast

South La Porte County Special Education Cooperative is hosting open interviews for Special Education Classroom Aide positions this February. The interviews will occur at the LPCSC ESC Building on the Boston campus, 1000 Harrison Street.

Interview sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, February 4th, from 12:00 - 3:00 PM and Thursday, February 6th, from 8:00 - 11:00 AM. The corporation seeks candidates for various grade levels and program types, offering competitive hourly compensation between $12-$14.

These positions represent rewarding opportunities to make a difference in special education. Interested candidates can attend either session, but no appointment is necessary.

For additional information, contact LPCSC at (219) 324-3287 or visit lpcsc.k12.in.us.