Laney College receives bomb threat

Laney College has received a bomb threat from an anonymous caller, according to an email sent out to students on Thurs October 21.

"There has been a suspicious phone call from an anonymous individual declaring a bomb threat at Laney College," wrote Laney College President Elnora Webb.

Many students were notified by text message or email, but some did not find out until Friday morning when told about the bomb threat by other students.

"They must not have the right email or phone number for me," said Laney BSU member Tim Killings. "As the economy gets worse, domestic terrorism will get worse," he added, referring to this past summers Oakland shootout on the 580 freeway.

A few students were worried, but most didn't take it too serious.

"Who would want to blow up Laney College?" asked one international student. "It's such a nice, diverse place." She added that although she received the email last night, she disregarded the threat.

Peralta Police Services conducted a walk through of the campus, according to Webb, and may do a canine sweep if anything suspicious is found. Webb encouraged students to report anything suspicious.

"While we have no evidence to validate the credibility of this threat, we ask you to be very aware of your surroundings, which includes being vigilant in reporting any suspicious package," Webb wrote. "In the meantime, remain calm and go about your normal business."

Peralta Police Services phone number is (510) 466–7236.

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Laney College hosts Black College Recruitment Fair

Image: MarchingSport.com
After too many years of holding Transfer Day events and College Fairs with NO representatives from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Laney College will host the Second Annual HBCU College Recruitment Fair September 15.

Students will be able to receive:

1. ON THE SPOT Admissions and Scholarships
2. Application Fee Waived for Many Colleges
3. Face-to-face contact with official college admission representatives
4. Exposure to many Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs)
5. Assistance and information regarding SAT and ACT college admission tests

Bring an official transcript and ACT/SAT score(s), if taken, for each college application you plan to complete.

This FREE event will be Wednesday, September 15 from 4 to 8pm at Laney College Student Center (900 Fallon Street, Oakland, CA 94607). The College Fair is sponsored by Oakland Unified School District and Laney College in partnership with United College Action Network (U-CAN) and United Black Student Unions of California.

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Dawna Williams elected Laney College student body president

Dawna Williams defeated Harry Jiang in a May 11 run-off election to choose Laney College's next student body president. It was a margin of six votes-Williams received 124 votes to Jiang's 118.

"It was very close," said Williams, who currently serves as an Inter-Club Council (ICC) Representative on ASLC. "I tried to do something a little different this time and let people get to know me."

In the April 20-21 ASLC elections, current ASLC VP Jiang received 333 votes while Williams received 242. Jiang was mistakenly declared the winner by the election committee; it was realized he did not obtain a 51 percent majority of the vote, as required by the Student Elections Code.

After a record ASLC voter turnout, in the first round, the run-off had the lowest voter turnout since 2007. The run-off had few fliers, less publicity and was not confirmed by election committee members until less than a week before the vote.

Some students who showed up to vote were turned away because their names were not on a printed election. Even with valid student ID, those students were told--including this writer and even an ASLC member--were forced to print out their class schedules. Later that evening, the rule was not strictly enforced, and those not listed only had to show ID.

Williams, co-founder and VP of Laney College's Alpha Lambda Co-Ed Sorority/Fraternity, has big plans to reinvigorate student life on campus. She wants to have more student activities and improve communication on campus. Most of all, Williams plans to make ASLC more effective student representatives.

Her "Team 360" swept into office with little to no opposition. "The summer will be used to make the team more cohesive," Williams said. ASLC will "work on team building, parliamentary procedures and redoing the office so it's more conducive to business."

Students likely have encountered Williams on campus. In addition to working in the Counseling Department, she hosts "News You Can Use" in the Student Center cafeteria three times per week. Microphone in hand, Williams discusses campus issues and shares scholarship information.

She has also organized "B.L.A.M." (Berkeley, Laney, Alameda and Merritt), a unity event open to students at the four Peralta campuses will be held on Saturday May 29 at Oasis Restaurant, located at 135 12th Street in Oakland.

"It is important for students to fight budget cuts, but students should have fun too," she said. "We need to have something that doesn't have to do with budget cuts, something social."

She added that the event is a part of starting a district-wide council, a proposal struck down by ASLC this spring.

Williams also wants to have a full council and have ASLC participate in all shared governance meetings. Her website is dawnawilliamsforpresident.org.

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Peralta Colleges propose 'free speech zones' to limit free speech, students, faculty say

Photo: The Desert Lamp

A proposal to designate specific areas on campuses of the Peralta Colleges as "free speech zones" has drew outrage from faculty, staff and students at a May 12 town hall.

The draft "Administrative Procedures (AP) 5550-Speech: Time, Place, and Manner" will regulate public "speech activities" on campus. Individuals and organizations from the community that "wish to table, display materials, petition, engage in public address, distribute literature and/or post flyers" would have to comply with the proposed regulations.

Speakers would be limited to the 150 foot x 150 foot main quad at Laney College, as well as the outdoor quads at COA and Merritt College, and the Student Lounge on the fifth floor at Berkeley City College.

Requests for non-students to come on campus would have to be made three business days in advance and will be granted on first-come first basis, according to the procedure.

Groups would also have to reserve a space three business days in advance. Fliers could no longer be posted onto windows and walls, and would be restricted to bulletin boards. All fliers would also require an English translation.

The proposal is the result of ongoing district litigation with an anti-abortion group that was removed from COA in 2008, according to Peralta General Counsel Thuy Nguyen, who said she expected a decision on the case soon.

"If there is any light at the end of the tunnel, it is that there's an ability to coexist," Nguyen said.

The tone of the town hall quickly changed when an attorney representing the faculty union called the proposal "an abomination."

"Martin Luther King would have been in violation of this (proposal) the moment he spoke," said Bob Bezemek, legal counsel for the Peralta Federation of Teachers, who has threatened to sue if the procedure is implemented.

Some Peralta employees said the language was ambiguous, while others said it provided needed guidelines to ensure the safety of students and employees.

Anti-abortion group at Laney College An anti-abortion group caused quite a stir on campus when they arrived at Laney College March 8. The group showcased banners with graphic images of dismembered fetuses.

In March, Laney College students and staff complained when an anti-abortion group came on campus with huge banners with images of aborted fetuses. The protesters also harassed people walking through the quad by taking their photos and posting them on Facebook and Twitter.

Laney College librarian Margaret Traylor, who wrote a letter of protest following the incident, said the proposal created needed guidelines to balance free speech and the safety of the campus community.

"Even if the Tea Party came on campus, I wouldn't object," Traylor said. "Everything in this world needs a guideline." Referring to the incident on March 8, she said, "Some people were threatened and intimidated" by the protesters.

The forum was held at the same time as an ASLC discussion meeting, and just four students were in attendance.

"Seems like we're attacking our students for something they didn't have anything to do with," said Laney student Stewart Jollymore. "The issue is involving people not apart of the college coming on campus."

Nguyen responded that on one campus, students are required to reserve space at least two weeks in advance.

"Ultimately, the board and district have to take a position on protesters," Nguyen said. "They have gave me direction to honor free speech to the fullest extent."

Requests for permission to speak on campus could be denied if the request conflicts with another reservation, previously scheduled student activities, or during finals week. Even though speakers cannot be banned from campus based on their message, administrators can forbid speech activities deemed disruptive or in "defiance of the authority of district officials."

Many students, like Alessandro Tinonga note that the proposal is being floated at the same time students are protesting trustees and administrators. Since the fall of 2009 semester, there have been numerous protests at the district's board meetings, as well as the March 4 Day of Action.

According to Nguyen, Peralta's attorneys in the COA lawsuit drafted the proposed language three months ago, prior to the March 4 protests, the anti-abortion protest at Laney College and the April 13 protest that shutdown a trustees meeting.

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Laney College journalists honored for writing

Laney College student journalists were recently honored for their contributions to the Laney Tower newspaper at a state convention held by the Journalism Association for California Community Colleges (JACC).

Tower Editor-in-Chief Tracey Tate received honorable mention for Column Writing. Tate, who blogs at www.blingingbeauty.com, also recently won a trip to New York to meet supermodel Iman, all due to her writing.

Tower Staff Writer Reginald James, editor of TheBlackHour.com received a second place award in the News Story category. His story about a budget cuts forum at Laney College in September was his first JACC award for writing. James has previously won JACC awards for Photography, Page Layout, Informational Graphics, Student Designed Advertisement and an Investigative News Story about racial disparities in hiring of student workers at Laney College.

The Tower was also awarded Honorable Mention for Front Page Layout in the Tabloid size category, and student Robert Carey got second place for an Editorial Cartoon.

For more information about journalism at Laney College, visit "www.LaneyTower.com. You can learn more about the JACC at www.jacconline.org.

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Women leaders speak at Laney College

By Terez McCall Special to TheBlackHour.com

Five dynamic and accomplished women recently joined a panel discussion in the Laney College Student Center to share their inspirations and insights on the issue of gender and leadership.

Facilitated by the ASLC, the diverse panel included: Leslie Ewing, executive director of the Pacific Center; Nancy Nadel, Oakland City Council Member; Dr. Angela Smith, Chair of the Communications Department; Dr. Inger Stark, chair and acting dean of the Sociology Department; and Laney College Interim President Dr. Elñora Webb.

First, the panel was asked, "What challenges or barriers do you believe women still face?"

According to Dr. Stark, misogyny in the form of social and cultural values that "reflect women as less than" serve to hold women back. Dr. Webb expanded on this idea by discussing the pervasive "less than" mentality becoming part of women's personal identity and necessary work to overcome this.

Dr. Smith began her response by quoting Marianne Williams' assertion that "our deepest fear… is that we are powerful beyond measure." Allowing others to define us is a big problem that stems from dehumanization, she opined. After taking the time to analyze what values and beliefs serve us, "we can achieve transformation and challenge what others tell us we are".

Ewing referenced gender bias and sexuality as heavy challenges to face, stating that personal and societal acceptance is essential. Citing the statistic that one-quarter of gay hate crime victims are actually straight, she stressed that a person's presentation can't be easily "switched off" even if it is socially unacceptable.

Nadel specifically mentioned the Hyde Amendment (which prohibits federal funding for abortion) as discriminatory legislation that must be repealed. She also cited domestic abuse and rape as major barriers to an enriching life for women everywhere.

The next question was simply "Who is the most influential/ inspirational woman in your life?" These responses were the most varied and intimate of the event. Several very touching personal stories were shared about the poignant lessons learned from mothers, "sheroes," and friends.

Panelists cited notable women, past and present, such as educator and activist Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, famed feminist and gay rights activist Del Martin, pioneering Nobel laureate scientist Marie Curie, and social justice activist and author Arundhati Roy.

A key theme was that each woman had overcome the odds against her to do great things for herself and for others. Ewing described them as being "ordinary people who did extraordinary things."

Finally, the participants considered practical ways women could break the "glass ceiling" and enrich their lives locally and around the world. Suggestions included mentoring, working in solidarity to combat misogyny, and fostering a cooperative sense of "sisterhood" among women while acknowledging the challenges they each face.

Dr. Webb urged everyone to "first recognize and honor self, discover your passion or genius, and work at creating the reality you wish to see. Once this work is done, we can better see our connection and responsibility to one another, and act accordingly."

The event took place March 30 as part of International Womens' Month.

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Proposed free speech zones at Peralta spark concern

By Reginald James TheBlackHour.com Editor

George Orwell’s novel, 1984, described a world of an oppressive totalitarian regime, extreme government surveillance and an erosion of citizen’s rights.

A proposal at the Peralta Colleges to establish “free speech zones” has evoked Orwellian visions of the campuses’ futures. Yet others see the proposal as a necessary procedure to protect free speech.

Free Speech Zone Forum May 12, 2010 Noon to 1 p.m. Laney College, T-450

The draft “Administrative Procedures (AP) 5550 – Speech: Time, Place, and Manner” will regulate public “speech activities” on campus. Individuals and organizations from the community that “wish to table, display materials, petition, engage in public address, distribute literature and/or post flyers” would have to comply with the proposed regulations.

“Historically, free speech zones have been used by those in power to limit free speech,” said Matthew Goldstein, co-chair of the Laney College English Department, referencing the zones set up by former President George W. Bush’s administration that critics called, “free speech cages.”

Speakers would be required to submit a "Request for Reservation" form to the Student Activities Advisor of the College they wanted to speak.

“This means that those who determine who gets to use the free speech zones get to decide what speech is permissible,” Goldstein said. "A politically and morally intolerable state of affairs.”

The draft proposal states, "The Request for Reservation does not involve any review or approval of the content of the speaker's speech activity."

Requests for non-students to come on campus would have to be made three days in advance and will be made on first-come first basis, according to the procedure. The requests could be denied if the request conflicts with another reservation or previously scheduled student activities, or during finals week.

The proposed designated areas are the individual main quads at College of Alameda, Laney College and Merritt College, and the Student Lounge at Berkeley City College. “While engaging in speech activities,” according to the proposal, “speakers must remain in these specified areas only.”

“The purpose (of the policy) is to clarify and define rights on free speech and assembly” on the campuses, according to General Counsel Thuy Nguyen, who wrote the procedure. She added that the policy – which has been in the works for some time – was brought about by the recent, controversial anti-abortion demonstrators at Laney College and COA. “We had a few instances at two of our colleges around rights of anti-abortion protesters,” Nguyen said.

In 2008, three members of an anti-abortion group, “Survivors of the Abortion Holocaust,” were arrested at COA and charged with trespassing. The arrests led to litigation between the group and Peralta. In March of this year, an anti-abortion group arrived on International Women’s Day with graphic ten foot banners with images of dismembered fetuses.

“In light of our experience in March with the abortion folks and their tactics that offended a lot of people,” Laney College Vice President of Student Services Dr. Donald Moore said, “the college is committed to having free speech. But how do you have it at a community college with various interests?” Moore asked. “Some believe these people (anti-abortion group) should be banned.”

Goldstein said, “Grownups need to understand that free speech can be ugly and irresponsible at times, but that tolerating all types of speech – event that (especially that) which offends us – is absolutely fundamental in a democracy.”

Both Moore and Goldstein recognize the policy raises concerns about academic freedom.

Student representatives contacted for comment were not familiar with the proposal.

The policy also regulates posting of literature on campus, although most Student Activities offices already have policies.

The policy does not mention military recruiters, who have had an increased presence on campus this past year and have also placed advertisements in the student newspaper, the Laney Tower.

A forum will be held at Laney College on May 12 from noon to 1 p.m. in room T-450 on the proposed Administrative Procedures.

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ASLC election run-off May 11

Dawna Williams	Harry Jiang
Photos by Lambert Li/Courtesy of the Laney Tower

Full Disclosure: The Black Hour endorsed Dawna Williams for ASLC President. She was the only presidential candidate to complete our questionnaire. The Black Hour stands by the endorsement today.

The top two vote getters in the April student government elections at Laney College will go head to head in a run-off on May 11. The two candidates are Dawna Williams, vice-president of Alpha Lambda Sorority and Inter-Club Council representative on ASLC and Harry Jiang, vice president of ASLC and president of the Social Media Club.

During the April 20-21 elections, Jiang received 333 votes while williams received 242 votes. A run-off is necessary because neither candidate received the 51 percent majority needed in accordance with a district wide election code, according to the Laney Tower. The ASLC election committee announced Jiang as the election winner prematurely.

The Tower estimates five percent of the total Laney student population participated. A total of 766 ballots were cast with 725 voting in the presidential election, according to the Laney Tower.

The Tower also reported that a number of students were turned away from the polls because they did not have valid Student Identification Cards. Elections will take place from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Student Center.

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Peralta Student Election Guide

After careful deliberation, The Black Hour is sharing our 2010-2011 Election Guide.

There are a number of candidates for Student Trustee, ASLC President and there is a very important (and confusing) ballot measure. Here are our suggestions:

Election Guide Proposition A No. "two one year terms" Student Trustee No endorsement ASLC President Dawna Williams Publicity Commissioner Brandy Smith Senator Leonard Hutton

District Wide Elections
Proposition A: Extending Term Limits for Student Trustees
No. Do not extend term limits for Student Trustees. This proposition is undemocratic, and emerged in an undemocratic fashion. Not only that, it appears very ambiguously on the ballot.

The Black Hour urges you to vote in favor of keeping terms at a "maximum of two one-year terms."

Student Trustee - No endorsement.
Not only did all of the candidates fail to achieve the required signatures to qualify for the ballot, but we believe Black students will have to push all these students into action.
Although we were thoroughly impressed by Jurena Storm's responses to our questionnaire; we were concerned by her lack of a response to concerns about a major issue among African American students. We appreciate her willingness to represent all students; however, we realize that Black students will have to push her as they would any other student to get our agenda realized.
Our committee does not support extending term limits for Student Trustees. For an incumbent, we did not feel she adequately answered our questions. So, although we appreciated incumbent Yvonne Thompson's response to our last question, we believe it is time for her to pass the torch and allow another student the opportunity.
Rita Mouton-Patterson and Darnice Davis did not respond to our questionnaire.

Laney College
ASLC President - Dawna Williams
Vote for Dawna Williams. Williams was the only candidate that responded to our survey; and from what we can tell, she is the only one actively campaigining. Although other students have numerous signs throughout the campus, she is actively speaking to students. In fact, she has done so throughout the semester, not only in her campus job as a counselor, but through her role in the Alpha Lambda organization and her "News you can Use" (tri-weekly campus announcements).

Publicity Commissioner - Brandy Smith
We are confident that Smith will creatively, actively work to share information with the student body.
Disclosure: Smith is a photographer for The Black Hour

Senator - Leonard Hutton

(Click on the names above to read their responses to our survey)

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ASLC Publicity Commissioner Brandy Smith

Brandy Smith

Position: Publicity Commissioner
Major: Social Science
GPA: 3.44

Why are you running for ASLC?
The reason i am running for Publicity commissioner is to tighten up my communication skills while actively advocating for the students issues and rights. By ensuring that the transparency is adhered to between Faculty, and the Peralta district and anyone for that matter that would like to know what it is that the students are in need of and also what the students stand for. I will serve as the formal voice for the diversity of Laney College.

What experience do you have that qualifies you for the position?
I don't think that you need much experience for my position you just need to be able to empathize with the students and relay their message with the same passion. I can definitely sympathize with them because i am going thru it with them.

What are your top three (3) priorities if elected?

1. Effective communication between the faculty and the students
2. The Needs of the students highly publicized and adhered to;
3. More gained recognition for the achievements of the Underpaid staff and students.

What does leadership mean to you?Leadership to me means having the ability to critically assess a situation prior to making a judgement that affects many. Standing by all decisions rendered and remaining open to constructive elements to constantly improving situations and self.

Laney College is considered to be a very diverse campus. Is diversity at an educational institution important? Why?I think that diversity in college institutions are detrimental to your college experience, it allows ones views, thoughts, and behaviors to be altered, shared, and a compassion is developed for change. it both encourages and motivates, because diversity affords a individuals the ability to function on higher levels in society and contributes to successful career transitions.

Many students at Laney College, particularly Black students, claim to have difficulties with financial aid. Do you have any ideas/plans to increase students' access to financial aid opportunities?
My idea is to incorporate more communication with financial aid specialists having them hold bi-weekly Q & A sessions. building relationships with them so that the students are better equipped to troubleshoot their individual situations.
-Also more financial aid workshops extending beyond just applying going more into detail about what exactly they are filling out so that they are conscience of what the consequences and benefits are to certain things that need to be done to ensure your success with funding.
-opening up more positions for financial aid work-study options to the studies would also motivate more students to stay beyond just getting the check.

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ASLC Senator Candidate Leonard Hutton

Leonard Hutton

Position: Senator
Major: Computer Science
GPA: 3.87

Why are you running for ASLC?
I find it an interesting way for me to stay out of trouble, and at the same time be helping others, by advocating and being someone who can be a go between for students to the administration.

What experience do you have that qualifies you for the position?
I am currently an ASLC senator, so being in the position gives me a heads up on the experiences I'll be encountering in the next year, as well as I being a part of several different groups and coalitions that have been advocating for the students so far this year...this gives me the unique position of being in touch with those people that are in the center of making things happen for the students here at Laney College.
What are your top three (3) priorities if elected?

1. Informing the students how to deal with the budget cuts.
2. Getting students involved with their shared governance process, allowing them to be a part of the decisions that affect them.
3. Finding out what the students feel they need, and finding ways for these needs to be met.

What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership means setting an example for others to follow, while being accountable for your actions, while at the same time taking the risks that empower your constituents in reaching goals that help them better themselves.

Laney College is considered to be a very diverse campus. Is diversity at an educational institution important? Why?
Diversity is important in everything...everywhere! The world is a very diverse place, and anywhere you go you must be prepared to encounter differences in everything you do. Despite people being different colors, speaking different languages, or having different preferences, you must be prepared to accept people for who and what the are, while being able to be yourself at the same time.

Many students at Laney College, particularly Black students, claim to have difficulties with financial aid. Do you have any ideas/plans to increase students' access to financial aid opportunities?
I think that bringing the FA process to the students is a major goal that needs to be met. If we as students, promote workshops which help students understand the process, I think it will help our students very much.
Also, if we create a way for the fees to be removed from our FA checks beforehand I believe this is another way that we can streamline the process. Some people just aren't able to hold on to money when they have other bills hanging over their heads, and needing to come up with $30-$40 just to get your check can be a problem which we could avoid by having the fees removed beforehand.

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Student Trustee Candidate Yvonne Thompson

Yvonne Thompson

Major:Culinary Arts/Liberal Arts Studies
G.P.A.: 3.124
Slogan: Stay Connected

What is the role of a Student Trustee? What does a Student Trustee do?
I am currently embarking on the goal of re-election to a third term to finish what we started two years ago when I was first given custody of the office of Student Trustee for the PCCD. The first two years were quite a challenge and I believe that I have the ability, and have honed my skills to help and improve the direction of the district to better serve the needs of students. I want to bring "community” and “connectedness” back to the district, create a "healthy place, infuse our campuses with a new sense of pride and excitement.

Why are you running for Student Trustee?
I believe the role of the student trustee is two-fold; first, as a voice for the students an advocate ready to step and move issues beyond the campuses to the district. As a member of the governing board, providing a student perspective to the issues, which affect the lives and ability for students to succeed in their vision and goals, with commitment, transparency, and ethical behavior. I have worked for and believed in an open transparent representation, allowing students to know and understand what is occurring and to hold accountable the people who seek to serve. STAY CONNECTED!

What experience do you have that qualifies you to serve as a Student Trustee?
I have exceptional organizational skills and the ability to move agendas abandoned by previous leaders. I recognize the issues and know how to navigate the system to create or change policy.

I organized the monumental project of taking 18 students to the Legislative Black Caucus in Washington DC in 2009. This project required planning, organizing, fundraising, and lobbying of representatives to make this event successful. Even with the infrastructure afforded Administration, no one has ever managed to accomplish what I did to make this project the success that it was.

Students are always first and I never forget this. I have set the bar very high with attendance/ participation at every level. I have served on the District Policy Review committee, Audit and Finance, Standards and Management committee and Student Services and Equity. I have mentored student leadership at all four of the campuses during my two years in office.

What are your top three (3) priorities if elected?

1. To institutionalize the policy to recall and replace a Student Trustees.
2. To successfully see the completion of the District Wide Student Coalition to ensure a more open line of communication and stronger advocacy component for students throughout the district.
3. To establish student leadership training as a regular component in student government and a mentoring program.

The Peralta Colleges are considered to be very diverse campuses. How will you go about representing students of so many different backgrounds?
I have always been very involved, and reached out to the students of the district. I attend activities, have been members of clubs and other organizations throughout the district. When we plan trips or conferences, I make sure that the district is well represented by culture of our campuses.

Are there any particular issues or policies that you intend to address that affect Black or African students?
The dropout rate in higher education for African Americans, specifically with males is an issue that is very important to me. We need to address it, I believe our student leaders on our campuses should become involved.

The staggering healthcare issues in the African American community such as
The prevalence of diabetes among African Americans is about 70% higher
Infant mortality rates are twice as high for African Americans.

The 5-year survival rate for cancer among African Americans diagnosed for 1986-1992 was about 44%, my husband passed within two years after he was diagnosed, education and intervention is necessary.

Should Student Trustee term limits be extended? Why or why not?
Yes, I do believe student trustee term limits should be extended. I believe that the first year is a learning experience, there is a distinct difference in the responsibilities of student government versus the board. Next, the second year is when you really find your niche, however when by the time the "flow" starts it is time to go. A third year will give you the ability to finish the projects that were started and give you the quality time and opportunity to mentor and train someone else.

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ASLC candidates speak, few listen

By Reginald James TheBlackHour.com Editor

Candidates for the 2010 ASLC elections introduced themselves to the student body on the Laney College quad on April 13.

The noontime forum started 15 minutes late due to an unexpected Obama for America press conference convened by campus administration. A plethora of candidates stated their platforms and why they believe they should be elected.

Related ASLC Stories: ASLC candidates meet ASLC election approaches Black Hour Election Guide

Later, three of the four ASLC presidential candidates were seated at a table on the quad and answered prepared questions from the ASLC Election Committee.

Harry Jiang, currently vice-president of ASLC discussed his goals of increased student activity and budget reform.

“I will strive my best to represent students,” Jiang said. Jiang, also active in the campus’ Social Media Club, said he “will use our (ASLC) limited budget to make unlimited opportunities for students.”

Anton Bosneaga, currently a senate alternate, said he wants to ensure that Laney College serves the community.

“It is important that Laney College does what it has to do, and save the community,” Bosneaga said.

Dawna Williams, current Vice-President of the Alpha Lambda Co-Ed Sorority and the Inter-Club Council (ICC) Representative on ASLC, said her work to date speaks for itself.

“I’m not just going to talk to you about what I’m going to do,” Williams said. “I’m going to talk to you about what I’m doing.”

ASLC candidate Elizabeth King was absent.

ASLC Publicity Publicity Commissioner Candidate Brandy Smith asks panel a question at April 13 forum on the Laney College quad.

Students in the quad appeared to tuned out the event. Many students socialized with each other, ate their lunches or played dominos outside the central quad.

A microphone was placed at the center of the quad for students to ask questions. Candidates for other offices asked most questions, or students associated with those running.

ASLC elections will be held April 20 and April 21 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Student Center. A valid student ID is required to vote.

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Dawna Williams for ASLC President

Dawna Williams

Running for: ASLC President
Major: Education Administration
G.P.A. 3.53

Why are you running for ASLC?
The job requires someone who can perform a delicate balancing act of working with and for a diverse body of people. Someone who has and will dialogue and work diligently with faculty and staff to overcome systemic problems that have plagued the student faculty/administration relationship for years. In addition, someone who can focus on solutions to difficult problems, not just someone who focuses on the problems without a plan to fix them. I'd like to be a President who focuses on some of the wonderful things about Laney and share them with the community and prospective students. I want to [EXCEEDED WORD LIMIT]


What experience do you have that qualifies you for the position?
My professional career which began as a Property Supervisor for a property management firm specializing in housing chronically homeless adults and consumers with HIV, managing over 100 employees and 15 properties. I honed my networking and public relations skills here having to meet regularly with city officials, conducting tours of our controversial programs. I’ve worked as a Public Relations Specialist for the Northeast Vocational District in (Columbus, OH) and served as Student Body President of my high school. I’m a confident, seasoned and active student at Laney and serve as Vice President and Co-founder of Alpha Lambda Co-ed Service Fraternity,

What are your top three (3) priorities if elected?

• Communication: Increasing transparency to improve communication between the Administration and the Students. Using all media outlets at our disposal to communicate vital information to the entire Peralta family.
• Financial aid workshops to increase student’s knowledge of the process and improve the working relationship between the financial aid department and students.
• Working with programs such as EOPS, ESL, DSPS, Veterans, International Students to ensure that these students have the essential services and support despite budget cuts.

What does leadership mean to you?
A willingness to take responsibility even if that means your decision will not be the most popular one as no one can lead without being criticized or without facing discouragement. A potential leader needs mental toughness and who sees things as they are and is willing to pay the price.

Laney College is considered to be a very diverse campus. Is diversity at an educational instutition important? Why?
Laney has a wonderful diverse student population and manages to foster genuine interaction across race and ethnicity which provides opportunity for many students to learn from their peers of different cultures, values and experiences. This perspective is extremely helpful to students and allows students to gain an appreciation of different view points and how to interact with people from diverse cultures.

Many students at Laney College, particularly Black students, claim to have difficulties with financial aid. Do you have any ideas/plans to increase students' access to financial aid opportunities?
I've been working with Bob Fleming and the staff at the financial aid department to put on a student coordinated workshop, to aid the students in getting through the financial aid process with greater ease and efficiency. The workshops will be designed to answer the students questions about timelines, document requirements, student responsibility, deadlines and payment allocations. I believe that easing the burden on the financial aid office by increasing and improving our educational workshops will also relieve the anxiety students feel about this process and improve the relationship between the students and the department.[EXCEEDED WORD LIMIT]

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Lake Merritt Station Area Plan meeting near Laney College tonight

Student input is drastically needed at an upcoming community meeting on Wednesday, April 14 about the Lake Merritt Station Area Plan.



The City of Oakland, BART and the Peralta Community College District, through a grant from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, have come together to prepare a Station Area Plan for the area around the Lake Merritt BART Station, according to the City's website.

Lake Merritt Station Plan Wednesday, April 14 6:00-8:00 pm MTC Headquarters 101 8th Street (at Oak St)

The Plan will consider land use, buildings, design, circulation, BART improvements, streetscape improvements, parks and public spaces. It will identify actions the City and the other public agencies should take to improve the area, and it will establish regulations for development projects on private property. The project also involves the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for the Station Area Plan.

The planning area is a one-half mile radius around the Lake Merritt BART Station, which encompasses Chinatown, Laney College, civic buildings of Alameda County and Oakland and the channel connecting Lake Merritt to the estuary. Many diverse residents, businesses and students make up the community of this area, and Chinatown functions as a citywide center for the Asian community.

The Station Area Plan must address the needs of the community, as well as the needs of BART related to ridership, and the needs of the College District related to education and maximizing the use of their land. BART has stated that it envisions the area transitioning from its current status as an “Urban Neighborhood Station” to a “Regional Center” station type.

Some of the key objectives of the Lake Merritt Station Area Plan, which will continue to be developed and refined throughout the planning process, include:

• Increase use of non-automobile modes of transportation, including walking, bicycling, bus, BART, carpooling, ridesharing and other options; and reduce auto use.
• Increase the housing supply, especially affordable housing for low-income residents. Specifically increase the amount of housing around the BART station.
• Increase jobs and improve access to jobs along the transit corridor.
• Provide services and retail options in the station area.
• Identify additional recreation and open space opportunities

The Lake Merritt Station Area Plan will be developed over approximately a two-year period from November 2009 to the end of 2011. A major part of the planning process is to engage the community in discussions about the future of the area.

There will be opportunities to get involved at all stages of the process, from the initial visioning and exploration of plan alternatives to the selection of the preferred plan and review of its accompanying Environmental Impact Report. We encourage you to take this opportunity to make your voice heard.

The Landmarks Advisory Board, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, and the Oakland Planning Commission will review the Draft Station Area Plan, as well as the boards of the Peralta Community College District and BART. The Oakland City Council is the body responsible for final review and approval of the Plan as well as the EIR.

Although Peralta district officials have been meeting with officials to discuss the plan, no students have been included to date.

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Black Women in Hip Hop: Limitation or Liberation?

San Francisco State Professor Dr. Dawn-Elissa Fischer (Professor DEF) gave a presentation about Black Women in HipHop on March 24. The presentation asked, "Does Hip Hop Limit, or Liberate Black Women?"



Video courtesy of Peralta Colleges' P-Span.

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Vaginas speak in Monologues at Laney College

“Come inside. Don’t stop. Slow down. Rock me. Wrong hole!”

These are some of the things vaginas would say if they could talk. On March 12, the Laney College Media Club presented a special performance of “The Vagina Monologues” to raise money to prevent violence against women.

By Reginald James TheBlackHour.com Editor

“The Vagina Monologues” was compiled by Eve Ensler in 1996 from over 200 interviews with woman of all types. In 1998, Ensler and others launched “V-Day” to raise money for anti-violence groups.

Compelling narratives give the audience insight as to some of the deepest experiences of sexual expression, repression and oppression many women deal with. Yet, these feelings are often kept beneath the surface.

“Women secretly love to talk about their vaginas,” one woman explains in the opening monologue, “mostly because nobody ever talks about them at all.”

The word “vagina” itself is also explored. “It sounds like an infection at best, maybe a medical instrument. ‘Hurry, nurse, bring me the vagina!”

Women also give their love zones aliases, sharing colloquial favorites like “punany,” “coochie,” “twat” and “nappy dugout.” All names are recalled with humorous delight. To put an Oaktown twist, vaginas are even called the “Golden Gate” and the “Taco Truck.”

One woman reclaims the word “Cunt!” by leading the crowd to chant the word repeatedly.

One 72-year-old woman stopped looking “down there” after an embarrassing squirting accident. During her first kiss that ended with her ejaculating inside her date’s vehicle, she was driven home because her “sour milk was staining his car seat.” The experience sealed her lips for nearly half a century.

She wasn’t the only woman made to feel ashamed of her womanhood. Some were told their vaginas were “ugly.”

Another imagined something else her down there until she completely forgot she had a vagina. That is, until she met Bob, the “Vagina Connoisseur”, depicted by Media Communications professor Marla Leech. Bob was so mesmerized by her feminine flower bud that he instilled in her an appreciation for her pleasurable center.

Traci Baxter, theater arts major, described the liberating experience that came from a group “Vagina workshop” she attended with other women. The workshop forced her to look her mysterious “Black Hole” with a hand mirror.

“It had never existed before,” Baxter said. “I had depended on someone else to find it. “

At times the play is hilarious. At others, it’s troubling. This contrasting sense of pleasure and pain makes “The Vagina Monologues” intimate, personal and impactful.

Monologues takes aim at feminine products stealing vaginas’ natural scented thunder in the name of cleanliness. Having a “dry wad of cotton” shoved up a woman’s and scented productions with scents of flowers, berries and rain was unnecessary for one woman.

“Why the fuck would I want my pussy to smell like rain?” one young woman sarcastically asked. Moments later, she describes the invasive process of vaginal examination; cold stirrups, flashlights and blue latex gloves. “Why not red gloves?”

Humor was often quickly followed by painful stories the sexual exploitation of women.

A Bosnian woman’s story of being raped as a tactic of war sent chills through the audience. The monologue, “The Vagina was My Village,” tells one woman’s perception of her vagina after being tortured for a week. She said her “live, wet, water village” was “invaded, butchered…and burned” as she describes being gang-raped with a rifle, sticks and bottles, and left with their sperm inside her.

One lawyer–turned–sex worker finds her calling as a domineering call girl. Portrayed by SF Appeal’s Christine Borden, she finds pleasure in making other women moan. The crowd laughs as she demonstrates various moans, such as the clit moan, vaginal moan, the machine-gun moan, the diva moan and even the college “I should be studying” moan. Her moans arouse excitement as she expresses her sensuality without inhibitions.

The play ends with a survivor of rape in the Democratic Republic of Congo sharing eight rules that helped her survive her rape.

The play tells women to find self-validation by loving the essence of self, while forcing men to acknowledge their responsibility in the fight against the sexual and emotional abuse of women.

Vaginas talk. Are you listening?

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Laney College Cosmetology Department showcases "Hair then and Now"

The Laney College Cosmetology Department hosted the "Hair Then and Now," a Black History Month showcase in February 2010.

Here are selected photos, courtesy of Laney Tower photographer by Lambert Li. Captions written by former Laney Tower Editor Angelica Carapia.



More event photos on TheBlackHour.com Flickr page.

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Oakland, Laney College students march, rally in Sacramento for Higher Education

Laney College students and employees are joining the educational budget cuts rally in Sacramento, on Monday, March 22. They will be marching to stop budget cuts, fee increases and staff layoffs.

Once in Sacramento, the group will march from Raley Field in West Sacramento to the State Capitol.

The Laney Team will be assembling at beginning at 7 a.m. Buses are scheduled to depart promptly at 7:30 a.m.

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ASLC candidates meet

Committee explains election rules, one candidate disqualified for absences

By Reginald James
TheBlackHour.com Editor

Sixteen candidates for the 2010 ASLC elections assembled before the Elections Committee at a mandatory candidates meeting March 16 on the fourth floor of the Laney College Student Center.

"You cannot hang your poster over another candidate’s poster. You cannot move another candidate's flier." Sara French ASLC Elections Chair

The committee briefed candidates about appropriate campaign conduct, expense limits and important election-related dates. Candidates received a copy of the Peralta Student Elections Code and were able to ask the committee questions.

The Election Committee currently includes Chair ASLC Secretary Sara French, President Ju Hong and Treasurer Courtney Hom.

“You cannot hang your poster over another candidate’s poster,” Elections Committee Chair and ASLC French said. “You cannot move another candidate’s flier.”

Hong said that rule will be strictly enforced, considering that it happened during last year’s election.

“Let’s be respectful,” Hong stated. “Let’s have a clean campaign.” Hong added that student’s can only campaign on campus. “There’s a liquor store down the street. You can’t just put up a poster. That’s a violation.”

2010 ASLC Election Candidates: President Dawna Williams Elizabeth King Harry Jiang Anton Bosneaga Vice-President Brian Nelson Secretary Erin Lofstrom-Perez Treasurer Darnice Davis Zuleivi Aguilar Publicity Commissioner Brandy Smith Xuwen Guo Talitha McAdams Senators Luniva Shrestha Andrew Kim Lingsi Ke Stephen Hy Leonard Hutton

Hom, who ran against Hong for ASLC President last year suggested that candidates be innovative. Last year, she put fliers on students’ cars in the parking lot near Eighth St. When asked by presidential candidate Dawna Williams if that was a violation, Hom responded, “We didn’t get called out for it. It’s on campus property. So, as far as I know, it’s fine.”

Student Activities Adviser Algeria Kirven, who is also a member of the committee, said candidates will not be allowed near the Student Center when the polls are open on Tuesday, April 20 and Wednesday, April 21.

“We don’t want anybody to be campaigning inside the Student Center,” he said. He added that on election days, candidates have to get all their materials down from inside the Student Center. “And they have to be removed from campus by 48 hours after the election.”

Campaign expenses are limited to $150 per candidate.

“No more than $150,” French said, “and we do have to have itemized receipts for each and every candidate.” Donated items should be included, also. Candidates will all get access to the printer and copier in the ASLC Senator’s office on the fourth floor of the Student Center, she said. Since everyone has the same access, it will not count towards the total. Receipts should be turned in by April 19 at 4 p.m.

"No more than $150 and we do have to have itemized receipts for each and every candidate." Sara French

French then wrote numbers on slips of paper and held a random lottery to determine the order of candidates’ names on the election ballot.

Presidential candidate Elizabeth King protested the procedure, requesting Kirven count draw the numbers, but French cited the Election Code that states the Election Committee Chairperson must draw the numbers. The candidates’ names, as they will appear on the ballot appear on the sidebar at right.

All candidates were present except Publicity Commissioner Candidate Talitha McAdams was disqualified at the meeting for missing the mandatory meeting. The Black Hour pointed out that the elections code states there would be a minimum of two mandatory meetings. The Committee unanimously voted to disqualify McAdams, regardless.

ASLC Presidential candidate Anton Bosneaga arrived 15 minutes late. Committee members could be heard discussing the tardiness at the table, but did not take any action nor formally address the matter.

Important Election Dates Elections: April 20-21 Receipts Due: April 19

One other write-in candidate for senator was present.

Regarding the upcoming student trustee elections, French stated there were “no student trustees running,” as far as she knew. “Nothing has been formally presented that people have met the qualifications to run.”

Candidates were invited to a candidate’s forum being organized by the Media Communications Sports Production class Wednesday night.

After the meeting was adjourned, and candidates had their photos taken by the Laney Tower newspaper, College of Alameda student Jurena Storm arrived and was announced as the lone candidate for student trustee.

Kirven is also a member of the election committee, but can only vote in the event of a tie. The two remaining committee seeks are neither vacant, or members were absent Monday.

The ASLC Elections Committee will announce the election winners April 22 at 12 p.m... The following Tuesday at 5 p.m. is the deadline to file an election protest.
ASLC spring 2010 Elections are April 20-21. For more info, call ASLC at (510) 464-3535 or (510) 464-3536.

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