The budget cuts that eliminated Peralta TV's coverage of the Laney College football games did more than frustrate the fans. This horrendous decision dashed the hopes and dreams of the Laney football players.
The $50,000 needed to restore the sports programming would be a godsend—perhaps a local corporation would like to sponsor the Eagles' season.
After all, the Fusioneros of the Laney Theater Arts program raised $75,000 for a trip to Scotland to participate in the renowned "Beyond The Fringe" festival.
In the Sept. 15 edition of the Laney Tower, the story "Peralta TV plans to cease covering sports events," revealed that PTV will no longer televise Laney College home football games or any other sports events due to district cuts and lack of funding in the station's sports operation.
Upon hearing the news, there have been many reactions from students, faculty and residents of the community.
I spoke to some of the players concerning this situation.
Many of them were disappointed, angry and let down due to the lack of exposure that will result if there is no TV presence.
This will have a sour effect on the school and our community in general.
Many look forward to seeing their friends or family members playing on television and soaking up the recognition that comes from being on the tube.
In many ways, being on television helps fulfill the many dreams these student-athletes have when they an are viewed by the community.
Laney College Athletic Director John Beam has had heavy influence on Oakland-area athletics for over 30 years and has recently acknowledged his displeasure with the situation.
Beam, who is concerned that this will have a negative effect on the high school athletes who like to watch Laney play, want to attend Laney and play football for Laney.
Another concern is that students here at Laney who are interested in broadcast journalism will not be able to get the experience of working in front of and behind the camera.
PTV has had an enormous influence on Laney football and its fans.
"We had over 100 kids try out for the team last year," Beam said. "It was fabulous and I believe Peralta (TV) was a big part of that."
Last year the cost to broadcast sports events was $37,000; $50,000 would be just enough to continue with the program.
The PCTV staff works tried to raise money and get donations from various organizations, but came up empty.
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