Alpha Lambda Omega, Rho Psi Omega Hosts 7th Annual Political Forum

The state of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and development of Charlotte's east side were the hot topics at the 7th Annual Politcal Forum held October 6, 2011 at Ivy Hall.

The event, jointly sponsored by the Alpha Lambda Omega and Rho Psi Omega chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, drew nearly 300 attendees and was tweeted live for those that chose to follow via Twitter.

Candidates eagerly participate in this annual event for its community exposure and the chance to explain their points of views by taking unscripted questions from the audience. Dr. Renae Sanders, CEO of KRS Consulting, moderated the forum that included a variety of thought-provoking questions. Some questions asked included the importance of the arts in the schools, large class sizes, discipline, qualities of a superintendent, and school closings. Other questions pondered the state of east Charlotte and its lack of business development and jobs.

The event was co-chaired by Toria Boldware, Maru David (Alpha Lambda Omega) and Rosemary Lawrence (Rho Psi Omega). The trio promised that next year's event will be even bigger.

Participating candidates included the following:

Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board Candidates

Larry Bumgarner
Elyse Dashew
Ericka Ellis-Stewart
Keith Hurley
Mary McCray
Ken Nelson
Dr. Hans Plotseneder
Aaron Pomis
Darrin Rankin

Charlotte-Mecklenburg City Council Council Candidates

John Autry (D) - District 5
Michael Barnes (D) - District 4
LaWana Mayfield (D) - District 3
Dennis Peterson (R) - District 5
Larry Shannon (R) - District 4

City Council at Large Candidates

Patrick Cannon (D)
Christopher Hailey (R)
David Howard (D)
Mohamed Moustafa (R)
Curtis Watkins (R)