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'El Barto' suspect talks about art, not graffiti
Jailed SRJC student to appear in court today on felony vandalism charges
By JEREMY HAY
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT
An 18-year-old junior college student accused of being a prolific graffiti tagger known as "El Barto" says he doesn't plan to be a professional artist.
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"I don't know that I'm the best artist in the world," Saif Azzuz said. "I like art though."
Azzuz has been jailed since Friday on $100,000 bail and faces two counts of felony vandalism. His first court appearance is today.
He would discuss neither graffiti in general nor the charges against him during an interview at the minimum-security North County Detention Facility where he is being held.
"I don't want to talk about my case because I haven't talked to a lawyer yet," he said.
In one of the few references he made to his art, Azzuz said he often uses spray paint as a backdrop for his paintings on canvas.
Azzuz is thin, at least 6 feet tall, with dark brown eyes and a mop of brown hair that lies down flat on his head.
He said he was born in Eureka and moved to Santa Rosa at a young age. He graduated from Ridgway Continuation High School a year ago.
He has studied art at Santa Rosa Junior College, he said, and is enrolled in a human figure drawing class.
He said his favorite artist is George Tooker, a Brooklyn-born painter sometimes described as a magical realist, and whose method of making paint by mixing egg yolks and pigment Azzuz said he admires.
"He's one of the last people who like to mix their own paints," Azzuz said.
Azzuz said he had played in a recent soccer tournament - soccer trophies filled a closet shelf in the apartment where he was arrested - and added, "I just want to get back in shape and start playing soccer again."
At the junior college, fellow art students - who mostly said they did not know Azzuz but most assuredly knew of El Barto - said he was being made too harsh of an example.
"I just think that's a little brutal," said Alana Tillman, 23. "I would like to see someone who had raped someone in jail on $100,000 bail."
Whoever El Barto is, she said, "he was showing his art to the community. I know there are definitely people who don't appreciate it, but I don't think he was hurting anyone."
About graffiti, Marcus Sadler, 18, who recalled playing soccer with Azzuz in elementary school, said: "It's like street art; instead of just a plain building, it's people getting their art out."
Not exactly, said Donna Larsen, an art instructor who specializes in street art and has created her own, from dissolving paint made from wheat paste, in New York City.
"Street art, in its more sophisticated tradition, it was a way of the disenfranchised being heard," she said.
From what she knows of El Barto, she said - whether he is Azzuz, whom she doesn't know, or someone else - "he's defacing public property with a kind of self-aggrandizing logo."
That, she said, is "not cool ... and neither this art department or any art department should ever condone it. Because it's basically ruining the atmosphere for others."
Azzuz is suspected in at least 300 separate instances of graffiti vandalism in the North Bay, said Santa Rosa Police Sgt. Lisa Banayat, who said that's why she asked Sonoma County Superior Court Judge Cerena Wong to raise his bail from the $5,000 that's customary in such cases.
Azzuz initially declined an interview request.
After changing his mind, he complained that news coverage of his arrest - which included the seizure of bags of spray paint, art supplies and spray paint can accessories - had depicted him as guilty simply because he'd been arrested.
Santa Rosa criminal attorney Joe Stogner, who is not representing Azzuz, said that given the amount of vandalism Azzuz is suspected of, "$100,000 is not outrageous."
But, he added, "I think the judge is going to reduce it dramatically."
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Tuesday, Oct 17, 2006 10:59P
It already is a felony smart one.
Friday, Oct 13, 2006 11:58A
They need to punish these kids and adults alike who destroy peoples property. There needs to be a state wide law put in place. Make it a felonly to deface property Hold the parents more accountable for there kids actions.
Friday, Oct 13, 2006 11:26A
VIVA EL BARTO.... KANT $TOP WONT $TOP
>NOMAD K$R
Friday, Oct 13, 2006 12:53A
Ah Eezuz! Make this criminal a freekin' celebrity why don't you. Who's next to be a star? Oh I know, how's about that child murderer, I will not mention his name (too close to home) but you know who I am talking about. Break the law, become a star!
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 11:08P
Azzuz: Where do you live so I can come and make some "art" on the building? jam
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 07:35P
I agree 7:00. Those of you that think there is nothing wrong with El Barto's actions really don't have respect for others. But, are the first to claim that you are "disrespected" by others. Give me a break.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 07:00P
Those of you who support "El Burrito" have zero respect for others or their property. Why am I not surprised, SoCo is overflowing with trash like you.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 05:08P
Tagging is not art--Tagging is vandalism that has to be cleaned-up and experienced by others. "El Barto" in jail means no "El Barto" out committing vandalism/damage. Put (more) El Barto's in jail.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 04:40P
I just did an EL BARTO! It's gone with all the others in the sewer.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 04:10P
FREE EL BARTO!!!!!!
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 03:56P
i agree with 10:42A! FREE EL BARTO
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 03:56P
Everyone needs to get over this! This isnt even that bad! Get over itýlets talk about real issues!
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 02:02P
Hey Alana why don't you let him mess up your fence, wall etc. Get canvas and keep it off our buildings. Gang writing is bad enough stop scrible on our street and walls.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 10:42A
when im sitting in traffic grafitti is nice to see. Especally billboard shots keep tagging. Long
live BARTO
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 10:12A
also, he has no skills. his tags were worse than CAP.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 10:08A
my house was tagged by el barto and the city tried to get me with a $500 fine. i had to paint over it and now my house looks ugly. he did not follow the unwritten rules of graffiti culture. tagging houses and business and trees and cars isnt cool
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 09:25A
Art is an expression that is somewhere that the owner of the building or wall wants it to be...it is NOT vandalism, no matter how much the vandal would like it to be...it IS a crime. A way for someone to IMPOSE their idea of "beauty" on victims.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:59A
Closeminded America!why dont you all whine @ Foley molesting lil boys, or how there is about to be a WW3.I hope you all never have kids actually I hope you do and they have artistic abilities! ha
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:58A
I think it's hilarious the sterotypes you people put on graffers in general!I think about myself and how so opposite I am and how many people I know that are opposite from what you all describe.CONTINUED
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:55A
'tard vandal
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:54A
4:21 He get off good in prision
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:53A
ALL YOU TAGGERS!!COMING SOON A MASSIVE STUDIO WITH CANVAS'S, PAINTS,PENS,CAPS,etc. I WILL MAKE ENOUGH MONEY TO BUY AND BUILT OUR OWN BILLBOARDS TO PAINT ON ALL AROUND TOWN WHENEVER WE WANT!!!!!KEEP POSTED!
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:50A
10:52P You have never seen a tagger during the day because many of them work, go to school, and have free time at night!
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:39A
lets all give sonoma county a hand for not losing the evidence this time
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:21A
Good thing this guy doesn't plan on being a professional artist. He has no vision, and his "art" resembles a 3-year-old's living room wall scrawling.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:14A
Like previously said he's a nice guy with a good heart and it doesn't hurt that he's...who are all you to go around and say things about someone you don't even know...becuase if you did such harsh comments wouldn't be comin out
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 08:08A
Like previously said he's a nice guy with a good heart and it doesn't hurt that he's...who are all you to go around and say things about someone you don't even know...becuase if you did such harsh comments wouldn't be comin out
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 06:49A
10:29p: murals are definitely an improvement over ugly, industrial putty gray or beige walls, but only if done with PERMISSION of the building owners. Real artists have respect for themselves, their work AND other people and their property.
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 01:04A
Here's a good punishment for whoever has done $100,000 worth of damage tagging other people's property: Tattoo his entire body with little pink hearts, rosebuds, ribbons, Cupids and Victorian lace. I know he won't mind--because it's ART, right?
Thursday, Oct 12, 2006 12:09A
10:29pm, thanks, i really do wish i was "smart enough" to vandalize and deface property. do they offer classes at the continuation school in vandalism?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:29P
what's worse? someone's "idea of art" on a wall or a big ugly grey splotch? why replace a mural with a primer rectangle? if i could track down some of you posters, i'd stencil your front doors.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:15P
but it's fun 10:01. hey that worked out pretty good.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:01P
Agh! Would people please stop fighting! It saddens me the way people harp at and hurt each other. It gets you nowhere. Arguments are nothing but debates in which one or neither party is listening to what the other has to say. That is sad.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:56P
9:03, he is a criminal, end of story. It is not a stereotype, it is a FACT
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:39P
caning is not legal in the USA. 100,000. fine and jail time is.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:24P
stereotype! he got caught tagging other peoples property. You had better take a closer look at who your friends are 903pm. Do you really know this person. People thought Ted Bundy was real nice guy too. And look what he was.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:18P
he got caught. time to face the music. nice guy or not, i hope gets the book thrown at him.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:03P
what is the problem here? sure go ahead and blame him for the graffiti but dont start stereoptyping Saif and giving him names..im sure anybody who DOES know him knows he is one of the nicest guys his age IN santa rosa..dont stereotype. DUHHHHHHHHH
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:32P
8:23, it doesn't matter whether it is gang related or not. If he does it on someone's property it is bs. He deserves to pay regardless. Tell me how you feel after he puts his "ART" on YOUR fence.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:23P
it seems the general public doesn't understand that the graffiti art he does is not gang tagging- which is the real scurge in sonoma co. i believe most people are upset about that type of territorial pissing and are missing the real problem here.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:17P
If convicted, this douche bag needs to be publicly cained. Every person whose property was tagged "El Barto" gets a free whack.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:15P
Real artists don't destroy other peoples property in the name of art. Taggers are punks who use "Art" as a crutch for their crimes.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:03P
If you taggers thinks it's so great and you're so proud of it, than why haven't you done it on where you live? Hmmm?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:59P
755, yet you insinuate that i do drugs. dont be so quick to judge. - anyway - back to the subject. the punishment should fit the crime.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:55P
734 why would address your comments to me. I have nothing to do with the other comments. I think you need to relax and smoke some more of whatever you are smoking. I can cast stones. I live my life clean and within the laws of the land.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:53P
El Burrito needs to learn to respect others and their property. I'm sure he and his supporters feel they are being "Disrespected" with this prosecution. Typical of the ghetto-punk mentality. Give me a break.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:34P
nobody said anything about the fullest extent of the law 716, people are saying vandilize his fathers home, theyre saying our court system is too easy. they even posted his address. dont cast such judgements - he who is without sin...
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:34P
726 ya he'll make a good little bi.ch in lookup. Yum
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:26P
Hmmmm....I think he's cute!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:16P
659 all we ask for is the fullest punishment under the law. Nothing has been said about taking rights away. Or voting away rights.Just because people want justice does not make it police state. Wake up. Quit whining. Don't break the law.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:59P
You guys sound like a linch mob. Youre crying for "tougher punishment". Do we really want to live in a police state? Whats next? Are we going to vote away more of our rights? Please think about what youre asking for.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:48P
Seems like he might be "El Screweod" if he keep talking to people about this case.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:26P
Re, El Barto suspect talks about art,not graffiti. Like he knows the difference. What he has done all over the area is trash. He has no respect for other peoples property.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:15P
i get sick reading some of this shat.art and graffiti being refered to in the same sentence?? unless the same person is commenting over and over again taking this loser's side, its official that our county is full of a bunch of brain dead human being
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:08P
It's sad to see El Barto go. I was making good money repainting over his work. I'm sure some other loser will step up to take his place. Then I will get more work again. I love this town.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:04P
5:27,5:42.. bravo.. after all is said and done we get to the truth. I could agree more. Support the Arts. Not street punks.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:44P
4:45..."they don't own property..." pray tell, just who are "they"? sounds exclusive (yes, i too own property...). suggestion: snap a pic of each offence [pun!] & turn over to police gang--"they"?--unit w/easy online complaint form...
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:43P
I would bet that taggers or grafitti sprayers don't own a home or building, or they would know what it's like to have someone damage your property.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:42P
If this young man is guilty of vandalism by grafitti, then he should be sentenced to cleaning up not just his grafitti, but that of others. Also finanical restitiution, and time behind bars.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:32P
Why don't you taggers do your artwork on something that could be useful, such as toilet paper. At least you know were it goes.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:29P
What do you mean? Mental problem, more like a drug issue to me.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:27P
By reading some of these comments by the ones who support him. These guys must have a mental problem. Do they even know what respect or what morals means? Must not! I bet there parents are something to be proud of also.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:23P
BLAH BLAH BLAH HANG EM HIGH
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:11P
Your Kinda GOOd
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 05:02P
I like the slogan 4:57P! PAINT ON!!!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:57P
Who is El Barto? The next Mayor! Viva Santa El Barto! The new slogan for SR!
The hippest mex town waaaaayyyy north of the boarder. Rohnert Park is next! Viva El BartoPark! Just look at the Swest area Mexville every place.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:50P
Where4 is mu judicial spirit? I am sitting on it!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:49P
3:38....they don't own property, money spent on spray paint.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:40P
Art is murals like Diego Rivera's or the ones on the mural tour of the Mission in SF. Tagging, that's self idolizing trash on other peoples property. Put something besided your name dorkus, then we'll see.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:35P
elbarto cant stop wont stop
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:35P
Yes I am the real El Barto! HAHAHa thanks for the laugh today! Actully I have another name...Dont worry I dont even live in you city!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:33P
4:21P I hope he gets it easy too!Hopefully the DA will focus on not losing evidence and prosecuting pedofiles instead!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:32P
4:04P Read Western Independant Bankers and then tell me I dont know what I am talking about! YEAH! Get YOUR facts straight!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:21P
i hope saif gets off easy, he's a good person and friend. it's not even a big deal, why don't those cops spend more time cleaning up and investigating gang activity not something as small as this?
-B.C.O
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:12P
El Barto - man, myth, legend
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:11P
Besides, El Barto OWNS the cops. Don't fck with El Barto!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:08P
402 is the real El Barto. His decoy got arrested. El Barto - investor by day, tagger by night!
EL BARTO LIVES!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:06P
Point in Question: What makes a common punk?
A: see 4:02
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:06P
NO LUCK NEEDED 4:03P!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:04P
353 - you been following the market lately?? You don't know what the fck you're talking about.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:03P
353 - uh, you are STILL. Like we give a flying sht. The reason you haven't been caught tagging, you lucked out.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:02P
For one thing it is not any bank i WORK for They work for me! second of all that was not my point. My point is what makes a common punk?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 04:01P
3:38 each time I get tagged it costs me about $250 bucks to clean up my fence. Primer/Paint plus labor, labor is 10 hrs to prime and paint. It sucks, I would like to find the little punks and make them clean it up.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:59P
el barto still roams the street, i seen new tags on 101, they got the wrong person
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:53P
3:19 was referring to the fact that younger ind.'s, particularly those in the tech sector, are the main reason for your new found wealth. you guys didn't make wise investments; you lucked out, and the party's almost over!! who's the punk now?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:51P
3;38, I agree
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:44P
3:19 must be with First Tard Savings And Loan.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:42P
3:19 WTF your statement makes it clear. Taggers=Punks. Tell us what bank you are with so that we may avoid it.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:38P
Tag on your own property...I am sick and friggin tired of having to re-paint my fence every month cuz some punks with a spray can think it is their art board.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:28P
YOU GUYS GOT THE WRONG PERSON I DON'T THINK THAT'S EL BARTO YOU GUYS SHOULD LET HIM OUT FREE
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:28P
The little incremental savings acount interest fails in comparison to the money it costs to clean up ugly tags on people's properties.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:26P
My savings account interest earns me about $0.01 every month, so THANKS 3:19. I really owe you man!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:24P
319 - thank you for my 0.000725% Savings Account Interest! You are solely responsible for that, not only mine, but everyones! We owe you such an apology I don't even know where to begin to start....
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:22P
3:05P Again someone I agree with! LIKE I SAID HELP THESE PEOPLE TURN around and SHOW EVERYONE what they feel naturally!My art (graffitti) is what got me through school, family issues,and other problems as a teen.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:19P
3:07p So the fact that I PROVIDE YOUR BANK RATES for good money and am a tagger makes me a punk but i support myself at a young age,make good money, and help my community?I am the reason your savings acount has any interest at all!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:19P
graffiti is awesome.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:15P
Whatever happened to taking pride in your property and community making an attractive clean enviroment for EVERYONE to enjoy, taggers are a blight on the enviroment, what does political affiliation have to do with crime?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:14P
Press Democrat caught in the act of censorship! Ah shame on you PD! Now I know why nobody trusts a Democrat! Need to change your name to The Press Green Party. You left wing socialist crack me up!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:12P
Free El Barto!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:07P
2:58 TAGGER = PUNK no exceptions
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:06P
29 Palms, a small hot desert village with a mere hundreds of people, and with no taggers or gangs to begin with. Go figure.....
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:05P
YOU PEOPLE ACT LIKE GRAFFITI LESSONS YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE. TRY THIS. USE YOUR ANGER FROM YOUR PERSONAL LIFE AND THE PROBLEMS OF THE WORLD TO CREATE SOMTHING OR EXPRESS YOURSELF, LIKE EL BARTO, INSTEAD OF FEEDING OFF HIS ARREST LIKE PARANA,SQUARES
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:02P
As I sit here thinking about killing myself, and about to do it.... "he" comes in and tells me that there's more to life and that life is meaningful. Then "he" just walks out the door, and I live and now I'm rich. LONG LIVE EL BARTO!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 03:00P
2:54P I like your thinking! I agree. NOW WHO IS GOING TO GELP ME GET THAT STARTED?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:59P
2:48 yes i did, but i made my point as you did too.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:58P
2:51p do you know this kid? How do you know he is a common punk?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:57P
2:48 You didn't capitalize the "Y" in "you" or end with a period. I'd suggest focusing on the topic rather than the spelling and sentence construction.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:54P
Folks there are creative solutions. All the complaining in the world won't solve the problem. For example, check-out 29 Palms. It has murals galore, which the city takes great pride in (very little graffiti). Help find a way to divert the taggers.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:51P
2:44 you obviously have no idea what it costs to paint anything. El Tardo is a common punk. He deserves the maximum penalty allowed.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:48P
2:37 you misspelled your
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:44P
I respect El Barto's works. His graffiti was a bit in your face, and perhaps should be punished for it.. but $100,000 is enough money to repaint the entire town.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:43P
EL BARTO will be my girlfriend in lock up
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:37P
2:27 You better call the paramedics, I think you're heart is bleeding all over your tie die shirt.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:33P
A child is shot dead in front of his home while he plays. El Barto claims his prize as the attacker and the underworld graffiti taggers revel is El Barto's majesty. The future of your freedom is in El Barto's hands. You lose, El Barto wins.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:32P
2:18p no one is comparing what he did to anything.This is a big topis with many angles. Simply suggesting it would be easier to differentiate simple logo/gang tagging to the graffers that want their art known and shown!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:32P
Hey EL Tardo story teller. Go kill yourself. FOAD
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:28P
Hey 2:00 and 2:04, yeah for you!!! You are artists and are contributing, hooray, I knew you were out there! Not El Barfo
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:27P
apparently all these haters dont know what art is. art is expression in the free form and connot be defined by a text book or whatever your definition of art is. he was not hurting anyone. stop being so materialistic.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:20P
A couple years scrubbing brushes and cans as an artists's apprentice/lackey (along w/mandatory comm. svc. cleanup of where he's tagged) might open his eyes to the proper way for an artist to conduct themselves and present their work.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:20P
Bejeing, 2008. The U.S. was down by 12 late in the 4th. They would sure lose yet again! But "he" suited up and took over the game. No one knew "he" could score, no one knew "he" could play D. 18-0 run, U.S. gets the Gold back! LONG LIVE EL BARTO!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:18P
why are people comparing what this dirt bag did to art? tagging one's ID all over the place is not art.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:13P
el barto is not gang related and he does not "tag" on murals or other peoples art.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:13P
2:04 sorry, too bad some of the other posts can't see the difference between your work and common tagger punks. 1 year at the ranch for El Tardo.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:12P
Gang related tags I agree are absured and annoying, pointless and cost alot of money to cover!The community should be involved though with those kids that actually create ART!SET UP A CONVENTION!IT WORKED IN FRISCO!!!!You all are negative thinkers!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:04P
Tell the people who got tagged that there was no damage done. They have to pay to fix it. Because nobody taught kid any respect for others he's going to jail. Blame parents, Ridgeway and JC. You must have respect for others to teach it and they don't
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:04P
I am painting a large mural (with permission) and yesterday morning saw that the entire facility had been tagged with gang-related sharpie grafitti. It totally pi$$es me off that taggers run rampant without a care for artists who do good for others.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:03P
if you want to spray paint something, DO IT ON SOMETHING YOU OWN. grafitti is not art, it is TRESPASSING!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:01P
... beautiful, that everyone can admire and appreciate, rather than screw it up for other artists who actually have something to contribute other than mindless grafitti and gang propaganda.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 02:00P
I'm sorry, reading these comments makes me wonder what is in the water these days. Gang tags and sharpie slurs aren't art for the greater good, they're self-serving vandalism. If you want to do some good, ask a building owner and create something ...
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:57P
Everybody was crying during that lovely Christmas dinner. Dad was laying there helplessly choking on mom's ham dinner. Suddenly "he" burst through the door saying "I'll save ya!" and performed the Heimlich. Dad was saved! LONG LIVE EL BARTO
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:54P
1:42 and 1:45 At first I didn't understand. I reread the stories again, and now think this is the stuff of folk legends. Nice work!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:47P
12:39 they are all the same to me
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:45P
North Korea launched it's payload and the bird was in the air, on it's way. Suddenly the F14 confronted the birdie, and "BAM!" it was shot down, war averted. Who was in that f14 everyone asked? Who was he? It was "him". LONG LIVE EL BARTO!!!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:42P
The old lady had fallen helplessly in the crosswalk and the psycho just laughed and stepped on the gas, speeding towards her. In a flash "he" came and swooped her up and shot the psycho straight up. LONG LIVE EL BARTO!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:37P
12:51P No one said on something that didn't belong to them. I think I clearly said "massive canvas's"!That's not saying public property that is a convention to help these kids get ahead the PROPER WAY!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:26P
12:49P couldnt agree more! Long live paint! MOSH06!!!!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 01:08P
Hey it's the Gref 2006! Stay smart kid, and fight the case.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:51P
A convention for kids that like to paint on things that do not belong to them. Um, no thanks. How about their parents give them something to draw on & teach them right from wrong?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:49P
12:38 Are we asking too much in thinking about the issues and solutions instead of focusing on the same old tired complaints, which have solved little in many years?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:47P
Like others have said.... this clown is just tagging stuff. He is NO artist! Get real! Send a message SC, 1 year at the county farm working the sac crew!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:39P
The guy coud be doing alot worse ya know..... jeez .... its not like he's going around robbing and beating people up, or raping women, or selling drugs.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:38P
Why is the PD allowing multiple comments from the same person, this is not a forum, take it somewhere else, two of you just make no sense
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:32P
If he gets of on this, I give up. Change our slogan to: Santa Rosa: where criminals never get convicted.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:30P
12:21 Are you an art historian and/or art critic? 12:16 I suppose El Barto already told you about his adrenaline rush? 11:55 Yes, we can be creative about resolving this problem. 12:13 You pay one way or another.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:28P
ART is definately in the eye of the beholder! And 12:06p when was the last time you heard someone setting fire to your front yard because it was "pretty". You kid?Maybe you should be a better parent if that is the case!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:26P
A convention for kids that want to do this will put a positive energy in the community so they arent running around tagging YOUR PROPERTY!as far as gang related tags they are rediculous! But what about the people that have talent??????
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:25P
I am sorry but you taxpayer cry babies would rather spend more money on cleaning up messes then helping the situation ONCE for these kids?FUNDRAISERS??eh? what do you say!?complaining how your money isnt going to good use.cont.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:24P
12:01 It's great we Republicans can demonstate we do have a large tent. To many people get the impression we're all rigid thinkers and angry people, and that's simply not the case. BTW, "rational" in my 12:06 comments is misspelled.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:21P
If this kid calls himself an artist he's got another thing coming. I haven't seen one piece of work that is anything but a plain "el barto" tag. Now I don't agree with this type of art but there are some pieces worthy of being called art, his arent
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:18P
Dear 12:06 After today's exchange you may find as you drive home that you cannot help considering, even for a microsecond, that billboards are a form of commercial graffiti. I don't support tagging; I'm pointing out the bigger issues.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:16P
He should get no break!! I feel sorry for him, but he needs to be held accountable for his actions.
Ask him about the "adrenaline rush" he got, knowing what he did was wrong, at the time he created his called "ART"
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:13P
I don't want to spend my already mis-used tax dollars for a wall specifically for taggers. Do we buy a space for arsonists next? You have a problem if you don't think messing with something that is not yours is okay.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:11P
I love that comment by the fellow art student that thinks he wasn't "hurting anyone." Well, there's more than one way to hurt someone. The defacement of property and the cost and labor to remove it is a definition of doing damage to others.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:06P
11:57 I think you may be talking to me, the Republican from the earlier posting. No, that's not my mode of thinking. I believe social issues are complex, and require rationale and creative thinking to resolve. Otherwise it's more of the same.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:06P
Dear 11:47, I can't recall a time when someone dropped by MY yard in the night to put up their advertising, savvy? If someone set fire to someone's property, ('cause its pretty to watch it burn)in the name of art, is it?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:01P
09:54A; No, you donýt get itý, I was being sarcastic, read it again! Moreover, I do not want to get inside the mind of a tagger! The only solution is stricter penalties! Mandatory THREE STRIKE for single offence. (I am Republican)
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:01P
most of you are very wrong on the speculation about barto.
first of all, this kid is taking credit for my tags.
i have been in SF everynight and tgging elbarto since i graduated the jc, second i know saif, and hes a good kid
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:00P
What if he bought a house, and spray painted on it? Its his right. What would you say then?!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 12:00P
i hope he gets out of all this truble and moves to a city were this would be appreciated
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:57A
Hey right wing: Maybe it was Bill Clintons fault!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:55A
Why are there no 'legal' walls in Santa Rosa? Especially now, since this city is fairly small but is growing rapidly, there should be somewhere where the graffiti artists can go to hone their skills & hold mural competitions and such.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:53A
Why are there no 'legal' walls in Santa Rosa? Especially now, since this city is fairly small but is growing rapidly, there should be somewhere where the graffiti artists can go to hone their skills & hold mural competitions and such.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:48A
Not only should his bail be $100K, his fine should be $100K, his time should be 100yrs, and he should be made to clean up ALL OF THE MESS he has created! plus the mess of the ones he "ran wit"
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:47A
Dear 11:35 In a limited sense, yes. Regardless of whether commercial billboards are on private property they inflict their ugliness and blight on the community, and as I mentioned especially in the poorer areas. Help taggers find acceptable outlets.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:36A
Barto is not an artist, i would gladly name the real street artists of sonoma county but we don't need the 5.0 being drawn to any particular people right now. in my mind, i'd say maybe five or six of us are real artist.....one of who ran wit BARTO
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:35A
Dear 11:17 - Hey, I agree, billboards are an eyesore - but they are not on the property of others! Can you see the difference? I suspect if you had a home or business & El Barto el al imposed their will on your property, you would not be happy. Eh?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:26A
For all of you that think what he did is art and is OK, how would you like it if he did his "art" on your car?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:23A
Send him in 5' x 8' box for a couple of years. He will get the picture.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:21A
Artist? whatever. Do what other artists do and PAY for the space to express their art. good god
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:17A
11:01 Commercial billboards are another form of tagging, but in these instances by people who have the "esteem" and money to inflict their eyesores on the community. Not surpisingly many billboards are in lower socioeconomic areas.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:16A
He did about a $1000 in damages to my business and I do not considerate it artwork in a normal mind. It's simply
vandalism. Those who encourage his wrong doing have a lot to learn as well. I hope the DA will send a message to all " taggers", jail.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:16A
Why are we doing a human interest story on someone who destroys others property for a living.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:13A
what if someone's home/property is targeted by a "real gang member/tagger" since they see elbarto tags and think its a rival gang? i agree this person (whoever did it) meant no harm but he/she needs to think about the repercussions
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:13A
Haha, thats funny 11:03!
Most of the comments in here do appear to come from a bunch of "Homers"
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:12A
i'd rather see graffiti than billboards and the like. rock on lil' bart-dude!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:09A
El Barto does not warrant prison! But he does need punishment and to pay restitution.
Then, we need to address the "Legal" signage that pollutes our vision...
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:03A
The disenfranchised youth of today perhaps do relate better with the character from The Simpsons (Bart) then our own president. I know I relate to (Lisa) and all of you (Homers) should watch the show.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 11:01A
Duh 10:14 - billboards are bought and paid for - what you think people just go hang up an advertisement for free? Sheesh. You probably think that damaging other people's property is art....
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:59A
get the kid(s) to clean it up- theres no way this kid did over 300 "tags" by himself- he's got a lil crew somewhere- point is make him clean it up , that is perfect. can someone say cameras from now on
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:41A
1036A Accepted! Yes we do have similar views.I used to tag myself and I am all for having a fundraiser or contest for scholarships for these "artist".I wish someone would have had that for me.ANYONE willing to help me get this started?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:36A
10:23 I'm sorry, I misinterpreted your message, and I cannot not tell which of the other messages you wrote. I think we may have similar views on this social issue (and the need for community involvement), and probably others too. My apology.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:23A
10:17A I don't recall complaining in what I said! Sounds like everyone else is compaining!Maybe you should read more! I have been trying to "stimulate" thinking since yesterday! GET INVOLVED!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:17A
10:08 Complaining does not solve the problem. I was giving examples to stimulate thinking.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:14A
Aren't billboards a form of commercial tagging? They are very unsightly and contribute nothing to the greater community. People, you need to look at the bigger picture!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:09A
10:01 Ollie, ollie oxen free! (Did I spell it correctly?)
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:08A
9:49A We already go for the underpasses and such! Those are fun! But LETS GET THE COMMUNITY INVOLVED!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:06A
you can't put everyone in jail, even in was zones you can read the signs "written on the subway walls."
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:05A
I've seen these 'El Barto' tags. I don't like them. Give Azzuz 3 years of strict probation where he spends 40 hours/week helping property owners repaint and recover their property. It will help him grow up and understand himself and others.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:04A
Sad, that Donna Larson teaches ART and it is no wonder that the youth would rather write on walls than attend such bogus classes. Street art will always be a threat to those safe within the walls.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:01A
Tag....Your it
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 10:00A
Keep on complaining, you will lose, taggers will win
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:54A
9:38 I'm a Republican so in today's political climate I guess that would make me "right-wing." How do you know what might work? Have you tried to get inside the minds of taggers and why they do it? Be creative and be part of the solution!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:49A
Dear 9:42 - Commercial graffiti - true - but they are paying for that right and not randomly damaging someone elses property. I don't care if he writes El Barto or Go God or No War - it is vandalism!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:49A
9:32 Maybe El Barto and other taggers could create community murals, for example, in freeway underpasses. This approach has helped reduce the tagging problem in other cities. Think creatively about how to address the problem!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:42A
We're surrounded by graffiti -- most of it is "commercial" -- isn't that what outdoor advertizing is? Commercial logos everywhere. Only a little is "individual". In a way it's a welcome respite.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:40A
HELLO?! Can you please elaborate on WHERE and WHAT ELSE this kid has drawn besides "El Barto" on things?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:39A
Why doesnt sonoma county have tagging walls? This would give young artists a place to show there stuff. Yes it is art, and takes talent. But it shouldnt be done at the expense of other people.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:39A
Geez, it's not like he was a drunk motorcyclist or pedophile. Or a star football player who was speeding & killed his friend. I'd rather see the punishment go to the violent offenders & get this kid in a community service & probation program.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:38A
Hey left wing; let's help these young people and hold a contest..., don't you get it? They DO NOT want a contest. They want to break the law and out-do each other. It's not about art! It's all about beating the law and out-doing each other TAGGING!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:38A
If he want "art" tatto his body so we don't have to see it. Make him clean up that damage. That's the problem, a slap on the wrist and they do it again.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:33A
he hit my neighborhood....
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:32A
I think "El Barto" Should pay back to the comunity, and Wear a BIG sign around his neck saying he is "El Barto" and go re-paint over everything he painted. And he should also do the new sound walls on HWY 101.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:29A
9:19A I like your thinking wanna help coordinate with me? I am getting irritaded at these people that want to do nothing except cry about it!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:27A
Tagging is vandalism as it is put on someone else's property without the owner's permission. Thus a crime; and criminals deserve to be punished.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:23A
It wasn't art, he was spray-painting his "logo" on public and private property. Take responsibility for your actions, someone had to pay to clean it all up!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:21A
to all you commenters from before.... look he was born in Eurkea CALIFORNIA USA therefore a US citizen. and you want to deport him to where??? Eureka? GO FIGURE
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:19A
I am 21 live on my own supported myself since I was 16 and I have more common sense then all you whiney babies!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:19A
Let's get creative. For example, give taggers a place to tag. Maybe hold a community contest for the most creative work. Possibly a college scholarship to the winner. Just some ideas. Time to think out-of-the-box rather than just more "woe is us."
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:18A
I am 21 live on my own supported myself since I was 16 and I have more common sense then all you whiney babies!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:16A
Let the DA make an example of the kid, and you all will be more mad than you are now when revenge in these kids will be great!I am glad I moved away from all of you yuppies that have no idea whats going on with your kids or kids in general!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:15A
8:52A Atleast I am trying to make something positive about this!Tell me I am no better?Please!Then I dare you to try to help your community instead of folding your arms and looking away! Atleast I am suggesting alternatives!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:13A
hey, if he really wants to paint, he can come paint my house, it's about due for a new paint job.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 09:13A
Where's the PROOF??? I guess he is guilty in the court of the press democrat.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:56A
Yup, The DA must make an example of this vandal. And make it very severe.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:53A
The media exaults this type of criminal valdalism. This news coverage will only entice youngsters to follow in this unlawful kids footsteps! This will only perpetuate this type of behavior. Kids just want to be somebody and the news obliges them!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:52A
'El Barto' suspect....get it? He HASN'T BEEN CONVICTED. You people are all so quick to think of punishments for him but really 'Barto' could be your neighbor,a co-worker, or even in your family.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:52A
to post 8:27&8:35, it's not about violence. It's about the anger people have toward this person for defacing property. You are no better than him,if you support him.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:52A
EXCUSE ME 8:35P but I had someone one do that to my home!THIS IS why I am saying GET INVOLVED! YOU DONT WANT HIM TO PAINT YOUR HOME BUT YOU WILL BE THE FIRST ONE TO THROW STONES!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:50A
8:38P Because if we dont support the kid and turn this around then it'll only get worse and more kids will think it's cool! WE NEED THE COMMUNITY TO HELP! NO ONE WANTS TO HELP KIDS ANYMORE! I know I needed help when i was that age...NO ONE was there!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:46A
8:35 How would you like it if some so called punk artist tagged your home. I doubt you have one, because any good property owner knows the answer. NO. Let him paint all he wants, on cavas or paper, etc. But NOT on someones property.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:38A
HOW CAN AYONE SUPPORT THIS KID. HE BROKE THE LAW. END OF STORY. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR ACTIONS.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:37A
LONG LIVE "EL BARTO".....LONG LIVE ALL YOU ARTISTS! PAINT ON!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:35A
8:27P I could not agree more with you! Just because he paints you want to "hang him" send him off to "military."Disgusting people!Cant we turn this into a positive thing!?Or are you jealous you have no artistic abilities?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:34A
It apears to me that many so called supporters of EL TARDO must be from Sebastopol. Only the rejects from there would condone this type of behavior.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:33A
1st just because this kid went to Ridgeway doesnt make him a bad kid!GET A CLUE!2nd why dont you as a community do something to help?SET UP A day for these kids to be able to work together and raise Money!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:32A
There is no outlet for freedom of expression in this county.Why are art and music cut first from schools budgets?The only culture in sonoma is in the yogurt.This kid should not be sent to jail.It will make him a worse criminal.Make him clean it up.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:27A
sr and nation is weird, violent, by some of these comments its know wonder our kids are getting into violence, look at tv,violent movies, and the really violent vidioes,shame on you parents for even commenting.u watch this stuff coz its fashionable
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:26A
Get a rope!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:23A
properties come and go art is much more permanent, and most buildings are ugly, i would like to see more vivid colors elbarto, bulidings in sr are light blue,or tan, no imagination.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:18A
long live 'EL BARTO!!!"
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:17A
to 7:03 you can't be serious about this clown. Art is one thing, tagging someone elses property is another. I love art. Taggers are punks and should be thrown in jail. Shame on the PD for giving this person any press, except notice of his conviction.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:12A
Sometimes you wish kids like this could get a good canning. Then they would think twice before defacing my beautiful county. I hope the judge throws the book at this kid; he was trying to make a point with his ýartý that law enforcement could not s
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:05A
He should be arrested! It is called vandalism, NOT art!!!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 08:03A
Why is the PD glorifyingthis punk's actions? He is a vandal who has caused over $100K worth of damages thru ought the county! He needs to be punnished severely. As does his parents who clearly knew what he was doing.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:53A
Kids these days think they have the right to do anything and not pay the consequences. Just look at this kids lack of remorse, and responsibility. I mean he had a tag name and it was painted on his shoe. Duh...
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:52A
...financial restitution for the property damage he has inflicted should be mandatory.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:51A
A vandal. Pure and simple. He wasn't painting murals. He was tagging. With this, property values plummet, crimes rises and property owners spend $1,000s correcting the defacement. While he perhaps shouldn't face jail-time, community service and...
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:50A
give him community service to clean up graffiti in Sonoma County. He can start on my fence I have painted over about a million times.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:50A
Sometimes you wish kids like this could get a good canning. Then they would think twice before defacing my beautiful county. I hope the judge throws the book at this kid; he was trying to make a point with his ýartý that law enforcement could not s
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:33A
Brand a "V" into his forehead, then casterate him...
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:26A
7:03A Get a life !!!!!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:18A
Who cares about this Punks taste in art. he is a Vandal and needs to pay the price for his Vandalisim !!
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:15A
Glad I am not his lawyer. If I was, I wouldn't be. He needs to STFU.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:07A
Lots of eyes are on this case. I really hope the DA does not drop the ball here and wait forever to make a solid decision. Visible community service deserves a good look. Other taggers: pay attention.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 07:03A
read the article, read between the lines, learn something beyond your simplistic, moronic, reactionary world-view. where is art and humanity in this century, you have all been brainwashed by your simple minds
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:55A
"He graduated from Rigway Continuation Hhigh School" speaks volumes about this individual. Anyone can study art, perhaps math and science classes did not match his personna, maybe some jail time will.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:47A
Just another loser in our county, jail his father too, he knew what was going on.
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:47A
yea you guys are right, lets hang the 18 year old kid
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:34A
If convicted, how about a class action suit against this guy by SR taxpayers?
Wednesday, Oct 11, 2006 06:02A
Dropping his bail from 100,000 to 5,000 will be just a slap on the hand. Our court system is to easy on punishment, that's why we still have the problems we have.