The Bakersfield Museum of Art & the Kern County Library Unite for the Big Read Kick- Off EventBy Sarah Gaskins

By Sarah Gaskins
Staff Writer

To promote and prepare for the upcoming celebrations of Black History Month, the Bakersfield Museum of Art (BMoA) opened their first Harlem Renaissance exhibit in early December. The new exhibition contains pieces of African-American art from the 1920s and 193's and will remain open for viewing until February 25th.
Not only did the BMoA release a new exhibit for the public in an effort to encourage Black History appreciation, but it also teamed up with the Kern County Library to introduce the city of Bakersfield to what is called "The Big Read."
According to the BMoA website, "The Big Read" is a community-wide endeavor to read author Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God." Hurston was recognized as one of the most popular and powerful writers throughout the Harlem Renaissance era.
"The Big Read" kick-off event officially began Thursday evening on January 15. The public was warmly welcomed into the museum and was also greeted with the smooth sounds of a live jazz band. Before the actual ceremony began, BMoA personnel urged guests to indulge in complimentary refreshments and to admire the different masterpieces that were showcased in the museum.
Later in the evening, visitors began to file into a large room where the initial kick-off of "The Big Read" event was held. The audience ranged from high school students to interviewers, teachers, professors, parents and other residents of Bakersfield. Seats filled up quickly, and many had to resort to standing or sitting against the back wall of the conference room.
Assistant Director of the Bakersfield Museum of Art, David Gordon, amiably greeted the audience as he took the podium. His friendly attitude and charismatic public speaking skills seemed to create a personable atmosphere within the room. Gordon began with special thanks to those who were involved with the initiation of "The Big Read." His list of various names, schools, newspapers and companies proved that this event was put forth by a large committee and that it had full support from the Bakersfield community as a whole.
In his opening speech, Gordon described how "The Big Read" aimed to "encourage community wide reading." He also addressed that many more events will be taking place within the next few months in celebration of "The Big Read," Black History Month and their Harlem Renaissance art exhibit. Gordon urged the audience to participate in these upcoming activities.
In addition, Bakersfield's Mayor, Harvey Hall, also emphasized that this event is important when looking to continue our commitment with literacy. After several introduction speeches were given, Iraina Cheney performed a poem before the audience and left many in awe. In fact, she was so successful in executing her poem that the audience raised for a standing ovation.
Following Iraina's heartfelt poem, Dr. Fitzalbert Marius took the stage and wowed many. Dr. Fitzalbert was born during the year 1922 in Panama. When he turned three-years-old he and his family decided to move to New York. He lived his childhood years during the depression as well as the Harlem Renaissance.
To introduce "The Big Read" event to the people of Bakersfield, the BMoA and Kern County Library asked Fitzalbert to come share his experiences as he grew up during the Harlem Renaissance. Not only did he reveal his personal stories, but he also gave his insight on life in general. He made many chuckle when he offered the advice of "do not try to compare your peaches to someone else's apples."
Fitzalbert's speech was one that left him in a light of admiration. It was clear that this man had an astounding personality and quite a sense of humor. It was obvious that he made a strong connection with the audience.
He concluded his speech with the poem "Gabriel's Silver Trumpet." Following his last and final word, a surge of applause came from his listeners. What he had to say that evening touched the audience to such an extent that a standing ovation almost seemed both inevitable and predictable.
Gordon was very pleased with Thursday night's festivities at the BMoA. "I thought it was incredibly successful," he said. Gordon also commented on how much he appreciated the guest speakers and their help in promoting both "The Big Read" and the new Harlem Renaissance exhibition.
He explained that while it may have seemed odd for the museum to cover a literacy event, their new art display coincided perfectly with Zora Neale Hurston's novel. The partnership between the Bakersfield Museum of Art and the Kern County Library instigated both Black history appreciation and a strong sense of community amongst the residence of Bakersfield.
To find out more about "The Big Read" movement and the BMoA activities that will take place within the next few months, visit the Bakersfield Museum of Art website.

La Kose earns 300th win

By Mark Nessia
Staff Writer



CSUB's women's basketball head coach Tim La Kose earned his 300th career win on Jan. 13 at the Icardo Center with a 73-57 victory over Long Beach State University. The win pushed the Roadrunner's record to 10-7 (4-0 against Big West Conference opponents), and the team is now 79-0 all-time when keeping opponents under 60 points. Long Beach dropped to 3-13, and has lost six straight games.
"That's our goal," said La Kose in regards to the team's perfect record against Big West opponents. "To finish atop the Big West, finish atop Independent. We're an Independent team, so our goal is to become the top Independent. We aspire to get to the Big West, and we play the Big West, so we want to finish atop the Big West standings also. The ultimate goal is to get to the NCAA championships."
The Roadrunners came off to a fast start, beginning the game with a 17-0 run. Turnovers and missed opportunities plagued Long Beach during the run, which lasted for over seven minutes. Long Beach turned the ball over seven times and was 0 for seven from the field.
La Kose said that the team coming out strong seems to be a trend at home, and that was the big difference in the game.
"Long Beach has some weapons," said La Kose. "They played better at the end of the half and start of the second half, but our team answered and got the stops we needed."
Long Beach cut the Roadrunner's lead to as little as eight points, but again, turnovers and poor shooting halted any chance of a comeback. Long Beach finished the game with 20 turnovers, 24 for 72 shooting from the field and was just three for 18 from three-point range.
The Roadrunners committed 12 turnovers, shot 26 for 68 from the field and were 10 for 29 from three-point range, including six from forward Phynique Allen. Allen led all Roadrunners with 22 points and four steals, and was one of three players to score in double-figures.
"I think we're playing great," said Christine Kepenekian, who finished the game with 18 points. "We're trying to get in the Big West, so it's a good thing for us. It shows them that we can compete with them, and possibly win that conference in the future."
But for the moment, all eyes were on La Kose and his historic achievement.
"It's a big deal," said Allen. "We focused on the win, and the game at hand, but we also knew that this could be coach's 300th win, and we wanted to make sure that happened so we went out there and got it done for him."
When asked about his accomplishment, La Kose deferred the attention to his players. According to La Kose, the players have bought into the opportunity to take a Division II program to a Division I, and tonight's win was another big step toward it.
"Players win games, not coaches," said La Kose. "And it's because of players like Phynique and Christine that are having the success we're having. Christine's been here for six years and she's a big reason why we're winning."
La Kose has now coached the CSUB women's basketball team to 164 of its 185 all-time victories, and currently owns a 164-57 record during his eight-year tenure at CSUB. He had 136 victories as head coach of Cal Lutheran's women's basketball team.
To La Kose, all Division I wins feel good because they are the underdog in a lot of those games. The addition of it being a victory over a Big West team made it even better.
"They have the resources, they have the tradition and track record of success," said La Kose. "Long Beach State was a top Big West team not too long ago, and they've had some big wins this year, and so to get (a win) at home, with this group, is really special."
When asked how important getting his 300th career win at home was, La Kose said it was not that important to him, and the key thing is the team keeps playing well and getting better. He did admit that the fact that it did happen was really nice, but stressed that the main thing is the team keeps playing well and raising the bar.
"When that happens, you get opportunities like we had tonight," said La Kose. "The team is making it happen, and working hard. They want to make history; they want to be the best CSUB women's basketball team ever. The whole campus and community want to see a top Division I program. It has so many ripple effects on the benefits, not only to our players, which is most important, but it's more fun to report, it's more fun to watch, it's more fun to play and it's more fun to coach."

Winter quarter kicked off with club fair

By Katie Richey
Staff Writer

Club Name: Muslim Students Association
Purpose: The Muslim Students Associations purpose is to raise the awareness of the Muslim religion on campus. They want students to have a place for them to be informed on various Muslim ideals and beliefs.
Members: Anyone who is interested in learning more about the Muslim religion and helping out at events.
Goals for 2009: The Muslim Students Association wants to inform more students about their religion and work on more forums. They also want to join together with other clubs to plan events and recruit more members.
Meet: 1:30-2:30 in the Blue room in the Student Union

Club Name: The Anthropology Club
Purpose: The Anthropology Club meets together to discuss Anthropological ideas, methods, and discoveries.
Members: Anyone with the interest in any of the fields of anthropology including biological, cultural, architectural, and linguistic.
Goals for 2009: To get more active members and to meet together more often.
Meet: Monthly

Club Name: Kappa Delta Nu Sorority
Purpose: The Kappa Delta Nu Sorority prides itself in being one of the most diverse sororities on campus. They work hard in helping out with the community and helping each of their sisters grow individually.
Members: Kappa Delta Nu is currently rushing. They are looking for young, diverse, CSUB ladies to help add some Kappa Delta flair to the sorority.
Goals for 2009: To work more for the community.

Club Name: Community Service Corporative
Purpose: The main purpose of the Community Service Corporative is to serve the community.
Members: CSC is looking for any individual who has a passion for the community and willing to work for a good cause.
Goals for 2009: Their goals include trying to educate and motivate more CSUB students in to getting involved in the community and doing their part in the "Celebrate CSUB" in April.
Meet: 2:00 in the Students Union at 2:00

Club Name: MECHA
Purpose: MECHA is one of the oldest organizations on campus. They focus on learning about different cultures. They hold many events including Adelante Raza, Cinco de Mayo, and the Chicano Commencement. They take trips both state and nation wide to talk about political issues and how students can make a difference.
Members: MECHA is looking for individuals interested their cultural background.
Goals for 2009: MECHA looking forward to getting more members, taking more educational trips, and raising awareness about their organization.
Find them at: www.csub.edu/mecha

Club Name: Phi Sigma Sigma Sorority
Purpose: Phi Sigma Sigma prides itself in representing core values through service, learning, and inclusiveness.
Members: Phi Sigma Sigma is looking for quality girls who believe in their same core values.
Goals for 2009: Phi Sigma Sigma plans on welcoming new girls to their sorority. They also plan on boosting their GPA and helping out at the Rock-a-thon in February.
Find them at: http://www.csub.edu/PhiSig/

Club Name: Kappa Sigma Fraternity
Purpose: The Kappa Sigma Fraternity is a group of gentlemen that work together to form fellowship between brothers. They work hard to serve their community.
Members: Kappa Sigma Fraternity is currently rushing and in search for good quality men who are interested in a brotherhood.
Goals for 2009: They would like to help increase the Greek life on campus and have more involvement in campus events. They would also like to get their names out into the community.

Club Name: Mission 242
Purpose: Mission 242 is a new ministry based club on campus. They meet together to hang out, work on community projects, and have fellowship.
Members: They are welcoming anybody who just wants have fun and learn about the Bible.
Goals for 2009: Mission 242 would like to reach more people through ministry and work more in the community and on campus. Also they would like to spread the word about their club.
Meet: Mondays or Tuesdays on campus

Club Name: Migrant Student MBA Chapter
Purpose: The MBA main purpose is to educate students about developing their personal financial skills.
Members: They are looking for anybody interested in discovering more about investing, saving, and other financial ideas.
Goals for 2009: The MBA is planning on attending a big conference in the spring. They also want to help to educate more students on how to secure a financial future and how to build credit.
Meet: 11:30 on Tuesdays in the Green room at the Student Union

Club Name: Theta Chi Fraternity
Purpose: Theta Chi is a service and brotherhood based fraternity. They work on assisting in various events on campus and maintaining successful academic ideals. They each support one another in hopes of keeping these bonds through the rest of life. They also share strong bonds with sororities on campus.
Members: They are looking for men interesting in sharing their same ideas.
Goals for 2009: Theta Chi plans on increasing their members and building a stronger financial situation.

Runner cafe receives a 'B' grade

By Hillary Haenes
Features Editor

When you walk through the doors of CSUB's Runner Café and are greeted with a not so appealing sign that marks a large, blue letter B, you may think twice about eating your next meal here, but don't. For those of you who have had a difficult time locating the rating sign, it is posted in a new location since the Runner Café received their B-rating since October.
The new rating sign is now positioned on the wall and is hidden behind a welcome sign near the cash registers, which is where the inspectors placed the new sign. There is no need to panic if you do chow down on the convenient and tasty food at the café, the grade is due to only minor violations.
"The critical element that caused our score to lower to a B from an A were towels we use to sanitize/clean work surfaces [that] were left on work surfaces during the preparation process," said Food Service Director and General Manager of Campus Services, Bob McMicken.
According to McMicken, the explanation for this is that the workers were using the towels and failed to return them to the sanitizing solution bucket immediately after using them. This observation was cited in two areas and caused two deductions from their score. However, the situation was corrected right away, but the points were still deducted.
"If the sign was posted on the door, I would walk over to the pub, but since it wasn't, here I am," said senior Gabriela Luna.
On the Kern County Environmental Health Services website, the inspection report shows the rating history of the Runner Café and that on October 18, 2007, the café had a grade of an A (99.5 percent), but on October 30, 2008, the café's current grade was dropped to a B (80 percent). The inspection details explain the deductions of the most recent inspection, which include four non-critical violations, one minor violation and three major violations.
The non-critical violations consist of individual containers of salad dressing that were provided with no label displayed in the cooler, the ceiling was not clean in the walk-in cooler, one prep sink was not in good working order and the exhaust hoods were lacking filters. The minor violation was the women's restroom was lacking hot water. The three major violations that deduced the Runner Café's grade to a B were: the moist wiping towels were improperly stored on the prep counter, and another time the moist wiping towels were not properly stored in the sanitizing solution between use, and finally, detergent was not provided with a label that was being stored on the prep counter.
"Since I am a nursing student, I think sanitation and hand washing is a priority for the safety of our campus," said senior Ona Sibecas.
McMicken is also the manager to the Wiley Pub in the Student Union and also to the Jazzman Café that both have A-ratings. McMicken has scheduled another re-inspection for February and remains hopeful that the Runner Café grade will gain another grade of an A like his other food locations around campus. Maybe this next inspection will allow a change of location for the rating sign so that students will be able to clearly view the café's grade before entering.
"I am confident that our score will reflect the "A" score operation we have maintained since our inspection," said McMicken.

Give N' Go

By Destiny Cerezo
Staff Writer

CSUB Roadrunner Athletics and Houchin Community Blood Bank joined together once again to host this years "Give & Go." Anyone who donated between the 12th and 17th of this month received a voucher good for two free tickets to one of three offered Roadrunner basketball games.
With this being the fifth year of the promotion, it has also been the most successful. The amount of donors are "progressively climbing each year" according to Houchin Blood Bank's Community Relations Director, Tracy Hunter. As of Wednesday, just the third day of the promotion, the non-profit organizations number of donors had already exceeded last year's final count of 660. In 2007, the final count of donors was 617.
Due to the fact that there is an insufficient amount of blood donors, Hunter seemed thrilled that these people are willing to give to their community. Students and young adults especially. "Students are our future, they make up 37% of donor inventory," said Hunter.
According to Houchin Blood Bank's website, the organization is the sole provider responsible for "saving the lives of the residents of Kern County." Only two locations exist and can be found right here in Bakersfield, one in the downtown area on "G" Street and the other on Truxtun Ave.
Houchin Blood Bank has provided for Kern County since April 1952. A few events and campaigns such as: "Armed Forces Day," (every May) which is sponsored by Members of the Disabled American Veterans; "A Moment for Mom" on Mother's Day; "Tool Time" for Father's Day and the "Community Wide" blood drive that runs for 20 days in the month of August are held throughout the year.
An incentive for donors to participate in future blood drives includes giveaways such as big screen TVs, Wii game systems, brand name tools and $10 off coupons to Hungry Hunter restaurant.
Hunter spoke of the struggle that the blood bank goes through in the summer. Since students are not in school, the amount of student donors immensely decreases. Previous summer blood drives included "Beat the Heat 2008" and "Dewars pint for a pint."
CSUB and Houchin Blood Bank have a longstanding relationship of about 10 years according to Hunter. "We are very proud to be partnered with CSUB."
In addition to the "Give & Go" collaboration, two other blood drives are held, but on the CSUB campus instead. Houchin visits the university in both the Spring and Fall with the mobile bus to recruit new students and draw blood from existing donors. "They play music and games, it's a feel good day!" exclaimed Hunter. Houchin's "Donor of the Month" is featured on the home page of the gorunners.com website.

CSUB theatre teaches Everyman about morality

By Carlos Cruz
Staff Writer

The holidays have gone and passed, and many of us are still indulging in all the gifts we have received. Whether it be that new iPod, the new video game system or even that new wardrobe, these material things have brought us great joy and delight. However, we must not forget the values and morals we all hold dear - those are of true importance.
"Everyman" is one of the plays that the CSUB Theatre ensemble will perform this quarter. Directed by the theatre's very own department chair, Mandy Rees, this story depicts how everyone should live their lives and how prepare ourselves for death.
"The material necessities we all have won't go with us to the end, it is our morality that will save us," says Rees.
Written in the 1400s, "Everyman" is a medieval and allegorical play that knows no boundaries, it is representative of all humanity in every giving time period.
Senior Michael Mejia, who has performed in nine other CSUB performances, portrays the protagonist of "Everyman." The character goes on a journey where he faces trials and sacrifices, meets other characters which depict fellowship, knowledge and goods. These will befriend and test him. It is only when he meets Good-Deeds that his search for grace begins to become clear.
As Mejia believes, "good deeds count in the end."
Everyman will play on February 26, 27, 28 at 8 p.m. and have afternoon performances on February 28 and March 1 at 2 p.m. in the Arena Theatre. General admission is $10, $8 for seniors (60+) and CSUB Faculty/Staff and $5 w/student ID. Seating is limited, reservations are available by calling ahead 654-6070.
Another performance we can expect from the theatre department this quarter is "Gold Fever" by Rita Grauer and John Urquhart, directed by CSUB Theater Education teacher Kamala Kruszka.
It is a humorous and imaginative play for young audiences. It is set during the historic California Gold Rush and it illustrates the conflict of personal greed and the importance of compassion for others.
"Gold Fever" will play on March 14 at noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and March 15 at noon and 2 p.m. in the Arena Theater. General Admission is $5, children ages 12 and under get in free. Limited seating, reservations available 654-6070.
A bit further down the line, the CSUB Theatre Department will perform the 2003 Pulitzer Prize winning play, "Anna in the Tropics," by Nilo Cruz, and it will be directed by Dr. Maria-Tania Becerra. It is set in Florida during the depression and depicts the last of Cuban cigar makers who attempt to create a little bit of the city they left behind only to find failure and betrayal.
It is schedule to play on May 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30 at 8 p.m. and May 31 at 2 p.m. $10 General admission, $8 for seniors (60+) and CSUB faculty and staff and $5 with student id.

Maintenance of CSUB Koi pond is in troubled waters.

By Amber Smith
Staff Writer



On the east side of the library, tucked away in the corners of the CSUB campus sits the quiet, stagnant and murky waters of the Koi pond.
The koi pond is part of the CSUB Alumni Park, which includes not only the pond itself, but the landscaping, streams and bridges that make up the whole area surrounding the pond. According to a Cal State Today newsletter, construction began on the project in 2004 and was the work of the alumni board who planned the project.
The pond is a bit of an eyesore now compared to how it looked when it was originated. Tons of fallen leaves sit in the brown, muddy and mossy streams. Overgrown dead shrubbery protrudes from the waters. Filters sit idly by waiting to be fixed and old remnants of what used to be flowing fountains stand deserted.
You also have to get pretty close to the koi pond itself to actually see the fish, due to the fact that the haze in the water makes them difficult to see.
Despite its unattractive appearance, some students still visit and enjoy the pond. Matt Campbell, a junior at CSUB said, "It's kind of gross, but I like the whole idea." He went on to say sarcastically, "I thought they were going for the whole natural vibe."
"I'd hate to slip and fall in the pond. I might have to go get a tetanus shot after that. I like to come and watch the fish though," Campbell said.
Unfortunately for Campbell, and other fans of the koi pond, due to recent budget cuts at CSUB and the California state government, the koi pond is not a very high priority in terms of allocation of school funds.
Tom Velasquez, facilities manager at CSUB, said that part of the reason the waters look so cloudy is because of broken filters, motors and vacuums, and CSUB doesn't have the money right now to fix them. He said that not only are the Koi pond's filters are broken, but also the filters in the pond near the dorms on the west side of campus.
"I like to see a beautiful campus, but we have to spend money on different things," said Velasquez.
He said that one filter alone costs around two-to-three thousand dollars to fix.
"Due to budget cuts, the campus is working to limit spending and curtail expenditures," said Mike Neal, the Vice President of Business Administration in regards to the budget and koi pond.
He said that the campus and the state are experiencing a very difficult economic time.
"From what I've heard, the state of California could be out of cash in February," said Neal. That would mean much less money would be given to the CSUB, and all other CSUs.
Due to the lack of money, he said that the campus must spend its money on only the most necessary things. Among other things, those necessary items include Cal grants and payroll.
"In the case that the state could not pay Cal Grants to students, CSUB would step in and pay the most critical Cal Grants needed," Neal said.
"We need to pay for the things that keep the university going before anything aesthetic," said Neal.
Campbell said that he would support the money going to critical areas of the university before going to the upkeep of the koi pond.
Campbell also offered a noble solution to the maintenance of the koi pond. "Maybe there could be a day where students could volunteer to help keep the Koi pond looking nice. I would definitely help," Campbell said.
Francis Scott Kress, a parent of Bakersfield children and CSUB supporter, echoed Campbell's sentiment. "It's all about solutions. Maybe biology classes could use the Koi pond as part of their class," he said.

Welcome to The Runner Online

This is the official website of the California State University, Bakersfield student newspaper - The Runner. This website will be updated with each issue and include supplemental content like videos, photos and polls.
New issues come out on the Wednesday of each week during the quarter.