West Kern Water District Goes Solar

Independent The Taft

July 22 - 28, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

www.Taftindependent.com

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

July 22 - 28, 2011 • Volume 6 Issue 4

“Serving the West Kern County Communities of Taft, South Taft, Ford City, Maricopa, Fellows, McKittrick, Derby Acres, Dustin Acres, and the Cuyama Valley”

The Place 4014 Highway 33

Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa (661)766-2660

Summer Bunco Thursday, July 21st Bunco starts at 7:00pm

Vendors are invited to come sell at 6pm Call to reserve table (661)766-2660

Saturday, July 23rd $12.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT

West Kern Water District To Build Solar Panels To Generate Electrical Power To Pump Our Water

Fish Fry

rice pilaf, coleslaw, corn bread

No To Go’s Starts at 5:00pm until gone! $1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close

West Side Recreation Report - Summer Fun

By Jane McCabe 1092 West Kern Street Taft, CA 93268 (661)587-7250 www.chevronvalley.com

The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!

Black Gold Open Monday’s for Lunch and Dinner Cafe and Deli

508 Center Street • 765-6550

Try Our Meatball Sandwich $6.25

Our homemade meatballs and marinara sauce with parmesan cheese and garlic butter all baked to perfection on a soft toasted French roll

2

Shop Taft

New Classes Starting Soon!

Join Today!

ITEM OF THE WEEK

Passion For Nails Nail Services: Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star (we also treat ingrown nails)

HYPERWHEY PROTEIN

By Nutrabolics

Advanced Protein to Flood Your Muscles and Build Extreme Size

Open 24 Hours!

506 Center Street

(661) 205-5579

Anderson Business Services Bookkeeping • Income Tax • Notary

WE COME TO YOU!

Schedule of Services

Acknowledgments & Jurats $10 per signature Mortgage Documents $150 per set Mobile Notary Service $1 per mile

Sandy Anderson

TAFT INDEPENDENT

10am-7pm and Saturday 9am-6pm

Personal Style

Introducing our NEW store layout!

Newly expanded Juniors & Contempory Fashions

Personal Style

MARKDOWNS Women • Contemporary Junior • Toddler • Infant Men • And More!

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

Automotive Center

EVERYDAY OIL CHANGES GAS ENGINE $35.99 OR LESS

Tuesday - Thursday 9am-7pm Friday & Saturday 9am-8pm

(up tp 7 qts oil, filter, tax, haz waste fee)

10% Discount for all City Employees, fire, police and military

(up to 3.75 gal oil, filter, tax, haz waste fee)

661-763-5445

510 Center Street

J & D Recycling 1277 Kern Street

DIESEL ENGINE $71.99 OR LESS

SUMMER SPECIAL!

$199.99

Cooling System Flush

(includes up to 2 gal coolant, flush kit, conditioner)

Store Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm Closed Sunday and Monday

426 Center Street

A/C Service

(661)763-5451

Personal Style Get Yourself A New Look!

Color Or Highlights $35 & Up

Cuts $12 & Up W/ Blowdry $18 & Up

With Angela Hanna Specializing in Cuts & Color

Angela

Offer Available July-August

Short Curly Perm $35

With Linda Cole

Specializing in Seniors & Razor Cuts

Linda Offer Available July - August 423 Center Street • 763-3527

Ten Percent Firearms

(includes up to 3oz of Freon, 2oz dye)

Overall Vehicle Inspection (visual inspection of all external components) (tax, haz waste fee included)

Billy Messenger Voted Best Mechanic for 2009 and 2010

531 Center Street • 763-1123

Precision Bodyworks & Towing We take the DENTS out of ACCIDENTS Phone (661)763-4420 FAX (661)763-1389 Cell (661)577-6785

We Can Haul Away Most Large Items Call Us Today • (661)765-6752 Recycling is OUR Business

Watchwill Batteries Acme Jewelry be closed on Tuesdays when Ray is in L.A. Please callSTREET first• 661.763.5451 763-5451 426 CENTER Thank You

Check out our

Miller’s SAN JOAQUIN New Store Hours

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

We can save youFine money on •quality Jewelry Candlesjewelry!

• Gifts

PLUS!

throughout the store!

Get Your Car Ready For Summer!

J e w e l r y

Fine Jewelry • Gifts 14K• Gold • Sterling Silver 14K Gold Sterling Silver Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair • Watch Batteries Black Hills Gold• •And Jewelry Candies • Candles More! Repair

(661)745-4913

Call For Appointment 765-7665 Sandy 577-6790 • Greg 577-6032

Under New Management!

F i n e

1014 6th Street • Taft In the Save A Lot Shopping Center Monday to Friday

Mobile Notary Public Certified Signing Agent

Beauty Supply

acme jewelry co.

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

Greg Anderson

Notary Public Certified Signing Agent

July 22 - 28, 2011

317 Main Street • Taft

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Ben’s Books The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion Childrens • Cookbooks and More!

We Will Be Closed July 19th - 23rd For Medical Reasons

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

July 22 - 28, 2011

Inside Community Events.........3

News Briefs.......................3

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Community Events News Briefs Taft California “Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

Westside Watcher............4

VFW Bingo Every Tuesday Night at 5:30pm

West Side Recreation Report..........5

The VFW will hold Bingo Night every Tuesday at 6:30pm at 600 Hazelton Street in Maricopa. Doors open at 5:30pm, buy in is $5 a pack, food will be served. Come on out, bring a friend and support our vets!

Westside News.................6

Summer Reading Program Events Taking Place Thursdays at 2pm

Westside News.................7

Special events taking place Thursdays at 2 p.m. in the Taft College Cougar Room include Roaming Reptiles, June 23; Taft Kids and Teens Have Talent 2!, June 30 (Sign-up deadline is Saturday, June 25 at 5 p.m.); Omnipresent Puppet Theater, July 7; The Magic of Christopher Lopez, July 14; and Taft Kids and Teens Have Talent 2! Finals, July 21. Talent show participants will compete for $100 in both Kids and Teens categories. On June 30, the audience will vote for their top 3 favorites in each age group. At the finals on July 21, our judges will choose the winners. The runnersup will each receive $25.00. All of these programs are free, fun and appropriate for all ages. They are jointly sponsored by the Kern County Library and the Taft College Library.

Community Voices..........8 Obituary............................9 Classified Ads.................10 Westside News...............11 Negocios Hispanos........11

The Taft Independent 508 Center Street P.O. Box 268 Taft, California 93268 (661) 765-6550 Fax (661) 765-6556

Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Website: www.TaftIndependent.com Locally and Independently owned since 2006 The Taft Independent is a locally owned community newspaper published weekly on Fridays for your enjoyment and reading pleasure. We publish 3,500 issues and distribute to over 225 locations in the city of Taft and the neighboring communities of Cuyama Valley, McKittrick, Maricopa, Fellows and Western Kern County, California.

The Independent is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies are $1 each. The contents of the Taft Independent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.

End of Times Gallery Summer Art Classes The End of Times Gallery, 428 Center Street, is offering the following summer classes: DRAWING - Mondays, 1-3 p.m.

CHILDREN’S ART LESSONS - Wednesdays, 1-3 p.m.

WATERCOLOR - Thursdays, 1-3 p.m.

ACRYLIC PAINTING - Thursdays, 6-8 p.m.

All classes are $10 per session, $40 per month.

For more information please call 765.4790.

The End of Times Gallery is taking artists’ work on CONSIGNMENT for $5 per item. The gallery earns a 30% commission on work sold. If you would like to have your work considered for representation, please call for an appointment - 765.4790.

3rd Annual Derby Acres Tumbleweed Festival Saturday, July 30th The 3rd annual Derby Acres Tumbleweed Festival will take place on Saturday, July 30th at the Tumbleweed Restaurant, 24870 Highway 33, at 10am. Come on out for a great day of family fun with a car and motorcycle show, horseshoe tournament, dunk tank, live music, food, vendors, karaoke, a DJ, watermelon spitting contest, bloody mary contest, tumbleweed decorating contest, bounce house, arts, crafts, raffle, prizes and dancing long into the evening. If you are interested in having a booth or sponsoring this event contact Della at 661-745-4892.or (661)577-7136.

Ladies Night Dinner & Social Wednesday, August 3rd

Taft Chamber of Commerce To Hold Community Mixers - First Mixer Thursday, July 28th Taft Chamber of Commerce kicks off Community Mixers at Taft Farmers Market July 28, 2011 The Chamber is kicking off its monthly mixers at the Taft Farmers Market, held at 5th Street Plaza on Thursday, July 28, 2011 from 5-8PM. Each month, a local business will host the mixer and the Chamber will sponsor. These community mixers, open to everyone in the community, will showcase a local business and include a business card raffle drawing, 50/50 drawing, and more. For the first mixer, we invite the community to the Taft Farmers Market to shop the local fruits & vegetables, various food & clothing vendors, natural products, and family fun. This mixer features a beer garden from the Tumbleweed Café and an acoustic performance by LETTERS. To become a part of the growing Farmers Market, contact Shannon at the Taft Chamber at Shannon.taftchamber@gmail.com or 765-2165. All vendors are welcome at the Market and must be reserved in advance. Local bands and talent are encouraged to participate in upcoming markets.

Additional mixers are being held on August 16 at the Community Garden, August 31 at the Tumbleweed Café, and October 4 at the ARC. If your business is interested in hosting a mixer, please contact the Chamber at 765-2165.

WANTED

Taft Independent Subscription-Circulation Manager The Taft Indepenent is looking for a part-time individual to solicit subscriptions and make weekly home and business deliveries. CDL and Insurance Required.

Experience preferred.

Incentive Based Compensation. Experience Required.

Call 765-6550

Subscribe for home delivery of the Taft Independent today!

Delivered weekly to your home or business only $6.50 per month!

We welcome contributions and suggestions.

Our purpose is to present news and issues of importance to our readers.

Looking for an excuse to go out and get together with your girlfriends? Join us for Ladies Night Dinner and Social from 6pm to 8pm at Black Gold Cafe and Deli, located at 508 Center Street. Tell your friends!

Subscriptions. Subscription home or mail delivery of the Taft Independent is available for $8.00 per month or $97.00 per year. To subscribe to please call 765-6550.

Roll In The Good Times ARC Bunco Saturday, August 13th

LETTERS-TO-THE-EDITOR. Send us your letter to Taft Independent at the above address. Limit it to 300 words and include your name, address, and phone number. Fax: (661) 765-6556. Email your letter to: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com.

Roll in the good times at Taft’s ARC Annual Bunco on Saturday, August 13th at 5pm at the ARC, located at 204 Van Buren Street. Cost is $20 per person and includes dinner. Dinner is served at 5pm with Bunco to follow. Pre-sell tickets only, deadline is August 10th. For tickets call 763-1532 ext 1. There will be cash prizes and raffle drawings. Bring your friends!

Name_________________________________

Taft Farmers Market

Please complete and mail with your check to: The Taft Independent, P.O. Box 268, Taft, CA 93268

ADVERTISING. Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representative at (661) 765-6550.

Classifieds: Call 765-6550 or fax us at (661) 765-6556. Phone order are taken. Visa and Master Card accepted.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Managing Editor Advertising Jessica Skidgel Layout & Design Jessica Skidgel Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost Columnists Randy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins, Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

Thursdays 5pm - 8pm Rain or Shine

Address________________________________ Start Date____________End Date__________

Please make checks out to Taft Independent

5th Street Plaza Over 13 vendors and we are still Growing!

For more information please contact the Taft Chamber of Commerce at 765-2165

www.taftindependent.com

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT

July 22 - 28, 2011

Taft City Council

By Kent Miller

The Taft

Independent

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse

Steak, Seafood, Wild Game, Full Bar Monday – Friday 6 am to 2 pm Saturday – Sunday 7 am – 2 pm Dinner Hours Friday and Saturday 6 pm to 9 pm 24870 Highway 33, Derby Acres 768-4655

Asian Experience

Asian Food and Pizza Lunch and Dinner Tuesday - Friday 11 am - 2 pm 4 pm - 9 pm Saturday 4 pm - 9 pm 215 Center Street, Taft 763- 1815

Sagebrush Annie’s Restaurant and Wine Tasting Paik’s Ranch House Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pm Where Everybody Meets Dinner by Reservation Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa Open 7 Days (661) 766-2319 Mon. Tues. Thur. 6 am-8:30 pm Sun. Wed. Fri. & Sat. 6 am - 9 pm Taft Crude Coffee House 765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft Coffee House and Deli Monday – Friday Sagebrush Annie’s 7 am to 4pm.

Restaurant and Wine Tasting Saturday 7 am to 2 pm Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pm Sundays 7:30 am to 10 am Dinner by Reservation 1010 6th Street, Taft 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa 763-5156 (661) 766-2319 Black Gold Cafe & Deli Your Busines Listed Pastas - Sandwiches HERE Espresso - Beer - Wine Call 765-6550 Open Monday to Saturday Lunch served 9am-1pm Dinner served 5pm - 8pm Wine Tasting on First Thursdays 508 Center Street 765-6550

Westside Entertainment

Get Your Events in the Westside Entertainment Guide.

Call 765-6550 or fax 765-6556

Your Restaurant Chilled & Grilled Listed Here.

Asian Food and Pizza Breakfast served Asian Experience Call Lunch and Dinner Saturday and Sunday Tuesday - Friday 765-6550.

7am-11am 11 a.m.

- 2 p.m. 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday 4 p.m.Sunday - 9 p.m. served Starting as low Brunch Live7am-2pm Music Saturday Nights as $12 per Lunch served daily week!

11am-4pm

Dinner served daily 4pm-9pm 765-2000 215 Center Street 763-1815 621 Center Street Always Fresh!

Sagebrush Annie’s

Dine In or We Deliver 765-4143 700 Kern Street

Mon. - Fri. 10am 2;30pm Taft, CA

Wine Tasting Dinner by Reservation Award Winning Wines

766-2319 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa

Taft Petroleum Club Every Friday is Ribeye Steak & Chicken Dinner Night

Karaoke Friday, July 22nd Come on out for dinner from 6pm-8pm then enjoy the karaoke from 8pm-1:45am

Industry Night Wednesday, August 3rd Sponsored by Staples & Associates

The club is available for Weddings, Birthdays, and Anniversarys. Our hall holds up to 200 people and the bar can hold 70. Book Today!

450 Petroleum Club Road - 763-3268 Open Tuesday- Friday 3:30pm to Close

Editorial

Westside Watcher

Food that’s IN When School is OUT!

By Janey Thornton, Deputy Undersecretary USDA Food Nutrition and Consumer Services During the regular school year, nearly 21 million kids from lowincome households get free and reduced-price meals at school through USDA’s National School Lunch Program – healthy meals that provide the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.

Summer is a different story.

Though hunger doesn’t take a summer vacation, fewer than 3 million kids are fed through USDA’s Summer Food Service Program when the weather turns warm and school doors are closed.

That’s why we need to redouble our efforts to make sure that the doors to healthy nutrition stay open in schools and parks and community centers, and all the other wonderful places where local sponsors offer USDA’s Summer Food Service Program to kids in low-income areas.

Kids who might otherwise go hungry.

We need to ensure that the other 18 million kids who receive healthy meals at school during the regular school year have access to the nutrition they need through the balmy days of summer. So they can return to school in the fall healthy -- and ready to learn.

The good news is everyone can help. In fact, USDA relies on our partners – folks like you -- to highlight the important nutrition benefits provided by the SFSP and other healthy meal options available for low-income children across the country.

Whether you are part of an organization or an individual, there is something that everyone can do. Here are a few ways you or your organization can help this summer: Conduct Community Outreach with the National Hunger Hotline.

Help ensure families know about the Summer Food Service Program and where kids can go to receive a nutritious meal. They can contact the National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE, or contact their local Summer Food Service Program state agency to find a participating site in their community.

Summer Food Service Program state agency contacts can be found at www.summerfood.usda.gov. Encourage sites and sponsors in your community to register and promote their site using the National Hunger Hotline.

Volunteer.

Many Summer Food Service Program Sponsors and Sites need volunteers to help make their programs successful. Encourage program sponsors and sites to post their volunteer opportunities at www.serve. gov/endhunger. This website allows volunteer opportunities to be posted, so volunteers can search for opportunities. Volunteers can be used for things such as setting up or cleaning up a site, or planning recreational or educational activities for children. Looking to be more involved? Search for a volunteer opportunity near you and help your local sponsors and sites!

Promote the SFSP Outreach Toolkit (http://www.fns.usda.gov/ cnd/summer/library/SFSP_toolkit.pdf ).

The Outreach Toolkit helps sponsors and sites create outreach materials that help the community learn about the program. The Outreach Toolkit and other resources can be found at www.summerfood.usda. gov.

Make Your Commitment.

Don’t let children in your community go hungry this summer. Make your commitment. Become a champion to end hunger. Visit: www. endhunger.usda.gov. If there isn’t a Summer Food Service Program site in your community, it is a great time to start planning for next year.

The Summer Food Service Program, by the way, is one of 15 nutrition assistance programs overseen by USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service that include the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly called the Food Stamp Program), the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) and the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs.

Together these programs touch the lives of one in four Americans over the course of a year and form a national safety net against hunger.

Visit www.fns.usda.gov for more information about FNS nutrition assistance programs.

Working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our nation’s children through the Summer Food Service Program by ensuring that “Food is In when school is Out.” For more information on the Summer Food Service Program, visit: www.fns.usda.gov.

Taft City Council in a quiet meeting on Tuesday set 2011-12 fiscal year tax rates for a trio of services.

The councilmembers approved assessments for Landscape Maintenance District No. 1, sewer charges and refuge fees without raising any of the taxes.

Those in the Landscape Maintenance District will continue to pay $86 per parcel for the fiscal year.

Sewer fees will continue at $20.57 per month ($246.84 per year) for single-family residences and $16.51 per month ($198.13 per year) times the number of units for multiple-family dwellings.

And refuge fees will stay at $13.20 per month ($158.40 per year) for single-family residences and $11.83 per month ($141.96 per year) times the number of kitchens for multiple-family dwellings.

All of the taxes will be collected by the Kern County tax collector and then distributed to the city.

No one spoke at public hearings before the council’s votes on each item. There were no council votes against the tax rates. Councilmember Paul Linder abstained from voting on the Maintenance District fee because he lives near the district, which includes the 700 through 900 blocks of A Street Public comments At the comments segment of the council meeting, the council heard from the public about several local activities and needs.

The Derby Acres Tumbleweed Festival will be held on Saturday, July 30. Proceeds will go to help send the All-Star Band to Washington, D.C.; and to benefit the children of Taft and the Westside.

The Chamber of Commerce will hold a Mixer Thursday, July 28, at the Farmers’ Market at 5th Street Plaza.

The chamber is urging a program of signage on Highways 33 and 119 to promote the Taft business district and on Interstate 5 to promote the city.

The chamber also urged the forming of a Fox Theater Foundation to help save the downtown landmark, Other items In other items, the council: Approved taking $10,000 out of the Veterans Memorial Reserve Fund for renovations of the Veterans Memorial Wall in Taft Veterans Memorial Park. The money in the fund was raised from public donations made in honor of local war heroes who gave their lives in the nation’s conflicts from World War I on.

Adopted an interest rate of 5 percent on the city’s loan to the Taft Community Development Agency. The rate is effective for the 2011-12 fiscal year and can be changed in the future. It replaces the 12 percent interest rate the TCDA was charged on the loan in previous years.

Approved a solar services agreement and easement with Conergy/Enfinity.

Approved a measure clarifying the resumption of employee merit increases after the April 19 lifting of a freeze on salaries, benefits and related expenses; Received a report on savings through the Pacific Gas and Electric Climate Smart program.

Approved an agreement to allocate up to $12,395 from the Federal Waste Water Treatment Plant Capital Reserve Fund for a tree farm project to meet regulations on effluent discharge into Sandy Creek. One possibility for the city-owned 50-acre site is a pistachio grove.

Paik’s

Ranch House Restaurant “Where Everybody Meets” Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Open 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Thurs - 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Wed, Fri. Sat. and Sun. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

July 22 - 28, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

Visit us on the web: www.wsrpd.com www.facebook.com/wsrpd www.quickscores.com/wsrpd steph@wsrpd.com

by Stephanie House

CANDY BAR BINGO Monday, July 25 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

500 Cascade Place, Taft Ages 3-5, Community Center Activity Building Grades 1-8, Community Center Assembly Room FREE! Join us for an hour of bingo fun with candy bar prizes! Be sure to bring a friend. See you there!

KIDS NIGHT OUT Friday, July 29 6:30-10:00 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium Grades K-6 $8 per person ** registration deadline – July 28 Kids need a night away from home every once in a while, so join us for a fun evening of games, movies, crafts, pizza, snacks and more! The more the merrier, so be sure to sign-up with a friend.

Pre-registration is required and space is limited.

PLAYDOUGH FACTORY Monday, August 1 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Community Center Assembly Room Grades K-6 $2 per person If you love Play-Doh, you’ll love this fun workshop where you can make some of your very own to play with and to take home.

BOARD GAMES & PIZZA Wednesday, August 3 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room Grades K-8 $3 per person Join us for a few hours of nothing but fun and games! Be prepared to play plenty of board games like chess, checkers, Candy Land, Aggravation, Trouble, Yahtzee, Scrabble and more. We will also have pizza for lunch!

HUNTERS SAFETY COURSE Monday, August 1 through Wednesday, August 3 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium 500 Cascade Place, Taft $5 per person (facility fee) With cooperation from the Taft Sportsmen’s Club and volunteer instructors Ray Mortimer and Larry Heptinstall, materials and instruction for obtaining a California Hunting license are available approximately every three months (February, May, August and October). Registration begins the first night of class and a minimum of 10 paid students is required or the class will be postponed until October 3-5.

INSTRUCTIONAL SOCCER Who: Ages 3-5 When: Practices on Mondays, Games on Saturdays Session: September 12 - October 8 Where: ‘A’ Street Park Fee: $25 per child Registration deadline: September 8 Kids will learn basic soccer skills with emphasis on fun and socialization with others their age.

WEST SIDE RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT 500 Cascade Place, Taft, CA 93268 (661) 763-4246 info@wsrpd.com www.wsrpd.com

NATATORIUM POOL PARTY RENTALS Make your reservation now!

Reservations are now being accepted for private party rentals at the Natatorium swimming pool. Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday between May 28 and August 29. Rental fees start at $165 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information.

BOWLING PARTY RENTALS Make your reservation now!

Reservations are now being accepted for party rentals at the bowling alley in the new Recreation Center. Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday beginning September 16.

Rental fees start at $100 for 2-lane rentals. The Center and bowling alley are slated to open in early September. Call 763-4246 for more information or to make a reservation.

S.T.O.P. PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIPS (Strive To Optimize Participation) Did you know that the District has a youth scholarship program? Children in low income, single parent or multiple participant households are eligible! For more information, or to find out how your child can take advantage of reduced program fees, give us a call in the District Office at 763-4246.

FLAMINGO FLOCKING FUNDRAISER The District’s SVX Competition Cheer Squad is doing a fundraiser! For just $10 you can FLOCK your family and friends. You can schedule the flock of flamingos to be placed in someone’s yard for a day. The person who’s been flocked can call to have the flamingos removed or the cheerleaders will pick them up at the end of the day and prepare them for the next flocking. The fundraiser is taking place through August 12.

For more information or to schedule a flocking, please call or text Kristina (623-5780) or Brittney (205-5317).

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

West Kern Water District Proposes To Build Solar Panels To Provide Electrical Power to Pump Our Water

By Jane McCabe

million dollars a year—a cost that is passed on to us in our water bills.

As Harry O. Starkey, director of the West Kern Water District, explains it, the water we use is stored in “artificial ground water banks” in the valley and is “levied up” using electrical pumps as needed. Currently, the electrical power needed for this Herculean task is provided by the Pacific Gas & Electric Company using gas engines at a cost that rises about 6% per year.

Mr. Starkey has been studying the feasibility of providing the needed electrical power by constructing solar panels—he is excited by the results of his findings. After their construction solar panels would provide 25 years of clean and efficient power with a minimum of maintenance. Only a small amount of time would be required to monitor them. This project would “redefine for decades a lower cost power.”

There are other advantages. Gas engines emit unhealthy emissions into the environment. The emission requirement is imposed by the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. With the gas engines, it’s becoming more difficult to stay within compliance. “This solar project could provide relief from that regulatory reality.”

Mr. Starkey explains how the panels operate in this way: Sunlight interacts with the chemical composition of the panel and by virtue of this interaction a small amount of electricity is created.

That’s why a large number of panels are needed to produce a large amount of electricity. This isn’t a problem in arid lands where there is a lot of unused, flat land.

Two installations are being proposed, the “North Project” off of

Because Taft is 800 feet above the San Joaquin basin the water we use has to be pumped uphill. It takes a great deal of energy, electrical energy, to accomplish this task and costs a great deal—a

OT

Dinner

& Saloon 205 N. 10th St. (661)763-1819 CLOSED SUNDAY/MONDAY

OT Cookhouse Daily Specials (For the week of 7-26-11 thru 7-30-11)

Tues.

7-26-11 Lunch

Deluxe Chicken Sandwich

$8.95

Tues.

7-26-11 Dinner

BBQ Beef Ribs

$10.95

Wed. 7-27-11 Lunch

Crispy Chicken Sandwich

$7.95

Veal Liver with Bacon & Onions

$10.95

Wed. 7-27-11 Dinner Thurs.

7-28-11 Lunch Thurs.

7-28-11 Dinner Fri. 7-29-11 Lunch Fri. 7-29-11 Dinner

Mike Donnelly, chairman of the 2011 fireworks booth for the Taft Sportsmen’s Club, would like to thank all club members, friends, and families in our community for their outstanding support during the operation of this year’s fireworks booth.

Also a big thanks to the following people and businesses: John Miller, Adrien & Jennifer Baker, Eric Ross, Joe Gregory, Melody White, Jimmy & Karen Chitwood, Chad Chitwood, James Donnelly, Kacie Lane, Clarence Ferguson, Aaron Burt, Craig & Marina Johnson, Shirley Donnelly, Alan Brookshire, Don & Tammy Pezer, Paul Burt, Owner, of Paul Burt Electric for installation all of the electrical for the stand and for the donation of two bikes for the club raffles, to Darrell Melton and Darrin Layton for generously donating the use of their property and electricity at the Arena Cross for the booth, and to Dale & Patti White and Sahib Mujahid of Excellent Fire Protection for charging our fire extinguishers.

Winners of the box of American Pride Fireworks was the Gina Flinn, the bicycles were won by Eric Ross and Thomas Demalade, the mini bike was won by Dirk Hagoort, Jr. Congratulations to all our winners!

We appreciate Taft Sportsmen’s Club’s faithfulness to their club, all of our patrons, and to the wonderful people of Taft for their continued support of the Taft Sportsmen’s Club. Proceeds from this event will benefit local groups including Taft High School and Taft College wildlife conservation scholarships, habitat restoration, the annual Junior Pheasant Hunt, and donations to families in our community during the holidays or during times of need.

If anyone is interested in becoming a member of the Taft Sportsmen’s Club or would like any information, please contact Tom Brown, President, at 765-2704.

Taft Manna 4 U has newly expanded and larger clothing department. They now feature Women’s, Children’s and Men’s clothing.

They also have shoes, and many of their items are new.

In addition to summer items, Taft Manna 4 U offers winter and back to school items. Every item that they offer is clean, gently used, and inspected for tears or stains. Taft Manna 4 U is proud to offer these items to Taft’s citizens who are in need. Taft Manna 4 U is located at 201 Harrison Street on the corner of Harrison and Birch Street. As always, all of the items that they offer are FREE (the best price in town.)

Taft Manna 4 U is in their 5th year of serving the citizens of Taft.

They accept donations of clothing and money. Taft Manna 4 U is a 501 C 3 Public Benefit Corporation and an IRS Donation Receipt is always given. 100% of all cash donations and clothing stays in Taft and there are no paid employees.

Taft Manna 4 U believes in Taft. Please join them and help reach the hurting people of Taft. Please call (661) 623-0803 or (661) 205-3376. Taft Manna 4 U is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Specializing in Steak & Seafood

Lunch

Thanks from Taft Sportsmen’s Club for Supporting the 4th of July Fireworks

Taft Manna 4 U Has Expanded Their Clothing Department

Cookhouse Tuesday - Friday Tuesday - Thursday 4p.m. - 9p.m.

11a.m. - 2p.m. Friday & Saturday 4p.m. - 10p.m.

July 22 - 28, 2011

Chopped Chcicken $7.95 Sandwich with Fresh Salsa

BBQ Pork Ribs

$13.95 Half/ $15.95 Full

$13.95/ $15.95

Biscuits & Gravy with $8.95 Bacon & Eggs $15.95/ Prime Rib

$15.95 Small/ $18.95 Large

$18.95

Sat. 7-30-11 Dinner

Chicken Fettuccine $10.95 Alfredo CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

205 N. 10th Street . (661)763-1819

Harry Starkey Station Road and near the Tule Elk Reserve, where five installations would cover twenty acres and another, “South Project” near the Kern River Bypass Chanel. Both sites are on land owned by the county.

Mr. Starkey is analyzing the project’s financial feasibility. His department plans to recommend building the panels to the water board within 30 to 60 days. If approved, construction would start in 90 days.

“Renewables,” like solar energy, create the certainly of low-cost power and “redefines for decades lower cost power.” According to Mr. Starkey, West Kern County has the most affordable water in California, and the solar panels would keep it that way.

Edward J. Herrera Insurance Auto - Home - Health - Business - Notary Public We are an Independent Agency With Many Pre-Eminent Insurance Companies To Best Suit Your Needs

We Represent You To Give You The Best Service

WE Offer You Low Discounted Rates Our Friendly Staff

420 Center Street Taft, Ca 93268 (661)745-4920 Lic. # 0277365 www.edherrerainsurance.com

July 22 - 28, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

CSLB Pulls Out All the Stop Orders at Kern County Undercover Operation

New laws to help the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) crack down on the underground economy and enhance penalties for those who repeatedly contract without a license were deployed during an undercover sting operation in Bakersfield this week.

On Tuesday, July 19, 2011, investigators from CSLB’s Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT) posed as homeowners seeking bids for tree trimming, painting, and fencing projects at a home in northwest Bakersfield.

California law requires that home improvement and construction jobs valued at $500 or more for labor and materials be undertaken by a licensed contractor. Also, it is illegal for contractors to ask for or accept a down payment greater than 10 percent of the contract price or $1,000, whichever is less (unless they are one of about two dozen contractors that purchase special bonds for consumer protection). In addition, state law requires contractors to put their license number in all advertisements and requires those who do work valued at less than $500 to state they are not licensed in their ads. All contractors’ employees must be covered by a workers’ compensation policy. Recent legislation has enhanced CSLB’s and partnering agencies’ abilities to enforce these laws.

During Tuesday’s sting, SWIFT investigators issued 10 stop work orders to people who also received notices to appear in court for contracting without a license and related charges. One licensee who has a CSLB exemption from workers’ comp for claiming he has no employees will also receive a stop work order because another man caught in the sting claimed he was working for that licensee.

Senate Bill 1254 (Leno), which went into effect at the beginning of 2011, gives CSLB the authority to issue a stop work order to any person with or without a contractor license who does not have workers’ compensation coverage for employees. Failure to comply with the stop work order can result in misdemeanor charges and

penalties including 60 days in jail and/or up to $10,000 in fines.

Repeat offenders were also targeted during this SWIFT operation. Assembly Bill 370 (Eng), which went into effect in 2010, increased the jail time required and fines for those caught contracting without a license the second and third time. The first person who showed up to bid a tree trimming job was Candido Martinez Villarreal, 51, of Bakersfield. Martinez Villarreal received a 120 day jail sentence in May, following his third conviction for contracting without a license. He was released early due to a federal cap placed on the number of inmates that may be housed in the Kern County jail at any given time. He could go back to jail for violating his probation and now faces new charges for acting as a salesperson for a licensed contractor who isn’t registered with CSLB as required by law. The licensee will face an administrative citation for employing an unregistered salesperson. The second unlicensed individual who also bid a tree trimming job is on probation for a 2009 conviction for contracting without a license and failure to carry workers’ compensation coverage. Abdon Vergara, 61, of Bakersfield, could also go to jail for probation violation, and faces the new charges of contracting without a license, illegal advertising, soliciting an excessive down payment, and failure to carry workers’ compensation insurance.

“CSLB and its partners will use every tool in the box to protect consumers and the legitimate, licensed contractors who comply with state laws,” said CSLB Registrar Steve Sands. “It’s worth it for homeowners to take a couple of minutes to check out a contractor using our license lookup feature or calling our toll-free number to save them from the financial grief if shoddy work is done, or if an employee not covered by workers’ compensation is hurt on their property.”

Investigators from the Kern County District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations assisted in the operation. The suspects who CSLB referred for prosecution for contracting without a license and related offenses are scheduled to be arraigned in Kern County Superior Court in Bakersfield on September 13, 2011 at 8:30 a.m.

Chevron Valley Credit Union Welcomes Their New Employees!

The Place 4014 Highway 33

Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa (661)766-2660

Summer Bunco Thursday, July 21st Bunco starts at 7:00pm

Vendors are invited to come sell at 6pm Call to reserve table (661)766-2660

Saturday, July 23rd $12.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT Fish Fry

rice pilaf, coleslaw, corn bread

No To Go’s Starts at 5:00pm until gone! $1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close The Contractors State License Board operates under the umbrella of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. More information and publications about hiring contractors are available on the CSLB website or by calling 800-321-CSLB (2752). You can also sign up for CSLB email alerts at www.cslb.ca.gov. CSLB licenses and regulates California’s more than 300,000 contractors, and is regarded as one of the leading consumer protection agencies in the United States. In fiscal year 2009-10, CSLB helped recover nearly $42 million in ordered restitution for consumers.

1092 West Kern Street Taft, CA 93268 (661)587-7250 www.chevronvalley.com

“Building Trusted Banking Relationships through Personal Service” Nicole Martinez has been with Chevron Valley for 3 weeks as a Member Service Representative. Nicole has 3 beautiful girls, Alyssa, Ashley, and Koley. Nicole has received her AA Degree at Taft College and will be starting in the fall at FPU to work on her BA Degree. When Nicole is not at the Credit Union she enjoys time spent with her girls watching movies, fort making, and hide and seek in the dark. “I enjoy Taft because it’s a very personal and peaceful town. It’s small enough to get to know your neighbors and community. I like working at the Credit Union so that I can get an opportunity to know more people and help them in their banking needs. I like being able to give service with a smile.”

Jessica Dillingham has

been with Chevron Valley for 1 month as a Member Service Representative.

Jessica has been married to Brent for 4 months.

Jessica is actively working on receiving her BA Degree at Taft College. When Jessica is not at the Credit Union she enjoys painting and spending time with her friends and family. Jessica enjoys the small town feel of Taft and the people that live here.

“I enjoy the Credit Union because it is a fun yet a professional place to work.”

Deanne Woods has been

with Chevron Valley for 2 1/2 months as a Member Service Representative. She has been married to Dave Woods for 12 years. Deanne graduated from Taft Union High School and has her AA Degree from Taft College. When Deanne is not at the Credit Unionshe enjoys camping, fishing, reading and spending time with her family. Deanne likes living and working in Taft because it is a Community that still pulls together when a need presents itself.

“I like working at Chevron Valley because of my Co-Workers and all the Great Members I have met so far.”

8

Community Voices

TAFT INDEPENDENT

July 22 - 28, 2011

Will Failure to Preserve Federalism Cost Us Our Liberty?

From the Mayor Hi Everyone, Back in 1999, we were privileged to have a foreign exchange student from Finland stay with us for nearly a year. Riina adjusted quite well coming to the dry, barren, oasis we call Taft from the green forests of Finland. There they are taught a second language very early on in school and she chose English. When she arrived, she was already 18 yrs old and spoke English very well. Trying to understand Finnish is quite another thing. Their words are like no other and they are very long; just no way to understand what they are trying to say.

Anyway, the year went by very fast and we tried to show her as much as possible from our sunny beaches to the Grand Canyon.

She has since visited us several times over the years and each time she explored California relying on public transportation. The last time she came, she brought her future husband, Sam for short, and they have travelled all over the world. She went on to earn her Masters degree in marketing and now enjoys a very good position with a Japanese firm that is branching out in Scandinavia. Sam likewise is in marketing and is a manager in a smaller Finnish firm. They live in a one-bedroom condo on the fifth floor of a complex and have to fight for a parking space; no garage. By American standards, they are doing very well and we are very proud of them both.

We decided that this would be the year we’d go to see them and finally meet her parents. They were married last year in a small private ceremony. So, Ginny and I and our two kids left LAX on July 1st for the long, seat wrenching flight, with a stop at JFK, to Helsinki which is the same latitude as Anchorage, Alaska. When we arrived, they met us along with his father and they drove us to his father’s house, which they opened up to us. The first thing I like to observe when I’m in another locale is to look at the road signs, the infrastructure, street lights, how they manage things. Finland is relative flat country so you notice many unusual water towers. I noticed right away that there are no right turns from a stop light at anytime. No need for signs to remind you, it is a ticket if you are caught . We never saw anyone violate that rule. In addition, their freeways are only two lanes, traffic was much slower paced, and everyone drives small cars, and I mean the ones you never see in the States. There was a lot of construction going on because of the lull in the frigid weather for the other 9-10 months of the year. It was a lot of slow moving to get around the big city due to torn up roads and bridges. Gas prices, as compared to the USA, is nearly 9 dollars per gallon. We only saw one large American pickup near a hardware store, a Ford F-350, very few other American built vehicles were seen, although we did see a number of classic American street rods around and one new Corvette. Most people use the very extensive bus system, or they walk, or ride bicycles and scooters. A subway system is in Helsinki and they are expanding it out more to the suburbs. It is rather easy to get around and with gas prices as high as they are, they don’t do a lot of unnecessary driving. Helsinki is a very vibrant city, it is very walk able, with lots of old and new buildings mixed along with some very beautiful churches. It is the kind of architecture you don’t see in the States, but you know you are in a strange land from what you are used to.

It was nice to have two cars available. We travelled east along the southern tip of Finland to finally visit Riina’s’ parents.

They were very gracious and had prepared a very nice meal and we were able to communicate quite well. We got to see Riina’s family picture albums and meet her sister and visit around her hometown of Kotka. After that visit, we flew to Stockholm, Sweden for two days. My biggest impression of the difference between Stockholm and Helsinki, is that Stockholm spends a lot more time, money, and effort to put these very ornate roofs on their buildings. Again, a very walk able city and we put the miles under our feet. You had to be careful walking because no one was willing to give up ground, push almost came to shove on many occasions. In both cities it was safe, historic, and just beautiful views everywhere you looked.

Real estate prices in both countries are very high; that is why we saw so many apartment buildings. Apparently, the drop in the housing market in the US had no affect on them. Riina and Sam will be looking for a house soon; they are hoping they don’t get too shocked by the sticker price when they decide to buy.

The most unusual thing we noticed in the three homes we visited was that they all had washers but no dryers. They hang all the clothes inside on lines strung around. They say it is a cultural thing, they explain away many things as ”a cultural thing”. They have a unique recycling program that uses the bar codes for redemption; they don’t crush their bottles and cans. We all enjoyed our visit, but we very glad to get back home. Euro’s equate to $1.45 US, so it was very expensive to buy anything over there. We just figured on adding about 50% to anything we bought, plus a 3% transaction fee on all our credit and debit card purchases. We are glad we went, but we recommend you wait to go to Europe until the Euro gets down next to even on the money exchange.

So, that’s what I did for my summer vacation, enjoy yours. See you around town.

Randy Miller Your Humble but Proud Mayor

Subscription Form Subscribe for home delivery of the Taft Independent today!

Delivered weekly to your home or business only $6.50 per month!

Please complete and mail with your check to: The Taft Independent, P.O. Box 268, Taft, CA 93268

Name_________________________________ Address________________________________ Please make checks out to Taft Independent Start Date____________End Date__________

By Dr. Harold Pease Many do not know that we live under two political systems: one primarily national in function, the other primarily domestic. It’s called federalism—the two share power and are equal. Neither was to be subservient to the other and each was to have separate duties. Thomas Jefferson explained it best when he said, “The states are not subordinate to the national government but rather the two are coordinate departments of one single and integral whole…. The one is domestic the other the foreign branch of the same government.”

Think of this relationship as an ideal marriage, where neither partner is subservient to the other. The duties in a relationship are gradually assigned to one partner or the other. Neither feels beneath the other, rather they are a team.

Though this was the ideal, the Founders were aware of the nature of all governments to grow. George Washington articulated this when he warned, “Government is like fire, a dangerous servant and a fearful master.” In order to ensure that this fire does not spread too far and burn down the home, one builds a fireplace to keep the fire under control. That fireplace is the Constitution, particularly Section 8, which outlines all powers that are given to Congress. Everything Congress did was to be clearly linked to at least one of these enumerated grants of power. In essence the States, who created the Federal Government, retained unto themselves all other powers as per Amendments 9 and 10 of the Constitution.

The advantages of federalism are enormous. States become laboratories of experimentation. Californians remember numerous “brownouts” at the turn of the century because of California’s failed energy policies. Other states viewing this were careful to avoid the same policies. States have the tendency to look at sister states for models and to borrow from them in refining their own programs.

These places of experimentation work to everyone’s advantage. What if we had federalized California’s failed energy policy? We would have had “brownouts“ on a national scale.

Had our power crazed Federal Government refrained from their natural inclination to take more power, health care reform could have gone through this experimental process designed by our Founding Fathers. We would then have been able to identify the weaknesses or strengths while they were still geographically isolated. Only three states had tried it: Oregon, Massachusetts, and Hawaii. That was clearly not enough to identify and avoid the “brownouts “ in the area. Instead they took a half-baked idea and made it mandatory for all.

Of course, this would have necessitated an enlargement of the enumerated list through Article V, requiring ratification by “3/4th of the Several States.” Since more than 60% of the people did not want this bill, the Constitution would have protected us from the federal government’s self empowerment.

To protect federalism the Founders did two things. First, Senators were to be selected by state legislatures so the U. S. Senate would be protective of state concerns. All law required the approval of the House of Representatives, the peoples’ representatives, and the Senate, the states’ representatives. That is why we have two branches of government to make law—two perspectives. The Seventeenth Amendment, insisting that the people also elect U. S. Senators, destroyed this protection. States thereafter were left unprotected.

Second, the structure of the U. S. Constitution limited and defined federal power leaving all power not specifically defined with the states as per the 10th Amendment. When Congress fails to defend this amendment and federalism as intended, it falls upon governors and their attorney generals to take the more confrontational approach as has Arizona over illegal immigration, or the 26 states presently suing the federal government over mandated national healthcare, or Idaho who took an even stronger stance on the same subject. “It ain’t happening here!” “See you in court.”

Dr. Harold Pease is an expert on the United States Constitution. He has dedicated his career to studying the writings of the Founding Fathers and applying that knowledge to current events. He has taught history and political science from this perspective for over 25 years at Taft College. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.

July 22 - 28, 2011

Obituary

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Taft Crude

Coffee House

In Memory of Randee Kay McLean June 10th 1965 – July 12th, 2011 Randee was born and raised in Taft California, a long term resident of Bakersfield California and resided in Pismo Beach for the past 6 years. Randee is survived by her children; Jessica Erlewine, Nick Ortlieb, Stephanie and Dallas McLean; her Grandchild (Kayden Montgomery); her brother and sister in law (Sean and Jennifer McLean); her nephew and niece (Clay and Trinity McLean), and two uncles (Terry and Bart McLean). Randee passed away in San Luis Obispo at Sierra Vista Medical Hospital. Randee will be remembered for her care free spirit, her passion for going and doing with friends and family, and her love for life. The memorial service will be held Saturday July 23, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. at Westside Believers Fellowship in Taft Ca, 101 Hwy 33.

For any questions or comments you may call Sean McLean at 661-343-6159.

MARICOPA QUILT COMPANY FABRIC • NOTIONS • GIFTS WED.-FRI. 10:00-5:30 SAT. 10:00-2:00

The Trusted Name Since 1939 Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced All Are Licensed Funeral Directors

Ice Blended Mocha

Community Christian Fellowship

Fat Free and Sugar Free Available in Most Flavors

Lighthouse Foursquare Church 210 Harrison Street 763-1518

Open 7 Days - 763-5156 1010 6th Street • Taft

Sunday Service 10 AM Pastors Mark and Kathy Fitzsimmons For More Information on Service Times Go To

631 North Street Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Gateway Temple

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Home Of The Good News Bears Hugs On Wheels Food In The Park Code Blue Youth

WWW.TAFTLIGHTHOUSE.ORG

YOUR CHURCH AD HERE! CALL TODAY! 765-6550 NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH Sunday Services 10am UTURN Youth Service Sunday 6pm 1000 6th St. Weekly Classes Mon - Thurs Please call 765-7472 for info

For a ride to church call 765-7472 before 9am on Sunday Pastors Floyd and Carol Jordan www.nlctaft.org or nlctaft@bak.rr.com

604 Main Street • P.O. Box 578 Maricopa, CA 93252 • (661)769-9599

Sunday Morning Worship 9:45 Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 Monday Evening Mens Prayer 7:00 Wednesday Evening Worship 6:30

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

For a ride: Call Dorine Horn 487-2416 Pastors Charle (Tommy) and Mary A. McWhorter

703 5th Street - Taft (661) 765-2378

Rev. Linda Huggard

New Hope Temple Trinity Southern Baptist Church

“Connecting Lives” 308 Harrison Street 765-4572

400 Finley Drive

Sunday Morning Worship Service 10 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship Service 6 p.m Bible Classes All Ages Wednesday 7 p.m.

We invite you to join us each week as we worship

Sunday Bible Study 9:45 am Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 am Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS

New Summer Hours!

Wed-Fri 10am-5:30pm Sat 10am-2pm

Taft- A caring community under Christ We welcome you to worship with us at peace lutheran church, 26 Emmons Park Drive (across from the College). Worship service begins at 10:00 a.m.

Communion will be offered 1st and 3rd Sundays

370 CALIFORNIA • 769-8580

The Pregnancy crisis center is now open and available for support and assistance.

For information, call 763-4791

TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”

Sunday School for all ages at 9:00 a.m.

If you have a prayer request please call (661)765-2488.

Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available Angel Food Program Tues. 9am - 12pm Thurs. 3pm - 6pm

Pastor Cindy Brettschneider Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 AM Adult Bible Study and Sunday School 11 AM Adult Bible Study Monday 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Service 6:00 PM Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUP

Double Gold Medal Winner and Best Cabernet Sauvignon of Show at the San Francisco International Wine Competition

Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 4:30 pm.

Now Celebrating Our 22nd Year

www.sagebrushannies.com

8 miles south of HWY 166 on HWY 33 in Ventucopa, Cuyama Valley, 4211 HWY 33. (661) 766-2319

See our new Website! www.taftindependent.com

Advertise With The Taft Independent Call Today 765-6550

Ford City Tuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of Taft Wednesday

• REFRIGERATORS • MATTRESSES • WATER HEATERS • STOVES • WASHERS & DRYERS • SOFAS If Missed…

Call Office at 763-5135

All green waste must be bagged.

Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

ITEMS NOT ACCEPTED Construction/Demolition Waste/Used Oil/ Hazardous Waste/Tires Westside Waste Management Co., Inc.

10

Classifieds

Classified Ads areare $3.00 per issue for upPhone, to threefax, lines, $5 per Classified Ads $2.00 per line. mail or issue off for up to 5 andTaft $7 per issue for up to 10 lines. Yard drop your adlines, to the Independent.

Sale ads are free. Phone, fax, mail or drop off your ad to the Taft your Independent.

Ad photograph for $5. Ad your company logo for

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Affordable Rents We’ve Got em!

$5.

Boxed ads are $3 additional. E-mail us (or bring to Boxed\outlined\bolded classified ads start at $12.00 for 8 our office) a photo of$20 your car,$25 truck lines, $16 for 12 lines, forhome, 15 lines, for or 20 motorcycle lines. and we’ll do the rest.

Photo Ads. Car, truck or house for sale ads are $5 per week, Yard are $2Email for 3us lines, additional or $10Sale withads a photo. (or bring to our lines office)$2a each. photo of your home, car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest.

Classified ad deadline is Wednesday at 12 p.m. (noon) Classified ads deadline is now Wednesdays at 2 p.m.

Phone: 765-6550

Preserving for the Future

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556 765-6556 Fax: E-mail:Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Payment can byby cash, check, or credit card. card.

Payment canbebemade made cash, check, or credit Taft Independent 6thCenter St., Taft, CATaft, 93268.

Taft Independent210 508 St., CA 93268

Community

installations. New & Old Scott 661-900-0917.

YARD SALES Advertise your yard sale ad. 3 lines for $2, additional lines after that $2 each. Fax your ad to 765-6556 or call and leave message at 765-6550 by 12 p.m.

Wednesday.

ALTERATIONS HOUSE CLEANING COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft P.C. Services

overhaul, fish finder, trolling motor, 360 swivel stool, up to 6 passengers, trailer in great shape, electric wench for loading, elect anchor, custom canopy, new upholstry, must see to appreciate. Overall condition is excellent.

Contact 661-765-6510 or 661-619-9230. $3,500 obo.

MOTORCYCLES AUTOMOBILES

Moving Sale 417 B St. Garage, backyard, alley.

Sat. 7am-? Furniture, household, clothes, tools, gym equipt, toys and more! End of day giveaway!

109 Asher Way Saturday 7am-? Clothes boys and girls baby to preteen.

Power & hand tools.

Camping/sporting equip.

Trains, golf clubs, fishing equip and lots more.

July 23 thru 31st 7am til Noon each day. 27509 Pine Street. Valley Acres Crafts, Quilters, Collectors and more. Saturday 8am-2pm 227 Rose Ave. Sat, July 23rd 7amnoon 414 Eastern Ave. Angels, antiques, turn table, sewing machine, clothes, jewelry, books.

Supports on going court costs.

SEEKING INFORMATION ANNOUNCEMENTS COUNSELING & SUPPORT

Computer Repairs 661-623-5188

Employment HELP WANTED

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS PETS LIVESTOCK

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Wanted WANTED Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552 Old Appliances, In ANY Condition. Car Batteries & Motorparts. Cash Paid $1 - $20 Call David 661293-0359 or 661-7656497. We will pick up!

For Sale FOR SALE Pickers Buy & Sell 428 Center Street. Tools, Furniture, Household Misc.

LOST PETS

Real Estate PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property Management 1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms now available in good areas.

CRIME FREE HOUSING Brokers Licence 01417057 661-577-7136

PROPERTY FOR RENT BUSINESS FOR SALE

Business Services

COOLER SERVICES

Cooler Service: Motors, pumps, pads, cleaning,

1979 16” Galixie, 140 Merc Cruiser, less than 30 hr. on outdrive

FOR SALE Established local Taft business. Taft Crude

Coffee House and Deli.

Excellent location, near Taft College. In business for 6 years. $25,000. Room to expand product offerings.

Good family business.

Call 661-623-4296.

HOMES FOR SALE

223 Eastern 3/2 410 Buchanan 3/1 119 1/2 Madison 1/1 502 Lucard 1/1 FOR SALE Why rent when you can buy for almost half the cost?!

Contact us for details and a complete list of homes for Sale!

Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street Karri Christensen LIC# 01522411 & #01333971 661-332-6597 www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

3bd/1 Lg ba. 522 F St. $750 + $800 dep. 7654016.

2bd. 1 ba. $9,000. on leased land. New carpet and paint. Negotiable.

623-6718.

Available soon 3 bedrooms plus country home outside of Maricopa. $800 mo. Call for application 769-8559.

114 Franklin $40K (Contingent) 417 Tyler 3bd 2bath $60K 106 Lee St 3bed 2 bath $129,500 9057 Ellis Street 4bed 2 bath 10 acres $140K Commercial Building $169K Restaurant/ Dry Goods Store $195K 160Acres in Maricopa $295K Wondering how buying a house works? Set an appointment with Karri to watch a FREE video on the process.

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list or drop by the office. ____________________

MOBILE HOMES Double wide $20,000.

661-599-5037.

HOMES FOR RENT 3 bd rm 1 ba. home on 902 Williams Way. Huge backyard and newer detached 2 car garage.

Original garage has been converted to large 4th bedroom or office. $1,250 mo plus $1,250 deposit. Ref. Req. Credit check. No smoking only. 623-4296 West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 www.

BuySellManage.com.

FOR RENT 507 Tyler 3/2 512 D St 3/2

707 Fillmore 3 bd/1ba $750 mo. + dep.

707 1/2 1bd/1ba $420 mo. + dep. 661-3430507.

3\1 downtown home. Lr. \kitchen, indry hookup, doundble lot, $790/m.

1/1 cotage. privayte fenced yard. covered parking for 4 cars. $495/m Call Mark KIng 805 689-4122.

APART. FOR RENT Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.7657674. 420 Finley Dr. Courtyard Terrace Apts. 1 and 2 bdrm’s Pool,lndry rm.,1210 4th St. Apt. 1. Sec. 8 OK. (661) 763-1333.

Well-Being BEAUTY PERSONAL TRAINER

Personals SEEKING

Get It Rented!!

July 22 - 28, 2011

Business Services

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

Cleaning Services My Fair Ladies Cleaning Services Comm. and Residential Serving the Westside 661.477.3455 Lic. No. 007657 Rite Away Carpet Cleaning Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General Cleaning Owner Operated Visa\Master Card 765-4191

Find what you are looking for with the Taft Independent.

Place your Ad today!

765-6550 Only $2 per line.

Get a

Plumbing • Septic • Roto-Rooter Framing • Electrical • Concrete We Do All Phases of Construction Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507 30 Plus Years in Construction License No. 927634

Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

Lot for a Little

Marketing is important to your business. The Taft Independent has marketing opportunities for every budget, large or small. By advertising in the Taft Independent, you will reach over 7,500 potential customers every week. To make a small budget go a long way, call us today at 765-6550

ADS STARTING AT

$

10

PER WEEK

508 Center Street or email taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich Miller

License # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131 531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985 (661) 765-4798 FAX Taft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell E-Mail: Richrmia@bak.rr.com Your Hometown Insurance Store

Yates’ Detailing 600 Center Street Taft, California

(661) 623-0827 (661) 765-1171

All your detailing needs!

Place Your Ad for $2 Per Line! Call Today (661)765-6550

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

July 22 - 28, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Annual August Community Wide Blood Drive Involves Entire County

The annual Community Wide Blood Drive for Houchin Community Blood Bank takes place from August 1-20, 2011 to ensure there are sufficient blood supplies for Kern County during the last month of summer vacation. Thirty six groups have scheduled mobile blood drives as part of the effort. Six are open to the public in Bakersfield, and nine are scheduled throughout Kern County. Thanks to sponsors San Joaquin Community Hospital and Kaiser Permanente, donors at the blood bank and on all mobiles will be entered to win a grand prize trip for four to Disneyland and California Adventure, as well as one of the six $100 gasoline cards raffled off each week during the drive.

The Community Wide Blood Drive kicks off Monday, August 1, with a 12 hour mobile at 21st and L Streets sponsored by KGET TV 17 from 5:00 am to 5:00 pm. Prime Cut will provide huge breakfast burritos to donors while supplies last, and LaRosa will be distributing fruit bars from 10:00 am through 5:00 pm. August 1st is also National Minority Donor Day, and people of all ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to participate, because “blood knows no color.”

The public is encouraged to visit the blood bank at 5901 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, during regular hours any day during the drive, or to take advantage of one of the following community drives to show their support for a safe and adequate blood supply for all.

Bakersfield KGET TV Famous Dave’s Barbeque Camelot Park Borton Petrini LLP Home Depot - East Hills Bakersfield Californian Harley MD Ride

Monday, August 1 Wednesday, August 3 Sunday, August 7 Tuesday, August 9 Saturday, August 13 Thursday, August 18 Saturday, August 20

County Kern River Valley Tuesday, August 2 China Lake Tuesday, August 2 City of Shafter Friday, August 5 Burger King – Ridgecrest Monday, August 8 Taft Community Tuesday, August 9 Tehachapi Farmer’s Market Thursday, August 11 Bear Valley Tuesday, August 16 Ridgecrest Community Wednesday, August 17 Mojave Plane Crazy Saturday, August 20

The Cell Fone Store Móviles y Accesorios y alimentos y más 510 Finley Drive 661-765-2500

G and F Footwear

Athletic and Tennis Shoes Vans - Nike - Levis Adio and More!

T-Shirts and Pants 405 Finley Street In the Pilot Plaza Phone 340-8609

Rosy’s Closet

Hombres y Mujeres Ropa y Zapatos 401 Center Street Mar. - Sáb. 10am-8pm Dom. 11am-8pm Cerrado los Lunes

Su anuncio aquí!

Las bajas tasas!

Llame hoy mismo!

765-6550

Lost Your Home?

Need To Move Into A Rental?

Haven’t Rented in a Long Time?

Do You Know Your Rights?

Do You Know The Questions to Ask? We are here to make your transition easier

Local Quality Homes Quality Neighborhoods

12:00 pm – 6:00 pm 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm 9:00 am – 1:00 pm 10:30 am – 4:00 pm 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm 3:30 pm – 7:00 pm 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Please Call OUR Expert Relocation Advisor Anytime.

Set Up an Appointment to see our Housing Inventory.

Negocios Hispanos Servicios

RELOCATION SPECIALISTS

25 Years Experience

5:00 am – 5:00 pm 2:00 pm– 8:00 pm 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm 8:00 am – 3:00 pm 9:00 am – 1:00 pm 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Many of these mobile drives are offering additional prize drawings.

The Community Wide Blood Drive is a legacy of Bakersfield’s Vision 2020 assessment of city needs and opportunities, which has subsequently expanded to cover the entire county. Other Community Wide Blood Drive sponsors are Clear Channel Radio, The Bakersfield Californian, and GET Bus. For more information or appointments call 661-323-4222 or log onto www.hcbb.com. A toll free number is also available: 877-364-5844.

Negocios de venta

Taft Property Management & Sales

577-7136 or 745-4892 CA Brokers Licence 01417057

Hooker’s Automotive

Sponsored by Edward J. Herrera Insurance

Mercado de Agricutores de Taft

Complete Automotive Service

Cada Jueves 5:00pm - 8:00pm Quinta Calle Plaza (5a Calle entre Main y Calle Center)

Open Monday - Friday 7:30am-5pm 218 Harrison Street P.O. Box 726

Edward J. Herrera Insurance

Vienen a comprar los productos!! Comprar Fresco y Local!!

Frutas, verduras, hierbas, productos horneados, mermeladas, joyas, ropa de cama, artesanias y mucho mas Interesado en convertirse en un productor, proveedor o artista (musicos, cantantes, comedios) Ponganse en contacto con Shannon en 661-765-2165 o shannontaftchamber@gmail.com

James Hooker 765-2437

Auto - Casa - Salud - Negocio - Notary Public Somos una Agencia Independiente Con Varias Aseguradoras Prominentes Para Darle El Mejor Servicio

Lo Representamos A Usted Para Darle Un Excelente Servicio Como Usted Se Lo Merece

Le Ofrecemos Los Mejores Precios Nuestro Personal Amable

420 Center Street Taft, Ca 93268 (661)745-4920 Lic. # 0277365 www.edherrerainsurance.com

12

July 22 - 28, 2011

Devon’s Body Shop

Used to be Paul’s

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

Bike Shop

209 Harrison Street • Taft (661)765-2505 or (661)763-1887 fax

We Have Moved!

Ask about $500.00 Free Smog Repair

Come see us at 608 Center Street

Restrictions Apply

$39.75 * for Smog Check ‘96 or Newer plus certificate

TAFT INDEPENDENT

745-4919

* must present ad at time of service

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

Qik Smog & Tune

ANNOUNCEMENTS SERVICES

MORTIMER

FIREARM TRAINING

CCW Classes & BSIS Classes

(661)763-4445

Ray Mortimer, Instructor 661-747-6965

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

Taft Independent www.taftindependent.com Publisher@taftindependent.com

Certified C.A.P. Station General Automotive Repairs

Pre-register at Ten Percent Firearms 661-765-6899

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

Larry Heptinstall, 661-342-4033 (CCW) Jay Thomas 661-809-1772 (BSIS)

Randy’s Trucking Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer • Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping • Mixes Concrete While Traveling • • Large Internal Blades • • Rear Operator Control Panel •

western shop & PET SUPPLY

Shaw’s Pet Wash

For Those Pests

Pest Control & Treatment

For the Cats

Body Shave • Wash • Flea Dip body shave, wash and flea dip all included for

Gopher • Squirrel • Ant

$69

Baits • Poisons • Traps

Fly Repelents

Nails clipped and filed $12

For your Pet and Premises

Sprays • Powders • Lures • Traps

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Squirrel & Cat Traps - For Sale & Rent

Each additional dog or cat $9

www.shawswesternshop.com

Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 9-3

419 Harrison St. Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987

The Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant Located in the Heart of Oil Country On the Petroleum Highway

We Cater Your Place or Ours Full Bar Available For You Special Event

Open 7 Days a Week

Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner - Full Bar - Catering - RV Parking Available

24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

3rd Annual Tumbleweed Festival

Saturday, July 30th