New West Side Recreation Cenetr Opening In September

Independent The Taft

August 26 - 1, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

www.Taftindependent.com

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

August 26 - 1, 2011 • Volume 6 Issue 9

“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

Every Wednesday - Oak BBQ Steak Sandwich 12:00 PM - Close

Saturday, August 27th $10.00 All You Can Eat Buffet

Top Sirloin green salad, beans and bread

New West Side Recreation Center Opening This September

$1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close

ComingLocal Events...Public Meet Your Saturday,Janice September 10th ServantBARN DANCE & BBQ Dillingham

Horse Shoe Tournament starts at 2pm. Call ahead for sign ups $5 entry fee. $10.00 BBQ Pork Spare Ribs, potatoe salad, corn on the cob and bread. BBQ Starts at 5pm

By Nicole Frost Public Servants: Meet TC’s Sheri Horn Bunk

The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!

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

Taft College Get’s New Bronze Cougar, Water Fountain in College Quad Area

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

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Shop Taft

Get Ready For Back To School with Next Step!

ITEM OF THE WEEK Pre - Workout Mix

By N’SANE

Come in for our Back To School Membership Specials & Savings! $25/mo

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

Notary Public Certified Signing Agent

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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

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

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

Back - To - School Savings!

Newly expanded Juniors & Contempory Fashions

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

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

August 1st-31st

10% off professional lines New Arrivals Weekly!

10-15% off 100% Human Hair Extensions 10-20% off Feather Extensions and Earrings 20-50% off Storewide Deals We will meet or beat any price!

If we don’t have it we will get it!

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

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

J & D Recycling 1277 Kern Street

Sacred Thread, Broomstick Skirts, Jackets, Blouses AND MUCH MORE

Greg Anderson

510 Center Street Taft, CA 763-5445 Back To School Daze...

Acme Jewelry will be closed on Tuesdays when Ray is in L.A. Please call first 763-5451 Thank You

New Arrivals!

Personal Style

Mobile Notary Public Certified Signing Agent

Miller’s Direct Beauty Supply Outlet

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

We can save you money on quality jewelry!

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

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

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

August 26 - 1, 2011

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

SAN JOAQUIN Automotive Center

Get Your Car Ready For Summer!

EVERYDAY OIL CHANGES GAS ENGINE $35.99 OR LESS

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

SUMMER SPECIAL!

$199.99

Cooling System Flush

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

A/C Service

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

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)

DIESEL ENGINE $71.99 OR LESS

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

Billy Messenger Voted Best Mechanic for 2009 and 2010

531 Center Street • 763-1123

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Brand Clothing Shoes • Jewelry A Hint of Class Name Accessories & More Ben’s Books Step Back Into School

FREE

Tire Rotation & Brake Check Plus We will check all fluids & tire pressure *Most Cars & Light Trucks Up to 5 Qts.

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

29

Plus Tax

$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee Exp. Sept. 30, 2011

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm

In Style!

New Arrivals of Backpacks & Shoes Inside The Historic Fort 915 N. 10th Street Suite 34 (661)623-1783

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

Come stop by, have some coffee and leisurly browse our selection of books!

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

August 26 - 1, 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

End of Times Gallery Summer Art Classes

Westside News.................7 Community Voices..........8 Classified Ads.................10 Westside News...............11 Uncivil Liberties...........11 Negocios Hispanos........11

The Taft Independent

The End of Times Gallery, 428 Center Street, is offering the following summer classes: DRAWING - Tuesdays, 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.

Kern County Animal Control Low-Cost Rabies Vaccination Clinic Saturday, August 27th Come on out Saturday, August 27th to the Kern County Animal Control low cost rabies vaccination clinic and licensing at Ford City Park located on the corner of Cedar and Taylor Street from 8am-12pm noon.

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

Website: www.TaftIndependent.com

Teams are forming now for the Taft District Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Classic being held on Saturday October 1, 2011 at Buena Vista Golf Course sponsored by Westside Waste Management in Association with Area Businesses. We are also looking for additional sponsors for this event! Contact the Chamber to sign up your team!

Tournament begins with shotgun start at 1:00PM with Putting and Pitching contests (start at 8:00AM.) 4 person team (form your own teams) Scrabble Format, 2 flights: Handcapped or Open. Registration is $100 per player ($400 teams). Entry fee includes Green Fees, Cart, Drinks, Goody Bag, Dinner, & first round participation in putting & pitching contests. This event is sure to sell out. Reserve your teams today! Contact shannon.taftchamber@gmail.​com for more information or stop by 400 Kern Street to get your entry form.

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.

We welcome contributions and suggestions.

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

ADVERTISING. Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representative at (661) 765-6550, or email to Advertising@taftindependent.com.

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

Taft Union High School officials are inviting parents and community members to join them for a free hot dog barbecue as partners in educating students at Backto-School Night on Monday, Aug. 29.

The event begins at 6 p.m. in the quad. The school band will perform from 6 to 6:25 as parents eat dinner in the quad.

At 6:25 p.m., Superintendent/Principal Mark Richardson will welcome parents, introduce school board members and give an overview of the evening’s events during a five-minute orientation. “We want to emphasize that parents are our partners in education and give them a chance to see what their children are doing at school. They will get to see the positive accomplishments of their children,” Superintendent Richardson explained. The format is designed to make the school more open to parents so they feel comfortable. “We want parents and guardians to be involved in their child’s education. Without their help, the education of the child cannot happen to the fullest extent.”

The week beginning Aug. 29 has been designated MyCats Week by school officials. Parents will have access to the library from 5 to 7:30 and may sign up for a MyCats account. A Verification Pass Code or VPC code will be mailed home Tuesday<Aug. 23>. The account allows parents to check their child’s grades.

From 6:30 to 8:10, the evening will follow the traditional format where parents follow their child’s class schedule from Period 1 through 7. Each class visitation with teachers will last 10 minutes. Passing periods are five minutes each. Period 1 will be from 6:30 to 6:40; Period 2 from 6:45 to 6:55; Period 3 from 7 to 7:10; Period 4 from 7:15 to 7:25; Period 5 from 7:30 to 7:40; Period 6 from 7:45 to 7:55; and Period 7 from 8 to 8:10.

Teachers will provide a course overview including expectations, goals and objectives, textbook and materials, and grading and homework policy. Parents with specific questions about students are asked to contact the Guidance Center in the main administration building to make an appointment. Counselors will be available in the Guidance Center.

Taft Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Classic Saturday, October 1st

Locally and Independently owned since 2006

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: Editor@taftindependent.com.

more information, please contact the Taft College Foundation at 661.763.7961 on or before Monday, September 5, 2011.

Email: Publisher@taftindependent.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS. Subscription home or businessdelivery of the Taft Independent is available for $6.50 per month or $78.00 per year. To subscribe to please call 765-6550.

Taft High hosts Back-to-School Night Monday, August 29th

Taft Bike Fest Labor Day Weekend, Friday-Sunday, September 2nd-4th

Taft ARC Barbeque Saturday, October 8th

2 Wheel Production presents The First Annual Taft Bike Fest which will take place this Labor Day Weekend, Friday (12pm-9pm), Saturday (9am-9pm) and Sunday (9am2pm), September 2nd-4th at the Rails to Trails located at 6th St. and Main St. This three day event will feature concerts, beer garden, multiple vendors, motorcycle bike show and contest, tattoo contest, and motorcycle stunt show. There will be dry tent camping and RV/Trailer parking on site. Vendor space is available for food, crafters, commercial and business vendors. To apply for vendor space stop by the Taft Chamber of Commerce for event form and more information or contact Shannon with the Chamber at shannon.taftchamber@gmail.com or 765-2165. For more information on the Taft Bike Fest email them at taftbikefest@yahoo.com or check them out on Facebook.

The Taft ARC will be holding a BBQ on Saturday, October 8th from 11am to 2pm at the Taft ARC, located at 204 Van Buren St. $10 a plate and includes tri tip, salad, beans, roll, drink and dessert. Lunch ticket includes a drawing for Harris Ranch Meat Basket. Raffle tickets for other prizes. 6 tickets for $5 or $1 each.

Ladies Night Dinner & Social Wednesday, September 7th 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!

Fourth Annual TIL Casino Night Saturday, September 17th On Saturday, September 17, 2011, the Taft College Foundation, Team Oxy and TIL cordially invite you to attend their Fourth Annual TIL Casino Night at the JAM Event Center, 1400 Norris Road, Bakersfield, CA 93308. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with gaming beginning at 7:00 p.m. Evening activities will include catered buffet from Café Med; libations; gaming, including black jack, roulette, craps and Texas Hold ‘Em Poker; and a silent and live auction. VIP Tables can be reserved at three levels. For

www.taftindependent.com

Taft Chamber Ambassador Program The Taft Chamber of Commerce is re-launching the Chamber Ambassador program. We are inviting members of the community to the West Side Recreation Center to learn more about the Taft Chamber and how they can help promote the organization. We are looking for volunteers to assist at events, in the office, and in the community. Within this group, we want to foster friendships, forge working business relationships, and create a closer community. Join us for an informational session on Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at 5:30pm at the West Side Rec Center Assembly Room.

Taft Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Recruitment Night Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at 5:30pm West Side Recreation Center Assembly Room Free event, refreshments will be served Contact the Taft Chamber at 765-2165.

Taft Farmers Market

Thursdays 5pm - 8pm • 5th Street Plaza

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TAFT INDEPENDENT

August 26 - 1, 2011 HALL AMBULANCE CREW REUNITED WITH CARDIAC ARREST SURVIVOR

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 7 am to 4pm.

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

Wine Tasting Food and Pizza Asian ExperienceAsian Lunch and Dinner Call Dinner by Reservation Tuesday - Friday 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

765-6550!

Award Winning Saturday 4 p.m.Wines - 9 p.m.

Live Music Saturday Nights Starting as low 766-2319 as $12 per 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa week!

215 Center Street 763-1815 Always Fresh!

Dine In or We Deliver 765-4143 700 Kern Street

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

Your Restaurant Listed Here!

Call 765-6550!

Starting as low as $12 per week!

Taft Petroleum Club Friday, August 12th was our last Ribeye Steak and Chicken Dinner until September 9th. Our dinner crew is taking some well deserved time off and we will be back Friday, September 9th.

BAR WILL BE OPEN! Industry Night

September 7th opens at 3:30 dinner at 7:30. Sponsored by Taft Chevrolet Buick 50/50 door prizes and great food!

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

Modern Technology Saves Life of Early Hall Ambulance Service Technician Editorial

Westside Watcher BOXER CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION TO HELP RESPONSIBLE HOMEOWNERS Senator Praises Administration for Looking at Further Steps to Ease Housing Crisis and Calls on the Federal Housing Finance Agency to Immediately Implement S.170 Fresno, CA – U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) today reacted favorably to press reports that the Obama Administration is considering new measures to slow down foreclosures and boost the economy by taking steps similar to S.170, the Helping Responsible Homeowners Act. This bipartisan bill will help up to two million Americans to refinance their mortgages at historically low interest rates, keeping them in their homes and boosting economic growth.

Senator Boxer said, “I am extremely pleased that the BoxerIsakson legislation is gaining support in Washington as it has throughout the country with endorsements from Mark Zandi, the National Association of Realtors, the National Consumers Law Center, the National Association of Mortgage Brokers and many others.”

Boxer also sent a letter this afternoon to Acting Director Edward DeMarco of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), which regulates Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, to follow-up on their meeting earlier this year and to urge him to immediately implement S.170.

In the letter, Senator Boxer noted that she was pleased to read DeMarco’s comments indicating he was “open to all ideas that provide needed assistance to borrowers.” She wrote: “S.170 has the dual benefit of saving Fannie and Freddie money and boosting the economy by giving responsible homeowners who deserve a break but are stuck with high interest rates more money to spend in their communities.” The full text of the letter is available here.

Boxer has called her legislation a “no brainer” and a “win-win” because experts have stated that it will help homeowners who deserve a break but are stuck with high interest rates to refinance and spend extra money to help boost the economy. Additionally, it will save Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac money as a result of lowering the foreclosure rate.

Interest rates for 30-year home mortgages are at historically low levels. Yet of the 27.5 million mortgages guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, more than 8 million still carry an interest rate at or above 6 percent. For the average homeowner – with a $150,000 loan – lowering the interest rate by 1 percent would save $1,100 a year. With up to two million additional borrowers refinancing, this would pump up to $2.2 billion annually into the economy.

The legislation is also expected to lead to up to 54,000 fewer defaults by homeowners and produce a net savings of up to $100 million for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

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.

Hall Ambulance Paramedic Jeff Perkins and EMT Mike Hilliard along with Bakersfield Fire Department staff were reunited with sudden cardiac arrest survivor Ron Klawitter on Wednesday morning.

Harvey L. Hall, Founder and President of Hall Ambulance facilitated the meeting. For Hall and Klawitter it was a walk down memory lane. Klawitter worked for Hall in the 1970’s and the two shared fond memories of days when they worked out of Tech 1, Hall’s first Cadillac ambulance.

During the event, Hall stressed the importance of someone in every home learning CPR. “It is because Ron’s wife knew CPR that my friend is here with us today” said Hall.

Klawitter suffered a sudden cardiac arrest on July 5th. His wife Jan, a CPR instructor, called 9-1-1 and then performed CPR until the Hall Paramedic Ambulance arrived two minutes later. Paramedic Perkins defibrillated Klawitter and was then assisted in resuscitative efforts by Bakersfield Fire Department Engine 7.

Klawitter gave thanks for his survival to his wife, the Hall Ambulance crew, the Bakersfield Fire crew and the 9-1-1 dispatcher.

Hall Paramedic Perkins said “This is a great example of a system of care that worked just as it should have”. He went on to add “If more people knew CPR, I think that we’d be celebrating many more of these great recoveries”.

Air Board Says Ozone levels rise Air officials urge emission-reduction strategies to avert reaching critical ozone threshold As ozone levels in the Valley air basin increase during the Valley’s first Air Alert episode, local air officials remind residents and businesses that curtailing emission-producing activities such as driving may avert hitting the threshold that triggers a federal monetary penalty.

The Valley’s first Air Alert was declared Tuesday, Aug. 23 and is in effect through Sunday, Aug. 28. Air Alerts are declared Valley-wide and include the counties of San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and portions of Kern.

Air Alert episodes are called when conditions may lead to ozone (smog) formation that results in exceeding health-based ozone standards of 125 parts per billion (ppb) and triggering substantial federal monetary penalties.

On Monday, the three highest ozone readings in the air basin were 97 ppb at Ash Mountain (Tulare County); 91 ppb in Parlier (Fresno County); and 90 ppb in Arvin (Kern County).

On Tuesday, the three highest readings were 108 ppb in Parlier, 107 ppb in central Fresno and 103 ppb in Edison (Kern County).

“Increasing heat, stagnant air movement and the build-up of emissions are producing elevated ozone. But by curbing our emissions, we may avoid triggering a 1-hour exceedance,” said Seyed Sadredin, the Air District’s executive director and air pollution control officer.

About 80 percent of the Valley’s ozone-forming emissions are produced by vehicle use. Residents can reduce smog-forming emissions by refraining from idling when dropping off or picking up students, carpooling or vanpooling, and refraining from using drive-through services.

Businesses and municipalities can reduce emissions by shifting operations to early morning or late evening, as in lawn care; offering flexible work schedules, and encouraging carpools and vanpools for employees. Businesses can also enroll at no cost in the Healthy Air Living Partner program.valleyair.org/lists/list. htm.

To receive information about becoming a Healthy Air Living Partner, please visit www.healthyairliving.com.

August 26 - 1, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Taft Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament Oct. 1st, New Rec. Center Opening Soon

Stop Signs Going Up at 6th Sreet and Emmons Park Drive

by Jane McCabe

Taft College students and staff face the prospect of months of long lines of vehicles waiting to make turns from Emmons Park Drive onto 6th Street.

It will be mid-November or later before the intersection becomes a three-way stop, according to a report from Craig Jones, city public works manager.

The problem is that adding stop signs for northbound and southbound traffic on 6th is part of a project to resurface 10th Street and 6th Street between Ash and Warren streets, Jones said.

The 6th and 10th street projects were combined into one for bidding in a cost-saving effort, and the combined project is awaiting approval from California Department of Transportation, he said.

Jones estimated the cost of the work on both streets at about $700,000.

“We’re waiting on a notice to proceed,” he said. “We hope to hear something back in two weeks from Caltrans. Then we can start bidding ... The ad has to run for three weeks.

“Then it goes to (Taft City) Council (to accept the winning bid).

Construction will start about Oct. 24 at the earliest.

“The variable is the workload for Caltrans in getting approval letters out (for road work projects). Then the time-line is in our hands.”

The project involves grinding down two inches of asphalt on the streets, laying two inches of new asphalt, painting street markings and installing thermo-plastic crosswalk markings, Jones said.

“The new plastic markings last longer than paint, are brighter and are raised,” he said. “They are easier to see.”

Crossings that are now yellow, and possibly the stop bars, will get the plastic markings, he said.

“The 6th Street project for that one section is 21 working days,” Jones said. “It could be completed by mid-November, but there are a lot of variables. I can’t say when it will happen.

“As soon as the city gets the notice to proceed we will move as swiftly as possible, without bypassing any of our legal responsibilities.”

School has reopened, the days are getting shorter, and September is just around the corner. On September 11th, our country will mark the 10th anniversary of 9/11. Taft’s commemoration service will be held at the high school at (time??). The following events are slated for Saturday, September 10th: • Center Street Sidewalk Sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Please see the list of businesses that plan to participate, their addresses, and items for sale.

• The West Side Recreation and Park District will have the grand opening of its new building in the late afternoon or early evening. It’s at 500 Cascade Place, Building D. A bowling alley has been built in the new building, which can be booked for parties. It also has a fitness/weight room, a batting cage for practice, two small offices, a conference room and a room for pre-school children. A new floor has been laid in the auditorium. There are showers in each rest room and vending machine throughout the facility.

• The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is also on September 10th at the Park at River Walk in Bakersfield beginning at 9 a.m. People will be walking nation-wide. This is the largest event ever to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

Carol Hattan, a Qualified Dementia Care Specialist with Continuum Senior Care Management, addressed the chamber. She says they offer support groups for people caring for Alzheimer patients and those in the early stages of the disease. Good services are available in residential care facilities that have special units for people with dementia. MediCal helps with the expense for qualifying people.

Ms. Hattan explained that people with Alzheimer’s have “holes” in their brains caused by cells (neurons) that have died, and this afflicts them with short-term and eventually long-term memory loss.

A number of drugs have been developed in recent years, which can slow down the progression.

A diet high in antioxidants and keeping one’s brain active by learning new things every day can help prevent Alzheimer’s or retard its development. Whereas it isn’t directly hereditary the potential can be inherited.

Ms. Hattan urges elderly people, whether they have Alzheimer’s or not to make a Durable Power of Attorney for finances and Health Care and to use an Elder Law Lawyer in so doing. Senior Citizens should discuss POLST (a new and improved advance directive) with their doctors.

For more information you can contact her at carol@continuumseniorcare.com Coming up soon is the Taft District Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Classic on Saturday, October 1, 2011 at the Buena Vista Golf Course. This event is sponsored by Westside Waste Management. It starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 11 a.m. The entry fee is $100 per player, and teams of four will be formed. Over $100,000 in prize money will be awarded.

Taft Chamber Mixer at Tumbleweed Cafe August 31st

By Kent Miller The Taft Chamber of Commerce will sponsoer a mixer hosted by the Tumbleweed Café on Wednesday, August 31st at 5 p.m.

Tumbleweed Café is located in Derby Acres on Highway 33.

It’s the Tumbleweed’s 6th Anniversary!The public is invite and welcome to come mix and mingle with the staff of the Tumbleweed Café and the Taft Chamber of Commerce.

Enjoy food and drinks and learn more about the restaurant and bar in Derby Acres.

The event marks the 6th Anniversary of the Tumbleweed Café’s ownership.

Help celebrate this year at the Taft Chamber Mixer. Dinner and drinks will be a part of the festivities surrounding this anniversary get together.

There will be a 50/50 raffle and business card drawing.

For more information, contact the Chamber at 765-2165.

The Place 4014 Highway 33

Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa (661)766-2660

Every Wednesday - Oak BBQ Steak Sandwich 12:00 PM - Close

Saturday, August 27th $10.00 All You Can Eat Buffet

Top Sirloin green salad, beans and bread $1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close

Coming Events...

Saturday, September 10th BARN DANCE & BBQ

www.taftindependent.com

West Kern Oil Museum Fun-Fund Raiser Saturday, September 17th

All Proceeds Go To Support Your Local West Kern Oil Museum

Gates Open 4:15 p.m. Early Bird Bingo 5 p.m. Don’t Be Late!!

West Kern Oil Museum 1168 Wood Street, Taft, CA

Horse Shoe Tournament starts at 2pm. Call ahead for sign ups $5 entry fee. $10.00 BBQ Pork Spare Ribs, potatoe salad, corn on the cob and bread. BBQ Starts at 5pm

Back - To - School Special!

10% OFF

For All Students Minimum Purchase of $15.00 Expires: 8/31/11

Please RSVP to Carolyn Fuller (661) 765-4642 Seating by Reservation Only - $5 Entrance Fee Fee Includes auction Paddle, 1 Bingo Card & Snacks/drink

We Are Specialists!

Sellac, Gel Color, Airbrush, Acrylic Nails, Pink & White, Pedicures, Waxing

Monday - Friday 9am-7pm Saturday 9am-6pm 1080 West Kern Street

(661) 763-3111

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

West Side Recreation and Parks District to Open New Rec Center in September

by Nicole Frost Despite Taft’s size, there is plenty to do in our little city thanks to the West Side Recreation and Park District.

The WSRPD offers many activities for everyone from toddlers to senior citizens including the Walter Glen Natatorium community swimming pool, West Side Little League, Franklin Field Park and baseball fields, and many more.

The WSRPD is opening a new facility that is expected to open in early September of 2011.

The new recreation center was built with approximately $3 million from the insurance of the old facility that burned down a few years ago.

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“The old facility that we had was great and provided a great service to the community of Taft for decades,” said Recreation Supervisor Les Clark. “Even though the burning down of the facility was and is tragic we are excited about the program capabilities of the new recreation center. Approximately $3 million dollars came from insurance and an approximately $1 million came from reserves.”

The new building will be 20,802 square feet, including a full-size gymnasium, weight room, 4-lane bowling alley, conference room, staff offices, restroom and locker room facilities, an activity room and a preschool room.

Not only is the WSRPD building a new facility, they are adding some more activities for the Taft community. People will be able to rent the bowling lanes, obtain a weight room membership and there will also be an indoor walking track inside the gymnasium. Also, the old preschool is being moved into the new facility, allowing the old building to be used for a senior activity center.

“We anticipate some new program offerings with the new Center,” said Stephanie House. “But this is really just giving us a place of our own to hold many of our existing programs so that we aren’t as dependent on using other facilities.”

Taftians have expressed much interest in the new bowling alley that will be offered.

“We are looking forward to being able to provide bowling again in Taft,” said House. “We are just thrilled to have gymnasium space that we can program in a variety of ways.”

Board member Bill McPherson has high expectations for the new facility.

“To say it’s inspiring is an understatement,” said McPherson.

“It so compliments the community by having this center. It starts right when you walk in the door. The Rec has done well.

Having this new building that will last 60 years and what it will mean to future generations like the old Rec center did for past generations is great. I think it will really please the community.”

The grand opening of the new recreation center will be September 10 from 2pm-10pm.

If you have any questions regarding the new facility, you can call the West Side Recreation and Park District at (661) 7634246.

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August 26 - 1, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Meet Your Local Public Servants Sheri Horn Bunk, Taft College Foundation Executive Director

Taft College Get’s New Cougar Bronze Sculpture Place on New Water Fountain Feature in College Quad Area

By Nicole Frost

Sheri Horn Bunk is working to lay a foundation for Taft College.

As the Executive Director for the Taft College Foundation, Bunk handles fundraising opportunities for the college by talking with donors and other organizations on a daily basis.

Bunk was born in Sacramento, California and she was raised in the small town of Madera. She has been married to Gary Bunk for 19 years and she enjoys being a stepmother and step-grandmother. She plays golf regularly with her husband and they love to travel and explore.

Throughout her life, Bunk has been an avid salesperson and this is what catalyzed her interest in fundraising. She started as an entrepreneur at the age of 13 by selling Christmas cards door-to-door.

“I went door-to-door selling Christmas cards in July, promising to deliver in October, with their name printed on the card,” said Bunk. “That was high-tech for 1969!’

She has had three major careers involving sales that have paved the way for her current career in fundraising. She spent 10 years in the executive search industry in Southern California where she specialized in placing high level data consultants to the entertainment industry.

“A group that hired me to help build their firm invited me to work on the job of taking the company public which we did in 1983,” said Bunk. “We sold our company Data Dimensions in 1998 to a leading millennium software company.”

Bunk lived in both Marina Del Rey and Redondo Beach and, although she thought it was great, she missed her family and she missed living in a smaller town.

“I moved to Bakersfield in 1988 for love and found myself looking for a job,” said Bunk. “A friend of mine told me about Buck Owens having a radio station in town and I thought it would be a real hoot (or hee-haw) to work for him.”

Bunk worked for KUZZ as their National Sales Manager for many years. She then moved on to working for the television stations KBAK and Univision.

“I yearned for a more entrepreneurial environment and ended up raising money for the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra. I was completely out of my box and I liked it,” Bunk added. “The job at the Symphony lead to an offer from California State University Bakersfield as a Director of Major Gifts.”

The job at California State University Bakersfield was the last position Bunk held before coming to Taft.

“I really love it here!” exclaimed Bunk.

A typical day for Bunk is usually outside of the office where she will either meet with new donors or follow-up with existing donors, both individual and corporate.

“A typical day is usually…sending letters, writing grants, making phone calls, writing press releases, helping with events and working with internal Taft College colleagues to build the policies and procedures as well as identity for a Taft College Foundation,” said Bunk. “[All of this is] a sideline to raising funds. I am out in the community of both Bakersfield and Taft banging the drum to the tune of Taft College and all of their wonderful programs.”

Although Bunk has only been with Taft College since 2009, she has had many memorable experiences in such a short amount of time.

“There have been many [memorable days], “ said Bunk. “The day Willy Duncan, our past president, told me that we had tripled the foundation funds in my first 18 months of employment…that was great! Willy was a great champion for me and I miss him!”

Bunk was recently elected to the Network for California Community College Foundations board, which is housed by the Chancellor’s Office, for a three-year term. She is excited “about learning more about the California Community College System and collaborating with Fundraising colleagues.”

The NCCCF is an organization that plays a large part in the

Workmen put the finishing touches on a new water fountain feature in the Taft College quad area of the campus shortly after placing a bronze cougar sculpture on a pedastal inside the fountain. The fountain should be operational by Monday.

California Community College system. Their mission is “to enhance and support the resource development capabilities of California Community College foundations through leadership, training and networking.” Specifically, the organization’s members strive to help their colleagues become more effective fundraisers and more efficient managers.

Bunk is involved with many different future plans for the college, including setting up an online vending service for donors to be able to give gifts through a PayPal system.

“Also we will be implementing a new donor tracking and communications software system,” said Bunk. “This is an imperative part to fundraising as we will build a donor database and be able to track everything we do and everybody we know. We currently have all of our alumni and friends and corporate donors on excel spreadsheets, so we will transfer all of the information to the system and continue to add and build. We also have over 100K names of past alumni that we will clean up and get into the system so we can communicate with those folks.”

Bunk spends time to obtain the funds to better the services and amenities that are offered at and for Taft College.

“I want the people of Kern County to know that Taft College is using their tax dollars wisely by having vocational options such as welding, auto mechanic and our new Energy Technology programs, as well as focusing on delivering general education requirements for students who want to transfer to a four-year institution. I also speak about our TIL program and the new building campaign.”

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8

Community Voices

TAFT INDEPENDENT

August 26 - 1, 2011

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Meet Amanda Collins, a University of Nevada, Reno Campus student, who was brutally raped in the same parking garage where campus police park their cruisers, less than 100 yards from the police station. What is different about her, from the approximately 9 other students raped per day on college campuses throughout the United States, is that it happened near the police station and she had a concealed weapons permit which authorized her to carry a gun everywhere except on campus. She maintains that it probably would not 370 CALIFORNIA • 769-8580 have happened had she been allowed to carry her concealed weapon. What is worse, is that she is haunted by the knowledge that she was the first of three rapes and one murder which all could have been avoided.

With respect to her right to have a conceal weapon she wonders, “why I could be trusted at the deli shop across the street [to carry a gun], and then as soon as I crossed that arbitrary line, I was suddenly deemed incompetent and unable to make sound decisions or untrustworthy for whatever reason by the same authorities who granted me the permission to carry in the first place.”

It turns out that the individual who raped her, James Biela, now sitting on death row, ended up Double Gold Medal Winner and Best Cabernet Sauvignon of Show killing yet another rape victim, 19-year-old Brianna Denison. It was Amanda Collin’s drawing at the San Francisco International Wine Competition of him that allowed the police to find and arrest him ten months later but Amanda, having first fired a gun with her father at age 5 or 6, could have killed him in self-defense with one well-placed Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 4:30 pm.

Now Celebrating Our 22nd Year bullet. www.sagebrushannies.com Collins argues, “My inability to be able to carry allowed [Biela] to continue assaulting women, 8 miles south of HWY 166 on HWY 33 in Ventucopa, and ultimately he murdered one, too.” Her mother said it best when confronting the university Cuyama Valley, 4211 HWY 33. (661) 766-2319 chancellor, “ If guns aren’t the answer, then what is? Where were your police when my daughter was being raped?” Next door was apparently not good enough.

So what has the University of Nevada, Reno Campus done to prevent the same thing happena division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group ing again? The lighting in the parking lot has been improved and they installed more call boxes so victims can get help. What is Amanda’s response to this? “A call box above my head when I Rich Miller am being straddled wouldn’t be any more help than the police that night. What am I supposed to License # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131 do, ask my attacker to hold on and then run and push the button, then fight off my attacker while 531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985 telling the operator what’s going on (Fighting Chance, by David Burnett, First Freedom, Sept.

(661) 765-4798 FAX 2011, pp. 22-28)?”

Taft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell When institutions deny their students the right to defend themselves—even making it a criminal behavior to carry a gun with the intent to protect oneself—they then assume that responsibility unto themselves. When they fail to provide the protection that they deny are they responE-Mail: Richrmia@bak.rr.com sible? This is presently being tested in the courts and so far it looks promising for future victims.

Your Hometown Insurance Store Victims unprotected by their colleges or universities are suing their institutions.

Some might argue that allowing everyone qualifying to have a concealed weapon on campus would invite frequent “shoot-outs.” This has proven not so in Utah which has had such a law for sometime. Colorado has left concealed carry to the board of directors of each campus so some allow it and others do not. A national campaign to open this part of society to firearms is gaining momentum.

If you wish to be better informed on this issue see www. concealedcampus.org. More than half of the Texas House of Representatives has signed as co-authors of a measure directing universities to allow concealed western shop & PET SUPPLY handguns for both students and professors. Texas has 38 public universities and more than half a million Now Carrying Wrangler FR students. Wisconsin and Virginia are also liberalizing their former views against concealed weapons on Self Wash 1st Dog at reg.

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99 * Augu al Nails clipped and filed $12 Dr. Harold Pease is an expert on the United States ci e p Originally $31.99 Each additional dog or cat $9 S Constitution. He has dedicated his career to studying *limited to stock on hand Saturday, August 27th Dog Rabbies Clinic the writings of the Founding Fathers and applying that Ford City Park • 8am-12pm www.shawswesternshop.com knowledge to current events. He has taught history and political science from this perspective for over 25 years Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 9-3 at Taft College. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.

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August 26 - 1, 2011

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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

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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

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10

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

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 Shannon N. and Shannon L. Kelley www.nlctaft.org or nlctaft@bak.rr.com

Name_________________________________ Address________________________________ Start Date____________End Date__________

YOUR CHURCH AD HERE! CALL TODAY! 765-6550 Gateway Temple

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

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.

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

For information, call 763-4791 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

Please make checks out to Taft Independent

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

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

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

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

Community Christian Fellowship St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

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

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS

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

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

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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

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 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.

Mobile Home Park pace # 104 Lots of misc and brand name school clothes 7-11 am sat.

212 E. San Emidio. Fri and Saturday 7-? Furn, household goods, tools and more.

334 Pine Drive. Alley entrance. 7am to ?

Sewing Mach., and treasures from storage shed.

303 1/2 Tyler St. Fri Sat Sun 8am - dark. Little bit of everything. Free water.

COOLER SERVICES Cooler Service: Motors, pumps, pads, cleaning, installations. New & Old Scott 661-900-0917.

Employment HELP WANTED Truck Driver/Pumping Unit Mechanic - Taft, CA Southern Sierra General Engineering, Inc. has an immediate need for a Truck Driver/Pumping Unit Mechanic for the Kern County area.

Qualified candidates must have 2-3 years oilfield experience, high School Diploma or GED. A clean driving record and class A is required for this position. Employment candidate will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment physical and drug screen.

Southern Sierra offers a competitive salary and benefit package.

Applications may be picked up at our office or resumes may be faxed or emailed to our business office at: Southern Sierra General Engineering, Inc. P O Box 1113 Taft, CA 93268

Business Services COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services

Computer Repair Virus Removal Web Design Graphics 661-623-5188

661-765-6182 Office 661-765-6155 Fax hr@southernsierrainc.com www.southernsierrainc.com

CITY OF TAFT EXTRA HELP MAINTENANCE AIDE $10.00/hour Works under the general supervision and direction of a Maintenance Leadperson. The Extrahelp Maintenance Aide has responsibility for performing a variety of tasks related to janitorial, maintenance of city building, facilities and grounds, and community clean up. This classification is for extra-help positions used by the City of Taft seasonally as needed.

Min. Qualifications: High School diploma or GED; and one (1) year of experience and/or training involving maintenance and /or grounds keeping (or related); or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position.

Special Requirements: Must possess a Valid State of California Driver’s license.

Application and job description may be obtained at City Hall, 209 East Kern Street, Taft.

A complete City of Taft application must be received by the Personnel Department no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, September 2, 2011. EOE. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of application and postmarked applications will not be accepted.

THE CITY OF TAFT IS LOOKING FOR QUALIFIED TRANSIT DRIVERS $13.20/hour

The City of Taft is looking for qualified Part– Time Transit Drivers for the dial-a-ride and fixed route services. Must be dependable and able to work varied shifts including split-shifts and weekends.

Minimum Qualifications: - High School diploma or GED. Must possess a State of California Class B Driver’s License with passenger endorsement. A school bus driver’s license or a General Public Paratransit Vehicle (GPPV) operator certificate is highly desirable.

Application Process: - Application and job description may be picked up at City Hall, 209 East Kern Street, Taft, or on our website www.cityoftaft.org. Final Filing Date: 5:00 p.m., Friday, September 2, 2011. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of application. Postmarked

applications will not be accepted. EOE.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Wanted

PROPERTY FOR RENT BUSINESS FOR SALE

WANTED

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

MOTORCYCLES AUTOMOBILES 1996 Mercedes E320.

Engine got hot. Smog tested and passed. $3,000 obo. 747-2575.

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS PETS LIVESTOCK 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

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

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

2 bd/2ba double wide in park. $20,000 599-5037.

HOMES FOR RENT

Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552 Old Appliances, In ANY Condition. Car Batteries & Motorparts.

Cash Paid $1 - $20 Call David 661-293-0359 or 661-765-6497. We will pick up!

August 26 - 1, 2011

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 Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street Karri Christensen LIC# 01522411 & #01333971 661-332-6597 www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase 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. ____________________ 4 Homes in Taft 1 House in Maricopa. $26,000 to $85,000. Serious Inquiries only. $9,500 down. Owner carry. 661-343-0507.

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

623-6718.

MOBILE HOMES

Quiet and private 2 bd.

1 ba. apartment. 407 Lucard Street. Incl.

Washer and dryer, private front fenced yard, $675 mo. plus dep. Credit check, and ref.s.Tenant pays utilities. call 623-4296.

Nice condo apartment.

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 200 1/2 Van Buren 1/1 $500 601 4th 2/1 $650 709 Kern 3/1 $900 340 F St 3/1 + 1/1 $1,200 516 Grant Terrace 4/2 $1,350 FOR SALE Why rent when you can buy for almost half the cost?!

Complete list of homes for Sale and Rent available!

Super clean 1 bed room house with kitchen appliances, plus washer dryer hook ups. Water, garbage, pest control and gardener furnished.

No pets. $800 plus $600 deposit. Call 765-4786 between 7a.m and 7 p.m.

707 Filmore 3 bd/1ba $750 mo. + dep. 707 1/2 1 bd/1ba $450 mo. + dep. 661-343-0507.

Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase 625 A. St. Across from park. 3bd/1 ba, den, fenced yard. $900 mo + $1,300 dep. 979-3113.

3/1 house all new carpet, new paint, beautiful ready to move in now! $790 1/1 duplex $525 includes water. Mark King Murphy King Real Estate (805)684-4101

APART. FOR RENT Newly redecorated 2bd upstairs Apt. Kitchen appliances and washer dryer furnished. All util. paid No. pets. $700 mo. plus $500 deposit. Call 765-4786 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

MCKITTRICK. 3/2 Apt. Newly furn.$650 mo.

Taft Property Mgt. 661 745-4892. Brokers Licence 01417057

(661) 763-1333.

Fitness Assessments At Next Step Are you happy with your fitness goals?

Sign up NOW for an affordable assessment to see where you are and where you want to be!

Obtain you Body Fat %, Body Mass Index, Personal training session and more!

Sign up at front desk 506 Center Street

Gabriel Medina, NFPT Josh Nance, NASM Personal Trainers

nextsteptrainers@live.com

Get It Rented!!

Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.6999823. 420 Finley Dr. Courtyard Terrace Apts. 1 and 2 bdrm’s Pool,lndry rm.,1210 4th St. Apt. 1. Sec. 8 OK.

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

Yates’ Detailing 600 Center Street Taft, California

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

All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

August 26 - 1, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs Air District Declares Air Alert beginning Tuesday First ozone episode spans six days The Valley air basin is in an Air Alert episode from Tuesday, Aug. 23 to Sunday, Aug. 28. This includes the counties of San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and portions of Kern.

This Air Alert episode is being called because the Valley is experiencing conditions, such as increased emissions load, high temperatures and stagnant air flow, that lead to ozone formation. High ozone levels put the Valley at risk for exceeding health-based ozone standards that in turn trigger federal monetary penalties.

There are steps residents and businesses can take to prevent this.

Reducing vehicle use is an important way to reduce these emissions.

Residents can reduce smog-forming emissions by: · Refraining from idling when dropping off/picking up students · Carpooling, vanpooling or alternate transportation · Refraining from using drive-through services · · · · ·

Businesses and municipalities can reduce emissions by: Shifting operations to early morning or late evening (lawn care) Offering flexible work schedules Promoting carpools and vanpools for employees Implementing telecommuting Becoming a Healthy Air Living Partner

For more information about Air Alerts, please visit http://www. valleyair.org/AirAlert/AirAlert_Landing.htm. To sign up for a free subscription to the Air Alert email notification system please visit http:// www.valleyair.org/lists/list.htm. To receive information about becoming a Healthy Air Living Partner, please visit www.healthyairliving.com.

The District will send out mid-morning media updates throughout the Air Alert episode. Please contact the District for Air Alert graphics.

California, August 22- Average retail gasoline prices in California have risen by 0.2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.71/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that decreased by 1.4 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.58/g, according to gasoline price website CaliforniaGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in California during the past week, prices yesterday were 61.5 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 8.2 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has moved lower by 10.4 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 86.7 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Although crude oil ended another volatile week on the upswing, rising from $79 to settle just above $82 per barrel at Friday’s close, overall demand for gasoline is not likely to increase any time soon and we should not be surprised to see crude oil slip to the mid 70s this week as the price at the pump edges lower too,” says Gregg Laskoski, GasBuddy. com Senior Petroleum Analyst.

MORTIMER

Servicios 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

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

Precision Bodyworks & Towing

We take the DENTS out of ACCIDENTS

Phone (661)763-4420

FIREARM TRAINING

CCW Classes & BSIS Classes

FAX (661)763-1389

Ray Mortimer, Instructor 661-747-6965 Pre-register at Ten Percent Firearms 661-765-6899

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

Negocios Hispanos Negocios de venta

Devon’s Body Shop

Gas Price Update

Sponsored by Edward J. Herrera Insurance

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

Cell (661)577-6785

317 Main Street • Taft ANNOUNCEMENTS SERVICES Taft Independent www.taftindependent.com Publisher@taftindependent.com

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

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

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Devon’s Body Shop

Used to be Paul’s

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

209 Harrison Street • Taft (661)765-2505 or (661)763-1887 fax Ask about $500.00 Free Smog Repair Restrictions Apply

$39.75 *

Bike Shop

We Have Moved!

Come see us at 608 Center Street

745-4919

* must present ad at time of service

Edward J. Herrera Insurance Auto - Home - Health - Business - Notary Public

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

Qik Smog & Tune

Precision Bodyworks & Towing

We take the DENTS out of ACCIDENTS

(661)763-4445

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

August 26 - 1, 2011

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

Phone (661)763-4420

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

FAX (661)763-1389

Certified C.A.P. Station General Automotive Repairs

Cell (661)577-6785

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

317 Main Street • Taft

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 Now Carrying Wrangler FR Shaw’s Pet Wash Self Wash 1st Dog at reg.

Work Pants & Shirts August price & 2nd dog at 1/2 price!

99 99 Special Small dog up to 30lbs $14.00 $56. & $65.

t Augusal Speci

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Wrangler Cowboy Cut Jeans 13 MWZ

$29.

99 *

Dogs 30 lbs & over $17.00

Includes: Shampoo, conditioner, brushes, nail clippers, dryers, and an air conditioned room.

Kennels are available for additional dogs

Originally $31.99 *limited to stock on hand

Nails clipped and filed $12

www.shawswesternshop.com

Each additional dog or cat $9

Saturday, August 27th Dog Rabbies Clinic Ford City Park • 8am-12pm

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 Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner - Full Bar - Catering - RV Parking Available Event 24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655

Open 7 Days a Week

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations