360 Houses for Taft

Independent The Taft

January 25 - 31, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

www.Taftindependent.com

January 25 - 31, 2013 • Volume 7 Issue 28

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

City Council Approves Construction of 360 New Homes

Taft Union Hall of Fame Dinner Tickets On Sale Now

TUHS Students Win Weldiong Contest

Used to be Paul’s Bike Shop

The New 2013 bikes are here! Start your Christmas shopping now with our lawaway plan.

745-4919

Hillside Estates: 360 New 1,600 to 2,400 sq. ft. Homes To Be Built North of Hillard Street on both side of Rails To Trails Extention QIK SMOG & TUNE Your Hometown Auto Care Center (661) 763-4445

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

January 25 - 31, 2013

Shop Taft

Ten Percent Firearms

Passion For Nails Nail Services:

HOLIDAY SPECIAL 10% OFF $20 SERVICE OR MORE. OFFER GOOD UNITL 12- 31-12.

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

We can save youFine money on •quality Jewelry Candles jewelry!

• Gifts

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

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair WatchWatch Batteries Batteries Replaced Most $4.00 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Some $8.00

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome CHECK-IN TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AND GET $1 OFF

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

Lic # B-721903

(661)763-5451

The New 2013 bikes are here! Start your Christmas shopping now with our lawaway plan.

Spring Fashions Arriving Now!

20%...30%...50% OFF 423 Center Street • 763-3527

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

A Hint of Class

610 Center Street • 661-745-4954 Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

426 Center Street

Used to be Paul’s Boutique Bike Shop !

E L SA Winter Clearance Going On Now!

661-765-4377 Fast • Friendly • Affordable Se Habla Espanol 661-301-4660 24 Hours/ 7 Days a Week

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

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

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

J e w e l r y

Inside The Historic Fort • 623-1783 • 763-1700 915 N. 10th Street Suite 34

New years sale!

608 Center St.

745-4919

Ten Percent Firearms

FREE phone with new activation.

Androids as low as $79.00

Gifts for Valentines or Any Occasion

Jackson’s Automotive

Blue Jeans & Bling Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA

FREE

Tire Rotation & Brake Check Plus We will check all fluids & tire pressure

Women’s Sizes 0-21 Women’s Plus Sizes Children’s Jeans & Shirts Monday - Friday 11am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 5pm Host a party 401 Center Street Visit us on Facebook sales@bluejeansandbling.com

763-9100

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

*Most Cars & Light Trucks Up to 5 Qts.

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

39

Plus Tax

$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee Exp. January 30, 2013

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

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

Smog Test and General Repairs Front End Repairs Transmission Service Brake Service Tune Ups and Fuel Injection Service and Repairs Call Today for an Appointment 763-1055 Corner of 3rd and Center Street 110 3rd Street - Taft, CA. (661) 763-1055

January 25 - 31, 2013

Inside

Calendar

Taft California “Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

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

Westside News.................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Movie Review...................8 Classified Ads.................10 Opinion and Feature....11 Shop Taft........................12

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

Email: Publisher@taftindependent.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.

We welcome contributions and suggestions.

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

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.

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: Publisher@taftindependent.com.

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com

Local Motorcycle Enthusiasts Putting on Ride/Event in Wake of TUHS Tragedy

Similar classes in Bakersfield cost between $100 and $150. All participants receive the book, The Official SAT Study Guide: For the New SAT. Students may use the book, valued at $21.99, to continue to prepare for the test after the course ends. Snacks will be provided during all sessions.

By Trent Unruh Local riders from Taft want to invite all of Kern County’s motorcycle community to participate in a ride that will show support for the victims affected by incident at the high school and to honor the heroes that saved many lives that day. The goal of the ride is to promote awareness of the situation in hopes that an incident like this will not happen again.

The ride will be on Saturday, January 26th, 2013.

Cost is $20 per bike, $5 per passenger. The funds collected will be allocated towards the heroes and families involved via donations, scholarships, and charities.

After the run, the ride committee will meet with those involved with the tragedy and as a group will decide where best to disperse the money. This event is COMPLETELY non-profit to those putting it on.

Signups: 8:00am to 10:00 am at: Chilled and Grilled, 621 Center Street Taft, CA. Kick Stands Up: 10:05 a.m.

Route:

1) Taft Union High School – Prayer and Send Off – (15 min) 2) KMC – Kern Medical Center – Deliver Care Package to the Cleveland family. (15-30 min) 3) Ethels – (45min – 1hr) 4) Trouts – (45min – 1hr) 5) BV Inn – (15-30 min) 6) Chilled and Grilled – (50/50 Drawing) Total: 100 Miles

In order to increase the amount donated to help those affected by the tragedy, food and drinks will be the responsibility of the rider and/or passenger. Chilled and Grilled, Ethels, Trouts, and BV Inn sell food.

Grandma’s Attic Resumes at Taft Libraray Grandma’s Attic Storytime resumes at the Taft Branch Library on Saturday, January 19, 2013 and will continue every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. through April 20.

Aimed at 5 to 8 year-olds, Grandma’s Attic offers an old trunk full of surprises and stories presented by a different volunteer reader each week.

Children who participate will receive a form to return to their teacher for credit in their school reading program. Parents are always welcome to attend, or may enjoy some library or computer time while their child is occupied.

Also starting on Thursday, January 17 at 11:45 a.m. is Preschool Storytime, for 3 to 5 year-olds. Join us for stories and fun for the younger set.

For more information, call 763-3294 or visit the library at 27 Emmons Park Drive.

Contributing Writers Kent Miller, Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost Columnists Randy Miller Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

TUHS Offers SAT Prep Taft Union High School is offering a free, 20-hour class to students who want to prepare for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Many colleges require that applicants take the SAT as part of the admissions process.

Advertising

Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick Harget

News Briefs

Have a community event that you would like to include?

Email us at Publisher@Taftindependent.com

News Briefs......................3 Recreation Report..........4

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Also, several scholarships awarded through the TUHS local scholarship program give special consideration to students who have above-average SAT scores. More than $200,000 in scholarships was awarded to seniors at the annual Honors Night last May. Instructors are: counselor Claude Bradford, English teacher Jim Carnal and math teacher Josh Tofte.

Classes begin Monday, Jan. 28, and end on Monday, March 4. Classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 28; 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12; Wednesday, Feb. 27; and, Monday, March 4; and from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays, Feb. 2 and March 2.

All classes will meet in room 136 in the main building.

The SAT test will be given at Taft High on Saturday, March 9.

For more information or to register your Taft High student, call the Guidance Center at 763-2324.

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS 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 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

Thank You From Taft Union High School We wish to extend a sincere heartfelt thank you to all of the support that we have received over the last several days. Your kindness, generosity, and willingness to be helpful in anyway will not be forgotten. We are extremely proud to be in a community that is so charitable, thoughtful and supportive.

We apologize in advance for any names that may have been omitted.

Taft Union High School District Community College Counseling National Assoc School Psychologist (NASP) Dr. Norman Wright – Counseling Services New Vision Recovery Center – Scott Huhn

Taft City School District Taft Community College All Law Enforcement Agencies Taft City Police Department Chief of Police - Ed Whiting Kern County Sheriff Department Sheriff - Don Youngblood California Highway Patrol F.B.I. and F.B.I.- Victim Unit Albertsons Dominos Pizza-Bob & Tina Leikam Hall Ambulance Kern County Fire Department Kern High School District

Taft Community Resource Department -Sandy Koening Little Caesars Pizza Mercy Southwest/Dignity Healthcare Optimal Hospice – Sherry Davis /Frank and their fellow dog handlers of Tiger Woods and Stoney Pizza Factory Project Linus (blankets) Red Cross Salvation Army Starbucks Subway

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

Westside Watcher

The Taft

Independent

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

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

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

Black Gold Cafe & Deli Pastas - Sandwiches Espresso - Beer - Wine Craft Beers Open Monday to Friday 6:30am to 8pm Saturday 7:30am to 8pm Sunday 10am to 2pm 508 Center Street 765-6556

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, January 25, 2013 through Thursday, January 31, 2013

Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (R) No Passes Allowed Fri & Sat: (5:15), 7:15 Sun: (3:15), (5:15), 7:15 Mon - Thu: 7:15 PM Mama (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri & Sat: (5:30), 7:45 Sun: (3:30), (5:30), 7:45 Mon - Thu: 7:15 PM Life of Pi (PG) Fri & Sat: (5:00), 7:30 Sun - Thu: 7:00 PM

93268

Finally, Taft Gets Approval for Much Needed Housing

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside Tumbleweed Café Asian Experience and Steakhouse Asian Food and Pizza

January 25 - 31, 2013

Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. 2013 State of the State Address

by Edmund G. Brown Jr. The message this year is clear: California has once again confounded our critics. We have wrought in just two years a solid and enduring budget. And, by God, we will persevere and keep it that way for years to come.

Against those who take pleasure, singing of our demise, California did the impossible.

You, the California legislature, did it. You cast difficult votes to cut billions from the state budget. You curbed prison spending through an historic realignment and you reformed and reduced the state’s long term pension liabilities.

Then, the citizens of California, using their inherent political power under the Constitution, finished the task. They embraced the new taxes of Proposition 30 by a healthy margin of 55% to 44%.

Members of the legislature, I salute you for your courage, for wholeheartedly throwing yourself into the cause.

I salute the unions—their members and their leaders. You showed what ordinary people can do when they are united and organized.

I salute those leaders of California business and the individual citizens who proudly stood with us.

I salute the teachers and the students, the parents and the college presidents, the whole school community. As the great jurist, Oliver Wendell Holmes, once said when describing what stirs people to action: “Feeling begets feeling and great feeling begets great feeling.” You were alarmed, you stirred yourselves to action and victory was the outcome.

That was 2012 and what a year!

In fact, both 2011 and 2012 were remarkable.

You did great things: Your 1/3 renewable energy mandate; the reform of workers compensation; the reorganization of state government; protecting our forests and strengthening our timber industry; reforming our welfare system; and launching the nation’s first high speed rail system.

But, of course, governing never ends. We have promises to keep. And the most important is the one we made to the voters if Proposition 30 passed: that we would guard jealously the money temporarily made available.

This means living within our means and not spending what we don’t have. Fiscal discipline is not the enemy of our good intentions but the basis for realizing them. It is cruel to lead people on by expanding good programs, only to cut them back when the funding disappears. That is not progress; it is not even progressive.

It is illusion. That stop and go, boom and bust, serves no one. We are not going back there.

The budget is balanced but great risks and uncertainties lie ahead. The federal government, the courts or changes in the economy all could cost us billions and drive a hole in the budget. The ultimate costs of expanding our health care system under the Affordable Care Act are unknown. Ignoring such known unknowns would be folly, just as it would be to not pay down our wall of debt. That is how we plunged into a decade of deficits.

Recall the story of Genesis and Pharaoh’s dream of seven cows, fatfleshed and well favored, which came out of the river, followed by seven other cows leanfleshed and ill favored. Then the lean cows ate up the fat cows. The Pharaoh could not interpret his dream until Joseph explained to him that the seven fat cows were seven years of great plenty and the seven lean cows were seven years of famine that would immediately follow. The Pharaoh took the advice of Joseph and stored up great quantities of grain during the years of plenty. When famine came, Egypt was ready.

Continued on Page 11

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

On Wednesday night, the Taft City Council gave final approval for the construction of more than 360 homes along Hillard Street.

It was a good day for Taft and a very good reason to celebrate.

Taft has suffered for many years from a severe housing shortage.

For whatever reason - lack of planning, availability of land to build on, and a downturn in the economy - housing was not a priority of past city councils, forcing thousands who work on the westside to live in Bakersfield.

Our present city council, however, has made a concerted effort to support new housing development, realizing that without housing, new retail businesses, a revival of the local economy, and a financially sound city government will not occur unless new housing is made available for the thousands of people who work in Taft, but live in Bakersfield.

Occidental petroleum and the developer still have to work out an agreement on the mineral rights owned by Occidental before the project moves ahead, but the city and developer seem confident that agreement will be reached in the next 30 days.

If you have ever wondered why there are so few shopping opportunities in town, and why you need to go out of town to do major shopping, housing is the key reason.

Retail business operators don’t locate in Taft because there are not enough people to support retail shopping. Counting the number of people who live in a community is the magic formula that developers use when deciding where to locate. This is unfortunate, especially for our sales tax base, which provides funding for street and alley paving, public safety and other critical city services.

How many people work at Taft High School, Taft College and our local police department who live in Bakersfield today? By our own estimate, more than half, and this is because there has not been a supply of quality housing . Lack of housing also makes it difficult for business and our educational institutions to recruit employees.

Mayor Paul Linder has said that it can cost as much as $500 per month in gas and maintenance for a person to drive to work from Bakersfield everyday - as much as half a mortgage or rental payment.

As many as 10,000 vehicles per day - 15,000 people (according to the housing developers) - drive from Bakersfield to work every weekday. This effects people in different ways - less family time at home, higher transportation costs, a loss of community involvement from local employees, and the loss of important revenue to support the local economy and infrastructure.

Housing is critical to our future prosperity. The council should be applauded for their work on this issue, and encouraged to continue to focus on other important issues that will benefit the local economy and our quality of life.

Paik’s

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

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Find Us On Facebook

January 25 - 31, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

TUHS Ag Welding Program Contest Winners

Dylan Barnett, Cody Wise and Lucas Heerdink are flanked by Kory Horton of Barnes Welding Supply and Willie Stubblefield of Hobart.

Jeremy Wilmer

Kyle Daniels

Agriculture welding students at Taft Union High School took a different kind of final than most of their peers. Their fall semester final for their welding class was a welding contest. Students in each class competed against their classmates in the annual fall welding contest held during finals week. Intermediate and advanced students were required to complete seven welds in various positions using several types of welding rods in 45 minutes. Beginning welding students completed a bead pad. Representatives from Barnes Welding, Hobart, and Melos Gas & Gear were on hand to judge the competitions and hand out awards.

This year’s winners, announced by welding teacher Adam Bullard, were: Period 2 intermediate/advanced welding: Jacob Winfrey, first; Ivan Barajas, second; Hunter Perry, third.

Period 4 intermediate/advanced welding: Gabby Hernandez, first; Cody Wise, second; Dylan Barnett, third; Lucas Heerdink, fourth.

Period 3 beginning welding: Kyle Daniels, first.

Period 6 beginning welding: Jeremy Wilmer, first.

Period 7 beginning welding: Eduardo Llamas, first.

Photos by Adam Bullard

Eduardo Llamas

Jacob Winfrey, Ivan Barajas and Hunter Perry are flanked by Matt Johnston and Joel Wolter of Melos Gas & Gear.

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

January 25 - 31, 2013

Taft City Council Approves 360 Home Development on Hillard Street Occidental, Developer Must Still Reach Agreement on Mineral Rights

By Kent Miller Taft has moved closer to the launch of a project that could result in the building of more than 360 singlefamily homes on 127 acres in the western part of the city.

But there is one major hurdle left.

At its regular meeting on January 15, the Taft City More than 360 homes will be built on a 127 acre Council went on site adjacent to Hillard Street and A Street Park. record 5-to-0 to support plans for the Hillside Estates residential subdivisions project.

But the council delayed its decision until a special session Wednesday evening on adopting a Final Mitigated Negative Declaration and a Mitigation Reporting and Monitoring Program for Hillside Estates.

The delay was to allow Occidental of Elk Hills Inc., the mineral rights owner; and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to have input on the project.

The DF&W submitted its guidelines for the project, with no objections from the developer, and on Wednesday the council adopted the negative declaration and the monitoring program, as well as conditionally approving tentative tract maps for 126-homesite Sandy Creek Estates and 271-home-site Hillside Terrace Estates.

Oxy not ready yet But representatives of Oxy said the company isn’t ready yet to sign off on the project. The company wants to have further talks with all parties, said Susie Geiger, a spokesperson for Oxy. “We want more time to work out an agreement,” Geiger said. “(Oxy wants) all issues concerning mineral rights on the project site ... (to) be resolved prior to approval of the final maps to the satisfaction of the mineral (rights) holder.”

Representatives of the developer stated at the Jan. 15 meeting that if Oxy demands the placement of drill sites within the tract, they will abandon the project.

OT

Cookhouse & Saloon Happy New Year!!!

OT Cookhouse has launched a NEW Lunch Menu. Come in and check out our delicious creations!!!

Lunch Hours: Tues-Fri 11:00am - 2:00pm OT Cookhouse also features an Outstanding Seafood Menu!!!

Come in and join us for some Charbroiled Oysters Teriyaki Salmon Alaska Cod

Availability of items varies week to week.

Please call us or check with your server.

The developers stated that they have been working with the project for nearly a year and investors might turn to other projects elsewhere if they are not given a go-ahead soon.

“We’re still talking to all the parties,” said Russ Ledbetter, land manager for Oxy. “We want to make sure access to minerals is preserved.”

With the items approval by the council, Oxy has 35 days to file a challenge, said City Attorney David A. Prentice. In addition, Oxy could reach an agreement with the developers for an extended discussion period, Prentice said.

Abandoned wells There are eight abandoned well sites on the property, with the most recent drilled in 1968 and the oldest dating back about 100 years.

Ledbetter declined to state any specific purpose Oxy has for the property and some people in the area consider the site to have little crude oil production potential.

But at least one person knowledgeable of oilfield operations said there is a possibility that Oxy wants to use the abandoned wells to get rid of production waste water.

Open space The proposed tract site is east of Hillard Street, south of the Lassen Street alignment, north of Mallory Court and west of the Kristin Street alignment.

There will be phased construction of the homes in the two tracts, with nearly nine of the 32.4 acres in Sandy Creek Estates and nearly 16 of the 87.4 acres in Hillside Terrace Estates deeded to the city and maintained as open space.

A 6.4-acre portion of the city’s Rails to Trails bikeway and pedestrian trail runs through the site.

The site is zoned R-1 (single-family residential).

Fuller Respond to Governor Brown’s State of the State Address SACRAMENTO – Senator Jean Fuller (R-Bakersfield) released the following statement regarding Governor Brown’s State of the State Address: “Governor Brown was given a reprieve by California voters last Fall and a rare opportunity to work across the aisle to find meaningful and long-term solutions to the state’s most challenging problems. While I am encouraged that the Governor highlighted the critical needs of water infrastructure, education, job creation and CEQA reform, we should be watchful for any real progress and improvements. And in the other areas of the Governor’s Address, from implementing a new federal health care law to climate change to high-speed rail, it’s important to note that over-spending on these projects will not result in any immediate economic benefit.”

Editors note: The State of the State address has been reprinted in this issue of the Independent beginning on Page 4, in the Westside Watcher column.

HOOKER’S AUTOMOTIVE Complete Automotive Service

By Trent Unruh Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 2nd, for “Taft Community Night” with the Bakersfield Condors. The ECHL hockey team will be facing the Colorado Eagles in three periods of intense, semi-pro hockey action.

This game, in particular, is going to be very special for the city of Taft. The Condors organization will be donating money from certain tickets sold at the game to assist with student wellness and activities for the Taft Union High School Associated Student Body (ASB), which is led by TUHS Science teacher Eric Newton.

The tickets that assist the TUHS ASB are: $15 for Executive (Lower level ticket; $4 goes to support the TUHS ASB) $10 for Terrace (Upper level ticket; $2 goes to support the TUHS ASB) The night will also be focused on honoring Ryan Heber, Kim Fields and Mary Miller with the “Spirit of Condorstown” award for their courage displayed during tragedy at TUHS on January 10th.

It is also free cowboy hat night in tan or black to the first 2000 fans 5 & older, so get there early.

Come on out and enjoy some Condor hockey with your town, a while you are there, show your support for this community and for the TUHS ASB by wearing some blue and gold.

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!

Stop By For Some Great Company and Good Books!

Dinner Hours: Tues-Sat 4:00-9:00pm Closed: Sunday and Monday www.otcookhouse.com find us on facebook 205 N. 10th Street 661.763.1819

Taft Community Night with Condors Hockey

218 HARRISON STREET (661) 765-2437

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

January 25 - 31, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Tickets for Taft Union High School Hall of Fame Dinner on Sale Now Tickets for the April 27, 2013 Taft Union High School Hall of Fame Dinner are now available.

The tickets can be purchased from one of two source: Sheri Gregory, TUHS, One Wildcat Way, Taft, CA 93268 or at the Taft Chamber of Commerce, 400 Kern St, Taft, CA 93268 Prices are $40/ticket; Table of Eight $320. Make checks payable to Taft Union High School District (memo: Hall of Fame Banquet).

We will be inducting eight Taft High graduates into the Hall of Fame: DR. BEN DYKES, CLASS OF 1940; TRACY ROGERS, CLASS OF 1985; BILL BLACK, CLASS OF 1943; DICK WALSH, CLASS OF 1956; LEE ROY KELLEY, CLASS OF 1960; JOHN T. HOWE, CLASS OF 1953; MILT STARK, CLASS OF 1950; LARRY PEAHL, CLASS OF 1953.

Doors to Main Hall will be open from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. for persons who want to view the Hall of Fame Plaques and visit the generational display cases which feature memorabilia from ten decades of the high school’s history.

The banquet will be held in Mullen Gym. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. The banquet will begin at 6:00 p.m. The campus is a smoke free and alcohol free environment.

To ensure that you are seated with family/friends, purchase a Table of Eight at $320 per table. Single tickets are priced at $40/ticket. Make checks out to TUHS – Hall

TUHS Hall of Famers: (Top Row) Lee Roy, Class of ‘60, Milt Stark, Class of ‘50, Bill Black, Class of ‘43, Dick Walsh, Class of ‘56, (Bottom Row) Larry Peahl, Class of ‘53, Ben Dykes, Class of ‘40, John T. Howe, Class of ‘53, Tracy Rogers, Class of ‘85.

of Fame (Memo: Hall of Fame Tickets).

Tickets are sold on a first come-first serve basis and each ticket is tagged to a specific table and seat.

Last year we filled Mullen Gym and expect to do so

again this year. Invite your friends to make this a social occasion during which you can both honor our inductees and at the same time “catch up” with long time acquaintances and classmates. Bring your family!

TUHS Girl’s Tennis Receive Tennis Rings Girl’s Tennis Receive Tewnnis RingsLupita Lozano, Roxi Barboza,Yeraldin Barrera, Gloria Hartley, Taylan Erro, Diana Medina, Ana Estrada and JC Yarbrough receive Valley championship rings in the Athletic Director’s office Thursday. Not pictured: Melissa Gore.

This girls’ tennis team was the first to win league (14-0) and Division IV of the Central Section.

Qik Smog Received Star Certification

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

John Walker, owner of Qik Smog and Tune has been designated a Star Certified Smog Check location. Star certifica-

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

We can save you Fine money on quality Jewelry • Candlesjewelry!

• Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Hand Made Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Greeting Cards

by Donna Watch Batteries CENTERHeart STREET • 661.763.5451 What’s in426your for Valentines Day

New Arrival of different Clocks.

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

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com or find us on facebook or www. taftindependent.com

tion is required for some vehicles by the State of California, which is indicated on the vehicle registration renewal form.

Qik Smog is located at 500 S. 10th Street.

HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

New School Hours Mon. & Tues.

9am - 2pm Closed Wednesday Thur. & Fri. 9am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 2pm Closed Every 2nd Sat. of the Month

Shirts .25 each Pants .50 each All pictures 1/2 Off

God Bless!

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

8

Liberty Under Fire Sorry Mr. President, Not in Utah Either

By Dr. Harold Pease

Finally, an organization is protecting the Constitution and it is not the House of Representatives, U. S. Senate, U.S. President, the U. S. Supreme Court, or the States, as should be the case. It is the least likely of all those who swear by oath, upon condition of taking office, to preserve it—the Sheriffs’ Departments in county after county and growing. Sheriff Tim Mueller of Linn County, Oregon was the first with his January 14th directive to all sheriffs in his county that they would not be enforcing any law that violated the 2nd Amendment. Two days latter the New Mexico Sheriffs Association, with 30 of their 33 county sheriffs, next stood with “we also will protect the Second Amendment from the federal governments recent assault on it.” Then, the next day, 28 of 29 counties in Utah under the signature of the Utah Sheriffs’ Association informed the President that they will protect the 2nd Amendment for their people even with their lives—even from the federal government. In California 13 county sheriffs have made similar pledges.

The straw that broke the camels back for the county sheriffs was President Barack Obama’s signing some 23 executive orders on January 16, further restricting the rights of gun owners. The Utah backlash followed the next day. Sheriffs are the only elected law enforcment body in the United States and they understand that Congress has sole authority to make law, that law must originate with and be approved by both the House and Senate, and that the only power that belongs to the President is suggestion, through his state of the union address, and his veto, which can be overridden.

The Utah sheriffs reminded the President that, “It is imperative this discussion be had in Congress, not silenced unilaterally by executive orders” and advised that he remember, “that the Founders of this great nation created the Constitution, and its accompanying Bill of Right, in an effort to protect citizens from all forms of tyrannical subjugation.”

Some 535 individuals make all the law on the federal level not just a single person as was the case with kings and is the case with dictators today. All executive orders that have the effect of making law are unconstitutional; the President has no authority to make law. Doing so reduces the relevancy of the Congress and is a form of tyranny. Moreover, it is well to remember that a law cannot undo an amendment to the Constitution—only another amendment and that requires the support of 3/4ths of the states, so Congress is restricted also.

The Utah Sheriffs letter said in part, “With the number of mass shootings America has endured, it is easy to demonize firearms; it is also foolish and prejudiced. Firearms are nothing more than instruments, valuable and potentially dangerous, but instruments nonetheless. Malevolent souls, like the criminals who commit

TAFT INDEPENDENT

mass murders, will always exploit valuable instruments in the pursuit of evil. As professional peace officers, if we understand nothing else, we understand this: lawful violence must sometimes be employed to deter and stop criminal violence. Consequently, the citizenry must continue its ability to keep and bear arms, including arms that adequately protect them from all types of illegality.” This inference also includes the government.

The letter ended aimed directly at the President. “We respect the Office of the President of the United States of America. But, make no mistake, as the duly-elected sheriffs of our respective counties, we will enforce the rights guaranteed to our citizens by the Constitution. No federal official will be permitted to descend upon our constituents and take from them what the Bill of Rights—in particular Amendment II—has given them. We, like you, swore a solemn oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, and we are prepared to trade our lives for the preservation of its traditional interpretation.”

Finally, we have a body that understands the Constitution, honors its oath, and is prepared to defend it—even against the federal government. Look for other counties all over the United States to follow. Is your sheriff, who took the same oath, willing to defend you? Why not ask him? Send him a copy of this letter. In light of the National Defense Authorization Act signed into law by the President December 31, 2011, which authorizes the arrest of U. S. citizens on U.S. soil by the military and their shipment to Guantanamo Bay, where they can be held indefinitely without trial, you might wish to have the support of your county sheriff.

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.

Trinity Southern Baptist Church 400 Finley Drive 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

January 25 - 31, 2013

Obituary

DAVID RYERSON February 17, 1953 – January 17, 2013 After a long battle with sickness, David joined his granddaughter, Mackenzie Ryerson and his Mom and Dad Ryerson in heaven.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 35 years, Loretta; two sons and their wives, Jason and Tisha Ryerson and Tommy and Julie Ryerson; his three grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren. Also surviving him is his fatherin-law, Tommy Little and mother-in-law, Kathy Little; sister-inlaw, Bonnie Green; brother-in-law, Lanny Little; his sisters and their spouses, Phyllis Clark, Ellen Criswell, Dorie Winterslaw and Laurie Francis; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A graveside funeral service will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday, January 31, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To sign and online registry please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.

TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors” 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

January 25 - 31, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

Cafe & Deli The Only Mortuary On The West Side Where All Arrangements And Funerals Are Personally Directed By

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

Wine Tasting and Lunch Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 5:00 pm. www.sagebrushannies.com

Now Celebrating Our 23rd Year

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

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

Check Out Our Website Maricopaquiltcompany.com And Facebook Page 370 CALIFORNIA • 769-8580

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich Miller • Jordan Miller Kathy Devine • Shelly Hamilton

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!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

Ice Blended Mocha Fat Free and Sugar Free Available in Most Flavors

Open 7 Days - 765-6556 508 Center Street • Taft TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors” 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

St. Mary’s Church 110 E Woodrow Street • Taft 661 765-4292

501 Lucard St., Taft • 765-4111 FD756 FDR50 FDR595 FDR618

Gateway Temple

Community Christian Fellowship

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 For a ride: Call Dorine Horn 427-9722 Pastors Charle (Tommy) and Mary A. McWhorter

New Hope Temple “Connecting Lives” 308 Harrison Street 765-4572 Sunday Morning Worship Service 10 a.m.

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

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

Trinity Southern Baptist Church

Mass Schedule Tuesday-Friday 8:00 A.M. Sunday 8:30A.M. English 11:00A.M. Spanish

400 Finley Drive 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

First Baptist Church Pastor Scott Pearson

Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship Celebration 10:30 a.m.

Evening Service 6 p.m.

Awana Childrens Program Wednesday 6 p.m.

220 North Street - Taft 661 763-3138

Advertise In The Taft Independent

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Licensed Funeral Directors

Call Today!

765-6550

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS 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 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

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 7635135

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 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Classifieds

Classified Adsare are$3.00 $2.00per perissue line. for Phone, fax, maillines, or drop off Classified Ads up to three $5 per issue ad for to upthe to Taft 5 lines, and $7 per issue for up to 10 lines. Yard your 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 $5.

Boxed ads are $5 additional. E-mail us (or bring to our Boxed\outlined\bolded classified ads start at $12.00 for 8 office) a for photo of your home, car, truck motorcycle and lines, $16 12 lines, $20 for 15 lines, $25 for 20orlines. we’ll do the rest.

Photo Ads. Car, truck or house for sale ads are $5 per week, Yard Sale ads are $2 for 3 lines, lines $2 each. or $10 with a photo.

Email us (oradditional bring to our office) a 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 Phone: 765-6550

For Rent

426 Shattuck

2 bed 1 bath Cottage $550 Paul Joyce 805-218-1686 Joyce Properties 661-765-6300

Preserving for the Future

Be Seen!

E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Payment can made by cash, check, or card. credit card.

Payment can bebe made by cash, check, or credit Taft Independent 6thCenter St., Taft,St., CA Taft, 93268.

Taft Independent210 508 CA 93268 YARD SALES

306 Easter St. In the house. Fri. and Sat.

ANNOUNCEMENTS New AA meeting just started in Taft at the Chevron Valley Credit Union Community Room. 7:30 am every Saturday morning. We read a topic from As Bill Sees It. 9-19.

Grief Support Group, offered as a community service by Optimal Hospice Care. Meetings held Thursdays 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. At Chevron Valley Credit Union, Community Room, 1092 W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. Free and open to the public.

Info call 716-4000. 3-27.

Alzheimer’s Disease Association Of Kern County is offering Respite Care here in Taft. Call-Cathy Perkins at 760-379-0848 for RESPITE CARE info.

Respite Care is available every Thursday At the First Baptist Church located at 220 North St. from 9:00am—3:00pm.

YARD SERVICES HELP WANTED Cosmetologist Station Available in well established salon. In business 34 years.

Come by 423 Center St.

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Secretary/ Accounting Technician II

WANTED

Taft City School District is accepting applications for a Financial Secretary/Accounting Technician II to work under the direction of the Chief Business Official for 8 hours per day/12 months per year with a salary range of $19.47 to $21.47 in six steps. The benefit package provided includes medical, dental, vision and life insurance. Employment process includes written exam, application screening, interview, DOJ fingerprint clearance, and physical exam with drug screen.

Application and Job Description may be picked up at the District Office, 820 Sixth Street, and must be returned by Monday, February 4 at 4:00 p.m. EOE Now accepting applications for mechanics and mechanics helpers.

Apply at 27908 Tank Farm Rd.

NOW HIRING MACHINIST.

Candidates will be required to successfully complete a preemployment physical and drug screen.

Established Since 1983 B License 442018

Junk Cars Wanted.

Cash Paid. 805-0552.

FOR SALE

AUTOMOBILES PETS

LAND FOR SALE

2bd 1 ba. New carpet and paint. $675 mo plus ROOMS FOR RENT $500 dep. No pets. Call Jeff 661 348-6788 or Rooms for rent.

Maricopa. Private home, Betty 805 550-0565.

1-28. furn. or unfurn. Call for info. 745-4211. 2-26 Derby Acres. 2bd. 1 ba.

HOMES FOR SALE 1/2 acre w/horse corrals.

Real Estate eBroker Inc. $700 mo plus dep. 661 805-2245. 2-1.

By Appointment Karri Christensen House for rent. 2bd. 1 LIC# 01522411 & ba. 661-747-6968. #01333971 661-332-6597 3bd. 1 ba. 310 Kern St. www.BuyTaft.com $800 plus dep. 661-765Real Estate Sales & 5000.

Purchase Can’t make payments call me!! I can help direct you 429 Rose. 2/1 with to a loan modification or Garage and laundry. $730. mo plus dep. 661 assist you in your short 765-5000. sale!

Wondering how buying a house works? Set an House for rent. 2bd, 1 appointment with Karri ba. Very nice. $800 mo. to watch a FREE video plus dep. 203 Lucard.

765-4644 or 363-3005. on the process.

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list.

FOUND PETS LOST PETS $500 Reward. Lost Mini Aussie. Black\grey\white w/tan spot on face. Blue eyes, female. Rexxie.

REWARD. 661-7655862.

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

LAND FOR RENT

2-7.

Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC Taft Heights. $29,500. & Appl. 661.765-7674.

2/1. FSBO. Fixer. Half 420 Finley Dr. way done. Owner will carry. Down payment req.

(805) 852-1291. or paso grands@reagan.com 1-18

Air Conditioning & Heating

Plumbing • Septic • 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

Classified Ads in the Taft

Real Estate Services and Property Management Listings – Sales - Property Management Local Service You Can Depend On

Independent

322 Kern Street Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-5000

$2 per line

Real Estate eBroker Inc.

By Appointment

Box your ad for $5 more

APART. FOR RENT 1bd. 1ba. Upstairs. $475 Mo. plus $475 dep. 155 1/2 North Street. (661) 477-9636. 1-30

Ken Shugarts

Business Services Rite Away Carpet Cleaning Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General Cleaning Owner Operated Visa\Master Card 765-4191

Fax:765-6556 765-6556 Fax:

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.

Center Street Apartments.

1 bed room 1 bath. $99 move in special based on approved credit. No Pets Allowed. Call (805) 375-1458 or (661) 765-7678.

January 25 - 31, 2013

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

call 765-6550

765-4191 or 549-1068

MOBILE HOMES HOMES FOR RENT

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500 Lic # 01525550 For Rent 400 Woodrow St 1 & 2 Bed units available $625/$725 435 B St 2/1 $700 205 W Ash #B 2/1.5 $700 203 W Ash #A 2/1.5 $700 605 4th St 2/1.75 $750 122 Franklin 3/1 $825 514 Grant Terrace 2/1 $900 709 Kern St 3/1 $900 306 Taylor 4/1.75 $900 426 D St 3/1 $1,000 114 Franklin 3/1 $1,000 103 Pierce 3/1.75 $1,000 211 E. Lucard 3/2.75 $1,200 2 houses for rent. 2 and 3 bd. laundryroom.

English 661-321-9636.

Espanol 661 577-7041.

FLEET MECHANIC Local industry leader has an immediate opening for an experienced fleet mechanic.

Qualified candidates must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in fleet services.

Candidate must have own tools and be experienced in routine maintenance and DOT inspections for heavy duty trucks and trailers.

They must demonstrate the ability to trouble shoot, understand process flows, communicate effectively with team members and be willing to work in the shop and the field. Must be able to be on call and travel when needed.

Applicants must possess a valid California driver’s license and be able to pass a pre-employment DOT drug screen and random drug screening and DOT physical.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package including medical, dental, vision and 401K. Please send resume & salary history to: Fax: (661) 763-2555 or Email: Djones@inergyservices.com

Writers Wanted At the Taft Independent Experience Required.

Please call 765-6550.

Visit Us Online at www.taftindependent.com

Governor Brown, Continued from Page 4

The people have given us seven years of extra taxes. Let us follow the wisdom of Joseph, pay down our debts and store up reserves against the leaner times that will surely come.

In the midst of the Great Depression, Franklin Roosevelt said: “There is a mysterious cycle in human events. To some generations much is given. Of other generations much is expected. This generation has a rendezvous with destiny.”

We --right here in California-- have such a rendezvous with destiny. All around us we see doubt and skepticism about our future and that of America’s. But what we have accomplished together these last two years, indeed, the whole history of California, belies such pessimism.

Remember how California began.

In 1769, under King Charles III, orders were issued to Jose de Galvez, the Visitor General of Baja California, to: “Occupy and fortify San Diego and Monterey for God and the King of Spain.´ Gaspar Portola and a small band of brave men made their way slowly north, along an uncharted path. Eventually, they reached Monterey but they could not recognize the Bay in the dense fog.

With their supplies failing, they marched back to San Diego, forced to eat the flesh of emaciated pack mules just to stay alive.

Undaunted, Portola sent for provisions from Baja California and promptly organized a second expedition. He retraced his steps northward, along what was to become El Camino Real, the Kings Highway. This time, Father Serra joined the expedition by sea. The rest is history, a spectacular history of bold pioneers meeting every failure with even greater success.

The founding of the Missions, secularized and sold off in little more than 50 years, the displacement and devastation of the native people, the discovery of Gold, the coming of the Forty-Niners and adventurers from every continent, first by the thousands and then by the hundreds of thousands. Then during the Civil War under President Lincoln came the Transcontinental Railroad and Land Grant Colleges, followed by the founding of the University of California. And oil production, movies, an aircraft industry, the longest suspension bridge in the world, aerospace, the first freeways, grand water projects, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Venture Capital, Silicon Valley, Hewlett Packard, Apple, Qualcomm, Google and countless others, existing and still just imagined.

What is this but the most diverse, creative and longest standing mass migration in the history of the world. That is California. And we are her sons and daughters.

This special destiny never ends. It slows. It falters. It goes off track in ignorance and prejudice but soon resumes again—more vibrant and more stunning in its boldness.

The rest of the country looks to California. Not for what is conventional, but for what is necessary—necessary to keep faith with our courageous forebears.

What we have done together and what we must do in the coming years is big, but it pales in comparison to the indomitable courage of those who discovered and each decade thereafter built a more abundant California.

As Legislators, It is your duty and privilege to pass laws. But what we need to do for our future will require more than producing hundreds of new laws each year. Montaigne, the great French writer of the 16th Century, in his Essay on Experience, wisely wrote: “There is little relation between our actions, which are in perpetual mutation, and fixed and immutable laws. The most desirable laws are those that are the rarest, simplest, and most general; and I even think that it would be better to have none at all than to have them in such numbers as we have.”

Constantly expanding the coercive power of government by adding each year so many minute prescriptions to our already detailed and turgid legal system overshadows other aspects of public service. Individual creativity and direct leadership must also play a part. We do this, not by commanding thou shalt or thou shalt not through a new law but by tapping into the persuasive power that can inspire and organize people. Lay the Ten Commandments next to the California Education code and you will see how far we have diverged in approach and in content from that which forms the basis of our legal system.

Education In the right order of things, education—the early fashioning of character and the formation of conscience—comes before legislation. Nothing is more determinative of our future than how we teach our children. If we fail at this, we will sow growing social chaos and inequality that no law can rectify.

In California’s public schools, there are six million students, 300,000 teachers—all subject to tens of thousands of laws and regulations. In addition to the teacher in the classroom, we have a principal in every school, a superintendent and governing board for each school district. Then we have the State Superintendent and the State Board of Education, which makes rules and approves endless waivers—often of laws which you just passed. Then there is the Congress which passes laws like “No Child Left Behind,” and finally the Federal Department of Education, whose rules, audits

and fines reach into every classroom in America, where sixty million children study, not six million.

Add to this the fact that three million California school age children speak a language at home other than English and more than two million children live in poverty. And we have a funding system that is overly complex, bureaucratically driven and deeply inequitable. That is the state of affairs today.

The laws that are in fashion demand tightly constrained curricula and reams of accountability data. All the better if it requires quiz-bits of information, regurgitated at regular intervals and stored in vast computers. Performance metrics, of course, are invoked like talismans. Distant authorities crack the whip, demanding quantitative measures and a stark, single number to encapsulate the precise achievement level of every child.

We seem to think that education is a thing—like a vaccine— that can be designed from afar and simply injected into our children. But as the Irish poet, William Butler Yeats said, “Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire.”

This year, as you consider new education laws, I ask you to consider the principle of Subsidiarity. Subsidiarity is the idea that a central authority should only perform those tasks which cannot be performed at a more immediate or local level. In other words, higher or more remote levels of government, like the state, should render assistance to local school districts, but always respect their primary jurisdiction and the dignity and freedom of teachers and students.

Subsidiarity is offended when distant authorities prescribe in minute detail what is taught, how it is taught and how it is to be measured. I would prefer to trust our teachers who are in the classroom each day, doing the real work – lighting fires in young minds.

My 2013 Budget Summary lays out the case for cutting categorical programs and putting maximum authority and discretion back at the local level—with school boards. I am asking you to approve a brand new Local Control Funding Formula which would distribute supplemental funds — over an extended period of time — to school districts based on the real world problems they face. This formula recognizes the fact that a child in a family making $20,000 a year or speaking a language different from English or living in a foster home requires more help. Equal treatment for children in unequal situations is not justice.

With respect to higher education, cost pressures are relentless and many students cannot get the classes they need. A half million fewer students this year enrolled in the community colleges than in 2008. Graduation in four years is the exception and transition from one segment to the other is difficult. The University of California, the Cal State system and the community colleges are all working on this. The key here is thoughtful change, working with the faculty and the college presidents. But tuition increases are not the answer. I will not let the students become the default financiers of our colleges and universities.

Health Care California was the first in the nation to pass laws to implement President Obama’s historic Affordable Care Act. Our health benefit exchange, called Covered California, will begin next year providing insurance to nearly one million Californians. Over the rest of this decade, California will steadily reduce the number of the uninsured.

Today I am calling for a special session to deal with those issues that must be decided quickly if California is to get the Affordable Care Act started by next January. The broader expansion of MediCal that the Act calls for is incredibly complex and will take more time. Working out the right relationship with the counties will test our ingenuity and will not be achieved overnight. Given the costs involved, great prudence should guide every step of the way.

Jobs California lost 1.3 million jobs in the great Recession but we are coming back at a faster pace than the national average. The new Office of Business and Economic Development — GoBiz — directly assisted more than 5,000 companies this past year.

One of those companies was Samsung Semiconductor Inc. headquartered in Korea. Working with the City of San Jose and Santa Clara County, GoBiz persuaded Samsung to locate their only research and development facility in the world here in California. The new facility in San Jose will place at least 2,500 people in high skill, high wage jobs. We also leveled the field on internet sales taxes, paving the way for over 1,000 new jobs at new Amazon distribution centers in Patterson and San Bernardino and now Tracy.

This year, we should change both the Enterprise Zone Program and the Jobs Hiring Credit. They aren’t working. We also need to rethink and streamline our regulatory procedures, particularly the California Environmental Quality Act. Our approach needs to be based more on consistent standards that provide greater certainty and cut needless delays.

California’s exports are booming and our place in the world economy has never been stronger. Our ties with The People’s

Republic of China in particular are deep—from the Chinese immigrants crossing the Pacific in 1848 to hosting China’s next President in Los Angeles last February. This year we will take another step to strengthen the ties between the world’s second and ninth largest economies. In April, I will lead a trade and investment mission to China with help from the Bay Area Council and officially open California’s new trade and investment office in Shanghai.

Water Central to the life of our state is water and one sixth of that water flows through the San Joaquin Delta.

Silicon Valley, the Livermore Valley, farmers on the East side of the San Joaquin Valley between Fresno and Kern County and farmers on the West side between Tracy and Los Banos, urban Southern California and Northern Contra Costa, all are critically dependent on the Delta for Water.

If because of an earthquake, a hundred year storm or sea level rise, the Delta fails, the disaster would be comparable to Hurricane Katrina or Superstorm Sandy: losses of at least $100 billion and 40,000 jobs. I am going to do whatever I can to make sure that does not happen. My proposed plan is two tunnels 30 miles long and 40 feet wide, designed to improve the ecology of the Delta, with almost 100 square miles of habitat restoration. Yes, that is big but so is the problem.

The London Olympics lasted a short while and cost $14 billion, about the same cost as this project. But this project will serve California for hundreds of years.

Climate Change When we think about California’s future, no long term liability presents as great a danger to our wellbeing as the buildup of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

According to the latest report from the World Bank, carbon dioxide emissions are the highest in 15 million years. At today’s emissions rate, the planet could warm by more than 7 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the century, an event unknown in human experience. California is extremely vulnerable because of our Mediterranean climate, long coastline and reliance on snowpack for so much of our water supply.

Tipping points can be reached before we even know we have passed them. This is a different kind of challenge than we ever faced. It requires acting now even though the worst consequences are perhaps decades in the future.

Again California is leading the way. We are reducing emissions as required by AB 32 and we will meet our goal of getting carbon emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.

Key to our efforts is reducing electricity consumption through efficiency standards for buildings and appliances. Over the last three decades, these pioneering efforts have saved Californians $65 billion dollars. And we are not through yet.

We are also meeting our renewable energy goals: more than 20% renewable energy this year. By 2020, we will get at least a third of our electricity from the sun and the wind and other renewable sources—and probably more.

Transportation and High Speed Rail In the years following World War II, California embarked on a vast program to build highway, bridges and roads.

Today, California’s highways are asked to accommodate more vehicle traffic than any other state in the nation. Most were constructed before we knew about climate change and the lethal effects of dirty air. We now expect more.

I have directed our Transportation Agency to review thoroughly our current priorities and explore long-term funding options.

Last year, you authorized another big project: High Speed Rail.

Yes, it is bold but so is everything else about California.

Electrified trains are part of the future. China already has 5000 miles of high speed rail and intends to double that. Spain has 1600 miles and is building more. More than a dozen other countries have their own successful high speed rail systems. Even Morocco is building one.

The first phase will get us from Madera to Bakersfield. Then we will take it through the Tehachapi Mountains to Palmdale, constructing 30 miles of tunnels and bridges. The first rail line through those mountains was built in 1874 and its top speed over the crest is still 24 miles an hour. Then we will build another 33 miles of tunnels and bridges before we get the train to its destination at Union Station in the heart of Los Angeles.

It has taken great perseverance to get us this far. I signed the original high speed rail Authority in 1982—over 30 years ago. In 2013, we will finally break ground and start construction.

Conclusion This is my 11th year in the job and I have never been more excited. Two years ago, they were writing our obituary. Well it didn’t happen. California is back, its budget is balanced, and we are on the move. Let’s go out and get it done.

12 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

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

January 25 - 31, 2013

Used to be Paul’s BMX

Bike Shop

Bikes Are Here!

Diagnostic Specialists Service & Repairs • Smog Repairs Air Conditioning • Tune Up • Front End Brakes • Fuel Injection

(661)765-5000 or (661)343-0507

$15.00 OFF with mention of this ad* *1996 Vehicle or newer

Qik Smog & Tune

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

608 Center St.

745-4919

Devon’s Body Shop

(661)763-4445

508 Center Street 765-6556

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

General Automotive Repairs

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

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 Wash January Clearance Full Grooming Salon Jackets 30% Off

Lert us wash and Brush out those wooley dogs

Dickies and FR Wrangler

Flannel Shirts 30% Off Dickies Insulated

Nails 12.00 2nd Dog $9.00

Hats - Boots - Jewelry - Purses - Jeans

Birds - nails and Wings $9.00 with beak $14.00

Coveralls $49.00 Overalls $42.00

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

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 Your Special Event

Happy New Years from all of us at the Tumbleweed Cafe 24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

FULL BAR