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Independent The Taft

October 4 - 10, 2013

www.Taftindependent.com

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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Publisher@Taftindependent.com

October 4 - 10, 2013 • Volume 8 Issue 13

“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

Oktoberfest at The Place Saturday October 121t, 5 p.m.

BBQ Chicken, Bratwurst, Red Potatoes & Salad $12.00 Per Person Live Music Performed by YesterYear Please bring your tent or RV, pick-up truck & stay overnight Sunday October 13th Breakfast Buffet 7am - 11am $8.00 Per Person Visit Our Website at: www.theplacehwy33.com

Taft Nails (661) 763-3111 We Now Offer Facials Eyelash Extention Call for details.

(661) 763-3111

Mexican and Seafood Taqueria Open 7 Days a Week - Open Late Night 4 am to Midnight Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner 330 Kern Street Corner of 4th and Kern Street (661) 745-4898

Now Serving Breakfast

Taco Monday’s .99 Tacos Chicken Frajitas Tuesday $7.95 Happy Hour 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Catering Available for Meetings. Free Delivery.

•

Residential

•

Commercial

•

Industrial

“DEMAND THE BEST SERVICE AT THE BEST PRICE” Ants Roaches

“CUSTOMER SATISFACTION IS OUR GOAL” Spiders

661-345-7350

Rats & Mice

Bees Wasps

EARWIGS SILVERFISH FLEAS & TICKS PANTRY PESTS GOPHER & BIRD CONTROL SQUIRRELS www.demandpestcontrol.com

Bed Bugs

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

October 4 - 10, 2013

Shop Taft

Passion For Nails western shop & PET Wash Fish - Reptile - Supplies Tack - Feed - Livestock Supplies Western Clothing - Boots - Work Apparell Pet Grooming Fred and Cheri Shaw 419 Harrison Street, Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

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

F i n e

J e w e l r y

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

Try Our New Pedicure Chairs Men & Seniors &

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

We Have Baggallini Handbags Watch Batteries Paddy Wax Candles Hand Made Obsidian Knives 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Hammonds Peanut Brittle

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

(661)745-4913

Personal Style Salon and Boutique

Let’s Go Shopping!

Check out our weekly new arrivals.

Shop Downtown Taft!

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

A Hint of Class

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

Sale Sale Sale

on Smartphones We Now Repair iPhones, Galaxy S3, Computers, Sterios and TV’s Visit us at our Two Locations 1016 6th St. 610 Center Street Taft, CA 93268 Taft, CA 93268 661-745-4855 661-745-4954

acme jewelry co.

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Bakery and Ice Cream Parlor Downtown Taft

745-4894

Cupcakes - Cannoli Now Serving Donuts and Coffee 1 donut and one cup of coffee $2.25 Donuts Avalable by the Dozen $12

Hours T-F 10am - 5pm 420 Center Street, Taft (661) 745-4894

Ten Percent Firearms

Fall Arrivals!

Garden, Clothing & Home Decor.

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Blue Jeans & Bling

REJUV 10 23 Healthy Face and Body Spa

Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA

Elaine Arnold, Owner Pedicures, Manicures @ Detoxing Dee Morgan, Esthetician Facials Waxing and Microdermabrasion

Women’s Sizes 0-21 Women’s Plus Sizes Children’s Jeans & Shirts

Samantha Hagstrom Massage Therapist European and Hot Stone Prenatal Massage

Monday - Friday 11am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 5pm Host a party 401 Center Street Visit us on Facebook sales@bluejeansandbling.com

763-9100

510 6th Street, Ste. A - Taft (661) 765-2335

October 4 - 10, 2013

Inside Community Events.........3 Taft Calendar...................3 Westside News.................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Liberty Under Fire.........8 Classified Ads.................10 Parting Shots.................11

Events

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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

The Marketplace at Peace Saturday, Nov 2 - 8:00 to 1:00 Rent a table to sell your goods!!

Reserve your table now Crafts - New Items - Avon - Yard Sales Breakfast & Lunch Available Breakfast burritos - Biscuits & gravy Hot Dogs - Chili - Chicken sticks & more Free Coffee & Water Bake Sale You never know what you’ll find at the Marketplace!!

Peace Lutheran Church - 26 Emmons Park Dr Call 765-2488 or 765-6248 Matching funds by Thrivent

Shop Taft........................12

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

Email: Publisher@taftindependent.com

West Side Recreation Vendor and Craft Show November 15 and 16, Vendors Sought Westside Recreation District will be hosting a VENDOR & CRAFT SHOW on Friday, November 15 (5:00-8:30 p.m.) and Saturday, November 16 (8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.). Vendors and crafters of all types are welcome to participate. Fee is $40 per space (table/chairs included) and all items must fit within an 8’x10’ space. Registration will begin on Tuesday, August 13 at 8:30 a.m. in the District Office. To have more information emailed to you, please leave your email address in the comments below, send us a direct message, or email steph@wsrpd.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.

Maricopa Tea Room Specials Week of September 30, Tuesday, Wednesday will be Beef & Noodles with Green Salad. Ice Tea Thursday, Friday will be Chicken Caserole with Green Salad. Ice Tea Dessert extra all days.

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.

acme jewelry co.

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.

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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 Publisher@taftindependent.com Advertising Publisher@taftindependent.com Contributing Writers Wesley Morris, Mimi Collins Joan Raymond Columnists Randy Miller, John Swearengin Dr. Harold Pease Newspaper Delivery Tim Webb

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

F i n e

J e w e l r y

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Diamonds, Sapphires, Rubies “O-My” Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Fine Jewelry - Affordable Price Watch Batteries 14K - Black Hills Gold - Silver 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Tungsten and More Interest Free Lay-a-Way fro Christmas Free Gift Wrapping Thanks for Shopping Taft Store Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm Closed Sunday and Monday

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Taft Calendar

By John Swearengin The Taft Lions Club is having their amazing Annual Haunted House at 2nd and Main Street from October 27th- 31st. If you are interested in helping or having your own room in the Haunted House contact Floyd Adams. If you’re interested in a room you must be there all 5 nights.

The Lions Club is having their famous Tri Tip Sandwiches during Cruise Night tonight. Support the great Taft Lions Club so they can support Taft!

The Taft Fox Theatre and Westside Bowling Lanes are both open 7 days a week.

Monday Night Football at the Taft Petroleum Club. Doors open at 5pm.

Black Gold Brewery is now Brewing their own brews. Stop by and check it out.

Neighborhood Haunt every Friday Night from 7-9pm in the 500 Block of Church Street until Halloween.

Friday- It’s Cruise Night on Center Street starting at 6pm. Cruise, Shop, Eat, bring a chair and hang out, see a movie at the Fox! Save the Date for these Future EventsOctober 10th: Neighborhood Watch Meeting at 6pm at the Westside Rec Gym. “Come positive, leave aware!”

October 11th: The ARC is having a BBQ at 204 Van Buren St. from 10:30-1:30. Lunch is Tri Tip, Salad, Rice, Beans, Roll, Dessert for only $10.00. Dine in or carry out. 50/50 raffle.

October 12th: Oasis is having Deep Pit, potatoes, chilli, salad, and a roll for only $10.00 for Taft’s 4H Club from 11-3pm. There will be a Petting Zoo and games.

80’s Party at the Rec. Music, full bar, bowling, dancing for only $10.00.

From 8- Midnight! 21 and over.

Nick Barnachia Memorial Sporting Clay Shoot at Harrington Farms, 5 man teams, raffle, lunch, camping available, check in at 8:30, contact Bill McGinley @ 331-5360, or JP Barnachia @ 623-3830. Proceeds go to Taft High School Shooting Program. Entry Deadline October 5th.

October 17th: Taft College Ribeye Dinner October 18th: West Kern Petroleum Summit 7:45-4:00 at Taft College.

Tickets only $60.00.

The Taft Longhorns are having a Halloween Night Golf Tournament at BV Golf Course. Contact Les Clark.

October 19th: The Midway Sunset Lions Club is having a Casino Night to raise money for Christmas for Seniors, Taft Honor Flight, and the Taft Longhorns at the Taft Veterans Hall.

Dinner at 5pm.

Paws in the Park at Veterans Park (Police Park) from 9am-1pm. The Taft Lions Club will be selling their famous Tri Tip Sandwiches. Contact the Taft Chamber for more info.

Taft Community Garden Day. October 22nd- 25th: The Fort Pumpkin Patch Alpha House Hodel’s Cinnamon Roll Fumdraiser 6-10 am at Calvary Temple Church (limited supply) October 26th: Taft Chamber Golf Tournament Boomtown Days at the West Kern Oil Museum BV Roadhouse Halloween Party, starts at 8pm.

October 31st: Fort Safe Halloween December 2nd: Taft Christmas Parade December 7th: Kern Trail Riders Horseshoe Tournament at the Taft Petroleum Club.

Soroptimist Luncheon and Home Tours The totally radical 80’s Party is October 12th at the new Rec Building at 500 Cascade Place from 8- Midnight. DJ Lotus will be playing the gnarly 80’s tunes. There will be Dancing, Bowling, and a Full Bar from the Tumbleweed Cafe. Admission is only $10.00. Dress in your favorite 80’s attire or dress like your favorite 80’s Actor or Musician or don’t dress up at all. Like everyone should totally go!

4 TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

Westside Watcher

The Taft

Independent

It’s Football Season in Taft!

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

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, September 27, 2013 through Thursday, October 03, 2013

Gravity (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 6:30, 8:45 Sun: (4:00), 6:00 Mon - Thu: 7:00 PM Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 (PG) Fri & Sat: 6:00, 8:15 Sun - Thu: (4:30), 6:45

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.

By John Swearengin All of my life I dreaded the end of summer. I love it being light until 8:30 so you can see to BBQ. I still like to play some Marco-Polo with the kids and like everyone else around I love heading to Pismo Beach to get out of the heat and to hang out with everyone from Taft. As I walked into Get Your Sweet On the other day and saw their awesome Halloween Cookies I realized summer is over. Well, the good news is it is cooling down so PG&E is not taking all of our money from constantly having to run the A/C. Even better than that, it is Football Season.

Football is big in this great town. I’m glad the JFL allows 4th to 8th graders to play. JFL teaches kids about football, discipline, teamwork, and so much more. JFL is more than just football, they also have cheerleading. I see so many families that are all involved in the JFL. The dad is coaching football, mom is coaching cheerleading, daughter is cheerleading, and the son is playing football. Several great people volunteer their time to make the JFL great. Their games are Saturday mornings.

I started JFL in 6th grade and we went 6-0 under Big Les Clark on the 49ers. That year there was no B Team so us 6th graders got thumped and loved every minute of it. As an 8th grader we went 0-6 and we did not love every minute of it. Bob Scovel’s Raiders went 6-0 that year. It is great to see the guys like Jeremy Letterman, Mikey Berry, Neil White, Dave Neudorf, and so many others I played with down there Coaching. It is cool to see the new generation coming up playing Football like Jackson Berry and Bronson Ortlieb.

There is nothing better than the Friday Night Lights at the Martin Memorial Stadium at Taft High. As always Homecoming is always the big game. Several Alumni came back to cheer for the Cats. The Class of 93 had their 20 year reunion. The Class of 93 had some great football players Zack Michalski, Les Clark III, Jeff Goodwin, Mark Mitchell, and many others. Their Defense Line was huge and tore everyone up. Their nickname was “3 tons of fun!” Several of these 93ers went on to play football for the Taft College Cougars. Sadly, 1993 was the last year Taft College had Football. Out of all the good and bad things that have happened in Taft, losing TC Football is one of the worst. TC Football has been gone for almost 20 years too long. I hope one day TC Football makes a comeback. “WE ARE TC!” On a happy note I love when the great Taft High Crew paints the endzones and The Wildcat Head on the 50 yard line. Since way before my time until today Taft High is still by far the best High School. I remember playing Highland High in 1994 in the Bakersfield Renegades Stadium and how cool it was to play there. As we came out on the field I immediately noticed how much nicer our grass was at Martin Memorial Stadium.

Like most people in Taft I’m not a fan of change. I liked it better when it said “TAFT” on the Press Box. I liked the names on the back of the Jersey’s. I liked when they would announce the starters from the South Endzone. I like “Cat Scratch Fever” before the game but I love when they use to play Guns and Roses “Welcome to the Jungle!” I can’t complain though because Taft High has never looked better.

In my day we did not win a lot but I use to love singing, “The Wildcats will Roll Tonight” when we did win.

I love on Friday Nights when the Wildcats are at home; pretty much the entire town is there to cheer them on. Like every year the Taft High Band sounds amazing. The Cheerleaders are as always the best around. The Cats have to love all their great support. As a former Wildcat I loved hearing the crowd go wild.

A special thanks to Justina Howell who organized and got out all the Wildcat Spirit Wear. Southwest Signs did an amazing job on the Wildcat hats, shirts, and signs. Some of our businesses like Eye Kandi, A Hint of Class, and Asian Experience have their Wildcats signs on display.

Most of us Taftians like the 49ers or the Raiders in the NFL so this might not be our years but we can always focus on our Wildcats. Taft’s next home game is on November 1st against Bakersfield Christian. Come down with all your neighbors and cheer on the Cats. Bobcats kickoff at 5pm, the Wildcats kickoff at 7:30pm.

October 4 - 10, 2013

Civility on the Eve of the Shutdown

By John Hayward, Senior Writer for Human Events It seems like only yesterday we were told that civility was essential to good government. Harsh words and martial metaphors supposedly created a “Climate of Hate” that led to murder in Tucson, even when the murderer was demonstrably ignorant of the supposedly harsh rhetoric and alarming map symbols.

But now that’s all out the window, at least where the media’s beloved Democrat Party is concerned. On the eve of a potential government shutdown, it’s a rhetorical free-fire zone for Democrats. Not a single whistle is blown as they call Republicans hostage-takers, terrorists, mad bombers, and murderers.

We might begin by noticing that the over-arching Democrat narrative – repeated by everyone up to, and including, President Obama – accuses Republicans of wanting to take health insurance away from the noble and tragic poor, for no other reason that pure sadistic evil. That seems like a rather – what’s the word? Oh, yes, divisive – tactic. ObamaCare has been wiping out health insurance plans left and right, but I suspect any prominent Republican who claimed this was deliberate malevolence on the part of the President and his allies would get a rather chilly reception from the press.

Likewise, the President and his party get to loudly declare themselves intransigent, without suffering any great criticism for their stated unwillingness to compromise. Try to imaging a Republican President or Senate getting away with that. Remember just a few weeks ago, when “obstructionism” was supposed to be the worst thing in the world? Democrats get to be as obstructionist as they please, while Republicans are harangued as gridlock gremlins even when they’re putting deals on the table and loudly declaring their willingness to compromise. You’ll never see a political debate in which the Beltway media thinks it’s acceptable for Republicans to reject all Democrat demands. They always have to be given something, which is one reason they tend to open political negotiations with sky-high demands.

Democrats get a total pass on the incendiary language they’ve grown comfortable using. President Obama referred to the Republicans as “hostage takers” and “house burners,” as if they were arsonists. A “tippy-top Democratic official” emailed Politico to say the Democrats won’t negotiate because it’s “time to punch the bully in the nose.” (As though the party that controls the Senate and White House isn’t a bully! As if the trillion-dollar health care takeover with billion-dollar slush funds is a helpless little thing, in danger of getting stomped to death by Republican brutes! Democrats have really internalized Obama’s irresponsible nothing-is-myfault Empty Chair rhetoric, haven’t they?)

Senator Angus King of Maine, a nominal Independent (stifle your laughter) who causes with the Democrats says those who encourage young people to steer clear of their ObamaCare fleecing are “guilty of murder, in my opinion.” Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid called ObamaCare opponents “anarchists who deny the mere fact that ObamaCare is the law,” possibly confusing them with the one person who most notably refuses to treat the Affordable Care Act as a law, President Barack Obama. As though any rational person thinks the alternative to a trillion-dollar health care takeover by a government that has to borrow forty cents on every dollar it spends would be “anarchy.”

At least Reid didn’t call them “teabaggers,” which is more than crass Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-MD) could manage. In fact, she insulted the huge number of Americans who disagree with her on ObamaCare as Ted Cruz’s mindless minions, “tea baggers in his Tea Party,” taking extra care to separate her disgusting sexual slur from the correct name of the Tea Party.

Someone from the White House defended Obama’s refusal to engage with Republicans by saying “what we’re not for is negotiating with people with a bomb strapped to their chest.” Who was that? Oh, just the communications director, Dan Pfeiffer.

Will the media blame these Democrats if their more energetic followers do something violent to strike back at those suicidebombing, hostage-taking, tea-bagging terrorist Republicans? Of course not – the Left’s Climate of Hate is ubiquitous and entirely unremarked-upon. They can be as hateful as they wish. It’s taken as a sign of their passion and conviction, not a disturbing signal of incipient violence. Of course, there is a gigantic advantage for Democrats in being able to paint their opponents as subhuman maniacs with impunity, particularly when it comes to attracting the attention of the fabled Low-Information Voters.

Those who believe the President would always win a shutdown confrontation, no matter which party he belongs to, will be in for a big surprise if the Democrats ever again find themselves opposing

Continued on Page 11

October 4 - 10, 2013

New Taft College Librarian Terri Smith Helping Students Succeed in College and Life

TAFT INDEPENDENT

By Joan Raymond Mention school librarians and visions of an older woman dressed in a sensible grey suit, hair pulled back into a neat bun, and dark-rimmed glasses usually comes to mind. But, new Taft College Librarian, Terri Smith, changes those perceptions. Blond hair (not in a bun), thin, and professionally dressed, Smith considers herself a modern librarian while helping students succeed in college and in life.

Born and raised in Bakersfield, Smith attended Foothill High. “I didn’t like school,” she said.

“I wasn’t a good student.” After taking time to figure out her life goals, she attended Bakersfield College and then Cal State University Bakersfield. She earned her Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) in 2004 from San Jose State.

Previously working at Bakersfield College as an adjunct reference librarian, she came to Taft College in May 2013. Here at TC she has many responsibilities, including teaching a one-hour critical thinking/ethics class six times a week and finding resources for the college library to support the curriculum. “I teach students how to locate, evaluate, and use information so they can be successful in school and life.” She says her classes help them investigate to make better choices in day-to-day activities like shopping. For example, if someone was considering a tattoo, they wouldn’t choose just anyone to pierce their skin with a needle. Instead they’d evaluate different tattoo artists, tattoo shops, and read reviews. “I want them to have the ability to make decisions based on their own research.”

These lessons also apply to their studies. As students learn to choose between the correct information to use in life decisions, they also learn how to use the best information for school papers and use it correctly. Plagiarism (copying the work of others) is unethical and Smith teaches her students how to paraphrase information along with proper citations for use in academic papers.

Smith also researches resources for the library to help students educationally. “I read reviews from other professionals and decide which books would best support the curriculum.” For example, if someone was taking a Literature class and needed to read Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, she would find other books to supplement their class assignments – books about women writers during the Romantic period, themes, or books critiquing Mary Shelley’s work are some examples of additional resources.

Although Smith speaks enthusiastically about her professional life, she also devotes herself to several hobbies. She’s a seamstress and makes her own clothes; including outfits she wears to work – dresses, pants and blouse jackets. “I love the methodology, the closure in sewing something and the feeling when the garment is finished.” When she visits her daughter in New York, she loves to shop in the garment districts finding unique fabrics and shipping them back home. “I have a room full of fabric, but, no unfinished projects.” She confesses she doesn’t cook meals, but loves to make salsa, jam and jelly. “If I see plums on the ground, I’ll offer to rake then up just to make jelly,” she added. Although she doesn’t play the game herself, she enjoys watching tennis on TV. She also loves to jog and ski, both on water and on the snow.

Like sewing, she enjoys seeing a project through from beginning to end and talked about her biggest accomplishment since starting at TC. “I recreated and redesigned the webpage in 90 days,” she said. “I wanted to organize the information to be more user-friendly; to arrange it by type and resource. Plus, I wanted to have an

‘authentication’ log-in giving students a unique, personalized user name and password, instead of each student using the same information.

One of her biggest frustrations is when things move too slowly. “I want to see things happen quicker. I’m a doer.” Smith lives her life as she teaches her students: Efficiently, Effectively and Ethically. She loves it when students understand her classes and the ‘light bulb goes on’.

Smith really cares about her students and wants them to see the world is bigger than Taft and give them access to resources. “I want them to be well-informed,” she added.

One of her biggest concerns is that some of her students don’t get the support they deserve. She mentioned how much she hates to see them struggle to succeed. “Technology advances faster than people. Not everyone has Smart phones or iPads. People need to have job skills to succeed, but they need resources which aren’t always available.”

Working at Taft College, Terri Smith believes in what she does for the students and she believes in the people here. “Taft is a good community, people care. The opportunities here are wide open to be fabulous. Taft is not just a gem, but a full-on jewel.”

Family Fun

OPEN FIRST SATURDAY IN OCTOBER Sun-Thurs. 11am-7pm Friday 11am-8pm Saturday 9am-8pm

COME RIDE THE PUMPKIN TRAIN 19040 S. Shafter Ave. SHAFTER, Ca. 661-746-3714

6 TAFT INDEPENDENT

City Council Approves 5 Year Contract to House Los Angeles County Inmates at Taft CCF

Oil Industry Impressions In West Kern Oil Museum Exhibit The West Kern Oil Museum will be displaying a varied collection of prints by former Taft resident and long-time supporter of the museum, Herb Spencer, during the month of October.

The museum exhibition will include some of his impressions of the local oil industry and some images from “time-then-andnow” as well as several prints of varied pictorial subjects. One of the exhibited prints takes advantage of an oil field full moon.

Mr. Spencer first developed his interest in photography as a student and yearbook photographer at Taft High and Taft Junior College. He has subsequently found a renewed interest in digital photography with the image processing done in computers – a distant departure from 35mm color slides and black and white wet darkroom prints. An active member in numerous photographic organizations in Central and Northern California, his work has received recognition in local, regional, and international competitions.

The West Kern Oil Museum is open to the public Thursdays thru Saturday from 10 am – 4pm and on Sundays from 1pm – 4pm

TUHS Will Be Closed Monday, October 14th Taft Union High School will be closed Monday, Oct. 14, as students get the day off, but teachers have in-service meetings on Common Core standards prior to beginning the second quarter. School resumes at 7:45 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15.

OT

Cookhouse & Saloon

NEW Lunch Menu NEW Dinner Menu Come in and check out our new items!!!

We are also proud to offer our “Chef ’s Personal Creations & Selections” Five Specials Available Daily OT Cookhouse can accomodate smaller or larger Private Dining Events Reserve your Banquet today!!!

661.763.1819 Lunch Hours: Tues-Fri 11am-2pm Dinner Hours: Tues-Sat 4-9pm Closed: Sunday and Monday www.otcookhouse.com find us on facebook 205 N. 10th Street 661.763.1819

The Taft City Council approved a 5 year contract with Los Angeles County to house more than 500 inmates at the Taft Community Correctional Facility Tuesday evening, bringing much needed financial relief to the cash strapped city.

Contract approval, which had been hammered out more than a year ago by city and Los Angeles County attorneys, was delayed by indecision and politics of LA County government.

The contract was unexpectedly approved last week surprising local city officials who had all but given up on securing the contract.

Closure of the Taft facility was ordered by the state two years ago due to budget cuts. Taft spent more than $2 million out of city reserves closing the facility and paying unemployment benefits, which was suppose to be paid by the state.

The city in is Kern County court suing the state to recover the $1.2 million in unemployment benefits it paid to former CCF employees.

Coincidently, the state submitted a new contract to Taft expressing interest in housing state inmates at the CCF, but the council ignored the proposal. The state is being forced by the courts to either release prisioners from overcrowded state prisions or find new facilities like Taft’s CCF to house offenders.

The contract with LA County will bring in an immediate $480,000 to Taft to reopen the facility, and more than $1 million in profits annually to operate the facility.

Fall into Gardening at Taft Community Gardens Oct. 19th

Mayor Linder to Teach Punmkin Carving The Taft Community Garden will sponsor a “Fall into Gardening” event on Saturday, October 19th from 9am to 12pm.

The event will feature Mayor Paul Linder who will teach children how to carve Halloween pumpkins. Pumpkins will be handed out free while they last.

Vendors, garden demonstrations, giceaways and other activities will be available at the event.

The event is sponsored by True Value, Synagro, Taft 4H, the City of Taft, Taft FFA, The Taft Independent, the Kern Tree Foundation, the West Kern Water District, The Tumbleweed Cafe, Taft Rotary, the Taft College STEM Program, and Black Gold Brewing Company.

Taft Chamber Hosts 12th Annual Golf Classic October 26 The Taft Chamber of Commerce will host their 12th Annual Golf Classic on Saturday, October 26, 2013, at Buena Vista Golf Course in Taft. Teams of 4 may register at the Chamber office for a chance to take home some of the prize money totaling $98,200. Each registered player is eligible to participate in the putting contest, hole in one contest at all par 3’s, and can take home the prize for closest to the hole and the long drive.

Prizes are awarded for the top 6 teams in the tournament with the top team taking home $1,600. There are four par 3 holes in which golfers have an opportunity to win $20,000 for a hole in one, with $200 for the closest to the hole on each par 3. The putting contest winner receives $200, with the potential to win $10,000 for making the 50 foot putt. Other contests include long drive winners for each tee box of $150. Limited teams are available.

Registration fee includes the course green fee, two carts, all on-course beverages, a goody bag for each player, fully catered lunch by new Chamber member Salty’s BBQ, and participation in the contests and tournament festivities. Teams of 4 may register for $125 per player at the Taft Chamber office, 400 Kern Street, Taft, or by calling 661-765-2165.

The Chamber would like to thank the major sponsors of their tournament: Accelerated Environmental Services, TerraChem, Monarch Fleet Services, Salty’s BBQ & Catering, Cooper’s True Value, MTC (Taft Correctional Institution), Excalibur Well Services, General Production Services, Guardian Safety & Supply, Roger Miller Insurance Agency, Hydrogen Energy California, and Watkins Construction.

October 4 - 10, 2013

Regional Championships up for grabs! - October 5/6, 2013 The California Sports Car Club will be hosting the last Double Regional of the year on October 5th and 6th at Buttonwillow Raceway Park. There will be 5 different races both Saturday and Sunday plus Time Trials for those who want to try their street cars on the big track. The pressure is on for drivers going for Regional Championships in six separate classes, so the racing should be tight and challenging.

Family friendly Buttonwillow Raceway Park has many amenities, grassy picnic and play areas for families and spectators, three story race control building containing a gift shop, restaurant with indoor seating and viewing area on the second story. Spectators are always welcome. This should be a great spectator event and a very special road racing weekend for the Central Valley.

Cal Club is a region of the Sports Car Club of America, the builder of Buttonwillow Raceway Park located in Buttonwillow, California, a few miles west of Bakersfield. The Club in its 63nd year has nearly 2,000 members offering competition programs in road racing, autocross, time trials and road rally.

The Club has a rich history of producing some of the world’s most noted drivers and the best race volunteers the sport has ever seen. For more information www.calclub.com

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October 4 - 10, 2013

Kern County Stands Ready for Health Care Reform

On Tuesday, October 1, 2013 Californians will be able to begin exploring their health care options under the Federal Affordable Care Act (ACA). For many Kern County residents, this means shopping for Health Care Coverage, many for the first time. Once a plan is selected, the new health coverage will become effective in January 2014. In order to have coverage effective on January 1, 2014, individuals will have to enroll and pay their premiums by December 15, 2013.

It is estimated that approximately 52,000 Kern County residents will qualify for income-based and federal subsidized coverage through Covered California and approximately 38,000 residents will qualify for expanded Medi-Cal coverage. Beginning in January 2014, eligibility requirements for Medi-Cal – California’s health care program for low-income residents will expand under the ACA. Medi-Cal will cover more people under the age of 65, including adults without children, people with disabilities and those with income of less than $15,856 for a single individual and $32,499 for a family of four.

“The Department of Human Services is just one piece of this new Health Care Coverage puzzle,” says Kern County Department of Human Services Director Pat Cheadle, “but we know that our office is where many people will turn to understand their health care coverage options available either through the expansion of Medi-Cal, or through the state insurance exchange, known as Covered California. Our department will play a critical role in determining eligibility and enrollment for health care and other assistance for residents. That’s why we’ve done everything we can to prepare for the influx of clients while still serving our existing clients.”

Our Department has been working hard to be ready. Our Regional Call Center will take calls directly from Covered California. Staff has been trained on the new processes and will be assisting consumers in applying for expanded Medi-Cal coverage that begins January 1, 2014. We have also expanded our hours so that our Regional Call Center staff will be available to take calls from Covered California from Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 8:00pm and on Saturdays from 8:00am to 6:00pm during open enrollment.

Our department also anticipates that many of our current CalFresh enrollees who are not currently receiving Medi-Cal will be eligible for health care under the new expansion. Likewise, a large percent of newly eligible Medi-Cal recipients will be eligible for CalFresh, too. The Affordable Care Act brings an opportunity for our staff to renew efforts to find multiple ways families can get support that leads to self-sufficiency.

To apply for coverage, Consumers can begin the application process by creating an account at www.CoveredCa.com. You may also call Covered California at 1(800) 300-1506 or the local Department of Human Services at (661) 631-6807 or Toll Free at 1(877) 410-8812; Apply In-Person at the nearest Department of Human Services office.

For Media inquiries, please contact Heidi Carter-Escudero at 661-633-7104.

TAFT INDEPENDENT

8

Liberty Under Fire What Government Shutdown?

Stop the hysteria!

Dr. Harold Pease

The fear with respect to our latest “government shutdown” is amazing. The hysteria peddlers using this terminology, and the media that purposely play to it, must know these two words emit such an extreme emotional response. It appears designed to frighten the least informed either for or against the other political party, thus the terminology and subsequent blame game.

So what does a government shut down look like? Do the president and vice president resign now that the government ends? No, they stay on the job and receive full pay as before.

Does Congress fly out of Washington D. C. the following day and cease to draw their pay, and the Supreme Court cease to deliberate on constitutional questions? Does the army come home and cease to protect us? NO! No, No! Do states, counties, and cities no longer function? No again, they have their own tax base and cops, prisons, and teachers remain in place. Will I still get my mail? Yes. The U.S. Postal Service functions as an independent business unit. Will I still get Social Security benefits? Yes! And food stamps? Yes. And unemployment compensation? Yes. And veterans’ benefits? Yes, at least until late October. And will there still be a functioning federal school lunch program? Yes, at least through October. (66 questions and answers about the government shutdown, by Gregory Korte, USA Today Oct. 1, 2013) If this is so then why the hysteria? My point exactly!! Because these two words, “government shutdown,” and the possibility of missed food stamps send the largely uninformed into frenzy, they finally awake from their stupor. They largely know nothing, although they should, of the wrangling of government to protect them from themselves and oppose any proposed government diet that might reduce their daily feed. They worshipfully listen to the party and political leaders that are least likely to disturb this base, like defunding Obamacare.

There will never be a government shut down because none of these things will ever happen short of an overthrow of the government from within, the collapse of our financial structure (which is becoming ever more likely do to our obsession to live beyond our means), or a successful invasion from without. So cease the media frenzy and subsequent over-reaction.

How do we know this? Because we have had 17 government shutdowns since 1977 according to the Congressional Research Service, the Reagan Administration having 8 of them alone. Because in 1979 the government was shut down for 10 days while Congress argued over a proposed salary increase for the legislative branch. Because we had a five-day shutdown between November 14 and November 19, 1995, and a second one of 21 days, between December 16, and January 6, 1996, and none of the bad things mentioned above happened. No! Not even one. In fact, the public as a whole didn’t even notice.

So what did happen? “The Federal government of the United States put non-essential government workers on furlough and suspended non-essential services…(Wikipedia).”

Essentially all went on as before except some paychecks were a few days late. Apparently the federal government does (when forced to do so) know what non-essential services are after all, and is capable of closing them if it has the will.

So at worst a government shutdown is really only a partial shutdown of non-essential services and a delay of payment for some few federal workers. So the federal government goes on a long overdue diet and gets back to the basics. This is precisely the Tea Party position (“cut it or shut it”) and the reason they do not fear such. If you have a budget of $3.7 trillion for a given year and you have taxes covering only $2 trillion during the same time simple math tells you that either you double taxes or cut half of your expenses. You simply can’t keep increasing the national debt, now almost $17 trillion, which has been laid on the backs of our new slaves—our children.

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Obituary

October 4 - 10, 2013

Obituary

BEVERLY MAE ALLSWORTH 1933 – 2013 A memorial service was held in the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home Chapel on Sunday, September 22, 2013, for Beverly Mae Allsworth, 80. Mrs. Allsworth was born in Michigan on August 23, 1933 and passed away in Bakersfield on September 12, 2013.

She was a longtime employee of Artz’s Liquor & Deli. She was a loving mother and grandmother who will be dearly missed. She is survived by her son and his wife, Dennis Allsworth, Jr. and Marcie; her grandchildren, Dennis, III, Nicole and her husband, Weldon, and Madelyn; her great-grandchildren, Landon, Brandon and Brystol; longtime friends, Bob (Dennis), Tina Hall, Greg and Vivia Artz and the many friends that came and went from Artz’s Liquor & Deli. The family would like to thank those who attended the service and those who sent flowers and other remembrances. There were no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements were under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To express online condolences please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.

When you have cancer you must surgically remove the infected tissue. Of course it is painful, but the longer you wait the more painful, drastic, and life threatening it becomes.

Most of the programs cut in both the last two government shutdowns were not areas of clear constitutional authority as defined in Article I, Section 8, so in time such cuts should become permanent or those areas need to be authorized in the amending process in Article V of the U.S. Constitution.

Usually diets have some benefits in and of themselves. In the case of the shutdowns of 1995 and 1996, both parties benefited: Democrats, under President Bill Clinton, because thereafter he was credited with “the first four consecutive balanced budgets since the 1920’s” and Republicans because they retained control of both houses of Congress largely because of the popularity of their hard line on the budget (Wikipedia).

So, a government shutdown is really only a partial slowdown that may actually be healthy. Let’s call it such in the future so that we don’t frighten the less informed and they overreact?

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 articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.

Asenith ‘Elizabeth’ Bullard Elizabeth was born on August 20, 1932 in Electra, Texas to John and Mildred Johnson. She left us to go to Paradise on October 1, 2013. Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband, Fines Lee Bullard, her son, Fines Lee Bullard Jr., her grandson, Garrod Michael Bullard, and her granddaughter, Terra Mae Bullard.

Elizabeth left behind her daughter Molly and husband Richard White of Bakersfield, CA; son Larry Bullard of Maricopa, CA; daughter Barbara and husband Wondel Pierce of Taft, CA; daughter Teresa Bullard of Maricopa, CA; son Terry and wife Bonnie Bullard of Maricopa, CA; son Gary Bullard of Taft, CA; and son Jerry and wife Tracy Bullard of Taft, CA. Twenty-three grandchildren, the apples of her eye, who will deeply miss her infectious smile and warm hugs, fifty-nine great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren who will miss the fight for the number one seat in the house- Grandma’s lap.

Elizabeth, who was most commonly known as Grandma Bullard, was a pillar of strength for her family. Just as much as she knew that Jesus loved her, she showed that same unconditional love to all she met. But you could guarantee she would give it to you straight! Grandma’s favorite pastimes were driving in the car hunting for wildflowers and listening to her country music.

In 1968, her and her husband moved their seven children from Texas to California, eventually settling down in Maricopa. Her own children fondly remember and cherish her daily interactions with each of them, whether it was over the phone or over a cup of coffee at “Grandma’s Round Table”. Each of her grandchildren have their own special memories; singing lullabies, dancing in the living room, and eating homemade ice cream every 5th of July in remembrance of her and Grandpa’s anniversary.

She may not have been a celebrity or a world record holder, but she was everything to this family. You will be so terribly missed, Grandma, but not forgotten. You may have seemed like a small stone but look at the many ripples you’ve caused. Thank you for who you were, because it made each of us who we are today. Till we see you again in paradise.

The family would like to invite all who wish to pay their respects to come join us for Elizabeth’s viewing on Monday, October 7th at Erickson & Brown Funeral Home in Taft from 3:00 to 8:30 pm. Services will be held graveside at Westside District Cemetery on Tuesday, October 8th at 11:00 am.

Psalms 116:8 “For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling…”

October 4 - 10, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

Cafe & Deli Serving Since 1939

WE HAVE ALWAYS STAYED CONSISTENT! 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

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ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

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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

Yates’ Detailing 600 Center Street Taft, California

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

All your detailing needs!

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

Charles V. & Jennifer Landwehr and Angie Milner

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

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

Gateway Temple

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.

Taft First Assembly Your Neighborhood Church 314 Asher Ave

Parish Hall Available for Rent

Join us for our Encounter Service Sundays 10:30 am

First Baptist Church

Where on Earth Are We? A sermon series on Prophesy Pastor Trent Meadors

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

Unlike other funeral homes we have retained • Our Same Name • Our Same Ownership • Our Same Management • Our Same Licensed Staff

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765-6550

Community Christian Fellowship 631 North Street Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Bible Study 9 a.m.

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Clergy The Rev. Heather Mueller 703 5th Street - Taft (661) 765-2378

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

Info call 765-7151

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

10 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Classifieds

Classified Ads are $3.00 per issue for up to three lines, $5 per issue for upAds to 5are lines, and $7line. per Phone, issue forfax, up mail to 10orlines.

Classified $2.00 per dropYard off Sale ads arethe free. fax, mail or drop off your ad to the your ad to TaftPhone, Independent.

Taft Independent.

Ad your photograph for $5. Ad your company logo for $5.

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

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

Classified ads is now Wednesdaysat at 12 2 p.m.

Classified addeadline deadline is Wednesday p.m. (noon) Phone: Phone:765-6550 765-6550 Fax: 765-6556 E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card.

Taft Independent 508byCenter St., Taft, CA 93268 Payment can be made cash, check, or credit card.

Taft Independent 210 6th St., Taft, CA 93268.

YARD SALES

AUTOMOBILES

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.

PETS Missing since last Monday. Last Seen at McDonald’s drive through. $100.

REWARD for safe return. Contact Sandy 763-4871.

Found Dog. Tuesday, Sept. 3rd. Alberson’s Parking Lot. 623-2852, 745-4323.

Yard Sale! Saturday & Sunday all day. 203 Buchanan street, taft, ca. 93268 Yard Sale. Sat. Oct. 5th.

717 Polk St. 7-3. Multifaily.

Yard Sale. Sat. 10-5-13.

Furn. and lots of misc.

312 East Lucard St. Alley entrance.

Hugh moving sale. Sat. 7am- ? 521 Asher Ave. After 22 years, to much stuff to list. Appliances and much more.

Church Estate Sale.

4634 Morales St. New Cuyama Questions Call 805-448-6610. Sat. 9-12.

ANNOUNCEMENTS HELP WANTED SERVICES CHILD CARE SERVICES FOR SALE

Found dog. Female ptbull mix. Found at Franklin Field. Call 7659158.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT ROOMS FOR RENT I have a room for rent. $450 Month. Includes cable, and all utilities.

Sharlene Perry. (661) 577-4552.

HOMES FOR SALE Real Estate eBroker Inc.

By Appointment Karri Christensen LIC# 01522411 & #01333971 661-332-6597 www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase Can’t make payments call me!! I can help direct you to a loan modification or assist you in your short sale!

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 For Sale by Owner. Apr. 1,200 sq. st. Moving conditions. 3 bd. 2 ba.

Oak bunk bed set wit drawers and desk attached. $200 obo.

623-6458

$100,000. 763-3111.

305 “D” St. Charming house. New Kitchen, baths,floors. total remodel. payments cheaper then rent $99,000 Steve 805-570-8760

MOBILE HOMES HOMES FOR RENT West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 www.BuySellManage. com FOR RENT 500 Lucard 1/1 $525 601 4th 2/1 $650 111 Lexington 3/1 $875 709 Kern 3/1 $900 326 E 3/2 $950 110 E San Emdio 2/1 $975 202 E. Woodrow 3/1.75 $1,200 302 E. San Emidio 3/2 + Pool $1,300 100 South Commercial Property/Yard $750

Available on October 1st : 2 bedroom 1 bath home at 328 General Petroleum for $ 700.

3 bedroom 1 bath home at 220 Montview for $ 775.

Applications are available at 318 North St Taft.

Please call Paul Joyce ( Joyce Properties) for an appointment call (661) 769-6469 Please DO NOT Disturb Tenants.

3 bd. 2 ba. living room, family rm, large yard, 303 E. Lucard St. 8629881.

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October 4 - 10, 2013

Ken Shugarts

549-1068

Air Conditioning & Heating

Preserving for the Future

Rentals Real Estate

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2 bd 1 ba. nice locationprivate yard, shade trees, refrig incl. wash dryer hookups.lrg. living room. priv. yard. $695. mo. $1000 dep. Avail now (805) 689-4122.

Murphy King Real Estate

Westside Real Estate 765-5000 1 to 3 Bedrooms Available $550 to $800 per month Westside Real Estate & Property Management Inc. Pick up a list at 322 Kern St (661)765-5000

3bd 1 ba in Dustin Acres $775 mo + dep.

On Taft Hwy in Dustin Acres 319 San Emidio, $750 mo + Dep. 2/1 for $650 mo + dep.

License 01914953 765-5000 Executive 2,000 Sq’ 3+2, all kit appliances + granite c-tops; 2 car gar + RV pkg; w/d hkups; both AC & evap cooler; gardner inc.; $1,650 + dep. 10 Grey Way 763-3517

APART. FOR RENT Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.7657674. 420 Finley Dr. MOVE IN SPECIAL! FIRST MONTH FREE. Based on approved credit. No Application Fee. Pet’s OK. 108 Center Street Apartments. 1 bed room 1 bath.$475 per month.

Plus Sec. Dep. Call (805) 375-1458 or (661) 765-7678.

Writers Wanted At the Taft Independent Experience Required.

Please call 765-6550.

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Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507 30 Plus Years in Construction License No. 927634

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The Great Race Thursday lunch at TUHS stadium Photos by Jim Carnal

Freshmen Keith Taylor and Jesus Leyva go down the water slide in the Great Race.

Sophomore pirates Raven Black and Ruby Stith complete the three-legged part of the Great Race.

Win a Guitar Signed by Members of Korn The Kern County Probation Department Family Relief Fund will be raffling a Ibanez guitar signed by members of the band Korn. Korn recently reunited and is releasing a new album, The Paradigm Shift, on October 8, 2013.

The Kern County Probation Department Family Relief Fund assists employees from across the organization experiencing financial hardship due to tragedies such as natural disasters, critical accidents, serious illnesses, life threatening situations or deaths in the family. In addition to the physical and emotional anguish these situations can cause, they also typically come with unforeseen expenses that can devastate a family under any circumstance. The Family Relief Fund gives Probation employees an opportunity to reach out to their co-workers in times of need and provide assistance to the people they work alongside every day. As the Family Relief Fund grows, we hope to provide additional assistance in the way of scholarships to children of Probation employees. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Family Relief Fund.

The winning ticket will be drawn at the Family Relief Fund Golf Tourney on October 25, 2013, at the Links at Riverlakes. Winner need not be present and will be notified by telephone.

Seniors Austin Pendergrass and Roy Allen celebrate winning one of the legs of The Great Race.

Westside Watcher, Continued from Page 4 a Republican president’s debt ceiling increase, as Senator Barack Obama did. If some future GOP president tries to implement spending restraint, and Democrats insist on a bigger budget or bust, you’ll be amazed how quickly “or bust” becomes a noble stand on principle. Those old enough to remember the 2013 brouhaha will be amazed how quickly bipartisan compromise once again becomes the sworn duty of the President. Republicans who use the kind of rhetoric Obama and Harry Reid are using will be labeled hatemongers so quickly their heads will spin.

Perhaps today’s off-the-rails rhetoric will backfire on Democrats. They spent the weekend running out the clock and refusing to hold a Senate session, leading House Speaker John Boehner to taunt, “Well, my goodness, if there’s such an emergency, where are they?” President Obama played golf.

They might be overplaying their cards, and relying too heavily on the media doing their political fighting for them. Even some people who aren’t on board with Republican strategy are turned off by the assertion that we shouldn’t be discussing our runaway national debut during debt-ceiling negotiations. Shouldn’t we be able to discuss important matters of public policy without hysterical shrieks about hostages and bombs? ObamaCare opponents have been scoring a lot of points, while its defenders refuse to take the field.

Maybe none of that will make a difference in the end, because the shutdown narrative is too powerful, or too many nervous Republicans believe it will doom them. Average people tuning in at the eleventh hour may be unaware of the preliminary theatrics. They tend to regard a shutdown as a sign of official dysfunction; conventional wisdom says they’ll direct their ire at whoever the news anchors say is responsible. Will they remember how the last debt-ceiling showdown ended, how hollow the resulting Budget Control Act turned out to be, and how President Obama is recycling exactly the same talking pointsto manipulate public sentiment again? He would up getting everything he wanted last time, the economy’s still in the tank, and the national debt is still out of control.

My Fixer Upper, by Esther Livingston

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

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Real Estate eBroker Inc.

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www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

12 TAFT INDEPENDENT

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October 4 - 10, 2013

Used to be Paul’s Bike KHS Mountain Bikes and 2014 BMX Bikes Are Here!

608 Center St.

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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

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 •

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

Would you like to REDUCE OR ELIMINATE your STATE INCOME TAX LIABILITY? If you own a business in the Taft area you may be eligible for tax credits up to $37,440 per qualified employee.

There are many advantages and cost savings for businesses in the Taft Enterprise Zone.

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Call today for more information: 661763-1222, Ext. 12

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

Come and Join Us at The Tumbleweed The Tumbleweed Cafe Reservations Recommended for Dinner

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

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

FULL BAR