It's Holiday Season In Taft

Independent The Taft

November 18 - 24, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

www.Taftindependent.com

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

November 18 - 24, 2011 • Volume 6 Issue 21

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

It’s Holiday Season In Taft

The Service Clubs Gathered At The Fort To Donate To The Westside Community Resource Center TUHS Students Of The Month

Vidal Velez Wins Taft Chamber Trout Derby

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

El Jacalito Restaurant

Mexican Food & Seafood

101 B. Street • Taft

(661)763-9890

Lunch Specials

$8.95 11am-3pm includes drink

Lunch specials served daily from 11am to 3pm and includes drink

Dottie Waldrop, Taft Lions Club Tim Crabb, Taft Midway Sunset Lions Club Joe Fuller, Rotary Club of Taft Glenn Black, Kiwanis International of Taft Becky Ashcraft, Soroptimist International of Taft

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

508 Center Street • 765-6550

The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!

Open Monday-Saturday • 9am-2pm 5pm-8pm

Your Holiday Favorites Are All Here!

Peppermint Mocha & White Mocha

Try Them Hot, Iced or Blended

2

Shop Taft

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Passion For Nails Receive 10% Off

Membership Special

$19/mo with 18 month contract New Classes Coming Soon!

Cardio Kickboxing & Abs of Steel

Open 24 Hours!

506 Center Street

(661) 205-5579

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

We can save you money on quality jewelry!

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

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

Any $20 or more service November 21 - December 31 Like Us on Facebook Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

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

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

November 18 - 24, 2011

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

Women • Contemporary • Junior • Toddler • Infant • Men

Rack Sale

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Acme Jewelry be closed on Watchwill Batteries Tuesdays when Ray is in LA. Please call first 763-5451 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Thank You Store Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm Closed Sunday and Monday

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

J & D Recycling 1277 Kern Street

Up to 50% Off! Kick off the holidays with big savings throughout the store!

Lic # B-721903

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

November 21st - 26th Watch for our weekly specials 421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

SAN JOAQUIN Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

10% OFF on ALL Otter Box Cases For different phones, iphone 3 & 4

Layaway available on phones

Replacement Phones for Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile Now authorized dealers Pay your bills here for Boost Mobile Pre Paid Cards prepaid phones

Hablamos Espanol 661-745-4954 610 Center Street

FREE

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

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

29

Plus Tax

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

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

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

Automotive Center

Get Your Car Ready EVERYDAY OIL CHANGES GAS ENGINE $35.99 OR LESS

$199.99

Cooling System Flush

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

A/C Service

Ten Percent Firearms

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

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

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

DIESEL ENGINE $71.99 OR LESS

FALL SPECIALS !

We Can Haul Away Most Large Items Roll Off & Small Bins Available Call Us Today • (661)765-6752 Recycling is OUR Business

Billy Messenger Voted Best Mechanic for 2009 and 2010

531 Center Street • 763-1123

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Brand Clothing Shoes • Jewelry A Hint of Class Name Accessories & More

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

Inside The Historic Fort • 623-1783 Miss Me Jeans 915 N. 10th Street Suite 34

Ugg Boots Ed Hardy Boots Juicy Couture Special Orders Available!

SERVICES

Layaway Available for Christmas!

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

November 18 - 24, 2011

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs.......................3 Westside Watcher............4

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Community Events News Briefs Taft California “Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument” VFW Bingo Every Tuesday Night at 5:30pm The VFW will hold Bingo Night every Tuesday at 6:30pm at 600 Hazelton Street in Maricopa. Doors open at 5:30pm, buy in is $5 a pack, food will be served. Come on out, bring a friend and support our vets!

End of Times Gallery Fall Art Classes

Westside News.................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7

The End of Times Gallery, 428 Center Street, is offering the following Fall classes: Tuesdays - Adult drawing class, 1-2:30pm Wednesdays - Adult Painting Class (acrylics) 1-2:30pm Thursdays - Adult Water Color Class, 1-2:30pm Saturdays - Children’s Art Class, 10-11:30am. Supplies provided for a $3 fee per class.

All classes are $12 per session, $40 per month.

Please call for supply lists. For more information, please call Jane at 661-765-4790 or 661-623-0494.

Community Poetry Slam Friday, November 18th

Community Voices.........8 Classified Ads.................10

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: Editor@taftindependent.com.

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Managing Editor Advertising Jessica Skidgel

On November 18th, at 6:00p.m. the Taft College Literary Magazine Club will be holding a community poetry slam at Black Gold Cafe & Deli. Please arrive by 6:15 to receive people’s choice ballot. (Everyone votes!) Arrive with an original work of poetry or prose. Read for no more than three minutes. Everyone present votes for a favorite piece by secret ballot. The author with the most votes will be published in the Taft Independent. Prizes will be given for second and third place as well. Questions? email sharppieceofawesome@gmail.com.

Grandma’s Attic Preschool Story Time Every Saturday Through Nov. 19th The fall session of Grandma’s Attic Storytime has begun at the Taft Branch Library and will continue every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. through November 19.

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. Preschool Storytime, for 3 to 5 year-olds, takes place weekly on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. Parents are always welcome to attend, or may enjoy some library or computer time while their child is occupied. For more information, call 763-3294 or visit the library at 27 Emmons Park Drive.

Carrisa Plains Women’s Club Holiday Craft & Gift Show Sunday, November 20th The Carrisa Plains Women’s Club will be holding their annual Holiday Craft & Gift Show Sunday, November 20th from 10am to 4pm at the Carrisa Plains Heritage Association Community Center at 10750 Carrisa Hwy 58, Carrisa Plains. There will be door prizes, raffle, homemade baked goods, handmade crafts, specialty gifts, lunch, dessert booth. Come to visit, come to eat, come to brows, come to buy. For booth information call Debbie Twisselman (805)459-9838 or Jani Kasfeldt (805)475-2231 or Gail Traver at (805)475-2285 or (805)674-3780 Christmas at The fort Thursday, December 1st Please join us for Christmas at the Historic Fort Holiday Gift Show and Dinner Thursday evening, December 1st from 5pm to 9pm. Dinner served from 5pm to 8pm, oven roasted beef sandwich with salad and your choice of tea or coffee for $8.

Please RSVP to 765-7371 by November 28th.

Taft Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade Monday, December 5th This year’s Christmas Parade will travel down Center Street on Monday evening, December 5, starting at 7:00PM. A street lighting ceremony begins before the parade at 6:45PM. The chosen theme is Christmas in Red, White, and Blue, and the Chamber plans to give recognition to all veterans who pass by the Judges’ stand. All are invited to participate in the Parade. Entry forms are available at the Chamber, 400 Kern Street, in Taft, and from this newspaper. There is no fee to enter the parade, but proper paperwork must be completed and turned in to the Chamber by Tuesday, November 22.

Layout & Design Jessica Skidgel

The Taft Union High School drama department will present a collection of five 10-minute plays titled, “The Life and Times of the Typical High School Girl,” this weekend Nov. 18-20.

The plays are: “The Boy Book,” by John C. Havens; “Prom” by Katherine Dubois; “Do These Jeans Make My Butt Look Massive?” by Donna Latham; “First Dance” by Nancy Brewka-Clark; Brewka-Clark and, “Trading Schedules”

by Chris Stiles.

Opening night in the high school auditorium is Friday Nov. 18 at 7 p.m. Another evening performance will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday Nov. 19. The final performance, a matinee, will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday Nov. 20.

Drama teacher Kelly Morris is directing the play.

General admission costs $7. Children 3-12, senior citizens, and high school students with an Associated Student Body sticker will be admitted for $5.

TUHS Student Will Perform In Central California Honor Choir Taft Union High School senior Xavier Chavez will sing bass in the mixed choir of the Central California honor choir Saturday, Nov. 19 in Clovis. After two days of rehearsal, the choirs will perform at 3 p.m. in the Clovis North High School Performing Arts Center.

Chavez had to learn an Italian solo, sing some scales and triads, match pitch from memory, and sight-sing in order to qualify for the prestigious event, explained choir director Amanda Locke. Four Taft students auditioned for the regional state honor choir.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to sing with people who really know what they are doing,” Chavez said. After graduation in June, Chavez plans to work for a year in the oil fields them resume his studies at Bakersfield College where he plans to participate in the band and/or choir.

Xavier Chavez

3.0 Earthquake Hit Taft at 8:33p.m Thursday Night The USGS is reporting that a 3.0 magnitude earthquake hit Taft at 8:33 p.m. Thursday night. The quake was centered near the city of Taft, approximately 3 miles East North East from the city. The quake was felt as a strong sharp jolt that could be felt over the entire city. There have been no reports of damage.

Celebrating New Hope Women Enjoy a great evening of browsing

Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost

November 21st 2011 6 p.m.

Columnists Randy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins, Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

Taft Union High School Presents The Life and Times of the Typical High School Girl

www.taftindependent.com

Talented women of New Hope will display many items they have created or to sell. Items may be purchased or ordered during the evening.

Scentsy, Avon and Jockey available

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT

The Taft

Independent

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

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

Asian Experience

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

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

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

Westside Entertainment

Get Your Events in the Westside Entertainment Guide.

Call 765-6550 or fax 765-6556

Your Restaurant Sagebrush Annie’s Listed Here!

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

765-6550!

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

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

215 Center Street 763-1815

Your Restaurant Listed Here!

Call 765-6550!

Starting as low as $12 per week!

Taft Petroleum Club Ribeye Steak or Chicken Dinner from 6pm - 8pm

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL

Every Monday is football at the club with great drink specials and free food.

3 large screen TV’s so you don’t miss the action!

Book Your Christmas Party at the Club!

450 Petroleum Club Road - 763-3268 Open Monday- Friday 4:30pm to Close

Editorial

Westside Watcher

Taft City Council

By Kent Miller Taft City Council Tuesday night confirmed expenses for abating nuisances on 11 properties and placed a lien on each parcel. The abatement costs/liens range from just under $500 for one property to nearly $1,800 for another.

A public hearing was held, but no property owners or representatives appeared to speak.

The council voted 3-to-0 to confirm the expenses, with Councilmembers Paul Linder and Dave Noerr absent.

Bob Hampton Noerr was able to arrive from out-of-town to participate in the final two items on the agenda: an e-mail retention policy and a management compensation plan.

Both passed 4-to-0.

The property owners were given five days to pay the city for the nuisance abatement, or have a lien placed on the property which would have to be paid before a property could change hands.

The properties are: 308 Church St.; 101 Franklin Ave.; 520 and 522 Kern St.; 211 E. Lucard St.; 127, 711 and 716 North St.; and 219, 322 and 401 Woodrow St. Grants backed The council also gave its approval to four grant funding items, including retrofitting of unreinforced masonry structures. All were approved by 3-to-0 votes of Mayor Randy Miller and Councilmembers Orchel Krier and Ron Waldrop. * The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. It will pay 75 percent of the cost for assessment of commercial buildings, mitigation plans and retrofitting of unreinforced masonry structures to meet state codes for seismograph requirements. The building owner would pay the other 25 percent. The grant fund is $2 million. * The Community Development Block Grant Super Notice of Funding Availability for the 2012 programs. The General component of the grant could provide up to $1.5 million for housing rehabilitation, acquisition and development; the Enterprise Fund could provide up to $300,000 for economic development; the

Paik’s

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

November 18 - 24, 2011 PTA grant offers up to $70,000 on both General and Economic Training and Technical Assistance; and the Disaster Recovery Initiative offers funding for multiple applications up to $3 million each. * The Environmental Protection Agency NOFA for the Brownfield’s Clean-Up Grant for clean-up of contaminants, such as petroleum-based products. The maximum amount is $200,000 per site, with a maximum of three sites. The city will apply for a hardship waiver of matching funds. * The Disaster Recovery Initiative Grant Program. It funds Local Hazard Mitigation Plans, housing, economic development and public works projects for counties impacted by wildfires between 2007 and 2011. The city will seek $150,000 to create a plan and up to $3 million to upgrade the wastewater treatment plant.

Economic development Michael Long, president of the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, urged the council to consider reestablishing the Greater Taft Economic Development Authority, which was created more than a decade ago between the city and Kern County.

“The joint powers agreement was created to study, discuss and implement plans, policies and programs to promote and cause the economic growth and development of the city and the county areas of the Westside,” Long said in the public comments portion of the council meeting.

“The authority, in cooperation with the city and the county, can be the perfect tool for local control and management of economic development on the Westside.

“I ask you tonight to consider ... and make the appropriate appointments to begin organizing the authority.”

The authority, which was established on Feb. 10, 1998, had a fivemember board. Two were appointed by the Taft mayor, two by the Kern County Board of Supervisors and one public member was selected by majority vote of the four members.

Long plans to meet soon with Supervisor Ray Watson of the 4th District, which includes the Westside, to discuss the authority, he said.

Other items In other actions, the council approved: * Amending the city code on fee and service charges to reflect changes adopted at its Oct. 4 meeting; * Contracting out trimming of carob trees along Center Street.

The work will be done before the annual Christmas Parade, to be held on Monday, Dec. 5. The trees have not been trimmed in three years. They approved $6,500 for the work. * Closing streets from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 5 for the parade.

Closures are Main Street, from 6th to 10th streets; Center Street, from 2nd to 10th streets; 2nd, 7th and 8th streets, from the alley north of Center to Main; and 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th streets, from the alley north of Center to the alley south of Center. * Spending up to $4,000 to replace two worn and faded “Welcome to Taft” billboards on Highway 33. One is at Petroleum Club Road and one at Cascade Place.

Subscribe for home delivery of the Taft Independent today!

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

Open 7 Days

Name_________________________________

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

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

Address________________________________ Start Date____________End Date__________

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

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

November 18 - 24, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs Taft Union High School Students Taft Chamber of Commerce Trout Derby Winner Of The Month

Front: James Brummett, Christine Wikoff, Allison Urioste and Allison Milner. Back: Joseph Michalski, Diana Diaz-Martinez and David Burleson. Not pictured: Giovanni Cisneros. Photo by Jim Carnal Eight students at Taft Union High Schools have been honored as students of the month for September and October. Students are nominated by staff and selected by Renaissance Committee students. The Renaissance program promotes academics.

Students of the month for October were: seniors David Burleson, junior Giovanni Cisneros, sophomore Diana Diaz-Martinez and freshman Joseph Michalski.

Students of the month for September were: seniors Christine Wikoff and Allison Urioste and sophomore James Brummett and freshman Allison Milner.

Burleson, the No. 3 player on the varsity tennis team, is a hardworking leader in his athletic PE class, according to teacher and coach Jeff Hughes. Burleson also volunteers to coach youth soccer, added guidance center assistant Cathy Fleming, a family friend who nominated him. “David is a great person with a great attitude.

He is always polite and willing to help. He works hard to keep his grades up.” That winning attitude carries over to the classroom.

Teacher Nancy Dyer added, “David is always on top of his game in English: good attendance, homework completed, prepared for the day. He comes prepared to class and always positively contributes to class discussions. I can always count on David to be an active participant, and he has a great sense of humor.”

“Gio (Cisneros) has made tremendous progress since last year,” praised English teacher Lisa Borrecco. “He is respectful, a hard worker, and takes responsibility for his education. He keeps a positive attitude and is always willing to participate. I am extremely proud of him and have high hopes for him in the future.” Counselor Claude Bradford, one of the staff members who nominated Cisneros, agreed, “Gio is a hard-working, goal-driven, young man.

As a junior in the Oil Tech Academy he maintained a 3.14 GPA this last quarter. Gio hopes to attend Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo to study architectural engineering.” Art teacher Bob Peterson added, “Giovanni is a great, young man and a pleasure to work with. He loves to draw and his talent reflects that. He is a natural in my cartoon drawing class because of his great sense of humor. Giovanni is a hard-working, young man and an example to his peers.”

“Diana (Diaz-Martinez) is a very thoughtful, young, lady who treats fellow students with respect and kindness. She has a wonderful work ethic and her future is very bright!” bragged Tom LeClair, her math teacher who nominated her. World history teacher Wes Morris added, “Diana is a very smart student who often answers questions when no one else will. She gets along with everyone and is a real pleasure to have in class.”

“Joseph (Michalski) is a dedicated, hard-working student. He has shown great improvement and diligence,” bragged his algebra teacher Nate Cahoon.

“Joseph is a very quiet kid, but you can tell he has a good heart when you talk to him. He works diligently on his assignments in English and does a great job of actively participating. It has been a pleasure to watch him grow as a student,” praised teacher Anthony Reed. Nominating teacher Karen Hillygus added, “Joseph is conscientious and has a wonderful attitude toward both his peers and school staff. He is a great role model for any student.”

Last weekend the Taft Chamber of Commerce held their annual trout fishing derby with Vidal Velez Jr. as the grand prize winner. Other winners include: 7 and under, 1st: Julien Holguin, 2nd: Grace Siuce, 3rd: Julien Holguin. 8-14 years:1st: Zechariah Rangel, 2nd: Michael Coleman, 3rd: tie: Lyesa Anaya and Alissa Perez. 15 and older: Grand prize: Vidal Velez Jr., 1st: Ryan Lindsey, 2nd: Andrew Van Sickle, 3rd: Rob Ellington.

Vidal Velez Jr.

Former Taft City Councilman Cliff Thompson Arrested For DUI, Hit & Run Former Taft City Councilman Cliff Thompson was arrested early Friday morning by Taft Police for Driving Under the Influence and Hit and Run involving property damage.

An unidentified witness said she observed a truck hit the drive-up post at the Chevron Valley Credit Union on Kern Street at approximately 12:45 a.m.

Friday morning, November 11th.

The witness told police that she observed the vehicle leave the area after the accident.

A truck matching the description of the witness was stopped by police at Cliff Thompson approximately 1:50 a.m. Thompson was identified as the driver.

Thompson was arrested and cited and later released by police.

Thompson, who resigned from the Taft City Council last December after losing reelection to the council, is suing the city and several city councilmen for defamation of character.

Christine Wikoff, ninth in her senior class with a 4.28 gpa and who was just voted “best personality” by her classmates, is “very thoughtful, conscientious, and kind,” her psychology teacher John Usrey said. Wikoff is a teacher’s aide in Paulette Maxwell’s special education class. Maxwell summed up the impression many teachers have of Wikoff: “Christine is every teacher’s dream. My students love her. Christine jumps into every learning activity with ‘happy feet.’ She interacts with my kids with kindness and extreme patience.”

“Allison (Urioste), who was just voted “best smile” by her classmates, handles herself in a mature and consistently positive manner. She has a great sense of humor and tremendous wit. She used to have less than stellar attendance, but when she joined the KTHN class she really turned it around,” praised TV productions teacher Greg Goossen. “She attended the Renaissance national conference this past summer and has become quite a leader in the renaissance class. She has excellent ideas and works very well with all kinds of people. She is a pleasure to be around.” Peterson seconded the appraisal. “Allison is a great, young woman and an extremely talented artist. If you ever get the chance to see her artwork you will be very impressed by her ability and her sense of humor. My wife always asks who I have in class because her kindergarten students are now in high school and Allison was one of her students. Even as a 5-year-old she left a great impression on my wife. Allison embodies the same desires to work hard and be successful as she did as a 5-year-old and it is nice to see our next generation headed in such a positive direction.”

James Brummett isn’t always the “ideal student,” Spanish teacher Sandra Torres admitted.

But “if you get to know the true, young man, you’ll find … he is actually a very kind-hearted, extremely intelligent, young man who is eager to please if he is given a chance and is convinced he can be successful. … He would do anything to help others. He is honest to a fault and has wonderful morals.”

World history teacher John Kopp made a Taft Union High School Auditorium similar assessment. “His energy often has to be corralled, but when you can channel it correctly 1 Wildcat Way, Taft Tickets will be sold at the he helps to invigorate our class discussions. … door before each You find a smart, deep, funny young man with an performance or may be purchased in advance from enormous amount of potential. He is a leader. … cast members and/or at Admission: He hates homework and busywork but he excels the WSRPD Office, 500 $5.00 children (3-12) at tests. I love having him in class!”

Cascade Place in Taft. For $5.00 seniors (60+) “Allison (Milner) has a great sense of humor more information, please $7.00 adults call 763-4246. and a wonderful smile to go with it,” praised www.wsrpd.com agriculture teacher Teresa Taylor. English teacher steph@wsrpd.com Vickie Schooler added, “She is hard-working, listens attentively, is determined, always prepared THE MUSIC MAN is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 for class, follows instructions, and has a positive Phone: 212-541-4694 Fax: 212-397-4684 www.MTIShows.com attitude.”

taftindependent.com

Friday, December 2, 2011 - 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 3, 2011 - 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, December 4, 2011 - 3:00 p.m.

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

November 18 - 24, 2011

Westside News & Business Briefs

Service Clubs Donate to Westside Community Resource Center For Annual Thanksgiving Basket Distribution

On Wednesday, November 16th the five Taft service clubs gathered at The Historic Fort for their annual holiday meeting where they bring canned food items and traditional Thanksgiving dinner items. The five clubs donated the items to the West Side Community Resource Center for their annual distribution of Thanksgiving baskets to local Taft families in need. Distribution takes place next week at the Fort.

Dottie Waldrop, Taft Lions Club Vice President, Tim Crabb, Taft Midway Sunset Lions Club President, Joe Fuller, Taft Rotary Club President, Glenn Black, Kiwanis International of Taft President, Becky Ashcraft, Soroptimist International of Taft Vice President.

OT

Cookhouse & Saloon 205 N. 10th St. (661)763-1819

Specializing in Steak & Seafood

Lunch

Dinner

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

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

CLOSED SUNDAY/MONDAY

(For the week of 11-22-11 thru 11-26-11)

Cold Pastrami Sandwich $8.95

Tues.

11-22-11 Dinner

BBQ Beef Ribs

$11.95

Wed. 11-23-11 Lunch

BBQ Pork Sandwich

$8.95

Wed. 11-23-11 Dinner

Veal Liver with Bacon $11.95

Mexican Food & Seafood

(661)763-9890

Lunch Specials

$8.95 11am-3pm includes drink

Lunch specials served daily from 11am to 3pm and includes drink

Ben’s Books

Thurs.

11-24-11 Lunch

CLOSED

Thurs.

11-24-11 Dinner

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

Fri. 11-25-11 Lunch

CLOSED

Fri. 11-25-11 Dinner

$16.95 Small/ $19.95 Large

Prime Rib

$16.95/ $19.95

Lasagna

$10.95

Sat. 11-26-11 Dinner

El Jacalito Restaurant

101 B. Street • Taft

OT Cookhouse Daily Specials Tues.

11-22-11 Lunch

Visit Our New Website!

Taftindependent.com

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft

CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

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

Christmas is Coming

Ben’s Books will be staying open til 7pm Thursday & Friday Nights During December Come in and look through our large selection of used books!

Gift certificates are available They make great stocking stuffers!

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

Rotarians Offer Health Care Support, Form Foundation to Assist

By Jane McCabe When the West Side Health Care District held its normal business meeting Tuesday evening, four members of the Rotary Club showed up - Councilman Orchel Krier, Ray Hatch, Bob Hampton, and Dr. David Cothrun - to offer the club’s support to the district to improve health care services.

The Rotary Orchel Krier and Joe Fuller listening to Club wants to help the Ray Hatch speak.

WSHCD to expand its health service in Taft.

Taft has several doctors who have offices in the city, and an Urgent Care Facility at 100 E. North Street. Its hours are Mondays through Fridays, from 12 to 9 p.m., Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

There is no pediatrician in town, so families with sick children have to take them to Bakersfield to be treated.

Taft’s hospital closed in 2003 and the Urgent Care Facility was opened the following year. The costs to reopen a hospital are said to be exorbitant.

Bob Hampton of West Side Waste Management has contributed $5,000 towards the establishment of a foundation to address the deficiency. Hampton told the Heath Care District Board meeting that every resident in town contributed two cents towards the $5,000 when paying for garbage removal. Hampton own Westsdie Waste Management.

Rotarians are filing papers for a non-profit corporation so that contributions top the foundation will be tax deductible. An organizational meeting will be setin early 2012.

All of Taft’s service clubs and two members from the WSHCD were urged to participate by Hampton.

Some of the first steps supported by the foundaion would be to have the Urgent Care Facility open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and to bring a pediatrician on staff.

The West Side Health Care District is a special tax-payer supported district whose mission is to provide health care on the Westside.

Send Holiday Cheer with Personalized PORTRAITS THIS CHRISTMAS Book NOW!

Make your sitting Two Weeks before your inteded mail out date.

Spice up your home...

Great Seasonal & Holiday Candles CALL NOW 763-5429

427 Center Street • Since June 1986

www.kcphotographyandframing.com

November 18 - 24, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

The United States Postal Service Announces 2011 Holiday Mail-By Dates

As the “Official Shipper of the Holidays,” the United States Postal Service today released the suggested mail-by dates to ensure packages, cards, and letters reach their intended destination before the 2011 celebrations begin.

Dates are provided as a guide for dropping holiday wishes into the mail. Customers who use the United States Postal Service as their “Official Shipper of the Holidays” can trust the Postal Service will provide reliable, trusted and secure delivery at home or abroad.

Postmarking for domestic mail — mailed from and delivered within the U.S. — and international mail destined for overseas should occur by:

Domestic Mail Product

Mail-By Date

First-Class Mail

Dec. 20

Priority Mail

Dec. 21

Express Mail

Dec. 22

Parcel Post

Dec. 15

DNDC Drop Ship

Dec. 19

DDU Drop Ship

Dec. 22

International Mail Addressed To

Global Express Express Priority Mail FirstGuaranteed Mail International Class Mail (GXG) 1 International (PMI)3 (EMS)2

Africa

Dec. 20

Dec 10

Dec. 2

Dec. 2

Asia/Pacific Rim

Dec. 19

Dec 15

Dec. 9

Dec. 9

Australia/New Zealand

Dec. 19

Dec 15

Dec. 9

Dec. 9

Canada

Dec. 21

Dec 16

Dec. 12

Dec. 9

Caribbean

Dec 20

Dec. 15

Dec. 12

Dec. 9

Central & South America

Dec 20

Dec. 10

Dec. 2

Dec. 2

Mexico

Dec. 21

Dec. 15

Dec. 9

Dec. 9

Europe

Dec. 20

Dec. 15

Dec. 12

Dec. 9

Middle East

Dec. 20

Dec. 15

Dec. 12

Dec. 9

1) Cutoff date does not take into account time needed for customs clearance. 2) Should allocate extra transit day(s) for delivery outside major cities. 3) Last day to ship to Afghanistan is Dec 19 and Iraq is Dec 16.

“We suggest holiday shippers both in and outside the country use one of our Priority Mail products to send gifts and good wishes,” said Gary Reblin, vice president Domestic Products. “The Priority Mail Flat Rate boxes come in a variety of sizes and are always free.

Remember — ‘if it fits it ships’ for a low flat rate.”

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Puss In Boots Movie Review

By Jane McCabe

With scant information I spin scenarios around the lives of celebrities fed by small bits of information, a look on the cover of the National Enquirer perhaps. Marc Anthony was not the right husband for Jennifer Lopez, he was too controlling and not very handsome, no wonder she left him. Angelina Jolie is a man-eater, Brad got more than what he bargained for when he hooked up with her! And so on…

My scenario about Melanie Griffith and her husband, the wonderful Antonio Banderas, currently starring in the latest animated version of Puss in Boots, is that in spite of being a skilled actress in her own right, she lives in constant fear of losing him, sort of the way a homely milquetoast of a man might feel married to the most beautiful woman in the world.

For Antonio Banderas is a man who has it all, looks, charm, talent and good-heartedness. What woman wouldn’t want to have him grace her château?

He’s absolutely PERFECT in the role of Puss, and Salma Hayak is almost as perfect in the role of Miss Soft Paws.

I attended a Saturday matinee of the film. When I entered the auditorium I saw that it was already full of parents, grandparents and children. The little girl in the seat next to the one I took waved shyly at me as I sat down. I mention this because I later wondered what the children in the audience made of the film.

It was mélange, a Hodgepodge, of story bits taken from classical children literature, let me see. Besides Puss, there were Humpty Dumpty, Jack and the Beanstalk, The Goose Who Laid the Golden Egg, Mother Goose and perhaps some references which I missed.

Adults might know the references but children today may not.

Little remains of the original Puss in Boots story but Puss’s adorable swagger. From Wikipedia: “The tale opens with the third and youngest son of a miller receiving his inheritance, a cat. At first, the youngest son laments, as the eldest brother gains the mill, and the middle brother attains the mules. The feline is no ordinary cat, however, but one who requests and receives a pair of boots.

Determined to make his master’s fortune, the cat bags a rabbit in the forest and presents it to the king as a gift from his master. The cat continues making gifts of game to the king for several months.

One day, knowing the king and his daughter are traveling by coach along the riverside, the cat persuades his master to remove his clothes and enter the river. The cat disposes of his master’s clothing beneath a rock. As the royal coach nears, the cat begins calling for help in great distress, and, when the king stops to investigate, the cat tells him that his master, the Marquis, has been bathing in the river and robbed of his clothing. The king has the young man brought from the river, dressed in a splendid suit of clothes, and seated in the coach with his daughter, who falls in love with him at once…”

I fail to see why Dreamworks didn’t incorporate more of the original story into its movie. This movie was the usual confusing mix of heroines escaping doom that seem to characterize modern animation films. All of this was further complicated by the character of Humpty Dumpty, who in is cast as Puss’s sometimes best friend and sometimes worst enemy. I think children if given a choice prefer characters they can more readily identify as good or bad.

I think I’ve figured out something about modern animation movies: They film the characters playing in their roles, and then they fashion the animation after their real facial expressions and Continued on Page 8

Rachel’s Facials And Body Waxing

Refreshing skin treatments and smoothing wax services

All New Clients Receive 1/2 Off Any Service Book Your Appointment Today!

Gift Certificates Available Together with Trends 303 Gardner Field Road • 717-0310

It’s Not Too Early...

To get everything on your list 14K • Black Hills • Tungsten Sterling Silver • Jewelry Wax Melters • Candles Reed Diffuser & More

Large selection of gear moving clocks, spyderco knives & kershaw knives.

Free Parking No Fog, Free Gift Wrap

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

J e w e l r y

426 Center Street 763-5451

HAYDENS HOPEThrift Store Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Half Off Almost Everything Watch Batteries Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

November 19th - November 22nd 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

We Are Moving!

Closed Nov. 23rd - Nov. 30th Reopen Dec.1st at 420 1/2 Center Street

God Bless!

661-763-1110 522 Center Street Find us on Facebook

Together we can help keep our Teens in Taft off the streets.

Christmas Trees!

Corner of 10th & Center (Sno White drive-in)

Opening November 25th

Douglas & Noble Fir A Taft Midway Sunset Lions Club Fundraiser Taft’s Newest Service Club 90% of net proceeds for charities & scholarships 10% for administrative

8

Community Voices

TAFT INDEPENDENT

The Pilgrim’s Failed Socialist Experiment

By Dr. Harold Pease Few realize that New England’s first form of government under the Pilgrims was communalism (socialism) where “each produced according to his ability and each received according to his needs,” more than two centuries before Karl Marx first penned the above script. The result of “share the wealth” then and now was, and always will be, shared poverty.

William Bradford, the colony’s governor its first 30 years, wrote of the agreement between the Pilgrim passengers and the financial “Adventurers” in his book Of Plymouth Plantation.

He noted that the seven-year contract signed July 1, 1620, before leaving Plymouth England, stipulated that the Pilgrims were to pool, for common benefit, “all profits and benefits that are got by trade, traffic, trucking, working, fishing, or any other means of any person or persons…”

It further noted “that at the end of the seven years, the capital and profits, viz. the houses, lands, goods and chattels, be equally divided betwixt the Adventurers and Planters...” During this time the colonists were to “have their meat, drink, apparel, and all provisions out of the common stock and goods of the said colony.” It doesn’t get more socialistic than this because the government divvied out the goods and loafers received the same as those who worked.

The first two years the result was shortages and starvation. About half the colonists died. No one did more than the minimal because the incentive to excel was destroyed. The industrious were neutralized. Bradford wrote of the scarcity of food “no supply was heard of, neither knew they when they might expect any.” The socialist experiment Bradford added, “was found to breed much confusion and discontent and retard much employment that would have been to the benefit and comfort. For the young men, that were most able and fit for labour and service, did repine that they should spend their time and strength to work for other men’s wives and children without any recompense….” In other words, socialism made strong men lazy. In another book written by the same author, History of Plymouth Plantation, Bradford spoke of another problem because of the government created famine—thievery. Even in this Christian community, “much was stolen both by night and day….”

After two years of such, with the survival of the colony at stake, they contemplated upon “how they might raise as much corn as they could, and obtain a better crop than they had done, that they might not still thus languish in misery.”

They opted to abandon the incentive killing socialist contract in favor of the free market. And so they “assigned to every family a parcel of land, according to the proportion of their number, for that end…”

The effects were almost immediate. A delighted Governor Bradford wrote: “This had very good success, for it made all hands very industrious, so as much more corn was planted than otherwise would have been by any means the Governor… could use, and saved him a great deal of trouble, and gave far better content. The women now went willingly into the field, and took their little ones with them to set corn; which before would allege weakness and inability; whom to have compelled would have been thought great tyranny and oppression.” In other words, the free market is a much greater stimulus than governmental force. The Pilgrims now wished to work because they got to keep the benefits of their labor.

“Instead of famine now God gave them plenty,” Bradford wrote, “and the face of things was changed, to the rejoicing of the hearts of many, for which they blessed God…. Any general want or famine hath not been amongst them since to this day.”

Secure property rights are the key to prosperity for all who wish to work. When this right is threatened by confiscatory taxation or outright confiscation of property, or by excessive government rules and regulations governing such, whether planned as in a contract enforced by the government at Plymouth, or gradual as in our day, work and production slow and can eventually stop. The answer for them was to extract socialism from their midst as it is for us today as well. May we have the wisdom to do so?

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.

Veterans Speak At TUHS Movie Review Continued from Page 7

Photo by Jim Carnal Veterans Ron White, Brian Marker, Gary Morris, Sigi Cruz and Doug Taylor were honored at an all-school rally at Taft High on Thursday 11-10-11. White has a grandchild attending the school while Marker has a child attending TUHS. Morris is the manager of maintenance, operations and transportation. Cruz and Taylor are math teachers.

gestures.

Whatever the children thought, I didn’t hear a peep from any of them during the entire length of the film, nearly 90 minutes.

In spite of lacking in originality, the animation was superb! The character of Puss was an utter delight. His and Miss Soft Paws’ amorous frolicking and dancing were enough to lift one’s heart and set one’s toes a tappin’.

Every once in a while one of the characters would utter a line that made me laugh, like when Miss Soft Paws observes the chick who has just laid a golden egg and says, “It must hurt when he poops.”

I left the theater feeling a bit empty but then I’m not a kid any more.

November 18 - 24, 2011

From The Mayor Hi Everyone, How was your Veterans Day last week ?? Did your employer give you the day off ?? Were you able to take a three day trip somewhere ?? Did you get with family and friends for a barbeque or other activity ?? Did you seek out and try to thank a veteran for their service to you and this country, that they preserved your rights to freedom, security and the right to worship, speak, and read whatever you want ?? Hopefully you did. We are losing WWII Veterans at the rate of over a thousand a day. The greatest generation is now passing on. All my adult family members are all gone now and that includes those that were veterans. Korean and Vietnam veterans are getting up there too. Veterans are hard to detect because they mostly don’t go around advertising the fact they are a veteran unless they are wearing a ball cap or a garment with a military insignia on them. They went into the service did their duty that was asked of them, proudly and with honor, and then came back home and assimilated back into society with little fanfare. It is a unique sister/brotherhood of people from all walks of life who share a common bond that is like no other.

On Veterans Day on Nov. 11th, the City of Taft rededicated its Veterans Park Memorial to those that were killed in action in the last four wars. Gratefully there are no names on the walls from our recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. There are over 110 names on those plaques that have been thoroughly researched for spelling and inclusion. Twenty-five years ago, I went to the Vietnam Wall in Washington DC and scratched on to paper the names of 14 veterans that I knew of that were from the Westside. I thought that was it. After my involvement with the Kern Veterans Memorial Foundation, I found out there are actually twenty names from the Westside who lost their lives. We now have a complete list of names on all four plaques.

As I attended the dedication ceremony and was able to make some comments as your Mayor, I was reminded that my name could have been on the Vietnam era plaque. I was wounded while on a river patrol in Vietnam and except for the fortunes of war and good luck that my shrapnel wound in my neck was not a 1/2 inch to the side, I survived. One of my best friends whose name is on the Vietnam plaque, who was killed on an Army patrol while on point, did not.

My childhood friend who joined the Navy with me and we went to boot camp together, died in a auto accident during the Vietnam war era; his name is not on the plaque. It took me a long time to get over their deaths because between the time of their passing and my being wounded all happened within 6 months. I am grateful to have known them both and had them as a part of my life but I miss them terribly.

Please when you have a moment or two, go by the Veterans Park next to City Hall and see what our wonderful maintenance crews have given this community to enjoy for years to come. Because of your generous donations to the Kern Vets Foundation fund drive back in May, we were able to use the excess funds to refurbish and place new plaques on the four standing walls of valor. New bench seating and a beautiful new planter and tree and stamped concrete grace the memorial. It allows you pause to give thanks to those veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice for all of us.

One of the impressive new items to the memorial is the new flagpole. City staff went the extra mile to purchase a really fine flag pole that lights the flag at night.

It really completes the memorial. That same day, I hoped you noticed flags out in front of about 35 businesses around town. These flag poles were provided to the merchants for a fee of $50 per year by the Kiwanis Club of Taft for at least the 4 major holidays where we put up flags. They drilled holes in the curb and put in a plug. On flag days, they will come to the merchants curb, remove the plug, put the metal flag pole up, and then come back at dusk and take the flags down and store them for the next presentation. It is a great community project. Wouldn’t it be great to see all the merchants participate and have flags lined up down our busy thoroughfares to show our community pride ?? I hope the merchants that are not participating will take a second look and support this project. By the way, do you have an American flag to fly at your residence ?? They are very reasonable and you can get a kit to fly it from your fascia board or your porch posts. Look at the label and try to buy the flags that are made in America. I have a flag pole next to my rear fence facing the Rails to Trails. It is lighted at night and it flies with my neighbors Julie and Frank Graves’ American flag, who have a lighted pole in their back yard. Who doesn’t appreciate the sight of Old Glory flying in the breeze ??

Think about our service people who are currently serving and when you see them in uniform, shake their hand if you can or a simple thumbs up salute will do and say thanks. You don’t know how much they will appreciate the fact that a stranger cares about them and what they are doing. To really understand about military pride, accomplishment, and teamwork, there is a football game I always look forward to each year and I mean no disrespect but: GO NAVY, BEAT ARMY !!!!

Randy Miller Your Proud but Humble Mayor

November 18 - 24, 2011

MARICOPA QUILT COMPANY

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Taft Crude

Coffee House The Only Mortuary On The West Side Where All Arrangements And Funerals Are Personally Directed By

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

Licensed Funeral Directors

501 Lucard St., Taft • 765-4111 Fat Free and Sugar Free Available in Most Flavors Open 7 Days - 763-5156 1010 6th Street • Taft

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

Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 4:30 pm. www.sagebrushannies.com

Now Celebrating Our 22nd Year

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

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich Miller

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

Yates’ Detailing 600 Center Street Taft, California

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

All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

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

YOUR CHURCH AD HERE! CALL TODAY! 765-6550 Advertise With The Taft Independent Call Today!

Visit Our New Website! www.taftindependent.com

FD756 FDR50 FDR595 FDR618

Ice Blended Mocha

765-6550

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 487-2416 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

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH Sunday Services 10am UTURN Youth Service Sunday 6pm 1000 6th St. Weekly Classes Mon - Thurs Please call 765-7472 for info For a ride to church call 765-7472 before 9am on Sunday

Pastors Shannon N. and Shannon L. Kelley

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

www.nlctaft.org or nlctaft@bak.rr.com

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 Angel Food Program Tues. 9am - 12pm Thurs. 3pm - 6pm

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUP

Ford City Tuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of Taft Wednesday

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

Call Office at 763-5135

All green waste must be bagged.

Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

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

10

TAFT INDEPENDENT For Rent

Classifieds

220 Montview 3 bed 1 bath.

Fenced yard. Granite counter tops $795.

Paul Joyce 805-218-1686 Joyce Properties 661-765-6300

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

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

Taft your Independent.

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

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

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

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

Phone: 765-6550

Preserving for the Future

Phone: 765-6550

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

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

Taft Independent210 508 St., CA 93268

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

Wednesday.

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.

For problems with Alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous. 765-4016 or 763-3856.

Business Services Yard Sale Sat 109 Naylor Ave. 8:30am4pm. Clothes, dishes, electronics.

COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services

Estate Sale Sat., Nov 19th 7:30am-noon 334 Parkview Circle.

Christmas and Craft items.

436 Phillippine St. Sat & Sun. Queen mattress, fridge, floor buffer, fireplace, misc.

ANNOUNCEMENTS Taft House Sober Living. Beds available. $450 per month. 661 623-5188.

Are you a widow? Do you wonder what on earth am I here for?

Widows meet twice a month on Tuesday 10 a.m. at the Buena Vista Mobile Home Club House. If interested, call June Selby 763-4845.

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.

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

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

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

For Sale FOR SALE Pickers Buy & Sell 428 Center Street Hours 1-5pm Tues-Fri Table with 5 padded chairs $100 obo 619-1057

Computer Repair Graphic Arts Web Design Virus Removal 661-623-5188 YARD SERVICES John’s Yard Service.

Basic Yard Care and Tree Trimming. 762-7292 or 839-7640.

Employment HELP WANTED The Taft Indepenent is looking for a part-time individual to solicit subscriptions and make weekly home and business deliveries. CDL and Insurance Required.

Experience Preferred.

Incentive Based Compensation.

Call 765-6550

TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT Handy man wanted $15/ hour. Must have experience in installing; floor and tub tiles, cabinet Lavy sink, new doors and window replacement. Call cell phone (626)485-7852 ask for Veronica.

BUSINESS FOR SALE

AUTOMOBILES

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS PETS LIVESTOCK LOST PETS Lost in Taft Heights 14 yr old female teacup poodle, red/brown, deaf, blind with cancer.

Please call 623-2218

Real Estate PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

CRIME FREE HOUSING Brokers Licence 01417057 661-577-7136

FOR SALE Established local Taft business. Taft Crude Coffee House and Deli.

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

Good family business.

Call 661-623-4296.

HOMES FOR SALE Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street Karri Christensen LIC# 01522411 & #01333971 661-332-6597 www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase Commercial: 330 California (old post office) Maricopa 616 Poso,(restaurant & dry good w/ beer & wine license)Maricopa Residential 417 Tyler $60K 3bed/ 2 bath 415 Buchanan St $35,500 cash only Can’t make payments call me!!

Wondering how buying a house works? Set an appointment with Karri to watch a FREE video on the process.

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

MOBILE HOMES 90’s mobile home. 3 bd.

2 ba. full appliances, fully carpeted, Central heatt and a/c. 123 N. 10th St. Sp. 36. 623-1281.

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

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 406 Philippine 2/1 $650 601 4th 2/1 $650 605 4th 2/1.75 $750 205 W Ash A,C & D 2/1.5 $700

602 Elkhorn 3/1.75 $850 617 Buchanan 3/1 $850 FOR SALE Why rent when you can buy for almost half the cost?!

Complete list of homes for Sale and Rent available!

4 bd 2 ba. house on corner lot. Built in pool, covered RV parking, firepl., living rm, dining rm,tile thoughout kitch. and bath. Bonus storgage rm. plus lots of storage sp. outside! $1350 mo. $1350 dep.

Avail Nov. 18. Call Tina 623-1670.

3bd 1 ba. $850 Mo. plus dep. 661 623-5188.

523 Naylor St. 3 bd/2ba $1,100 mo + dep.

408 Jackson St. 3bd/1ba $950 mo + dep.

1bd 1 ba. house. 116 Pierce St. $600 mo.+ dep. (661)343-0507.

3bd/2ba newer home lrg lot, emaculent cond. 2 car garage, AC $1,200 mo + dep 661-577-2158 1bd/1ba garage, alley entrance $550 mo + dep. 661-477-9636

APART. FOR RENT MCKITTRICK. 3/2 Apt. Newly furn.$650 mo.

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

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.7657674. 420 Finley Dr. Courtyard Terrace Apts. 1 and 2 bdrm’s Pool,lndry rm.,1210 4th St. Apt. 1. Sec. 8 OK. (661) 763-1333. $350 Move In Special.

108 Center Street.

1bd/1ba (661)765-7678.

1 bd. 1 ba. apt. 709 North St. No. B. $475 plus dep. Credit Chk. Leora 661-302-1333.

PUBLIC NOTICE Michael Long, Publisher The Taft Independent 508 Center Street Taft, CA 93268 SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STET OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF KERN IN THE MATTER OF THE

November 18 - 24, 2011

Business Services Rite Away Carpet Cleaning Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General Cleaning Owner Operated Visa\Master Card 765-4191 PETITION OF MICHAEL LONG TO HAVE THE STANDING OF THE TAFT INDEPENDENT AS A NEWSPAPER OF GENERAL CIRCULATION ASCERTAINED AND ESTABLISHED. CASE NO: S-1500CV-274771 NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR ORDER DECLARING STATUS OF NEWSPAPER AS ONE OF GENERAL CIRCULATION (GOV. CODE 6021) Notice is hereby given that, on January 18, 2012, at 8:30am, or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in Department 14 of this court, located at 1415 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, California, petitioner intends to apply for an order declaring the newspaper known as The Taft Independent to be a newspaper of general circulation for Taft, California.

DATED: SEPTEMBER 23-2011 Petitioner Michael Long, Publisher The Taft Independent 508 Center Street Taft, CA 93268 _________________ Michael Long, Publisher That Taft Independent 508 Center Street Taft, CA 93268 SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STET OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF KERN IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION OF MICHAEL LONG TO HAVE THE STANDING OF THE TAFT INDEPENDENT AS A NEWSPAPER OF GENERAL CIRCULATION ASCERTAINED AND ESTABLISHED. CASE NO: S-1500CV-274771 PETITION TO ASCERTAIN AND ESTABLISH STANDING AS NEWSPAPER OF GENERAL CIRCULATION (GOV. CODE 6008, 6020) Petitioner, Michael Long, alleges: 1. Petitioner is the publisher of the newspaper known as The Taft Independent, hereafter referred to as “the newspaper.”

2. The newspaper is a newspaper of general circulation published for the dissemination of local news and intelligence of a general character in Taft, California. The business address of the newspaper is 508 Center Street, Taft, California.

3. The newspaper has a bona fide subscription

Ken Shugarts

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

Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase list of paying subscribers, numbering 536, and a substantial distribution to paying subscribers, numbering 346, within the City of Taft, California.

4. For more than three years preceding the filing of this petition, the newspaper has been established under the name of The Taft Independent, and has been so established and published, that is, issued and sold or distributed regularly every Friday in Taft, Californai.

5. During each year of the three-year period preceding the filing of this petition, the newspaper has maintained a minimum coverage of local news and intelligence of a general character of not less than twentyfive percent of its total inches; it has had only one principal office of publication, located in Taft, California.

WHEREFORE, petitioner prays for judgment ascertaining and establishing the Taft Independent as a newspaper of general circulation, as defined in Section 6008 of the Government Code, for the City of Taft, County of Kern, California.

Dated this September 23, 2011 Petitioner Michael Long, Publisher The Taft Independent 508 Center Street Taft, CA 93268 I, Michael Long, am the petitioner in the aboveentitled proceeding. I have read the foregoing petition and know the contents thereof. The same is true of my own knowledge, except as to those matters which are therein alleged on information and belief, and as to those matters, I believe it to be true.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

September 23, 2011, Taft, California.

Signed Michael Long

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

G and F Footwear

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

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

Passion For Nails 1014 6th Street

Mon. to Fri. 10am-7pm Sat. 9am-6pm (661)745-4913

Miller’s

Beauty Supply Beauty Supply Salon Boutique 510 Center Street (661)763-5445

Get It Rented!!

Place Your Ad for $2 Per Line!

Call Today (661)765-6550

November 18 - 24, 2011

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Used to be Paul’s Bike Shop

2012 Bikes are Arriving NOW!

745-4919 Qik Smog & Tune

608 Center St.

ANNOUNCEMENTS SERVICES

Devon’s Body Shop

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

Precision Bodyworks & Towing

We take the DENTS out of ACCIDENTS

(661)763-4445

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

Phone (661)763-4420

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

FAX (661)763-1389

Certified C.A.P. Station General Automotive Repairs

Cell (661)577-6785

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

317 Main Street • Taft

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

western shop & PET SUPPLY

Great Pets!

Just In Time For Christmas!

Mountain Horned Lizzard Bearded Dragon • Water Dragon Lavender Corn Snaked Pueblan Milksnake • Baby Red Tail Boas

With everything to keep your pets Warm and Healthy

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Shaw’s Pet Wash

www.shawswesternshop.com

Christmas Special With Dog or Cat Full Groom

Receive 20% Off

Any new collar, sweater or jacket for your pet!

Thru December we will do a flea dip or shampoo Only $11.00 small dog $15.00 med dog $20.00 large dog $30.00 giant dog

This does not include shampoos, drying, brushing, or nails. It is always best to follow up with a flea spot on to prevent reinfestation.

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

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

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

We Cater Your Place or Ours Full Bar Available For You Special Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner - Full Bar - Catering - RV Parking Available Event 24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655

Open 7 Days a Week

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

FALL SAVINGS! GM Certified Service Department

12

TAFT INDEPENDENT

ce i v r e S We nd a s e k All Ma els!

Mod

November 18 - 24, 2011

We G uaran All Re t pairs ee !

Shop Local • Save Local • Support Taft www.shoptaft247.com

A/C Service Transmission Service Fuel Injection Service Tire Balance & Rotation

Tune Up Service Oil Change Radiator Service Computerized Wheel Alignment

Ask for our complimentary wash and multi point inspection with every oil change service!

. r J r e l l Joe Fu

Truck Load of Tires Sale Huge Inventory of Tires for all Kinds of Trucks and Cars!

TAFT Chevrolet Buick

Joe Fuller Jr. Has Joined The Team At Taft Chevrolet!

AN AMERICAN R VOLUTION

661-763-4201

501 North Street Taft, CA 93268