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Independent The Taft

December 29 - 4, 2016

The Taft Independent

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Publisher@Taftindependent.com

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December 29 - 4 2016 • Volume 10 Issue 26

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

Mexican and Seafood Taqueria Open 7 Days a Week 7 am to Midnight - 7 Days a Week

SPECIAL Menudo y Birria $7.95 Saturday and Sunday

DAILY SPECIAL! 20 Tacos for $20.00 330 Kern Street Corner of 4th and Kern Street 745-4898

Qik Smog & Tune No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

Safety Inspection Professional Service Experienced Mechanics Basic Tune-up to Major Overhaul • 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

Maricopa Police Department

Making the Holiday Season Special, Reducing Crime and Improving Traffic Safety

HAPPY NEW YEAR

N o w S e l l i n g Te c h I n s p e c t e d a n d S m o g g e d Q u a l i t y Us e d C a r s

Merced Moreno - Licensed Bonded Serving Taft and the Westside (661) 345-7350

Monarch Fleet Services and Automotive Open Monday - Friday 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm

217 Center Street (661) 765-2886 www.monarchfsa.com

Financing Available - Buy Here-Pay Here Available

The Taft Independent

2

December 29 - 4, 2016

Shop Taft - Support Local Businesses Personal Style

Salon and Boutique

JUMPER CHISPITA (661) 313-0726

All NEW! Inventory In Stock.

Your Business Ad Here!

Shop Taft for Your Holiday Gifts 423 Center (661)763-3527

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

We rent tables, chairs, bounce houses, waterslides, table cloths and chair covers

www.chispitajumpers.es.tl

A Hint of Class Bakery

Fresh Pies Baked Daily Cakes and More Now Serving Frozen Yogurt

765-6550

Armstrong Locksmithing Fast Friendly Mobile Lock and Key Service

Commercial - Residential - Automotive & More Professional Key Duplication & Code Generation

(661) 348-7884 LOC. # 6214

420 Center Street 623-1783

Ten Percent Firearms 1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Galvan’s Upholstery 661-313-0726

Adam Dayton Lic. No. 983535 (661) 809-3919

Over 25 Years Experience Pick-up and Delivery Free Estimates Sofas - Love Seats - Sectional - Dining Room Chairs Bar Stools - Restaurant Booths - Headboards Ottomans - Automobiles\Airplanes - Motorcycle Seats

207 Harrison St., Taft, CA.

December 29 - 4, 2016

Events Inside

The Taft Independent

Taft Business of the Week T’s Taxi

Shop Taft..........................2

By Gardener Field Calendar...........................3

Taft Calendar

3

by Andreas Fault Johnny Go and the Redliners “Krampus Special” in Concert at The Bank Sports Lounge this Friday at 9pm. No Cover Charge.

Come early for dinner and drinks. No Christmas music, no ugly sweaters (unless you just wear ugly sweaters), no eggnog or yule tide. Just music, good times, and good folks. Come party.

Saturday- New Years Eve Party’s at The Bank, Art’s Corner, Oasis, and The Moose Lodge.

New Years Eve Dinner at the Tumbleweed from 5-9pm. 16oz Ribeye Dinner for $21.99 Art’s Corner “80’s Party,” starts at 7pm.

Roaring 20’s News Years Eve Party at the Oasis from 8pm-2am.

Sunday- New Years Day Brunch at the Oasis from 7am-2pm.

Tuesday- Donate Blood at the Taft Chamber from 12-6pm.

Wednesday- Taft College Women’s Basketball vs. Reedley at Home at 5pm.

Taft Industry Night at the Taft Petroleum Club. Tickets only $15, dinner at 7:30.

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

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

Liberty Under Fire........8

Classified Ads.................10

Save the Date for these Future EventsShop Taft........................11

TAFT BUSINESS OF THE WEEK- T’s Taxi. They are open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. T’s will get you where you need to go safely. It is owned by great Taft Residents Mike and Nicole Jackson. Don’t drink and drive, call T’s Taxi at 661 770-6231.

The Taft Independent

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGS

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

Tuesday, January 3rd, 2016 – 6:00 p.m.

CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER 209 EAST KERN STREET, TAFT, CA (661) 763-1222

Email: Publisher@taftindependent.com Website: www.TaftIndependent.com Facebook: Taft Independent 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.

AGENDA POSTED ON BULLETIN BOARD OUTSIDE CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS AND POSTED AT THE CITY OF TAFT WEB SITE www.cityoftaft.org TELEVISED ON BRIGHT HOUSE CABLE CHANNEL 11: Wednesday 8 p.m.

Thursday 10 a.m. 8 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m.

The Taft Independent is seeking Experienced Writers

We welcome contributions and suggestions.

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

News and Feature Writers

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. Email your letter to: Publisher@taftindependent.com.

Experience Required.

Contact The Taft Independent Send Bio or Resume to Publisher@taftindependent.com

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long Publisher@taftindependent.com Advertising Publisher@taftindependent.com Contributing Writers Stephanie House, Jerry Livingston Wesley Morris, Maureen Webb Andreas Fault, William R. Taft Columnists Randy Miller Dr. Harold Pease, Steven J. McDaniels Ray Hatch, Brenda Collins Newspaper Delivery Tim Webb

West Side Urgent Family Health Care Dr. Timothy Lee, Board Certified Pediatrician Taking appointments for children under the age of 18 Monday thru Friday 1:00pm – 5:00pm 765-1935

January 6th: 1st Friday Cruise Night on Center Street at 6pm.

January 10th: Taft High Boys Basketball vs. BCHS at Home at 4, 5:15, and 6:30pm.

Taft High Girls Soccer at Taft High at 6pm.

January 12th: Chamber Mixer at The Taft College Independent Living at 29 Cougar Ct. at 5pm.

January 13th: Taft High Girls Basketball at Home vs. Arvin at 4, 5:15, and 6:30pm.

January 18th: Line Dancing at The Bank Sports Lounge at 6pm.

January 19th: Taft High Girls Basketball at Home vs. Wasco at 4, 5:15, and 6:30pm.

January 21st: Taft College Triple Play Dinner.

January 28th: 4th Saturday Car Show in Popeyes Parking Lot at 7pm.

February 4th: West Side Rec Father/Daughter Dance. Tickets on sale at the Rec. February 9th: Taft Chamber Installation and Community Awards.

March 25th: 2017 Wildcat Track Invitational April 22nd: Taft High Leon Patterson 2nd Annual Invitational Track Meet.

1st Friday Cruise Night is next Friday, January 6th. It starts at 6pm on Center Street. Cruise, check out Hot Rods, Shop, eat, drink, see a movie, see friends. Last months 1st Friday Christmas Cruise Night was great, lets do it again.

It pays to advertise in The Taft Independent Taft’s Locally Owned Newspaper.

Our Readers do not pay to see your ad.

Call 765-6550 Today!

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4

Editorial 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

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

Black Gold Brewing Co. American and Asian Food Burgers Pasta Thai Food Espresso - Beer - Wine Craft Beers Open Monday to Saturday 7am to 2pm 5pm to Close Sunday 7am to 12pm 508 Center Street 765-6556

Sagebrush Annie’s Wine Tasting Room 300 Gold Medals for our Wines Call for Reservations 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa (661) 766-2319

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM

Week of Friday, December 30, 2016 through Thursday, January 05, 2017 Passengers (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 6:30, 8:50 Sun: 3:30, 6:25 Mon - Thu: 6:25 PM Sing (PG) Fri & Sat: 6:20, 8:35 Sun: 3:15, 6:15 Mon - Thu: 6:15 PM Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 6:10, 8:50 Sun: 3:00, 6:00 Mon - Thu: 6:00 PM

Paik’s

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

Open 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Wed., Thurs & Fri. 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Westside Watcher

I Can’t Drive 55!

The Passing Lanes on Taft Highway have been extended.

They did a good job and they should be totally finished soon. As nice as they are we all have to remember it is Taft Highway, not Famoso Raceway. Rather you are driving down the highway, passing a car, or passing in passing lane, the speed limit is 55. No matter what, even passing the speed limit is 55. It is hard to pass another car without going over 55 mph but it is the law. Some people think they can go faster than 55 if there is no traffic or if the flow of traffic is going faster than 55 but that is all false, the speed limit is 55. The only time on Taft Highway that it is not 55 is when there are bad weather conditions and during those times you should drive slower than 55. Sammy Hager sang, “I can’t Drive 55!” You better because California is not hard on Crime, Drugs, or the Bad Guys but California is more than happy to take money from a ticket. The Bad Guys are ruining Rails to Trails and Burglarizing our town and our California Laws protect them but if a good ole little blue haired Grandma speeds on 119 she will get a huge ticket. Our Laws don’t seem fair because they are not!

It is funny to me when people get mad at the guy that is following the law by driving 55. There has been some accidents recently and people are flying on the Passing Lanes so be careful. The CHP will be out in Full Force during the Holidays so Drive Smart.

December 29 - 4, 2016

Letters and Rants Thanks From Toys For Taft

Once again, the people and businesses of Taft, have made the “Toys For TAFT” a huge success for the 34th year. I would like to thankFloyd Adams, Gary & Becky Cook, Arts Corner, Arts Liquor, Black & Gold, Robert Barnard, Larry & Sandy Burden, Ronda Copeland, Abby Fappas, Nancy Gilman, Aaron Jones, Roberta Hale, Kern County Funeral Association, Kmart, Orchel Krier, Kara Martinsen, Bill Nichols, Gloria Nichols, Oasis, Terry & Gina Pettit, Ron Price, Rite Aide, Rotary Club of Taft, Steve Steinhoffer, Dottie Waldrop, Scott Waldrop, VFW AUX 1468-Bakersfield, Susan Walker, West Side Community Resource Center, E. Scheidemantel, Connie Wheeler, Gary Wheeler, Dale Wilson, Vahnita {Hooker} Byers, Dolores Hooker, Taft Correctional Institution, Taft Sportsmen’s Club, Waldrop’s Auto Parts, Macayla Wells, A Real Big Special THANK YOU TO Dirty Saints, Dollar Store, Hot Tap’s Service, and the Taft Lions Club.

If I have left anyone out, please forgive me. Everyone pitched in and helped to make this holiday season what a holiday season should be, a time for love, caring, and giving.

2014 Chairman Ron Waldrop Taft Lions Club MERRY CHRISTMAS And a Happy New Year EVERYONE

When you drive down Kern Street and you see cars slowing down or they are stopped, there is 100% chance that someone is in the Crosswalk, please join these other cars by slowing down or stopping.

Smokehouse BBQ on 6th Street recently closed. It was not open long. Taft could use a few new restaurants but we don’t need to keep getting the same kinds of restaurants.

Smokehouse BBQ had good food but it couldn’t compete with Roots Eatery, Black Gold Brewing Company, and Route 33 Sandwich Company. There are rumors of a new pizza restaurant coming to Taft. This seems crazy to me. Taft already has several pizza restaurants and the best around, Pizza Factory. Taft has way to many Mexican Restaurants but we keep getting more. There are rumors of a Denny’s coming down the road but what would that do to Paik’s Ranch House. Paik’s has been here a long time and has excellent food, service, and prices. If you or anyone you know is thinking of opening a business please talk to the City, other Restaurant owners and managers, other Taft small business owners, and other people that will be honest with you. We need something different, not more of the same thing. If you remember “Dee’s Something Different,” it was on 6th Street about 15 years ago, it had great food that was different but it was small and had bad parking.

Same as Fiorina’s Italian Restaurant on B Street, they had excellent food but they had a bad parking and odd hours.

In Taft you have to have good food, prices, and service, not just one or two of the three. People may not say it to your face but if they have a bad meal they will tell their friends.

Get everything for your Christmas Meal at Wood Street Market. Christmas is this Sunday so there is only a few shopping days left- Shop Taft- Shaws Western, Country Corner, Rec Shop, Ten Percent Firearms, K Mart, Ben’s Books, Valley Graphics and Screenprinting, Friendly Antiques, Westside Furniture, Paul’s Bike Shop, Monarch Wireless, Marty’s, Eye Kandi, Old’s Cool, Poppy’s Melting Pot, Jack’s Flower Shop, Acme Jewelry and Gifts, KC Photography and Gifts, Victoria’s Antiques, Mark’s Nu Uzed and Refurbished, A Hint of Class clothing and gifts, Pearsey’s, Taft Sears, Fertile Earth Nursery, Personal Style, Braun’s Antiques, True Value, and Bangs and Tangles.

These stores and other restaurants also have gift certificates.

Eat out for lunch and Shop Taft. Merry Christmas Taft!

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December 29 - 4, 2016

The Taft Independent

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

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

FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE Saturday, February 4, 2017 7:00-10:00 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium 500 Cascade Place, Taft Girls ages 4+ $30 per couple ($10 each additional daughter) Registration deadline: Thursday, January 26 Join us under the sea for our 9th Annual Father Daughter Dance – this year with a mermaid theme. Girls ages 4 and older may be accompanied by their father, guardian or adult relative. The special evening includes DJ music, photographs, sweet treats and more fun surprises. Space is limited and not guaranteed until the registration deadline.

Pre-registration is required, so sign-up now; this event sells out every year!

REC SHOPPE Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Place: Recreation Center, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Looking for spirit wear or other customized shirts? Perfect solution for that special personalized gift or holiday shirt. Stop by the Rec Shoppe in the Recreation Center and see what they can do for you! Questions? Call 765-6677.

WEST SIDE LANES GAMING STATIONS Who: Ages 9+ Days: Monday – Sunday (7 days a week!)

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Where: Recreation Center, West Side Lanes Bowling Alley Fee(s): $5 daily admission (or valid membership) *plus* $5 per hour, per console Stop by the Recreation Center for some video game action on our new gaming stations in the bowling alley. We have two XBox One and two PlayStation 4 consoles and 48” HD TVs for gaming use. **No personal game controllers or game discs are allowed.** Ages 8 and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

KIDS MEMBERSHIP – RECREATION CENTER Who: Ages 9-13 Where: Recreation Center Fee(s): $30 per month, $15 each additional sibling The Kids Membership at the Recreation Center includes use of the wiffle ball fields and gymnasium, plus a punch card valid for 4 games of bowling and 4 hours of gaming in our new gaming center. For more information, please contact the Recreation Center at 765-6677.

WEST SIDE LANES BOWLING MEMBERSHIPS New at West Side Lanes is our bowling membership program! Bowling memberships work similarly to weight room memberships and include unlimited bowling time and shoe rental. Lane use is subject to availability. Family member discounts apply to immediate family residing in the same household (parents, children, siblings).

Monthly: $30 per person – 1st family member, $15 per person – additional family members 6 Months: $150 per person – 1st family member, $75 per person – additional family members 1 Year: $240 per person – 1st family member, $120 per person – each additional member RECREATION CENTER GIFT CERTIFICATES Need holiday gift ideas? The Recreation Center has gift certificates! Give someone the gift of fun, health and wellness! We offer gift certificates for the following: * Recreation Center Memberships (weight room & gymnasium) * Kids Memberships (gymnasium, gaming & bowling) * Bowling Memberships (unlimited bowling) Stop by 500 Cascade Place, Building D in Taft or give us a call at 765-6677 for more info!

INSTRUCTIONAL BASKETBALL Who: Ages 4-6 Practices: Weeknights Games: Saturdays Session: January 17 – March 4, 2017 Place: Aera Gymnasium, Recreation Center Registration deadline: Thursday, January 5, 2017 Fee: $35 per person TINY TOT BASKETBALL Who: Ages 2-4 When: Tuesday or Thursday Evenings Time: 5:30 p.m.

Session: January 24 – February 23, 2017 Place: Aera Gymnasium, Recreation Center Registration deadline: Thursday, January 5, 2017 Fee: $25 per person MINI TOTS BASKETBALL Who: Ages 18 months – 3.5 years (and their favorite adult) When: Tuesday or Thursday Evenings Time: Evenings – TBA Session: January 24 – February 23, 2017 Place: Aera Gymnasium, Recreation Center Registration deadline: Thursday, January 5, 2017 Fee: $20 per person In this new program, each child will need an adult on the court with them during the session; it can be a parent, grandparent, other relative or friend - and it doesn’t have to be the same adult each week.

KARATE When: Thursday Evenings Tiny Tot: 4:45-5:15 p.m.

Ages 5-10: 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Ages 10+: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Fees (per session): * $25 – Tiny Tot * $30 – Ages 5+ Next Session: January 12 – March 2 Instructor: John Dodson COED SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL – WINTER SEASON Who: Ages 16+ When: Thursday Evenings League Begins: January 19, 2017 Where: Franklin Field Recreation Complex Registration Deadline: Thursday, January 5, 2017 Fee: $500 per team (includes umpire fees) MEN’S SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL – WINTER SEASON Who: Ages 16+ When: Tuesday Evenings League Begins: January 17, 2017 Where: Franklin Field Recreation Complex Registration Deadline: Thursday, January 5, 2017 Fee: $500 per team (includes umpire fees)

WSRPD DISTRICT OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED DECEMBER 23 – JANUARY 2 FOR THE HOLIDAYS The West Side Recreation & Park District main office will be closed Friday, December 23 through Monday, January 2 for the holidays. Please keep this in mind when planning your registrations, reservations and other District related business. Program registration and payments can be made at the Recreation Center (765-6677) while the main office is closed. We will see you when we return to normal operating hours on Tuesday, January 3, 2017. Happy Holidays!

5

A History of the New Year

by Borgna Brunner The celebration of the new year on January 1st is a relatively new phenomenon. The earliest recording of a new year celebration is believed to have been in Mesopotamia, c. 2000 B.C. and was celebrated around the time of the vernal equinox, in mid-March. A variety of other dates tied to the seasons were also used by various ancient cultures. The Egyptians, Phoenicians, and Persians began their new year with the fall equinox, and the Greeks celebrated it on the winter solstice.

Early Roman Calendar: March 1st Rings in the New Year The early Roman calendar designated March 1 as the new year.

The calendar had just ten months, beginning with March.

That the new year once began with the month of March is still reflected in some of the names of the months. September through December, our ninth through twelfth months, were originally positioned as the seventh through tenth months (septem is Latin for “seven,” octo is “eight,” novem is “nine,” and decem is “ten.”

January Joins the Calendar The first time the new year was celebrated on January 1st was in Rome in 153 B.C. (In fact, the month of January did not even exist until around 700 B.C., when the second king of Rome, Numa Pontilius, added the months of January and February.)

The new year was moved from March to January because that was the beginning of the civil year, the month that the two newly elected Roman consuls—the highest officials in the Roman republic—began their one-year tenure. But this new year date was not always strictly and widely observed, and the new year was still sometimes celebrated on March 1.

Julian Calendar: January 1st Officially Instituted as the New Year In 46 B.C. Julius Caesar introduced a new, solar-based calendar that was a vast improvement on the ancient Roman calendar, which was a lunar system that had become wildly inaccurate over the years. The Julian calendar decreed that the new year would occur with January 1, and within the Roman world, January 1 became the consistently observed start of the new year.

Middle Ages: January 1st Abolished In medieval Europe, however, the celebrations accompanying the new year were considered pagan and unchristian like, and in 567 the Council of Tours abolished January 1 as the beginning of the year. At various times and in various places throughout medieval Christian Europe, the new year was celebrated on Dec. 25, the birth of Jesus; March 1; March 25, the Feast of the Annunciation; and Easter.

Gregorian Calendar: January 1st Restored In 1582, the Gregorian calendar reform restored January 1 as new year’s day. Although most Catholic countries adopted the Gregorian calendar almost immediately, it was only gradually adopted among Protestant countries. The British, for example, did not adopt the reformed calendar until 1752. Until then, the British Empire —and their American colonies— still celebrated the new year in March.

New Year’s Traditions Auld Lang Syne The most commonly sung song for English-speakers on New Year’s eve, “Auld Lang Syne” is an old Scottish song that was first published by the poet Robert Burns in the 1796 edition of the book, Scots Musical Museum. Burns transcribed it (and made some refinements to the lyrics) after he heard it sung by an old man from the Ayrshire area of Scotland, Burns’s homeland.

It is often remarked that “Auld Lang Syne” is one of the most popular songs that nobody knows the lyrics to. “Auld Lang Syne” literally translates as “old long since” and means “times gone by.” The song asks whether old friends and times will be forgotten and promises to remember people of the past with fondness, “For auld lang syne, we’ll tak a cup o’ kindness yet.”

The lesser known verses continue this theme, lamenting how friends who once used to “run about the braes,/ And pou’d the gowans fine” (run about the hills and pulled up the daisies) and

The Taft Independent

“paidl’d in the burn/Frae morning sun till dine” (paddled in the stream from morning to dusk) have become divided by time and distance—”seas between us braid hae roar’d” (broad seas have roared between us). Yet there is always time for old friends to get together—if not in person then in memory—and “tak a right guid-willie waught” (a good-will drink).

But it was bandleader Guy Lombardo, and not Robert Burns, who popularized the song and turned it into a New Year’s tradition. Lombardo first heard “Auld Lang Syne” in his hometown of London, Ontario, where it was sung by Scottish immigrants.

When he and his brothers formed the famous dance band, Guy Lombardo and His Royal Canadians, the song became one of their standards. Lombardo played the song at midnight at a New Year’s eve party at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City in 1929, and a tradition was born. After that, Lombardo’s version of the song was played every New Year’s eve from the 1930s until 1976 at the Waldorf Astoria. In the first years it was broadcast on radio, and then on television. The song became such a New Year’s tradition that “Life magazine wrote that if Lombardo failed to play ‘Auld Lang Syne,’ the American public would not believe that the new year had really arrived.”

Auld Lang Syne and other New Year’s customs “Auld Lang Syne” Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And auld lang syne.

CHORUS: For auld lang syne, my dear, For auld lang syne, We’ll tak a cup of kindness yet, For auld lang syne!

And surely ye’ll be your pint-stowp, And surely I’ll be mine, And we’ll tak a cup o kindness yet, For auld lang syne!

Scotland The birthplace of “Auld Lang Syne” is also the home of Hogmanay (hog-mah-NAY), the rousing Scottish New Year’s celebration (the origins of the name are obscure). One of the traditions is “first-footing.” Shortly after midnight on New Year’s eve, neighbors pay visits to each other and impart New Year’s wishes. Traditionally, First foots used to bring along a gift of coal for the fire, or shortbread. It is considered especially lucky if a tall, dark, and handsome man is the first to enter your house after the new year is rung in. The Edinburgh Hogmanay celebration is the largest in the country, and consists of an allnight street party.

Japan The new year is the most important holiday in Japan, and is a symbol of renewal. In December, various Bonenkai or “forgetthe-year parties” are held to bid farewell to the problems and concerns of the past year and prepare for a new beginning.

Misunderstandings and grudges are forgiven and houses are scrubbed. At midnight on Dec. 31, Buddhist temples strike their gongs 108 times, in a effort to expel 108 types of human weakness. New Year’s day itself is a day of joy and no work is to be done. Children receive otoshidamas, small gifts with money inside. Sending New Year’s cards is a popular tradition—if postmarked by a certain date, the Japanese post office guarantees delivery of all New Year’s cards on Jan. 1.

Spain The Spanish ritual on New Year’s eve is to eat twelve grapes at midnight. The tradition is meant to secure twelve happy months in the coming year.

The Netherlands The Dutch burn bonfires of Christmas trees on the street and launch fireworks. The fires are meant to purge the old and welcome the new.

Greece In Greece, New Year’s day is also the Festival of St. Basil, one of the founders of the Greek Orthodox Church. One of the traditional foods served is Vassilopitta, or St Basil’s cake. A silver or gold coin is baked inside the cake. Whoever finds the coin in their piece of cake will be especially lucky during the coming year.

United States Probably the most famous tradition in the United States is the dropping of the New Year ball in Times Square, New York City, at 11:59 P.M. Thousands gather to watch the ball make its one-minute descent, arriving exactly at midnight. The tradition first began in 1907. The original ball was made of iron and wood; the current ball is made of Waterford Crystal, weighs 1,070 pounds, and is six feet in diameter.

A traditional southern New Year’s dish is Hoppin’ John—black eyed peas and ham hocks. An old saying goes, “Eat peas on New Year’s day to have plenty of everything the rest of the year.”

Another American tradition is the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.

The Tournament of Roses parade that precedes the football game on New Year’s day is made up of elaborate and inventive floats. The first parade was held in 1886.

Widely Observed New Year Symbols and Traditions Resolutions: It is believed that the Babylonians were the first to make New Year’s resolutions, and people all over the world have been breaking them ever since. The early Christians believed the first day of the new year should be spent reflecting on past mistakes and resolving to improve oneself in the new year.

Fireworks: Noisemaking and fireworks on New Year’s eve is believed to have originated in ancient times, when noise and fire were thought to dispel evil spirits and bring good luck. The Chinese are credited with inventing fireworks and use them to spectacular effect in their New Year’s celebrations.

December 29 - 4, 2016

Recipe Corner

By Brenda Collins This recipe has been a mainstay for years. It’s simple and delicious. I think anything you put mozzarella on is good!

My husband hates eggplant, but will eat this. I think it’s all the cheeses.

Well, has everyone managed to get their shopping done for Christmas? My family is all grown, except for my 15 yr old grandson, and even he just wants cash.

Easy for me.

Friday night the the West Kern Water District had a Christmas dinner for their employees and families and retirees. Every year since I can remember we always had a company luncheon for Christmas. It was originally a potluck and all the employees brought something. But then it became a luncheon that was furnished by the District, but the employees had to cook the meat, the beans, make the salad, set up the tables and chairs and decorate. This while getting their regular jobs done. It was sometimes hard if the guys had a call out to repair a leak. This year, for the first time, it was held at O T’s. The employees did the most beautiful job of decorating. I can’t imagine a single thing they could have added to make it more lovely.

The food was wonderful and so was the program. I was so impressed at how talented the employees are.

There was a drawing for door prizes and a couple of the prizes were the most beautiful and innovative Christmas wreaths I have ever seen. I was lucky enough to get to bring one home. Carol Havens, Deanne Gregory and all the other employees involved in the planning and preparations deserve a huge “well done!”

How far the District has come since I was first hired in 1971. Pre computers and the skills that go with it.

I was there for our first computer. I was afraid at first

Ben’s Books

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft Come in and guess the number of

books in our Christmas tree. The closest guess wins a $25 gift certificate. Books will be counted 1/7/17

The Taft Independent

to tackle the computer, but was excited, too. Push a wrong key and you could lose all your information, everything? Times change. The world keeps revolving.

But people keep learning and getting smarter. I can remember being told the computer would be replacing jobs. Not something that I have ever seen.

The original West Kern Water District office was across the street from where it now sits and was an old oil company lease house that was converted to an office. The wood floors would move up and down as you approached Mr. Jacks desk and when he saw you walking up near his desk he would lift his pen and stop writing. (He was a patient man.) In the summer we only had water coolers to keep us cool and in the winter an old floor heater that we fought to stand on. I did miss our “lounge”. It was a tiny room with a tiny couch and chair and coffee maker and refrigerator. But it had big windows and trees to see. And to a 24 yr old, on her first company job, it was great!

When I first was hired we posted everything on ledger cards. Every meter had a card and billing and payments were posted monthly on an enormous I.B.M. machine that took up half the room. My job was to spend 4 hours a day posting and billing and 4 hours at my desk working with customers. Working on the machine by Friday my right shoulder and neck were so painful I could hardly sleep. But by Sunday night the neck was all better, then Monday morning and here came the billing and posting I.B.M. machine AGAIN. So when we switched to computers it was a huge improvement. No more neck pain. The computers got smaller and faster and it did free up some time, but with the computers came new duties like

7 filing the enormous volume of printouts and researching accounts by going through books of payments.

Whereas, before we had everything all neat and tidy on one ledger card. So, we exchanged one problem for another. We never did find all the “free time” we were promised?

Merry Christmas everyone, and Happy New Year. enjoy!

EGGPLANT PARMESAN 1 ½ lbs eggplant cut in 1/2 “ slices (usually 2 large eggplant) Salt ½ cup flour for dusting slices Butter for frying slices 1 15 oz. can tomato sauce 1 tsp basil 1 ½ Cup shredded mozzarella ½ Cup parmesan cheese Preheat oven to 350 degree. Sprinkle salt on eggplant slices. Spread out on paper towel. Pat dry.

Dip in flour, shake excess. (Too much flour will make your dish dry) Combine tomato sauce and basil and pour ½ C onto 1 ½ qt. shallow dish. Spread layers of fried eggplant over sauce. Sprinkle on layer of mozzarella and parmesan and repeat til eggplant is used up. Cover with foil and bake 20 min. , uncover and bake 5 min longer.

Makes 4 – 5 servings

Tumbleweed Restaurant & Bar New Years Eve Dinner 5pm. - 10pm.

BBQ Featuring 16 oz. Rib Eye Steak, Choice of baked potato, french fries, salad and roll $21.99 24870 Highway 33, Derby Acres (661) 768-4655

14K Yellow & White Gold Rings & E/R’s 60% Off Tag Price

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

Vintage Watches 40% Off

ACME JEWELRY New Watches 25% Off Tag

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

Tea Sets $27.00 Handmade Cards by Donna

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

426 Center Street 661-763-5451

Maria’s Place Mexican & American Food

WEST SIDE FAMILY HEALTH CARE

Dinner Special

765-1935 HOURS

Monday thru Friday 8:00am –9:00pm Saturday and Sunday 10:00am – 9:00pm 100 E North St. Taft CA

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

Buy One Dinner Get Second One 1/2 Price No. 1 thru 16 *Dine In Only

Ask for our Daily Special!

763-3311 1008 Kern Street In the Albertsons Shopping Center

8

Liberty Under Fire Taxing Christmas: A Satirical Look Ahead

By Harold Pease, Ph. D The country is now almost 20 trillion dollars in debt. Many erroneously believe that the only way to solve this problem is to increase taxes rather than to cut spending. Judging by extreme laws passed and proposed in recent years, including the 15% Christmas Tree Tax unsuccessfully advocated by President Obama in 2011, a tax on Christmas could come true.

Let’s follow the Ghost of Christmas Future and see what such a bill might look like: Congress recently discovered how unfair Christmas really is, as some get more presents than others. To correct this injustice, a 1,500page law called the Christmas Equalization Tax is working its way through judiciary committees in both the House and Senate and will be on the floor of both houses very soon.

Under the new law, to begin next year, shoppers buying gifts for loved ones are required to fill out Form 13,207, The Affidavit of Gift Recipients, indicating said recipients by name, social security number, and birth date, and completing a five-page information sheet for each named recipient. Retailers then fill out Form 13,208, The Affidavit of Christmas Gifts, and forward the information to the IRS for national list tabulation.

The total allotment per Christmas per person is 20 gifts. Totals exceeding this number in intervals of 10 will be assessed a gradual value added tax up to 70% of the value of the gifts in excess. Overall value is also taxed up to 100% for any total exceeding $400. This information is submitted on The Affidavit of Excess Christmas Value (Form 13,209). If you have

The Taft Independent

problems following the formulas, so do the lawyers who made them up. However it does help create many jobs for those in that industry, and ensure employment for them for decades to come in their efforts to help us keep the rules straight or in resulting litigation.

The amount collected will be given to the New Organization to Fight Underprivileged Nations (NOFUN). This organization supports those suffering from Christmas Depravation Syndrome, a debilitating mental disorder recently discovered by psychologists to inhibit the development of ambition and drive, drastically reducing self-esteem, selfactualization, and quality of life.

Recipients must fill out a simple 10-page form entitled The Underprivileged Christmas Affidavit (Form 13,210), which allows participants to identify favorite gifts. Unlike the shoppers, benefit recipients would not be limited to 20 gifts. No doubt they have been “gift deprived” long enough and compensation must be made. This is the only way to guarantee fairness and equality for all people across the entire lifespan.

Currently, those applying for benefits from NOFUN do so by contacting their local Human Services Agency. Lawmakers are uncertain whether the program will remain with HSA or be turned over to ACORN, or some other reputable organization already in existence. The more likely option is to create a whole new department to oversee the program. The necessary “monitoring,” which certainly would create much needed employment to help stimulate the economy, would require at least 15,000 new federal employees.

The excess tax is thought to be sufficient for funding the under-gifted, but critics are skeptical about its ability to fund the 15,000 federal agents as well. Some say that unsympathetic shoppers will lower the number of gifts they buy to 20 per person, thus avoid-

December 29 - 4, 2016

ing the excess tax altogether, and leaving the taxpayer to fund the $37 billion for both the “under-gifted” and the federal employees.

Proponents say this “disinformation” comes from incompassionate right-wing extremists, who are simply in the pockets of evil moneymongering capitalists who oppose the individual gift limits. Proponents assure that the cost will be covered by the seventh stimulus package, the 3,500 paged bill now on the desk of your Congressmen and women.

Additional legislation on the table is to tax excessive tree height, Christmas decorations, and turkey or ham size. Levels of happiness could also be taxed as soon as technology is able to measure it. We might also tax travel distance as it is so unfair that some get to travel greater distances than others, or travel mode, some have money to fly others have to drive or ride a bus to get to see their loved ones.

Lawmakers hope to expand the legislation on Christmas to Hanukkah next year for the same reasons. Atheists have suggested making both holidays illegal altogether, imposing stiff fines on violators instead as it could raise even more money for the disadvantaged, more especially as religion is the opiate of the people and is a very expensive myth.

So many injustices to alleviate, so little time.

Merry Christmas my liberty loving friends.

Dr. Harold Pease is a syndicated columnist and an expert on the United States ConsDr. Harold W. Peasetitution. 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 30 years at Taft College. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

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

December 29 - 4, 2016

9

The Taft Independent

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

Wine Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 5:00 pm.

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765-6550

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

Open 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Wed., Thurs & Fri. 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Brokers LLC

Rich Miller • Jordan Miller Jeff Miller • Kathy Devine

(661) 765-7131 531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985 (661) 765-4798 FAX Taft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell License No. 0E02096 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.

Charles V. Landwehr Licensed Embalmer & Funeral Director 46 Year Experience Jennifer Landwehr Licensed Funeral Director 30 Years Experience Angie Milner Licensed Embalmer & Funeral Director 28 Years Experience

501 Lucard St., Taft, CA 765-4111 FD756 FDR50 FDR595 FDR618 EMB6287 EMB 7999

TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557

“ “Freely Given” Clothing Giveaway Every 3rd Saturday of the month from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Upstairs in the Education Building outside the front gates Pastor Cindy Brettschneider Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 AM Adult Bible Study and Sunday School 11:45 AM Adult Bible Study Monday 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Service 6:00 PM Praise Team meets on Thursday at 4:00 PM

Maricopa Community Church Pastor Stephen McCurtis 600 Hazelton, Maricopa 661-303-0124 Sunday worship 10:00 am Wednesday bible study 6:30 pm

First Baptist Church Pastor Scott Pearson

Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship Celebration 10:30 a.m.

Evening Service 6 p.m.

Awana Childrens Program Wednesday 6 p.m.

220 North Street - Taft 661 763-3138

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 4279722 Pastors Charle (Tommy) and

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 Join us for our Encounter Service Sundays 10:30 am Childcare Available During Services Info call 765-7151

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

Morning Worship 10:30

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Bible Study Wednesday 6 p.m.

Sunday Service - 10 a.m. www.standrewstaft.org 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

PASTOR MIKE LYNCH

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

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS Taft- A caring community under Christ We welcome you to worship with us at peace lutheran church, 26 Cougar Court (across from the College). Worship service begins at 10:00 a.m.

Communion will be offered 1st and 3rd Sundays Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

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

Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available

Residential Customers Your Affordable Church Ad

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

NO

SUBSTITUTE FOR EXPERIENCE

Erickson & Brown Funeral Home SERVING THE TAFT AREA SINCE 1939

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

Paik’s

THERE IS

Here 765-6550

If you live outside Taft Heights, South Taft or Ford City you can rent a Blue Co-mingled Recycling cart for $6.62 a month.

75% Diversion by 2020 For more information or to get the service started, Call Westside Waste Management at (661) 763-5135 or visit their website at www.westsidewaste.com

10

Classifieds

Classified Ads are $3.00 per issue for up to three lines, $5 per issue for Classified $2.00 per off up to 5 lines,Ads andare $7 per issue forline. up toPhone, 10 lines.fax, Yardmail Sale or adsdrop are free. your adfax, tomail the or Taft Independent.

Phone, drop off your ad to the Taft Independent.

Deadline for submission is Wednesdays at Noon.

Boxed\outlined\bolded classified ads start at $12.00 for 8 lines, $16 for 12 lines, $20 for 15 lines, $25 for 20 lines.

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

Boxed adsCar, aretruck $5 or additional.

E-mail us $5 (orper bring Photo Ads. house for sale ads are week,toor our $10 office) a photo ofus your home, car,office) truckaor motorcycle and with a photo.

Email (or bring to our photo of your home, we’ll do the rest. car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest.

Yard Saleads ads are $3 isfor 3 lines, additional lines $2 each.

Classified deadline now Wednesdays at 2 p.m.

Classified ad deadline is Wednesdays at Noon.

Phone: 765-6550

The Taft Independent

Joyce Properties (661) 769-6469 Preserving for the Future

Rentals Real Estate Real Estate Services Laura Vega DRE 01942324

HOMES FOR RENT

Payment can made by cash, check, or card. credit card.

Payment can bebe made by cash, check, or credit Taft Independent210 508 CA 93268 Taft Independent 6thCenter St., Taft,St., CA Taft, 93268.

YARD SALES

2017 at 12 p.m.

Fingerprinting required upon offer of employment.

Help Wanted Part Time

MEETINGS Overeaters Anonomous. Every Tuesday. 6:30pm 7:30pm. Mobile Home Park. 123 10th Street at the clubhouse. 4901194.

HELP WANTED Needing Someone to train to do dog grooming in my shop. I am retiring and need someone to take over business - untyil trained. I have shop and equipment. 7656789.

Help Wanted Part Time West Side Recreation and Park District is currently accepting applications for Facility Services Staff. Starting pay will be $10.50 - $15.56 per hour D.O.E. Must be 18 or older and possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. The position involves: dealing with the general public, room rental/party oversight, customer service and ensuring rules and regulations are adhered to. This position is part-time and must be able to work weekends.

Applications available at the District Office, 500 Cascade Place, Taft. All applicants must complete a District application.

Applicatons must be returned by Friday, January 6,

Taft City School District is accepting applications for Substitute Instructional Aides, ASES Activity Leaders, Healthcare Specialists, Food Service, Custodian and Crossing Guards.

Employment process includes written exam, application screening, interview, DOJ fingerprint clearance, and physical exam with drug screen.

Written exams for these positions will be given on Wednesday, December 21, and Thursday, December 22, 2016.

Application and Job Description may be picked up at the District Office, 820 Sixth Street, and must be returned by Monday, December 19, 2016 at 4 p.m.

EOE

Equipment Operator Monthly Salary Range of $3,201 - $6,366 Plus benefits West Kern Water District is looking for a motivated individual to join our team in the construction and maintenance of water lines, services and meters. If you have working knowledge of the mechanical opera-

tion of a variety of equipment and tools required for waterworks construction and repair activities then apply immediately at 800 Kern Street, P.O. Box 1105, Taft, CA 93268 or download a District application on line at www. wkwd.org.

Deadline for submitting application is Wednesday, December 21, 2016.

Resume will not be accepted in lieu of District application. The successful applicant will be subject to a preemployment drug screen and physical exam, thorough background check and must provide a current DMV report.

E.O.E.

SERVICES OFFERED Need a ride or errand ran? I am available. Call 661490-1194. $12 hour.

2 hour minimum.

Taft or Bakersfield.

HOMES FOR SALE Americana Real Estate 322 Kern St. 661765-5000 Lic # 01942324 1019 Buena Vista, 2/2 + office, completely remodeled MH, owner will carry with $20k down (negotiable), $63,900 518 Asher, 2/1, lrg rooms, newer roof & flooring, updated kit/bath, owner carry with $20k down, $79,000 Pick up a list of all homes For Sale at 322 Kern St or call 661-765-5000

322 Kern Street Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-5000 www.americanataft.com

(661) 769-6469

Phone: 765-6550 Fax: 765-6556 E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com

December 29 - 4, 2016

Nice stucco home.

407 Lucard. 3 bd. 2 bath. 2 car garage.

Central heat and AC. Small back patio. Fenced front yard. Credit check. 1st and last. Reasonable lease available for long term tenant.

No smoking. 661 623-4296. leave message.

211 E. Woodrow.

New paint, wood flooring, curtains, 1 car garage. w/d.

Refrig., Stove, Microwave. $900 mo. $900 dep. 970260-0652 For rent. Maricopa.

3 bd. 2 ba. fenced yard. $1200. mo.

One mo. dep.

Central heat and a/c. 925-408-5756 326 Philippine. 3 Bedroom, 2 bath. $700 mo, $800 Dep. 661-342-8236.

Large 1 bd. 1 ba. newly remodeled Apts. 155 1/2 North St. $500 or $550 with garage, plus deposit 323-363-5899 3 & 2bd, fenced yards, laundry rm.

(310) 617-4531 West Valley Real Estate www.BuySellManage.com (661) 763-1500 CalBRE Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 218 4th St #1B 1/1 $475 155 ½ North #A 1/1 $500 205 W Ash St #C 2/1 $600 121 Ironwood St 2/1 $600 522 Center St #D 3/1 $700 107 Lucard St 2/1 $700 303 Crystal Ave 2/1 $700 525 S. Kern St 2/2 $750

500 B St 2/1 $800 302 Calvin St 1/1 $850 321 A St 3/2 $900 863 Union St 3/2 $1,000 600 D St 4/3 $1,200 127 Lexington Ave 3/1 $1,275 212 4th St Laundromat opportunity $500 100 South Commercial Property/Yard $750

Americana Real Estate 322 Kern St. 661765-5000 Lic # 01942324 1019 Buena Vista, 2/2 + office, completely remodeled incl. new kitchen, baths, floors $700 mo + Dep Pick up an application at 322 Kern St.

Apt. for rent. 1 bed, nice clean, 406 Lucard Apt. A. $500 rent, $200 sec. deposit. Call 765-7015.

Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.7657674. 420 Finley Dr. One bedroom + one bath apartments available now, building under new management and all units recently remodeled. Low move in, 1st month and deposit only. No Application fee.

Call for appointment, drive by and pick up an application today.

Contact Managers: 661-765-7678 or 661846-6403

Visit Us Online on Facebook To Advertise Call 765-6556 for Affordable Advertising

APART. FOR RENT

1 Bed & 1 Bath Apartments FIRST MONTH FREE!!!

No Application Fee Center St. Apts.

108 Center St., Taft 661-765-7678 or 661-846-6403 Call us and come fill out an application today!!!

For Sale

For Rent

405 Pilgrim 3bedroom, 2 bath. 2 car garage. Newly painted. $179,000.

Call 763-3517.

602 Keene Lane.

3 Bedroom, 2 bath.

Call 763-3517.

December 29 - 4, 2016

The Taft Independent

Sandy Creek Estates

11

New Semi-Custom Homes for Sale in Taft

Models Now Open Call for Viewing of our Models

U-Cart Cement

Call Bob at (661) 763-3517.

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

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Used to be Paul’s

Bike Shop We sell and service Mountain Bikes, BMX, Skateboards and Scooters.

Just added: Roller Derby Skates and Accessories 608 Center St.

745-4919

GRANITE COUNTERS IN TILE FLOORS ON KITCHEN AND BATHS ALL WET AREAS STAINLESS STEEL COVERED PATIO APPLIANCES FENCED LOT LANDSCAPED FRONT YARD

Financing Available.

Buy Now before Interest Rate Go Up!

Visit our website www.Sandycreekestates.com

The Taft Independent

December 29 - 4, 2016

Black Gold Brewing Company Craft Beer Brewery and Restaurant

Now Serving Breakfast - Tuesday - Saturday 7am - 10am

Black Gold Brewing Company Breakfast Menu

Bisquits and Gravy

Served 7am - to 9:30am

Biscuits and Gravy

Homemade sausage and gravy over two flakey flour biscuits

Eggs

Half Order $3.50

$5.95

Bacon, Egg and Cheese Sandwich

$5.95

Bacon and Eggs

$7.95

Ham and Eggs

$8.95

Sausage and Eggs

$8.95

Ribeye Steak and Eggs

$12.95

Breakfast Burrito - With choice of Bacon, Ham or Sausage

$8.95

One fresh fried ranch egg with mayo, bacon and cheddar chesse on toasted sourdough bread Two fresh farm eggs, three slices of bacon, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast Ham steak with two farm fresh eggs, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast Large breakfast sausage with two farm fresh eggs, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast A 6 oz. Ribeye Steak with two eggs, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast Our breakfast burrito with ham, bacon or sausage wrapped in a flour tortilla filled with jack & cheddar cheese, potatoes and veggies 3 Meat Combo $10.95

Black Gold Omelettes Ham and Cheese Omelette

$8.95

Bacon and Cheese Omelette

$8.95

Ortega Omelette

$8.95

Vegetable Omelette

$8.95

Denver Omelette

$10.95

3 farm fresh eggs with diced ham, with jack and cheddar cheese and toast 3 farm fresh eggs and crispy bacon and toast 3 farm fresh eggs with ortega peppers, jack & cheddar cheese and avacado slices and toast 3 farm fresh eggs and fresh cut veggies and toast 3 farm fresh eggs with cheddar cheese chopped onions, red and green bell peppers, bacon, ham and toast

Side Orders

One Egg 2 Bacon Strips Sourdough or wheat toast

$1.50 $1.75 $1.25

Coffee Orange Juice Milk

$2.00 $1.50 $1.50

American and Thai Food - Lunch and Dinner Full Service Espresso Bar Breakfast Wednesday-Saturdays Mon. - Sat. 7am - 2 pm and 5pm - 8 pm - Sun. 7 am - Noon 508 Center Street, Taft, Ca (661) 765-6556