Christmas In Taft, Taft's Tour of Trees

Independent The Taft

December 9 - 15, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

www.Taftindependent.com

December 9 - 15, 2011 • Volume 6 Issue 24

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

Stephanie House’s Westside Recreation Report

Also Inside:

Taft’s Tour of Trees

West Kern Oil Museum

End of Times Gallery

True Value

Acme Jewelry

Miller’s Beauty Supply

Hayden’s Hope

Westside Watcher Christmas Parade Report Taft Christmas Parade Winners Tour Of Trees Passport Information Community Voices Classified Ads

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

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

Holiday Wine & Dessert Tasting Thursday, December 15th 5:30pm -8pm Dessert Wines & Champagnes $15 per person

2

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Shop Taft

Passion For Nails Receive 10% Off

Give The Gift That Keeps On Giving....

A Membership To Next Step Cardio!

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

December 9 - 15, 2011

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

Women • Contemporary • Junior • Toddler • Infant • Men

LA IDOL Jeans

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Acme Jewelry Watch Extended Batteries Hours Sunday, Dec 18th 11am - 4pm Monday - Friday 9:30am - 5pm 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Saturday the 24th 9:30am 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

$44.00

Lic # B-721903

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

LA IDOL T-Shirts $8.95 New Markdowns Store Wide!

December 12th - 17th Watch for our weekly specials 421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

SAN JOAQUIN Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards Gift Certificates Available Now MP3 Players and IPOD Speakers

Layaway available on phones

Childrens Christmas Toys!

Pay your bills here for prepaid phones

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

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

Now authorized dealers Boost Mobile Pre Paid Cards

DIESEL ENGINE $71.99 OR LESS

A/C Service

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

29

Plus Tax

$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee Exp. Dec. 31, 2011

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

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

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)

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)

Tire & Automotive Service Center

$199.99

Cooling System Flush

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

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

Hablamos Espanol 661-745-4954 610 Center Street

FREE

Automotive Center

FALL SPECIALS !

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

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

December 9 - 15, 2011

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

News Briefs.......................3 Westside Watcher............4 West Side Recreation Report..........5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Community Voices.........8 Obituary............................9 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.

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Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Managing Editor Advertising Jessica Skidgel Layout & Design Jessica Skidgel Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost Columnists Randy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins, Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

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 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 661-7654790 or 661-623-0494.

West Hills Church of the Nazarene Drive Through Nativity Scene Friday and Saturday, December 9th & 10th The West Hills Church of the Nazarene will be putting on their annual drive through nativity scene on December 9th and 10th from 6pm to 8pm at the church, located at 300 Lassen Ave. This event is free and open to the public.

Soroptimist Home Tour, Luncheon & Fashion Show Saturday, December 10th Soroptimist Home Tour Luncheon and Fashion Show Saturday, December 10th. Home Tour 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. 103 E. San Emedio Street, 202 Irene Street, 4 Grey Way. Luncheon at the Westside Believers Churc. Doors open at 11:00 with lunch being served at 12:00. Tickets: $25.00 per person. Tickets are on sale for $25 and are available from any Soroptimist member. Tickets are also available at Jacks Flower Shop and Personal Style. Homes on the tour are located at 103 E. San Emidio St., 202 Irene St. & 4 Grey Way. Proceeds benefit the Critical Care and other local projects.

Mobile Office Hours forCongressman Kevin McCarthy Wednesday, December 14th On Wednesday, December 14, a Field Representative for Congressman Kevin McCarthy will hold office hours in Taft. “Mobile office hours offer a great opportunity for people with questions, concerns or troubles with federal agencies to speak directly to my staff,” said Congressman McCarthy. “I encourage everyone to come out and take advantage of these office hours and wish everyone a very happy holiday season.” Mobile office hours will be held Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at the Taft College Library, 29 Emmons Park Drive from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Vince Fong, District Director for Congressman McCarthy (661) 327-3611 Congressman McCarthy’s Website: http://www.kevinmccarthy.house. gov/ Community Christmas Carolers Sunday December 18th Let’s join our voices. Community Christmas Carolers Sunday, December 18th at 4pm. Meet at Peace Lutheran Church, 26 Emmons Park Drive. Return later for soup, sandwiches, hot chocolate and coffee. For more information call 765-6248.

West Side Senior Care Residential Care Facility for the Elderly Full Time Live-In Care

Now Open

3 Openings Available • Women & Men Welcome 115 Adkisson Way - (661) 745-4220 State License No. 157202510

www.taftindependent.com

West Hills Church Drive Through Nativity Scene The West Hills Church of the Nazarene will be putting on their annual drive through nativity scene for the community on December 9th and 10th from 6pm to 8pm both nights at the church, located at 300 Lassen Aveneue across from the West Side Recreation and Parks District. The West Hills Church has been providing this nativity scene to the community for the past 12 years. The cast members, all young and old alike, are members of the Nazarene church. There will be live animals in the cast as well. The tour will be narrated and as you drive along the path you can hear the story about the birth of Jesus through a sound system. This event is free of charge.

Soroptimist Annual “Homes For The Holidays” Soroptimist International of Taft presents their annual “Homes for the Holidays” Home Tour, Luncheon & Fashion Show on Saturday, December 10. The Home Tour is from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Again this year the Luncheon and Fashion Show will be held at Westside Believers Church and will begin at 12:00 noon with the doors opening at 11am. Fashions will be presented by: A Hint of Class and Personal Style. A raffle will be held for Christmas baskets. Tickets to the event are $25 and can be purchased at Jacks Flower Shop, Personal Style and from any Soroptimist member. Proceeds benefit the Critical Care and other local projects.

Music Man Production Delights Taft Audience

By Jane McCabe Ever since it was first performed on Broadway in 1957 The Music Man has been an American favorite. It’s a musical with book, music, and lyrics by Meredith Willson, based on a story by Willson and Franklin Lacey.

The plot concerns con man Harold Hill, who poses as a boys’ band organizer and leader and sells band instruments and uniforms to naive townsfolk before skipping town with the cash. In River City, Iowa, prim librarian and piano teacher Marian Paroo sees through him, but when Hill helps her younger brother overcome his fear of social interactions due to his lisp, Marian begins to fall in love with him. Harold, in turn falling for Marian, risks being caught in order to win her…

In 1957, the show became a hit on Broadway, winning five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and running for 1,375 performances. The cast album won the first Grammy Award for “Best Original Cast Album”. The show’s success led to revivals and a popular 1962 film adaptation and a 2003 television remake. It frequently is produced by both professional and amateur theater companies.

And so it’s not surprising that director Krista Long chose to put it on in Taft, with the backing of Westside Community Center.

The Longs, Krista and Billy, were instrumental in nearly every aspect of its production. Krista directed it; she and Billy did the set design and helped with its construction. Krista and Kelly Morris designed the choreography. She and Billy provided the props.

AND Billy starred in the leading role of Professor Harold Hill—his performance was at once ebullient and good natured—infectious in its good humor.

You can’t help but like the man. Kelly Morris co-starred in the role of Marian Paroo. She has a splendid voice and displayed the appropriate amount of oldmaid, librarian-like fussiness.

Kathy Orrin displays a remarkable stage presence. She added a fine comic sensibility to her role of Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn, the mayor’s wife. The supporting cast, including the kids who played the River City children, all gave creditable performances and seemed to enjoy themselves.

Who can resist songs and lyrics like “You got trouble, right here in River City, and it starts with T and ends with P,” and “Seventy-six trombones led the hit parade”?

If I am to make any criticism, I would say the production could use a bit more fine tuning.

A big thanks to all who participated in bringing The Music Man again to Taft!

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT

December 9 - 15, 2011

Taft City Council 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

Industry Night Randy’s Trucking is our sponsor for the month of December. We will have a special Basque style Top Sirloin with some great dishes. Bar opens at 4:30 Dinner served at 7:30 Book Your Christmas Party at the Club!

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

Editorial

Westside Watcher Late for the Parade, the Fox Theater and Changing of the Guard at the Taft Police Department If you were one of the several thousands of people who attended the downtown Taft Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade on Monday night, you witnessed the return of a great tradition of celebrating Christmas in Taft. Nearly 70 floats, bands, clubs and other displays were on show down Center Street. The parade was put on by the community’s five service clubs – the Rotary, Soroptimist, Kiwanis and both Lions Clubs – and sponsored by the Taft Chamber. Good job by everyone involved. The first place winner was NTS, Inc. Congratulations to NTS. Speaking of the first place winner, there was also a last place winner.

It was a late parade float entry you didn’t get to see around midnight Monday - a silver blue Cadillac - in the catch-me-if-you-can category - driven by the late former councilman and former mayor Cliff Thompson. Yes, Mr. Thompson was caught by Taft’s finest driving and weaving erratically in the wrong lane down Center Street.

Seems an alert citizen observed Mr. Thompson and called police. So Thompson was stopped and arrested for DUI, cited and taken to a secret location in Bakersfield where he was later released. Police think that Thompson was on medication.

This would be funny except that this is the second time in 3 weeks that Thompson had been arrested by Taft Police and cited for DUI. Many folks – including the Watcher - are wondering why Mr. Thompson has been allowed to keep his driver’s license, or his car for that matter, being a danger to him self and others. Seems that the law allows those cited for DUI to keep a temporary drivers license up to 30 days after being cited, while the police confiscate the driver’s actual license. In those 30 days, drivers can appeal or settle the case in court.

But until then, watch out for Mr. Thompson if you see him coming your way, especially if you see him coming out of the Oasis. It may not be a happy holiday for an unsuspecting victim.

Good news about the Taft Fox Theater. Several owners of the open-again closed-again theater on Center Street have shared with the Watcher that they are close to passing city and county fire inspections so that the theater may once again reopen and begin showing movies and concerts. Former Taft resident Kent Coke - who managed the theater back in the day when the theater was your favorite place to take your high school honey or drop off your kids for the afternoon show has expressed great interest in leasing the theater from the owners who invested a great deal of money to bring the theater back to its old glory.

The success of the theater, regardless of who opens it, depends on the people of Taft supporting the theater. Word is that the New movie 25 Hill that was filmed partially in Taft will debut at the Fox this Spring.

And big changes are in store at the Taft Police Department. After serving many distinguished years in law enforcement with the Kern County Sheriff ’s Department and the Taft Police Department where he has been serving as Police Chief, Chief Ken McMinn is set to retire at the end of this month, and not too surprisingly, Lt. Ed Whiting will take his place as interim police chief until a new chief is selected. Word is that Ed will be picked to succeed McMinn.

Paik’s

Ranch House Restaurant

By Kent Miller

Work on the rehabilitation project for Sixth Street – between Ash and Warren streets – will be starting soon, after Taft City Council approved a nearly $300,000 contract with Bowman Asphalt of Bakersfield.

The project includes installing stop signs on Sixth Street at Emmons Park Drive.

The council, at its Tuesday evening meeting, accepted the $294,507 bid by Bowman over three others for the project. The winning bid was the lowest, with all the others at nearly $309,000 or higher.

The work will link up with that being completed on Harrison Street, from Highway 119 to Ash. Harrison becomes Sixth Street at Ash as it enters the city.

The work will start soon and hopefully be completed during or soon after the Winter Holiday period, according to a city spokesperson. The work will effect traffic going to Taft College, Taft Union High School, Lincoln Junior High and Roosevelt Intermediate School.

Classes will be out for the college after Friday, Dec. 16. The college resumes classes on Tuesday, Jan. 17. The high school and city schools’ last day of classes before winter break is Friday, Dec. 23, with classes resuming on Monday, Jan. 9.

Bowman will have 21 working days to complete the project, with extra time for rain and cold weather delays, said Craig Jones, city public works manager.

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

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

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

Truck parking The council on Tuesday approved an application seeking up to $2.9 million from the Truck Parking Facilities Discretionary Grants Program to construct a commercial motor vehicles parking facility on Kern Street/Highway 33 at the Albertsons shopping center.

There will be no motor home or recreation vehicle parking at the plaza, councilmembers were told.

The facility would enhance traffic flow, reduce incidences of illegal Continued on Page 8

Holiday Wine & Dessert Tasting Thursday, December 15th 5:30pm - 8:00pm Dessert Wines & Champagnes Candies, Chocolates, Cakes, and Pies

$15 Per Person Black Gold Cafe & Deli 508 Center Street RSVP 765-6550

“Where Everybody Meets” Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

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

December 9 - 15, 2011

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 steph@wsrpd.com

by Stephanie House LITTLE ELF’S BAKERY Tuesday, December 13 3:00-4:15 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room Ages 4 and up $3 per person In this cookie workshop, we will make jumbo sugar cookies and then decorate them. While the cookies are baking, we will watch holiday cartoons and drink hot chocolate. Little elves will need a helper!

KIDS NIGHT OUT! Friday, December 16 6:30-10:00 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Grades K-6 $8 per person ** registration deadline – December 15 Join us for a fun evening of games, movies, crafts, pizza, snacks and more! The more the merrier, so be sure to sign-up with a friend! This is the perfect time for parents to get some time to themselves during the busy holiday season. Pre-registration is required and space is limited.

LETTERS TO SANTA Children ages 8 and younger can write letters to Santa Claus in care of his helpers at the Recreation District. We will make sure that he gets your letters and writes back. Please write to Santa before December 15. Don’t forget to include your address! Send letters to: Santa Claus c/o WSRPD P.O. Box 1406 Taft, CA 93268 FATHER/DAUGHTER DANCE Saturday, February 4, 2012 7:00-9:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium 500 Cascade Place, Taft Girls ages 4 and up $30 per couple ($10 each additional daughter) Don’t miss out on the 4th Annual Father Daughter Dance. Girls ages 4 and older may be accompanied by their father, guardian or adult relative. The special evening includes music, photographs, snacks and more fun surprises. Tickets are limited and must be purchased by February 2. No tickets will be available the night of the event, so buy yours now!

WALKING FOR SENIORS When: Monday – Friday Time: 8:00-10:00 a.m.

Season: December 12 – April 6, 2012 Where: Recreation Center Gymnasium Fee: $1 daily or $15 monthly During the cooler weather months, we invite you to walk the track in the Recreation Center Gymnasium. There will be prizes for reaching milestones and we will also help you track your miles and progress.

YOUTH HOLIDAY BOWLING LEAGUE Who: 3 groups – 14U, 12U and 10U When: December 26, 2011 – January 8, 2012 Times: 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 a.m.

Where: Recreation Center Bowling Alley Fee: $50 per child ** STOP Scholarship funds available for partial fee payment In our first ever Youth Holiday Bowling League, kids will bowl 21 games between December 26 and January 8. There will be trio teams and 2 squads. Fee includes USBC membership, jersey, magazine, and shoe/ball rental. The league will be sanctioned by the Golden Empire USBC. For more infor-

WEST SIDE RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT 500 Cascade Place, Taft, CA 93268 (661) 763-4246 info@wsrpd.com www.wsrpd.com

mation, please contact the Bowling Alley at 765-6677. Register now at the Recreation Center!

TINY TOT & INSTRUCTIONAL P.E. When: Monday – Friday Ages 2-3, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Ages 4-6, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Program operates year-round (new students welcome at any time!)

Where: Recreation Center Gymnasium Fee: $3 per child, per day or $25 monthly What a great way for your little one to burn off some energy before nap time! This is an open gym session designed exclusively for little ones. Enjoy this fun-filled parent & me multi-sport/physical activity time with your child by tumbling on mats, shooting baskets, catching footballs, kicking soccer balls, running obstacle courses and other fun activities. A t-shirt is included in the price of monthly memberships.

INSTRUCTIONAL BASKETBALL Tiny Tot: Ages 2-3 Instructional I: Ages 3-4 Instructional II: Ages 5-6 When: January 17 – February 11, 2012 Practices: Tuesday and Thursday, 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Games: Saturdays Place: Recreation Center Gymnasium Fee: $25 per person Registration deadline: January 5 TINY TOT KICKBALL Who: Ages 2-4 When: Thursday Evenings Time: 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Session: January 26 – February 16, 2012 Place: Recreation Center Gymnasium Fee: $25 per person Registration deadline: January 19 PONYTAIL SOFTBALL – EARLY REGISTRATION $40: November 1 – December 22 $45: December 27 – February 23 $50: after February 23 (dependent on program availability) NO SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE AFTER FEBRUARY 23.

Sign-up early for Ponytail Softball and save 10%! Early bird registration fee is only $40. The softball program is for girls ages 715. Practices begin the week of March 12, 2012 and the season begins April 14, 2012.

S.T.O.P. PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIPS (Strive To Optimize Participation) Did you know that the District has a youth scholarship program? Children in low income, single parent or multiple participant households are eligible! For more information, or to find out how your child can take advantage of reduced program fees, give us a call in the District Office at 763-4246.

RECREATION CENTER The District’s new Recreation Center is now open! The Center includes a full-size gymnasium, weight room, 4-lane bowling alley, preschool room, activity room and restrooms/locker room.

For more information, including operating hours and programs offered, visit the Recreation Center page on our website (www.wsrpd.com) or give the Center a call at 765-6677.

BOWLING PARTY RENTALS Make your reservation now!

Reservations are now being accepted for party rentals at the bowling alley in the new Recreation Center. Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday. Rental fees start at $100 for 2-lane rentals. Rental prices include shoes, balls and use of the party room. The Center and bowling alley are slated to open in early September. Call 763-4246 for more information or to make a reservation.

PARTY PACKAGES Make your reservation now!

Need help planning a birthday party, bridal shower or baby shower? We can help! For one low fee, we will provide a room, plates, napkins, forks, cups, balloons and invitations – all to match your theme or colors. And for a little extra, we can help with activities, too! Package prices start at $130. For more information, or to make a reservation, please call the District Office at 763-4246.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR BINGO Thursday Afternoons Games start at 1:30 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room Ages 21 and older Buy-in varies, $10-15 average Cash pots! Pull-tabs also sold.

EAGLE MTN. BUS TRIP Monday, January 9, 2012 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Bus leaves from Community Center Ages 21 and older $3 per person Call 763-4246 to reserve a spot on the bus!

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Visit Local Businesses, Win Prizes!

The Taft District Chamber of Commerce has created a Taft Tour of Trees Passport for 2011. Several businesses are setting up Christmas Trees in their stores and are included on our Tour of Trees Passport. Visit any and/ or all of the businesses on the card this holiday season, take care of your Christmas shopping needs, admire their decorated trees, and vote for your favorite tree. Each business will stamp your passport card in order for you to receive credit for visiting their store. For each stamp, you will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win several prizes from local businesses!

Participating businesses in the Taft Tour of Trees Passport include Acme Jewelry, Ben’s Books, Black Gold Café, City of Taft, End of Times Gallery, Hayden’s Hope, H & R Block, Jacks Flower Shop, KC Photography, Miller’s Beauty Supply, Next Step Cardio & Fitness Club, Personal Style, Pizza Factory, Taft Chamber, Taft Manna 4 U, True Value, Tumbleweed Café, West Kern Oil Mu-

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

OT Cookhouse Daily Specials (For the week of 12-13-11 thru 12-17-11)

$9.95

Tues.

12-13-11 Dinner

OTC Chinese Style Steak

BBQ Beef Ribs

$11.95

Wed. 12-14-11 Lunch

Chicken Club

$8.95

Tues.

12-13-11 Lunch

Wed. 12-14-11 Dinner Thurs.

12-15-11 Lunch Thurs.

12-15-11 Dinner

Veal Liver with Bacon $11.95 & Onions Lasagna

$9.95

BBQ Pork Ribs

$14.95/ $16.95

$14.95 Half/ $16.95 Full

Fri. 12-16-11 Lunch

Roast Pork Loin

$8.95

Fri. 12-16-11 Dinner

$16.95 Small/ $19.95 Large

Prime Rib

$16.95/ $19.95

Roast New York

$14.95

Sat. 12-17-11 Dinner

CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

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

seum, Westside Furniture, and Westside Recreation. Pick up your passport card at any of these businesses or at the Taft Christmas Parade, December 5. This is a great opportunity to get some holiday shopping done locally and enjoy the Christmas trees in Taft.

No purchase necessary. Only one stamp per business per card, limit 2 cards per person. Turn your passport cards into the Taft Chamber (400 Kern Street) by December 20 to win!! Prizes to win include a $30 Gift Certificate to Ben’s Books, 12 Joy Archibald paintings from End of Times, a Pizza Factory XL Pizza Certificate, a ladies watch from Personal Style, a gift from Jacks Flower Shop, and a grand prize of a Westside Furniture La-Z-Boy Recliner.

Winners announced on Wednesday, December 21. Merry Christmas and Happy Shopping!

Fuller Announces Kick Off Of 8th Annual Operation Christmas For Our Troops Senator Jean Fuller (R-Bakersfield), is honored to announced the kick-off of the 8th Annual Yellow Ribbon America “Operation Christmas for our Troops” statewide toy drive.

Fuller has joined with other members of the California Legislature and representatives from Yellow Ribbon America to seek the public’s assistance to collect toys for the families of military personnel.

“Those serving our nation at home and abroad sacrifice daily to protect the freedoms that we too often take for granted,” said Fuller. “While our soldiers are called to active duty their families are often left at home and deserve the same level of attention and gratitude that we show the men and women in uniform. During the holiday season, it is my hope that our communities rally around and support the efforts of Yellow Ribbon America and its Operation Christmas for Our Troops.”

This is the eighth consecutive year that members of both sides of the aisle have come together to push a toy and DVD drive to benefit the families of military personnel. In the last seven years, over 500,000 donations have been collected statewide in support of the “Operation Christmas for Our Troops” toy and DVD drive. This is the most successful drive in the nation supporting our troops and their families.

Donations will be accepted at Senator Fuller’s Bakersfield District Office, located at 5701 Truxtun Avenue, Suite 150, through December 23rd.

Those with questions or an interested in participating, are encouraged to contact the District Office at (661) 323-0443.

Ben’s Books The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft

December 9 - 15, 2011

Taft Christmas Parade Winners

What an amazing Christmas Parade! While riding on the Taft Chamber vehicle, I got to see the sidewalks of Center Street filled with people from 8th Street down to 2nd Street on Monday, December 5. The Taft District Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all of the service clubs for assisting with putting together the parade and the community support in both participating and attending. We had 65 entries in this year’s parade and a number of people met with Santa and Mrs. Claus after the Parade at the Historic Fort. The winners are as follows: Sweepstakes Winner– NTS, Inc Floats: 1st – Calvary Baptist Church, 2nd – Taft SDA Church, 3rd – Midway 4H Walking Groups: 1st – Community Action Partnership, 2nd – Used to be Paul’s Bike Shop, 3rd – American Cancer Society Marching Bands: 1st – Lincoln & Roosevelt Beginning Band, 2nd – Conley After School Band, 3rd – Lincoln Lion Pride Band & Color Guard Equestrian: 1st – Kern Trail Riders, 2nd – Miss Rodeo Glennville 2011 Royalty Cheerleaders: 1st – West Side Recreation Cheer, 2nd – Lincoln Jr High Cheerleaders Auto: 1st – Hellfighters Motorcycle Ministry, 2nd – West Side Hot Rods & Classic Cars, 3rd – M & S Security Services, Inc. Thank you to the Rotary Club for organizing the Vanguard and Filming the Parade, the Kiwanis Club for arranging the Awards and Trophies, the Soroptimist Club for Judging, the Midway Sunset Lions and Lions Club for Staging the Participants and Santa, and the Chamber staff for organizing the entries. Without the help of Randy’s Trucking, Black Hall Construction, the Midway Sunset Lions, and Community Christian Fellowship, we would not have had such a beautiful judges stand with sound! Kmart, Albertsons, and the Chamber donated Candy for the parade and Jacks Trophy Shop for donating the sweepstakes trophy. Special thanks to Taft Chevrolet for providing the vehicles for the Vanguard and the Hummer Limo for the Chamber. Visit the Taft Chamber Facebook to see photos from the parade. You can email additional photos to shannon.taftchamber@gmail.com. See you the parade next year!

Live Drive Through Nativity December 9th & 10th 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Christmas is Coming

Come in and look at our Unadvertised Specials!

Gift certificates are available They make great stocking stuffers!

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

West Hills Church of the Nazarene 300 Lassen Ave, Taft Free of charge ~ our gift to the community

December 9 - 15, 2011

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Check Presentation From Chevron For the STEM Corporate Circle Sponsorship

On Monday, December 12, 2011, Taft College and the Taft College Foundation will hold a Press Conference to celebrate the awarding of a $50,000 STEM Corporate Circle Grant from Chevron. Since inception of the STEM Program at Taft College, Chevron has been a loyal supporter and founding member of the STEM Corporate Circle.

Our event will begin at 11:00 a.m., with a VIP Tour of the Taft College STEM Building, followed by luncheon in the Cougar Room at 11:30 a.m. The formal presentation will be held at approximately 12:00 noon.

While the event is technically by invitation only, because of the luncheon service, the public is invited to attend the presentation in the Cougar Room at 12:00 noon.

Should you have any questions, please contact Sheri Horn-Bunk, Executive Director, Taft College Foundation, at 661.763.7936 or shornbunk@taftcollege.edu .

Free Christmas Dinner A free Holiday Christmas Dinner will once again be provided by the Taft Manna 4 U hot meals and free clothing program. A full Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings will be held at their facility at 201 Harrison Street (corner of Harrison and Burch Streets). The dinner will be held Thursday, December 15th from 11am to 2pm. Manna 4 U is in its 5th year of operation. Taft Manna 4 U gives free gently used clothing and soon once again will be providing regular free hot meals for all their friends in need and the hurting and lonely people of Taft and the Westside. Taft Manna 4 U thanks all the generous citizens of the community that have generously helped keep our doors open.

Funds are needed to assist operational needs at Taft Manna 4 U. Taft Manna 4 U also needs everyday food, and turkeys and pies for their Christmas meal. During their last Thanksgiving meal they served about 200 people needing love and help. Volunteers are always welcomed. Taft Manna 4 U has no paid employees. Taft Manna 4 U is a 100% volunteer group so all donations go directly into the program. Please share your love this Holiday Season! Taft Manna 4 U can be reached by calling 661-765-5851.

Shop With A Cop

During the past years, taft Community Correctional Facility received donated bicycles which the CCF inmates restored. Taft Community Correctional Facility has in turn donated these bicycles that have been restored by inmates to community charitable organizations who pass them to needy children during Christmas time as gifts.

This year the Taft Police Association (TPOA) (Shop with a cop) will assume the responsibility of distributing the bicycles to children in the community.

However, new parts, tires, and paint require funds from community businesses and organizations to make this project a success.

Your contribution to Re-HAB these bicycles and new toys for any amount will be appreciated by the TPOA/Ahop with a cop, by the charitable organizations, and especially the receiving child.

Won’t you help brighten a child’s Christmas in our community by your contribution for new bicycle materials and new toys by making a check payable to TPOA- Shop With A Cop 320 Commerce Way, Taft, CA 93268

It’s Not Too Early...

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

Presents

“Homes for the Holidays” Home Tour - Fashion Show & Luncheon

Saturday, December 10th Home Tour 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

$25.00 per person Tickets available from any Soroptimist member or at Personal Style & Jacks Flower Shop

Luncheon at the Westside Believers Church Doors open 11:00 a.m.

Luncheon Served at 12:00 noon

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

Free Parking No Fog, Free Gift Wrap

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

Soroptimist International of Taft

J e w e l r y

426 Center Street 763-5451

HAYDENS HOPE

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

Thrift Store

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

All New Merchandise All ClothingWatch $1 Batteries Clothing • Electronics • Housewares Dec. 10th - 16th 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Some exceptions apply

Merry Christmas

420 1/2 Center Street Find us on Facebook God Bless!

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

Proceeds benefit critical care & other local projects

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

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

Check Out Our Website! maricopaquiltcompany.com And Facebook Page!

370 CALIFORNIA • 769-8580

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich Miller

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

8

Community Voices

TAFT INDEPENDENT

New Bill Damages Bill of Rights and Could Target Americans for Military Detention

By Dr. Harold Pease Civil libertarians and constitutional buffs are angrier with the Federal Government now than at any time since the Bush Patriot Act was pushed onto the American people ten years ago. Buried deep within the over 600 page, $662 billion National Defense Authorization Act is language that “would require the military to hold suspected terrorists linked to Al Qaeda or its affiliates, even those captured on U. S. soil indefinitely” and without trial, on the say so of the military through the President alone. Moreover, even Americans could be removed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba against their will and deprived of their constitutional rights.

The fury has to do with U.S. citizenship. Originally Senators Carl Levin and John McCain, who sponsored the bill, did not exempt U.S. citizens—a serious omission which dumps sizable portions of Amendments 4, 5, and 6 of the Bill of Rights. Senators Rand Paul, Dianne Feinstein and others demanding a citizen exclusion proposed amendments to do so, all of which were rejected. Senator Feinstein noted that her goal “was to ensure the military won’t be roaming our streets looking for suspected terrorists.” The Posse Comitatus Act of 1878, following the Civil War, forbade the U.S. military from performing law enforcement functions on American soil. The American Civil Liberties Union was also blunt. “Since the bill puts military detention authority on steroids and makes it permanent, American citizens and others are at greater risk of being locked away by the military without charge or trial if this bill becomes law.” When asked if it were possible for an American to be shipped to Guantanamo Bay, John McCain, a co-author of the bill, said yes. Senator Lindsey Long was more blunt. “When they say, ‘I want my lawyer,’ you tell them, ‘Shut up. You don’t get a lawyer.’”

Finally, Dianne Feinstein successfully got Senate colleagues to accept a weakened version of the same thing, “nothing in the bill changes current law relating to the detention of U.S. citizens and legal aliens.” Even while getting this clarification Senator Levin was still arguing, “that the June 2004 Supreme Court decision in Hamdi v. Rumsfeld said U.S. citizens can be detained indefinitely.” So, since it was so difficult to get an exclusion for Americans, and the co-authors of the bill, Senators Levin and McCain, say that it does include U.S. citizens as well. Why would a weak exclusion give civil libertarians any comfort? It doesn’t.

Some things are very clear. The terms “terrorists” and “affiliates” are not adequately defined, the President is given way too much power, and it violates the U.S. Constitution upon which everyone voting has sworn to uphold. It is hard to trust the government’s precise definition of terrorist when Vice President Joe Biden, a few weeks ago, referred to Tea Partiers as terrorists and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a few months prior to this referred to them as mobsters (a term also implying a threat to society). What guarantee do we have that the “new” enemy does not simply rotate to anyone defined as “antigovernment,” citizen or not?

The measure places too much power and trust in the office of the President which has not proved particularly trustworthy in the past with respect to the Constitution and civil liberty. Franklin D. Roosevelt, with the stroke of a pen, detained thousands of Japanese Americans in “relocation camps” in World War II on the basis of race and potential terrorism alone.

Jose Padilla, allegedly an affiliate of al Qaeda, a U.S. citizen arrested in Chicago for having plans to detonate a “dirty bomb,” was tortured and confined, without benefit of a lawyer for three years, by then President George W. Bush; all this within the borders of the United States. No actual evidence of a “dirty bomb” was ever produced, nor was Padilla ever charged with a crime. Two other Americans, Donald Vance and Nathan Ertel, had similar torture experiences as did Padilla but with less time in solitary confinement, again without charges. (See details in the December 5 issue of The New American).

Ultimately, with no evidence to support their confinement, they were set free.

And if Americans are sent to Guantanamo Bay under this law, how much confidence can we have that if found innocent they would be set free, especially given President Barack Obama’s recent assertion, cited in the above reference, that were military commissions to find them innocent they still “would never be set free from prison.” This is so wrong! Why should we have confidence in any president to not use this power as seemeth him good?

The threat of potential incarceration without recourse to a lawyer, judge and trial is very serious. The military performing police duties here to for rendered by civil authorities is unconscionable in a free society. Ninety-three senators voted for this bill. Only seven understood the Constitution well enough to vote no. Should President Obama sign this bill into law, I will follow with an column on how it emasculates Amendments 4, 5, and 6 of the Bill of Rights. Until then pass this column along to others. It is your liberty at stake.

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.

City Council Continued From Page 4 big rig parking – including in the Rails to Trails area – reduce and control emissions, and provide a safe parking area for drivers, said Lucille Holt, city grant administrator, in her report to the council.

The truck drivers would also have easy access from the facility to several restaurants. The facility would have mobile truck air conditioning units, charging stations, bathrooms, a vending center and amenities such as landscaping, lighting and benches, Holt said. The plaza would be solarpowered, she said.

The grant would require a 20 percent city match, but that would be covered by a second grant, Holt said.

The facility would generate income from fees for the air conditioning units, charging stations and vending center in addition to possibly yielding

customers for restaurants and motels, she said.

Paving of the plaza will reduce dust that now is raised when winds blow across the lot, councilmembers noted.

Other actions * The council approved funding for the Taft Chamber of Commerce for the April-June and July-September quarters of 2011.

The money comes from the city’s Transient Occupancy Tax charged motel guests. Under an agreement reached in September 2008, the chamber receives 25 percent of the TOT received by the city each quarter.

For April-June, the city received nearly $47,900, with nearly $12,000 going to the chamber. For July-September, the city gained nearly $13,800, with nearly $3,500 going to the chamber.

* The Tuesday, Jan. 3, meeting of the council was cancelled.

“Normally, there is little or no activity requiring council action during the holiday period,” City Clerk Louise Hudgens told the councilmembers in the request for the cancellation. * Police Chief Ken McMinn reported on actions he is taking to seek inmates for the Taft Community Correctional Facility now that the state has removed its prisoners.

California counties are being contacted to let them know that the facility is available to house their prisoners being returned by the state to the counties, McMinn said.

He hopes to have up to 600 other counties’ inmates in the facility by the spring, reinstating an income flow for the city from the nearly 21-year-old prison.

December 9 - 15, 2011

Former Taft Mayor Thompson Arrested Second Time For Driving Under The Influence Thompson Stopped by Police for Driving in Wrong Lane on Center Street After Taft Christmas Parade Former Taft Mayor Cliff Thompson has been arrested for a second time by Taft Police for driving under the influence.

According to Taft Police Lt. Ed Whiting, Thompson was stopped by police after being observed driving a silver late model Cadillac on the wrong side of the road in the 500 block of Center Street at approximately 11:45 p.m Monday evening.

Police had been alerted by a witness who observed Thompson's vehicle being operated in an erratic manner earlier.

It was Thompson's second arrest for DUI in 3 weeks by the Taft Police Department. In November, Thompson was arrested for DUI and hit and run involving property damage.

Thompson was arrested and taken to Kern Medical Center where he was administered a blood alcohol test. He was later released.

Your Weekly Gas Price Update Average retail gasoline prices in California have fallen 6.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.63/g Monday, December 5th. This compares with the national average that has fallen 2.6 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.29/g, according to gasoline price website CaliforniaGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in California during the past week, prices Monday, December 5th were 44.2 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 20.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 13.9 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 35.5 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Even as oil and gasoline futures rallied after strong Black Friday sales reports and a drop in unemployment, retail gasoline prices have mover lower,” according to GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “I have a suspicion that as we near 2012, we may see retail prices climb slightly higher again on upbeat holiday spending, which is indicative of a healthier economy. If we remember back to last year, positive holiday sales also led to higher gasoline prices as Christmas approached, which may play out again this year,” DeHaan added.

December 9 - 15, 2011

Obituary

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Taft Crude

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

Mary Marthaline Golden A graveside Memorial Service was held on Thursday, December 8, 2011 at the Westside Cemetery in Taft for longtime Taft resident Mary Marthaline Golden. Mary was born May 24th, 1926 in Eudora, Mississippi and passed away June 11, 2011 in Port Townsend, Washington.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, James Cecil Golden, her son Jesse Irvin Golden, her granddaughter, Kay Horton and her great grandson, Scotty Stonbraker. She is survived by her sons and daughters; Cecilia and Larry Perry of Port Hadlock, A, Jamie and ML Gregory of Maricopa, Gerald David and Dianne Golden of Taft, Carolyn Dixon of Taft, Beverly Golden of Bakersfield, and Mike and Linda Golden of Maricopa. Mary had fourteen Grandchildren, fourteen Great Grandchildren, five Great Great Grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews living in Mississippi and Tennessee.

Mary proudly served her country in the Women’s Army Corp during WWII and after raising her children she worked as a Nurse Aid at the Pacific Regency in Taft.

Mary loved to travel and she loved to read. Mary didn’t know a stranger and was filled with many amusing stories that she shared with family and friends alike who will miss her great smile, kind heart and wonderful sense of humor.

EVELYN MAY ROWE February 5, 1916 – December 4, 2011 Evelyn May Rowe, a spry 95 years young, passed away in Bakersfield, on Sunday, December 4, after a brief illness. A native of Taft, she was born on February 5, 1916 to parents Theresia Kosel Beck of Austria and Lewis “Slim” Beck of Pennsylvania. She was the eldest of five siblings and was raised on the Derby Lease. At 5’11” in height, she had quite an advantage as an athlete in high school, playing field hockey, basketball, volleyball, tennis and softball. Graduating in 1934 from Taft High School, she then attended Taft College for two years. During the 1930s she and her younger sister, Genevieve “Skip,” played on local softball teams. She played right field and Skip was a pitcher. With the growing popularity of softball as an organized sport for women, it was quite common for big businesses in Los Angeles to back teams and recruit talented players. Evelyn played for four years, first for Payne Furnace Co., Beverly Hills and then Columbia Pictures, Burbank. Unlike today, the prestige of the sport did not pay her bills. She supplemented by taking a job with Bank of America which she held for several years. Just before WW II broke out, she moved back to Taft. For 27 years Evelyn worked for Standard Oil Co./Chevron in the Drafting & Maintenance Depts., retiring in October of 1971. Evelyn met the love of her life, Herbert John “Jack” Rowe, a Maricopa lad, with whom she celebrated 51 years of marriage until his death in 2004.

During those wonderful years, the two traveled extensively around the country by bus, car and boarding an occasional cruise liner. And, of course, there was always the annual yearly trek to Klamath River for salmon fishing. They were both loyal avid Taft College Cougar football fans, never missing a home or away game. She loved her Cadillacs because they had extra leg room for her long legs, although she could frequently be seen driving Jack’s Chevy truck around town. At all times she was truly a lady. Her hair and makeup was the morning must, always accessorized by wearing earrings. She wrote thank you notes with perfect penmanship, never missed a birthday remembrance with a $20 bill enclosed, looked forward to “girls night out” and never missed a party. Her favorite movies were “chick flicks” and Johnny Depp. She was a champion of Bingo, she enjoyed an occasional margarita and loved anything pink. Even in her 90s she had hearing like a bat and the eyes of an eagle. Although limited in the kitchen, she was famous for her carrot-pineapple Jello salad every Thanksgiving and Christmas. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jack and sisters, Genevieve “Skip” Jones and Thelma “Sam” Green and her youngest brother, Lawrence Beck. Evelyn is survived by her brother, Raymond L. Beck (Velda) of Penn Valley, CA. Auntie Evelyn will be deeply missed by her niece, Mary Crowley and family (Meghan (Tad) Garner, Shauna Crowley, Breanne (Tommie & baby Kieran) Zaby, Keegan, Seamus and Darby Crowley) from Huntington Beach, CA; and nephew, Jim Fiscus of Maricopa; and niece, Suzy Jackson and family from Taft. Those who wish to pay their respects may do so on Friday, December 9, 2011, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and again on Saturday, December 10, 2011, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:a.m. at the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Saturday morning, December 10, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. in the West Side District Cemetery. www.EricksonAndBrown.com

Licensed Funeral Directors

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

Ice Blended Mocha Fat Free and Sugar Free Available in Most Flavors Open 7 Days - 763-5156 1010 6th Street • Taft

TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”

Pastor Cindy Brettschneider Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 AM Adult Bible Study and Sunday School 11 AM Adult Bible Study Monday 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Service 6:00 PM Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

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

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 ads deadline is now Wednesdays at 2 p.m.

Phone: 765-6550

Preserving for the Future

Fax: 765-6556 765-6556 Fax:

For Sale

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.

outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. Free and open to the public. Info call 716-4000.

Business Services COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services

Moving Estate Sale Friday til gone!

Everything goes! 715 Buena Vista St., entire household.

3 Family Huge Sale!

Saturday 301 Jamison Ln. 8am to noon.

Rain or Shine inside warehouse behind Jerry Melton’s. Do some Holiday shopping with us!

Sat & Sun Dec 10th & 11th 9am -4pm 210 Harding Ave. Lots of everythimg!

404 S. 7th Street. Sat and Sun 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

436 Phillippine. Sat, and Sun. Tools, bicycle, CD’s misc.

Computer Repair Graphic Arts Web Design Virus Removal 661-623-5188 YARD SERVICES CLEANING SERVICES Office cleaning, years of experience. Call Kathi 661-703-8186

Employment HELP WANTED

Deadline for submitting application is Wednesday, December 21, 2011. Resume will not be accepted in lieu of District application.

The successful applicant will be subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical and thorough background check. E.O.E. Kitchen Manager Buena Vista Golf Course now hiring managewment postion at Buena Vista Grill.

Applications available at the Golf Course.

Interviews start 12/26/11. Position starts Jan. 1. Call (661) 5494653 Allan or (661) 3191871 Chad.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

FOR SALE ESP Electric Gtr., All Gold pt. + chrome. Lots of extras. Mint. $500.

238-9723.

Pickers Buy & Sell 428 Center Street Hours 1-5pm Tues-Fri

AUTOMOBILES

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS LOST PETS

Real Estate PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

CRIME FREE HOUSING Brokers Licence 01417057 661-577-7136

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Wanted Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

Meter Reader ($2,943 - $4,623 per month) If you are looking for a career, come and check

Old Appliances, In ANY Condition. Car Batteries & Motorparts. Cash Paid $1 - $20 Call David 661293-0359 or 661-7656497. We will pick up!

Pickers Buy & Sell 428 Center Street

20% Off Holiday Discount Collectables • Tools • Jewelry • Knick Knacks Open Tuesday - Thursday 1pm - 5pm Must bring coupon. ex: 12/31/11 One coupon per customer per sale.

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

WANTED

ANNOUNCEMENTS 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

out what we have in store for you! West Kern Water District is seeking an energetic individual to join our team who has the ability to work independently and read water meters with a high degree of accuracy. Apply immediately at 800 Kern Street, P.O. Box 1105, Taft, CA 93268.

Business Services Rite Away Carpet Cleaning Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General Cleaning Owner Operated Visa\Master Card 765-4191 Taft Property Mgt. 661 745-4892. Brokers Licence 01417057

Classified ad deadline is Wednesday at 12 p.m. (noon) Phone: 765-6550

December 9 - 15, 2011

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

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

Good family business.

Call 661-623-4296.

HOMES FOR SALE Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street Karri Christensen LIC# 01522411 & #01333971 661-332-6597 www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase Commercial: 330 California (old post

HOMES FOR RENT

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

Courtyard Terrace Apts. 1 and 2 bdrm’s Pool,lndry rm.,1210 4th St. Apt. 1. Sec. 8 OK. (661) 763-1333.

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

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

325 Kern Street

Karri Christensen 661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

2bd/1ba $750 mo + dep.

Recently remodeled.

Fenced front and back yards. 661-589-2720.

Michael Long, Publisher That Taft Independent 508 Center Street Taft, CA 93268

$350 Move In Special.

108 Center Street.

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

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STET OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF KERN

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR ORDER DECLARING STATUS OF NEWSPAPER AS ONE OF GENERAL CIRCULATION (GOV. CODE 6021)

APART. FOR RENT

We Do All Phases of Construction Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists

Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.7657674. 420 Finley Dr.

523 Naylor St. 3 bd/2ba $1,050 mo + dep.

408 Jackson St. 3bd/1ba $880 mo + dep.

1bd 1 ba. house. 707 Fillmore 3 bd/1ba $780 mo. + dep. (661)3430507.

1bd/1ba garage, alley entrance $550 mo + dep. 661-477-9636

Plumbing • Septic • Rooter Framing • Electrical • Concrete

Real Estate eBroker Inc.

Michael Long, Publisher The Taft Independent 508 Center Street Taft, CA 93268

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

Air Conditioning & Heating

Imperial Gardens 424 Woodrow Street 2bd $625 mo. 1bd $550 mo. Stove fridge, dishwasher, pool, private car port. 661293-0830 or 661-7654299.

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 205 W Ash C 2/1.5 $600 601 4th 2/1 $650 435 B St 2/1 $700 302 Calvin 1/1 $850 528 D St 2/1 $850 602 Elkhorn 3/1.75 $850 404 Fillmore 3/1.75 $1,000 FOR SALE Why rent when you can buy for almost half the cost?!

Complete list of homes for Sale and Rent available!

1/1 cottage incl ref, new bthrm sink vanity, private fenced yard, lots of ktchn cabinets, $410 mo. 1st & last month rent free. Sec. dep. depends on credit. Mark King 805-689-4122

Ken Shugarts

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

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 _________________

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 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

December 9 - 15, 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 Just In Time For Shaw’s Pet Wash Christmas!

Christmas Special

Gift Ideas for that Special Someone Breyer Horses and Ornaments Montana Silver Jewelry Western Gifts Leather Wallets & Belts Great sales throughout the store!

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

www.shawswesternshop.com

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

WINTER SAVINGS! GM Certified Service Department

12

TAFT INDEPENDENT

December 9 - 15, 2011

ce i v r e S We and s e k a All M els!

Mod

We G u All Rearantee pairs !

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 Jr. e l l u F Joe

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