The Bounty At Ben's Books

Independent The Taft

February 17 - 23, 2012

www.Taftindependent.com

TAFT INDEPENDENT

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

February 17 - 23, 2012 • Volume 6 Issue 34

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

Want Your Used Clothing to Go Overseas? Donate Here!

The Bounty At Ben’s Books

Center Street Bookstore A Genuine Treasure

By Jane McCabe

Taft College Appoints New President/ Superintendent

Taftindependent.com

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

508 Center Street • 661-765-6550

Pastas • Sandwiches • Salads • Espresso • Beer • Wine

The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!

TRI-TIP SANDWICHES $7.95

Over 50 Different Craft & Imported Beers

2

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Shop Taft

Passion For Nails Nail Services:

Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star (we also treat ingrown nails)

CXWORX Core Class Starting Soon!!

Sign up now!

Now Offering Terra Firma Products

Open 24 Hours!

506 Center Street

(661) 205-5579

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

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

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

Women • Contemporary • Junior • Toddler • Infant • Men

NEW ARRIVALS!

February 17 - 23, 2012

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Acme Jewelry be closed on Watchwill Batteries Tuesdays when Ray is in LA. Please call first• 661.763.5451 763-5451 426 CENTER STREET

Thank You

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

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

J & D Recycling 1277 Kern Street

New Tutus Dresses & One of a kind Jeans for girls!

Lic # B-721903

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

Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

Valentine’s Month Offer

$20 Off Samsung Prevail Boost Mobile $10 Off With Purchase of 2 Phones excludes Boost Mobile phones $5 Off Page Plus & Verizon Phones

LA Idol Jeans For Juniors & Misses

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

Pastas • Sandwiches • Salads Espresso • Beer • Wine

offer expires February 29th

Hablamos Espanol 661-745-4954 610 Center Street

508 Center Street • 765-6550 Brand Clothing Shoes • Jewelry A Hint of Class Name Accessories & More

FREE

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

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

24

Plus Tax

$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee Exp. Feb. 29, 2012

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

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

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

Spring Has Sprung

Planting Made Simple With

Succulents!

Great Indoors & Out

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

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

WE HAVE MOVED! Now located at 210 6th Street

(661)763-4176

Electronics • Prepaid Phones Service • Accessories

WE SHIP!

February 17 - 23, 2012

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs......................3 Westside Watcher............4 West Side Recreation Report..........5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Community Voices..........8 From The Mayor..............8 Classified Ads.................10 Westside News...............11

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

Email: Publisher@taftindependent.com Website: www.TaftIndependent.com Locally and Independently owned since 2006 The Taft Independent is a locally owned community newspaper published weekly on Fridays for your enjoyment and reading pleasure. We publish 3,500 issues and distribute to over 225 locations in the city of Taft and the neighboring communities of Cuyama Valley, McKittrick, Maricopa, Fellows and Western Kern County, California.

The Independent is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies are $1 each. The contents of the Taft Independent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.

We welcome contributions and suggestions.

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS. Subscription home or businessdelivery of the Taft Independent is available for $6.50 per month or $78.00 per year. To subscribe to please call 765-6550.

LETTERS-TO-THE-EDITOR. Send us your letter to Taft Independent at the above address. Limit it to 300 words and include your name, address, and phone number. Fax: (661) 765-6556. Email your letter to: Editor@taftindependent.com.

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Managing Editor Advertising Jessica Skidgel 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” Have a community event that you would like to include?

Email it to us at Publisher@Taftindependent.com Grandma’s Attic At Taft Branch Library Every Saturday Through April 14th Grandma’s Attic Storytime has resumed at the Taft Branch Library on Saturdays and will continue every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. through April 14. Aimed at 5 to 8 year-olds, Grandma’s Attic offers an old trunk full of surprises and stories presented by a different volunteer reader each week. Children who participate will receive a form to return to their teacher for credit in their school reading program. Parents are always welcome to attend, or may enjoy some library or computer time while their child is occupied. For more information, call 763-3294 or visit the library at 27 Emmons Park Drive.

Taft Student Travel Group Meeting Wednesday, February 22nd Taft Student Travel Group will be heading to Washington D.C. tentatively on July 28th-August 3, 2013. We will be having an informational meeting on Feb. 22, 2012 at 5:30pm in the Chevron Valley Board Room. If you are interested in sending your student (ages 14-19) please join us to discuss itinerary, price and payment plan.

Adults accompanying students are welcomed.

Wine Tasting at Black Gold Thursday, February 23rd Black Gold Cafe and Deli, located at 508 Center Street, will be having a wine tasting on Thursday, February 23rd from 5:30pm to 8pm. For more information call 7656550.

Movie Night At West Hills Nazarene Church Saturday, February 25th Saturday February 25th The West Hills Church of the Nazarene will be hosting a community movie night with the showing of “Courageous.”

We will be having fire pits in the parking lot to keep warm, the movie will start at 6:30 pm.

TUHS Orientation for 8th Graders Monday, February 27th Taft Union High School will host Orientation Night for eighth graders at 6 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 27, in the Mullen gymnasium. The event will showcase the activities at the school from sports and clubs to electives and academics.

The incoming freshmen and their parents will get an initial exposure to the high school and will be able to schedule counselor appointments so they will have priority to sign up for popular classes and summer school classes. Staff will be on hand to answer questions. The new students will receive free Class of 2016 T-shirts, popcorn and prizes.

Free Children’s Immunization Clinic Thursday, March 15th San Joaquin Community Hospital will be offering FREE Childhood Immunizations for children against vaccine preventable diseases. The clinic will be in Taft at the Taft City School District on Thursday, March 15th, 820 6th Street, (parking lot), from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm.

Luck Of The Irish St. Patricks Dinner Saturday, March 17th The Historic Fort is holding their annual St. Patricks Dinner on Saturday, March 17th at The Fort, located at 915 N. 10th Street. Social hour begins at 5pm, dinner served at 6pm. Drawing for the Soroptimist Internation of Taft $500 Shamrock Wreath Raffle will take place. Raffle tickets $1.00 Tickets available at: All In The Sandwich, Jacks Flower Shop, Personal Style, True Value or any Soroptimist member.

Winner need not be present to win. Wreath Raffle. Proceeds Benefit Critical Care Transportation and other service projects. For more information contact The Fort at 765-7371.

The Wall That Heals, Veterans Memorial To Visit Bakersfield

This week, you’ll have a chance to view a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial called The Wall That Heals. The memorial, which is a quarter-scale replica of the original, will be here to send off Wesley Barrientos and Jeremy Staat as they begin their cross-country bicycle trip.

The Iraq war veterans will bike from the Wall of Valor in Bakersfield to the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. to support to our nation’s veterans.

“I just have a personal quest to do everything I can to make sure our Veterans are never treated like or Vietnam Veterans were treated,” said Jeremy Staat. “To give back and give homage and say thank you for the sacrifices and humiliation you had to endure in order for me, the current conflict veteran, to have this warm welcoming.”

If you would like to help escort the wall to Bakersfield, you’re asked to meet at the Denny’s at the base of the Grapevine at 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning. It will then be escorted to the Beale Memorial Library in downtown Bakersfield where it will remain until Monday.

Volunteers are needed to help assemble the wall and help with security. If you would like to help, call the Jeremy Staat Foundation at 661-330-1411.

West Kern Oil Museum Dinner Feb. 20 is the deadline to make reservations for the West Kern Oil Museum’s annual membership dinner.

The Feb. 25 event at the Community Center serves as the Museum’s annual meeting and will include election of officers, a financial report and a guest speaker.

This year’s featured speaker is Pat Cargol, vice president of sales and marketing for Wild Well Control, Inc., the Houston-based specialists in controlling well fires.

Cargol will trace the history of the people who molded the well blowout industry. He will compare equipment that was used in the early years with what is in use today to illustrate how the business has changed from just firefighting to a global well control/pressure control specialization.

His company specializes in worldwide firefighting, well control, engineering and training.

Founded in 1975, Wild Well played a major role in capping and controlling more than 130 wells in Kuwait following the invasion from Iraq. Today, the company responds to more than 50 emergencies a year.

Reservations can be made at the Museum, located at Highway 33 and Wood Street, which is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. or mailed to P.O. Box 491, Taft, CA 93268.

The cost is $20 per person. Tickets will not be sold at the door.

Taft Student Travel Group Heading To Washington D.C. Taft Student Travel Group will be heading to Washington D.C. tentatively on July 28th-August 3, 2013. We will be having an informational meeting on Feb. 22, 2012 at 5:30pm in the Chevron Valley Board Room. If you are interested in sending your student (ages 14-19) please join us to discuss itinerary, price and payment plan. Adults accompanying students are welcomed. Sights visited will include: Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Korean War Memorial, WWII Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, US Capitol Building, Smithsonian Museums, Arlington National Cemetery, White House, US Holocaust Museum, Georgetown, Mount Vernon and much more. If you are unable to attend, you may contact Lisa Polk or Cari Fivecoat at taftstudenttravel@gmail.com or (661)623-2714

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGS

Optimal Hospice Volunteer Orientation Wednesday, March 21st Optimal Hospice Care would like to invite you to our springtime new volunteer orientation. Reserve your seat for Wednesday, March 21st from 10am to 2pm in our Bakersfield location. To learn more about how Hospice care enhances the lives of those affected by terminal illness and how volunteers can make a true difference in that effort. You can volunteer as little or as much as you are able. There is no time restrictions placed on you. Optimal would like to especially encourage caring individuals from communities such as Delano, Arvin, Shafter, Wasco and Lamont to inquire.

Also hairdressers and pet therapy teams are greatly encouraged to contact Optimal Hospice care to see how they can help. Call 661-716-4000 or email rfrankhouser@ optimalcares.com for more details.

TUHS Hall of Fame Saturday, April 28 The Taft Union High School Hall of Fame Banquet will be held on Saturday, April 28 in the Mullen Gym at TUHS. Doors open at 5pm, banquet begins at 6pm.

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased from Sheri Gregory at TUHS, One Wildcat Way, or at the Taft Chamber of Commerce, 400 Kern Street. Five people will be inducted into the Hall of Fame: Curtis Barnes (Class of 1960), Charles Beard (Class

Tuesday February 21st, 2012 – 7:00 p.m.

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

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.

of 1957), Les Haney (Class of 1942), De Ann Gaither Sampley (Class of 1972), and William Silcox (Class of 1940). Doors to Main Hall will be open from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. for persons who want to view the Hall of Fame Plaques and visit the generational display cases which feature memorabilia from ten decades of the high school’s history.

4

The Taft

Independent

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

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

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

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

TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

Westside Watcher

Foxy Lady Opens Once Again

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

Taft Crude Coffee House Coffee House and Deli Monday – Friday 7 am to 4pm.

Saturday 7 am to 2 pm Sundays 7:30 am to 10 am 1010 6th Street, Taft 763-5156 Black Gold Cafe & Deli Pastas - Sandwiches Espresso - Beer - Wine Open Monday to Saturday Lunch served 9am-1pm Dinner served 5pm - 8pm 508 Center Street 765-6550

Westside Entertainment

Your Restaurant Listed Here!

Call 765-6550!

Asian Food and Pizza $12 per week!

Lunch and Dinner Asian Experience Tuesday - Friday

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Live Music Saturday Nights

NOW OPEN 514 Center Street The Big Miracle Friday 4:30, 7, & 9:30pm Sat. & Sun. 12, 2:15, 4:30, 7 & 9:30 Mon. 12, 2:15, 4:30, 7pm Tue.-Thur. 4:30, 7pm Woman in Black Friday 5, 7 & 10pm Sat. & Sun 12:30, 2:45, 5, 7:30 & 10pm Monday 12:30, 2:45, 5 & 7pm Tue.-Thur. 5, 7:30pm This Means War Friday 5:30, 8:00 & 10:30pm Sat. & Sun. 1, 3:15, 5:30, 8 & 10:30pm Monday 1, 3:15, 5:30 & 8pm Tue. - Thur. 5:30, 8pm

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

100 Year Anniversary March 4th

After concerns about endless delays, fire department inspections and city approvals, the Taft Fox Theater will open this Friday, February 17th!

The theater will feature 3 movies this weekend and throughout next week.

Movies this weeks include The Big Miracle on Friday 4:30, 7, & 9:30pm. Sat. & Sun. 12, 2:15, 4:30, 7 & 9:30.

Mon. 12, 2:15, 4:30, 7pm, and Tue.-Thur. 4:30, 7pm.

Woman in Black on Friday 5, 7 & 10pm, Sat. & Sun 12:30, 2:45, 5, 7:30 & 10pm, Monday 12:30, 2:45, 5 & 7pm, and Tue.-Thur. 5, 7:30pm.

This Means War Friday 5:30, 8:00 & 10:30pm, Sat. & Sun. 1, 3:15, 5:30, 8 & 10:30pm, Monday 1, 3:15, 5:30 & 8pm, and Tue. - Thur. 5:30, 8pm.

Notice - Movies starting after 8 p.m. require a child be accompanied by an adult.

Seniors and children under 13 tickets are $5. Adults and children over 13 are $7.

Future movies include the Lorax, and Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance.

Go to the movies this weekend!

Taftindependent.com

Paik’s

Ranch House Restaurant “Where Everybody Meets”

March 4th is the Taft Petroleum Clubs 100 Year Anniversary. We will have a special Industry Night March 7th to celebrate

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

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

The club is available for Weddings, Birthdays, and Anniversary’s. Hall holds up to 200 people and the bar can hold 70.

765-6915

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

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Open 7 Days

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

February 17 - 23, 2012

Results Of Kern County Drug Task Force To Be Presented

Dr. Kathy Orrin of the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau has announced plans to disseminate the results of a county-wide drug task force to the citizens of the community of Taft. A presentation of The Impact of Methamphetamine in Kern County: A Preliminary Study, will be presented at a luncheon on Thursday, March 22, 2012, from noon to 1:30 p.m., by Kern County Mental Health Department, the individuals commissioned to do the study. The program will be presented at the Historic Fort.

Our County Supervisor, Ray Watson, wanted the people of the West Side to know the facts about drug issues in our county—specifically, in our own community.

“This challenge only gets bigger,” stated Orrin. “With the recent death of a three-year-old in our community and the knowledge that drugs may have played a role in that tragedy, we cannot separate drugs from other issues such as child abuse.”

This event is a joint effort of the five service clubs in Taft: the Kiwanis Club of Taft, the Midway/Sunset Lions Club, the Taft Lions Club, the Rotary Club of Taft, and Taft Soroptimists. The service clubs are coming together for their weekly (or bi-weekly) meetings on Thursday, March 22, to show their support of this endeavor, and the Chamber is organizing the event.

The public is encouraged to attend. Although the cost of the luncheon has not been determined at this time, the public may come to listen without purchasing a meal. More information will be available at the Chamber of Commerce (765-2165).

Taft College STEM K-12 Outreach Connects with Maricopa Unified Joe McFaddin, STEM Outreach Coordinator for Taft College has formed a collaboration with the Maricopa Unified School District to develop a “next generation” of the very popular Young Innovators Club (YIC). The Young Innovators Club is a Taft College “home grown” Science, Technology, Engineering and Math club that meets at Lincoln Junior High School every other week.

Over the past several years, the YIC has grown to over 90 students who have found a passion for STEM. The Taft College Young Innovators are 6th-8th grade range, 53% Female, 75% Hispanic, and 56% economically disadvantaged. The STEM Program is an extension of a national initiative to improve the pipeline of STEM professionals by increasing preparedness and completion of students through four-year degree programs. Funds to support the YIC were given through the Taft College Foundation STEM Corporate Circle partnership with, Chevron, Synagro, Oxy of Elk Hills, Sempra Foundation and Wells Fargo.

Currently meeting once a week, Maricopa Faculty partner with the Taft College STEM Program to engage the Young Innovators, 7th though 12th grade students, in hands-on activities in robotics and engineering to complement their current academic programs.

Maricopa faculty, Kim Van Winkle and Albert Allen, teach with the academic rigor of a classroom in introducing all the club activities. The outcome expectations are high says Taft College STEM Outreach Coordinator Joe McFaddin “Currently, they are all preparing, along with the Taft Lincoln Jr. High Young Innovators Club, to attend and compete in the 2012 Robo games. Last year, our first year was good as we had a student take 4th place in the LEGO Juniors,” McFaddin said, but our hopes are that this year we will excel even further.” McFaddin added, “We currently are the only STEM-based school club with a regional collaboration of this nature that exists in California.”

For further information on Taft College STEM go to http:// stem.taftcollege.edu

CYCLE KATZ INC. HAS MOVED TO 320 HARRISON ST.

PARTS • SALES • SERVICE Locally owned and operated We work on all makes and models

Grand Opening March 3rd Larger showroom and larger mechanic Area Now offering a customer lounge with coffee and donuts Come check out our new location!!!

WWW.CYCLEKATZ.COM cyclekatz@att.net

February 17 - 23, 2012

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 MOTHER SON DANCE Saturday, March 3, 2012 7:00-9:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium 500 Cascade Place, Taft Boys ages 4 and up $30 per couple ($10 each additional son) Don’t miss out on the 2nd Annual Mother Son Dance. Boys ages 4 and older may be accompanied by their mother, guardian or adult relative. The special evening includes music, photographs, snacks and more fun surprises. In order to provide a quality event, we need a minimum of 25 couples registered (tickets purchased) by Friday, February 24 or we will have to cancel. Last year’s event was a lot of fun! No tickets will be available the night of the event, so buy yours now!

SPEND YOUR PRESIDENT’S DAY AT THE REC… Monday, February 20 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Recreation Center (Aera Gymnasium), 500 Cascade Place, Taft Ages 10+ Student Gymnasium Admission: $1.00 Bowling: $3 per person, per game (plus $2 shoe rental) Spend your day off at the Recreation Center bowling or taking part in activities in the gymnasium. Raffles will be given away every hour! For more information, please contact the Recreation Center at 765-6677.

GAMES GALORE Tuesday, February 21 3:00-4:30 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Grades K-8 FREE! Join us for some fun and games! We will have classic board games plus lots of fun games on the Nintendo Wii. WONDERFUL WAFFLES Tuesday, February 28 3:00-4:00 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Grades 1 and up $3 per person ** pre-registration required by February 27 Come and learn how to make waffles from scratch! We will make them, and then eat them. Yum! You will go home with a full tummy and the recipe to try at home. For dessert? Chocolate brownie waffles! Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

GLEE CLUB When: Monday Evenings Session: March 5 – April 23 Ages 4-12, 4:00-5:00 p.m.

Ages 13-18, 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Ages 18+, 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Where: Community Center Activity Building Fee: $40 per session (8-weeks) Instructor: Crystal Azbill In this Show Choir class, we’ll focus on vocal performance and choreography – ranging from songs that are hip to songs that are old. Classes are open to any skill level.

YOGA Who: Ages 14 and older When: Tuesday and Thursday Times: 9:00-9:45 a.m., 7:00-7:45 p.m. or 8:00-8:45 p.m.

Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $25 per month (per class) ** register prior to attending class Instructor: Valerie Taylor This is the perfect class for beginners looking to improve flexibility and enhance general fitness. Class goals are to strengthen muscles and joints, improve circulation and relieve stress through common yoga stretches. Students should bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. Class space is limited – registration is REQUIRED prior to attending class.

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.

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

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.

TINY TOT P.E. When: Monday – Friday Ages 2-4, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 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.

PONYTAIL SOFTBALL $45: December 27 – February 23 $50: after February 23 (dependent on program availability) NO SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE AFTER FEBRUARY 23.

Ponytail Softball is for girls ages 7-15. Practices begin the week of March 12, 2012 and the season begins April 14, 2012.

YOUTH TRACK Who: Ages 6-15 Season: begins in March Time: 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Where: Taft Union High School Track Fee: $45 per person Registration deadline: February 23 This program is designed to train boys and girls, ages 6-15, in all areas of track and field. Participants are eligible to enter the District Track Meet, and may also qualify to advance to other meets. Practices will take place during the week.

HAWK HOOPS BASKETBALL CAMP Who: Ages 8-17 Friday, March 2: 5:00-9:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 3: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 4: 2:00-6:00 p.m.

Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee: $30 per person. Registration deadline: February 23 Hawk Hoops camps are conducted by former NBA player Juaquin Hawkins, who has 14 years of professional basketball experience. The camp will improve dribbling, shooting, defense, passing, discipline, teamwork, hand/eye coordination and much more. Camp staff includes players who have played in the NBA, experienced/championship level coaches or players who have played in college or on a pro level.

FITNESS CAMP Who: Ages 16+ When: Monday, Wednesday and Friday Mornings Time: 6:00-7:00 a.m.

Session: March 5 – April 27 Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee(s): $60 – 1 month, $100 – 2 months Registration deadline(s): February 29 (1st month), March 30 (2nd month) Whether you want to hold strong to your resolutions, get ready for that beach body, or just want to be a healthier and more fit you… come to Fitness Camp and get started on a healthier path! Camp will be facilitated by WSRPD Trainers Christian Ramirez, Andrew LeClair and Andrew Matthews. Register in the Recreation Center, 500 Cascade Place, Building D in Taft. For more information contact the Center at 765-6677.

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 DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT Saturday, March 17, 2012 Check-in: 8:00 a.m.

Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Ages 14 and older $110 per team (6 players per roster) Registration Deadline: Thursday, March 15

EASTER EGG HUNT Saturday, March 31, 2012 10:00 a.m. SHARP ‘A’ Street Park, Taft FREE! Ages 2-8 are welcome!

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

The Bounty At Ben’s Books Center Street Bookstore Stacked

By Jane McCabe

In December of 2004 Ben and Jennifer Mangum moved from the San Fernando Valley, where for thirty years Ben ran an insurance agency, to Taft to be near to their three daughters, two in Taft, one in Bakersfield, and their grandchildren. An avid reader and book lover, before leaving Ben donated his “wall of books,” mostly modern fiction and biographies, to libraries there, but little did he know then he would open a used book store at 810 Center Street.

A used book store had been at that location for nearly ten years, so when Ben and Jennifer bought the building, they also inherited its inventory. He built the shelves that now house his collection, and he has arranged the books by genres, which are then alphabet-

ized by the authors’ last names, except for the biographies, which are alphabetized by subject. Ben’s Books opened in August of 2009.

Though his prices are low, business is slow like many others on Center Street, but the store provides Ben with something to do in his retirement, and he enjoys kibitzing with customers.

His wife Jennifer was born in Karachi, Pakistan, and is one of six children born to an English scientist who worked for British airways and his wife. Her family is Christian, so she and her siblings were educated at a convent school in Karachi.

When martial law was established in 1959, their father thought it time to get his family out of Pakistan and moved them back to England. She and Ben met on a blind date when she was in Southern California, and now they’ve been married for 47 years.

If asked what his favorite book of the hundreds he has read, Ben readily says Anthony Adverse by Hervey Allen, the story of a man from his conception in France to his birth in Italy to his death in New Mexico. The book was well known in its day and a movie starring Gary Cooper was made of it.

Ben also lists among his favorites The Agony and the Ecstasy, about the life of the sculptor Rodin, Hedy’s Folly, about Hedy La Mar and her inventions, The Rothschilds, and The Arms of Krupp.

Ben thinks in another dozen years publishers may stop publishing paper books altogether and will instead make new books available to readers on Kindle and Nook type computer tablets.

He notes that when he and Jennifer came to Taft eight years ago there were four or five used book stores in Bakersfield and now there is one.

Some parents come in to the store to buy children’s books, which they will read to their children.

Taft is a town of hidden treasures. Readers and book-lovers should know if they frequent Ben’s Books they may be given a cup of coffee and Ben will gladly regale them with stories about his favorite books and their authors.

February 17 - 23, 2012

Sharing The Love This Valentine’s Season On The Westside

There was no shortage of love this Valentine’s season with local businesses and organizations offering giveaways to share with the one you love. Josh Medel, pictured above with Acme’s CaSandra Malone, won the grand prize from Acme Jewelry this past week, a $150 certificate to put towards a personalized “What’s In Your Heart” necklace.

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

Pastas • Sandwiches Espresso • Beer • Wine

Sheila Allen, right, won the champagne brunch giveaway and the one night stay at the Ascot Suites in Morro Bay for two from the Taft ARC. Katchy Tonkin, left, drew the winning raffle ticket on Tuesday. This giveaway was sponsored by Dream Maker Bath and Kitchen of Bakersfield.

Wine Tasting

Thursday, February 23rd 5:30 pm Featuring

Dubost Wines and Hors D’Oeuvres Please RSVP at 765-6550 Beer & Wine

Over 50 Different Craft & Imported Bottled Beers!

Beer & Wine Available To Go Black Gold Cafe and Deli 508 Center Street, Taft, CA 93268

Jennifer and Ben Mangum.

Bow Wow Bakery

Opening Day Saturday, February 25th 10am

Pets and their Owners welcome!

Debuting our Doggie Treat Bar

Come Sniff Out Our Pet Accessories Personalized Dog Dishes • Spaw Peticures One of a kind Dog Leashes Open Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am to 1pm Closed Sunday and Monday 420 Center Street (661)979-7264 gagasparks@gmail.com

February 17 - 23, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

GAIA Boxes Seek to Save Planet Taft College President Environmental Group Ships Superintendent Appointment Donated Clothing Overseas For Sale Announced If you love your Mother Earth, think that humanity is driving Global Warming, that fundamental changes in politics and economics are needed to save the earth, and want your used clothing to end up in a third world country, then you’ll want to join the movement and put all your old sneakers and t-shirts into one of the GAIA bins that have recently popped up around Taft.

And the organization has some people in Taft wondering why so many 6 foot tall environmental green clothing donation boxes have turned up on the west side when donations are needed in town.

If you pay any attention to local facebook postings, there’s some grumbling about this out of town organization looking for donations when most think that donations ought to be kept in the community.

Most of the donated clothing items are shipped overseas and sold.

Meet GAIA, a worldwide save-humanity by saving the earth environmental organization that has been described as a “cult” by some former employees, and raised many questions about where and how much of the funds it raises actually goes to saving the environment.

According to their website GAIA-Movement-USA.org, the Gaia-Movement is a 501c3 non-profit organization raising awareness about the plight of the environment and taking action to protect it. The website goes on to explain why social and political change is needed: “Why has it been so difficult to achieve meaningful solutions?

Media pundits, partisan think tanks, and special interest groups funded by fossil fuel and related industries raise doubts about the truth of global warming. These deniers downplay and distort the evidence of climate change, demand policies that allow industries to continue polluting, and attempt to undercut existing pollution standards.”

“Our country is at a crossroads: the United States can act responsibly and seize the opportunity to lead by developing new, innovative solutions, as well as immediately putting to use the many practical solutions we have at our disposal today; or we can choose to do nothing and deal with severe consequences later.

So much for local oil company donations.

According to the city of Taft, GAIA does not have a business license to operate in the city. Many business owners were simply asked by a GAIA representative if they could place a box on their property. No city approvals were sought or given.

In 2004 the Chigago Tribune published an investigation on the hundreds of green donation boxes that had started appearing all over the Chicago area. They found that they were connected to a Danish group called Tvind, and financial records showed that Gaia, the main Tvind-related organization in Chicago, was spending a very small percentage of its revenue on environmental projects.

Tvind’s leader, Amdi Petersen, was arrested in Los Angeles at the time and was extradited to Denmark to stand trial on embezzlement and tax evasion charges.

Since then, numerous other journalists have published investigations into Tvind-related clothing boxes, which are labeled Gaia, USAgain, Planet Aid, IICD and Humana.

British journalist Michael Durham operates a website, tvindalert.com, that tracks the organization’s many interconnected businesses, properties and charitable operations around the world.

And philanthropy watchdogs have given failing ratings to most of Tvind’s clothing operations.

The American Institute of Philanthropy says it gives an F grade to both Gaia and fellow Tvind-related group Planet Aid (which has boxes in about 80 cities in 20 states mostly outside the Midwest) for lack of transparency, insufficient spending on program services (11 to 44 percent) and too much spending on fundraising ($76 to $85 per $100 raised).

So before you give, you may want to think twice about donating to GAIA and support their worldwide cause.

The Board of Trustees of the West Kern Community College District is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Dena Maloney as the new Superintendent/President of Taft College.

After an extensive search utilizing the consulting services of Professional Personnel Leasing, the initial candidate pool was evaluated and nine candidates were invited for interviews by the campus presidential search committee.

Following those interviews, three candidates were recommended to the Board of Trustees for their consideration.

On Thursday, February 2, 2012, members of the Taft community and faculty and staff of the College were invited to a reception from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. to personally meet the three candidates.

Attendees were provided an opportunity to complete confidential forms to express their opinions and observations of each candidate which were forwarded to the Board of Trustees.

At a meeting on Friday, February 3, 2012, the Board of Trustees interviewed each of the top three candidates and on Monday, February 16, 2012, the Board announced their decision to appoint Dr. Dena Maloney as the new Superintendent/President. Dr. Maloney is currently Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of the Canyon Country Campus and Vice President of Economic Development of the Santa Clarita Community College District in Santa Clarita, California. Dr. Maloney received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, her Master of Arts in Government from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and her Doctorate in Education in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne in La Verne, California.

It is anticipated that Dr. Maloney will assume her new duties at Taft College on May 1, 2012.

Billy White, WKCCD Board President, says “The Board of Trustees is very pleased that Dr. Maloney has accepted the CEO position at Taft College. We look forward to her capable leadership through these challenging financial times and into the future.

We are excited to welcome her to the college and community.”

Black Gold Cafe and Deli Pastas • Sandwiches Espresso • Beer • Wine

The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!

Open Monday-Saturday 9am-2pm 5pm-8pm Sandwiches & Salads

BLTA • Black Gold Club Roast Beef • Ham • Turkey Avocado • Tuna Salad • Egg Salad • Pastrami • Meatball Sandwich • Grilled Cheese Italian Garden Salad • Chef Salad • Polish Dog • Chili Dog • Soup & Salad Pastas Shrimp Scampi • Spaghetti With Meatballs • Raviolis Mozzarella & Baked Chicken Ravioli Spinach & Cheese Raviolis Espresso & Coffee Coffee • Iced Coffee Espresso • Latte • Cappuccino Americano • Vanilla Latte Cafe Mocha • White Mocha Chai Latte • Hot Chocoloate Blended Drinks • Iced Drinks Chocolate Freeze Vanilla Freeze • Iced Tea Fruit Smoothies • Protein Drinks Desserts Cheesecake • Chocolate Pie Key Lime Pie • Pastries

HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

During the month of February a Portion of the stores proceeds will be donated to help stop child abuse Shirts & Sweaters $.25

Does not include hoodies or jackets

Pants $.50

We Take Donations!

Drop Off Or Call For A Pick Up! 745-4963

God Bless!

420 1/2 Center Street • TAFT

Beer & Wine

Over 50 Different Craft & Imported Bottled Beers!

745-4963

Ben’s Books

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion Childrens • Cookbooks and More!

Cooking Magazines And Many Romance Novels All $.10 810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

Beer & Wine Available To Go Wine Tasting February 23 @ 5:30pm 508 Center Street • Taft DIne In Or Pick Up • 661-765-6550

8

Community Voices

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Presidents’ Day, What Would Abraham Lincoln Say?

By Dr. Harold Pease President Barack Obama’s favorite president, as is the case with so many Americans, is Abraham Lincoln who shares a national holiday, Presidents Day, with George Washington. But this bond certainly could not be because of shared political ideology. Lincoln was for the free market and decidedly against socialism—just opposite of President Obama. He saw nothing in the Communist Manifesto, published in 1848, worthy of emulation.

On the ownership of property Abraham Lincoln’s feelings were especially strong, he said, “Property is the fruit of labor; property is desirable; is a positive good in the world. That some should be rich shows that others may become rich, and hence is just encouragement to industry and enterprises” (The Collected Works of Abraham Lincoln edited by Roy P. Basler, Volume VII, pp. 259-260). To him there was no need to take by force the wealth of those who produce and give it to those less productive. The “share the wealth” philosophy articulated by Obama as a presidential candidate in 2008 to “Joe the plumber,” would have been foreign ideology to the Civil War president.

The answer for the poor was not class envy, first identified by Aristotle some 2,500 years ago as being the natural inclination of those with less, a philosophy implemented by Lenin in Russia when the communists identified those holding property as enemies of the state and liquidated some four to eight million farmers, the “Kulaks” (“The Russian Kulaks,” InDepthInfo.com). Then they wondered why the country had such a horrific famine in 1921-1922. Lincoln’s answer to the poor, from which he sprang himself, “Let not him who is houseless pull down the house of another, but let him labor diligently to build one for himself, thus by example assuring that his own shall be safe from violence….”

Unfortunately, many in our society have forgotten the “labor diligently” part of his phrase and have come to expect the government to provide, from the industry of others, their every need. On that score Lincoln also had words. “You toil and work and earn bread, and I will eat it.” He viewed this principle as a form of tyranny to those who work. Today 47.5 % of the adult population pay no federal income tax; many actually receive benefits for which they have paid nothing.

Watching others acquire wealth was, in fact, a sign of a healthy economy for Lincoln. “I take it that it is best for all to leave each man free to acquire property as fast as he can. Some will get wealthy. I don’t believe in a law to prevent a man from getting rich; it would do more harm than good.” Nor would he have supported the hundreds of laws that we have today that disincentivize a man trying to acquire wealth.

Lincoln might have added, “When has a poor man ever created a full time job for anyone?” Hate the Wall Marts or the McDonalds all you want but they provide the poor thousands of jobs. Do not bite the hand that feeds you then wonder where the jobs and prosperity went as did the early Russian communists. The “share the wealth” philosophy, which Lincoln opposed, has never brought long term general prosperity for any people, any place, or any time.

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

San Joaquin Automotive Will Soon Be Messenger Automotive San Joaquin Automotive will be in business until February 29th, but, due to state licensing issues, Messenger Automotive will not be opening until the middle or end of March. Between February 29th and the opening of Messenger Automotive, there will be no repairs or services given. The phone will still be functioning and Billy Messenger will be in and out of the shop periodically.

He will be there to answer questions or concerns, but he won’t be able to make repairs to any vehicles.

For more information call 763-1123.

February 17 - 23, 2012

From The Mayor Hi Everyone,

I was driving down 10th Street and turned onto San Emidio to go by the high school when I had a de-ja vu moment that took me back to my high school days in my brothers 1950 Olds four door. When I turned the corner back then north on Seventh Street, I would then flip a quick u-turn and park in one of the spots in front of the school. In that old Oldsmobile and the bald tires I always had on it, it would make a lot of tire squealing noise that announced that I was once again starting school that day.

Looking down the row of cars there was quite a collection of 40’s-50’s-60’s now we wish we had them back, vintage automobiles parked in front of the school.

Everyone of them a classic; everyone had a style of its own; everyone of them a signature of who the owner was. Most of them we were able to tinker on or repair or hop them up or bolt on some JC Whitney parts. I never had enough money to do much to the 57 Ford 2 door I had my senior year, but I always wanted a pair of chrome scavenger exhaust pipes coming out the rear just under the rear axle.

The guys that had them had a V-8 and larger tires on the rear. I had a straight in-line six with a 2-barrel carb; no power, no guts, no glory. Now when you drive by the school there are all these little 4-door foreign cars, with no style, no sound, except for a booming car stereo, and no personality. You can hardly work on them anymore, and parts for them are out of this world. Different times; not worse or better, just different.

I was able to attend the chamber annual dinner last week that featured a number of Taft folks that were honored for their business spirit and volunteerism. They are the ones that prove that living in Taft is much better than residing in Taft. When the Fox Theater opens back up this weekend, assuming it will as I pen this, now you have no reason to go out of town for food or entertainment.

We are fabulously endowed with a vast array of Mexican restaurants, several fine Pizzas joints, family food establishments, Thai food, several watering holes, a couple of Chinese places, and fast food abounds. You can now go bowling, work out in several of our gyms, get your motorcycle repaired, see Ray for fine jewelry, go by True Value and K-Mart for your other shopping needs. To work it off, you can take a stroll down our famous Rail-to-Trails waking path and stop to admire the biggest, baddest, tallest, largest all bronze monument west of the Mississippi.

When you are driving down Kern Street, you are on the Petroleum Highway, which is the gateway to the Carrizo Plains. For home furnishings see John at Westside Furniture, they can get what you need. So many places for the ladies to get their hair done, but see what Vicky has done to her shop at Personal Style to fit your needs. We have two excellent flower shops and many other specialty shops around town that are asking for you to check them out before you take your dollars elsewhere. Give them a chance, because most of the businesses that have been open for a while are always giving back to the community. Think about that the next time one of your kids is out raising money for their team or school. Most businesses don’t start up to fail, they always have a inspiration to fill a void or offer an alternative, but getting you to stop and come in is their biggest challenge. All they ask is for you to just slow down, pull up, drop in, check them out; then it is up to them to make you a customer. If you are a business in town and you’re not a Chamber member, you need to join now; it is an investment that will pay you back many more dividends down the road.

I was driving down Kern Street the other day, when traffic starting backing up at Wildcat Way, it was just after 3:00. This is the perfect storm of parents picking up kids, oilfield workers getting off, and kids walking home. It was then I noticed that students were crossing the street in the crosswalk, but what was startling was that most of them never looked up as they started across. Most of them never slowed down, to look at what traffic jam they were causing nor if any vehicles were unable to stop; many where on their phones, some were in packs of kids talking and laughing and one was throwing a football over the intersection as he crossed. I wonder what their parents would think or say to them if they were in the cars watching their child cross by. I’ve seen it time and time again at every intersection around the schools, where these kids never look up when they step off the sidewalk into oncoming traffic. A crosswalk is not a barrier to their safety.

They just expect the cars to stop for them. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen to a young lady on 2nd and Kern Street a while back. She is no longer here to talk about that incident. If she were, I’m sure she would tell her peers to look both ways, listen, and then cautiously cross at a quick pace. Parents, talk to your kids if they are walking home every day, we don’t want another tragedy to happen.

Finally, some rain, albeit only a little bit, but it clears the air and gets the dust off. Hopefully the hills will start greening up. Glad to see the drilling rigs in our hills again, it can only help our economy. Let us know how we are doing on the council; we are facing many tough issues in the coming months, we can always use some good ideas from those that we serve.

Randy Miller Mayor, City of Taft

February 17 - 23, 2012

MARICOPA QUILT COMPANY

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Taft Crude

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

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

February 16th & 17th

Sewing Maching Service & Scissor Sharpening MODA Fabric 25% Off 370 CALIFORNIA • 769-8580

Licensed Funeral Directors

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

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

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

Now Celebrating Our 23rd Year

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

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

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

Yates’ Detailing 600 Center Street Taft, California

(661) 623-0827 (661) 765-1171 All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

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

Gateway Temple

Community Christian Fellowship

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

Sunday Morning Worship 9:45 Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 Monday Evening Mens Prayer 7:00 Wednesday Evening Worship 6:30 For a ride: Call Dorine Horn 427-9722 Pastors Charle (Tommy) and Mary A. McWhorter

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

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

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH Sunday Services 10am 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

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

FD756 FDR50 FDR595 FDR618

With The Taft Independent!

Call Today!

765-6550

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUP

Ford City Tuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of Taft Wednesday

• REFRIGERATORS • MATTRESSES • WATER HEATERS • STOVES • WASHERS & DRYERS • SOFAS If Missed… Call Office at 7635135

All green waste must be bagged.

Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

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

10

TAFT INDEPENDENT For Rent

Classifieds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phone: 765-6550 Phone: 765-6550

426 Shattuck

2 bed 1 bath Cottage $550

411 Shattuck

2 bed 1 bath $600 Paul Joyce 805-218-1686 Joyce Properties 661-765-6300

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.

Alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous. 765-4016 or 763-3856.

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

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

fingerprint clearance, and physical exam with drug screen. A written exam for these positions will be given on Thursday, February 23. Application and Job Description may be picked up at the District Office, 820 Sixth Street, and must be returned by Wednesday, February 22 at 4:00 p.m. EOE

Business Services

TC Student wanted for part time waitress.

Experience required.

765-6550.

COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services ANNOUNCEMENTS VENDOR SPACE AVAILABLE AT 428 CENTER STREET. SHARE SPACE - RENT VERY REASONABLE. CALL JANE: 765-4790 STORAGE SPACE SOUGHT - I need approximately a space 20’ X 20’ in which to store art gallery material, preferrably a space into which I can walk if I need to remove items. Call Jane 7654790.

Grief Support Group, offered as a community service by Optimal Hospice Care. Meetings held Thursdays 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. At Chevron Valley Credit Union, Community Room, 1092 W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. Free and open to the public. Info call 716-4000.

Alzheimer’s Disease Association Of Kern County is offering Respite Care here in Taft. Call-Cathy Perkins at 760-3790848 for RESPITE CARE info. Respite Care is available every Thursday At the First Baptist Church located at 220 North St. from 9:00am—3:00pm.

For problems with

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Wanted

Red, male pomeranian, wearing red harness, lost near Urgent Care 2/4, named Chaser. $100 reward. 661-8895922.

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

Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

Computer Repair Graphic Arts Web Design Virus Removal 661-623-5188 YARD SERVICES CLEANING SERVICES SERVICES OFFERED Piano Lessons. All ages accepted, beginers, intermediates. 565-8322

Employment HELP WANTED

Help Wanted. Part-Time Sales Associate. Radio Shack. Apply in Person.

210 6th St. Taft City School District is accepting applications for three ASES Activity Leaders, Substitute Instructional Aides, Healthcare Specialists, Food Service and Crossing Guards.

Employment process includes written exam, application screening, interview, DOJ

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

For Sale FOR SALE Pickers Buy & Sell Going Out of Business Up to 50% Off 428 Center Street 32” Curtis Mathes TV $50 765-9253.

Oak Entertainment Center, fits up to 72” TV. $600 OBO 619-1057.

Elegant Living room set, expandable 8-12 ft oak entertainment center.

763-5754.

AUTOMOBILES

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS

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

Excellent location, near Taft College. In business for 6 years. $20,000 OBO. 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 Can’t make payments call me!! I can help direct you to a loan modification or assist you in your short sale!

LOST PETS Black & white cat lost in Taft Heights. Smudge on nose, small reward.

765-2960

MOBILE HOMES

Plumbing • Septic • Rooter Framing • Electrical • Concrete

30 Plus Years in Construction License No. 927634

HOMES FOR RENT

The

West Side Real Estate And Property Management

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Taft

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 224 B St #C Studio $475. 418 San Emidio 1/1 $500. 420 ½ San Emidio 2/1 $575. 302 Calvin 1/1 $850 404 Fillmore 3/1.75 $1,000 2bd/1ba newly remodeled house, lg fenced yard & lg garage. $650 mo + $650 dep.

References required 763-5233.

Lg. 2 bd.rm house.

Garage, storage shed, chicken pen, lot’s of trees, fenced yard. $850 mo. $500. dep.

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February 17 - 23, 2012

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February 17 - 23, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

California Weekly Gas Price Update and Outlook

Average retail gasoline prices in California have risen 6.7 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.82/g Monday, February 13th. This compares with the national average that has increased 3.3 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.47/g, according to gasoline price website CaliforniaGasPrices. com.

Including the change in gas prices in California during the past week, prices Monday, February 13th were 40.0 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 13.7 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 12.3 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 34.8 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

"Retail gasoline prices have continued to slowly rise across a majority of the United States," said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. "With the exception of one state Wyoming all states are seeing their gasoline prices averaging over $3/gallon again, with some of the largest cities New York City and Los Angeles closing in on $4/gallon," DeHaan said.

Hall Ambulance Announces Its 2011 Wmployees Of The Year Shining Stars of Hall Ambulance Honored Hall Ambulance Service Founder and President, Harvey L. Hall, recently announced the Hall Ambulance Service Employees of the Year for 2011. In presenting the awards to employees in each division of the company, Hall outlined the outstanding accomplishments that earned the employee the recognition.

The honored employees for each division are: Anna Aguilera – Human Resources Division Employee of the Year Fred Bernal – Hall Commercial Vehicle Service Employee of the Year Hank Blair – Hall Commercial Vehicle Service Employee of the Year Tracy Burnside – Lead, Business Office Employee of the Year Bryan Cook – Paramedic of the Year Chris Hupp – Hall Commercial Vehicle Employee of the Year John Jimenez – Paramedic Field Supervisor of the Year Alex Jones – Dispatcher of the Year Peter Martinez – Emergency Medical Technician of the Year Dorothy McGee – Business Office Employee of the Year Kerry Monk, RN – Hall Critical Care Employee of the Year Paul Robbins – Maintenance Division Employee of the Year Amanda Sanchez – Medical Transportation Division Employee of the Year Mary Talbot – Finance Division Employee of the Year Hall was especially pleased to announce this year’s winner of his coveted Presidents Award, given each year to the employee that best exemplifies outstanding customer service. For the first time in the history of the company, the award went to a Registered Nurse, Kerry Monk, of the Critical Care Division.

The awards were presented to coincide with the 41st Anniversary of Hall Ambulance Service, proudly serving the residents of Kern County since 1971.

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Los Padres Seeks Taft College Foundation presents the Public Comment On Al Baldock Memorial Athletic Golf OHV Grant Application Classic Los Padres National Forest officials announced that recreation managers will be seeking public comments on proposals for the 2011/2012 State of California Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) grant program. According to state requirements, public comments can be submitted from March 6 through April 2, 2012.

A two-step application process is used by the State to allow public comment and feedback before final submittal. The preliminary application is due March 5, 2012. This will open a public review and comment period and will follow with final applications due May 7, 2012. The State is using an Internet-based “On-Line Grant Application” process as the means to apply for State funding.

Los Padres National Forest is soliciting public input specific to the Forest’s 2011/2012 grant application proposals for Cooperative Agreements with the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Division. The Forest will be submitting two grant applications. The first grant includes projects for ground operations along with a planning grant.

The second grant is for law enforcement activities. The preliminary application will be available online by visiting the California State OHV Grants and Cooperative Agreements program at www.ohv.parks.ca.gov. Hard copies may be requested by contacting Jeff Bensen at (805) 961-5744.

Los Padres National Forest officials are providing an opportunity for interested parties to discuss the grant applications and submit public comments. An open house will be held February 16, 2012, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at the Santa Lucia Ranger Station located at 1616 N. Carlotti Drive in Santa Maria.

State regulations require annual public participation in this fund allocation process. The agreements support OHV management activities on the national forest, including operations and maintenance, restoration, law enforcement, education and safety. The “operations and maintenance” category is divided into four project types: acquisition, development, ground operations, and planning, with the emphasis on projects that sustain existing OHV recreation.

The State of California Department of Parks and Recreation and the Los Padres National Forest have maintained a successful partnership for more than 26 years, with funding assistance for well-managed OHV recreation on National Forest lands. In 2011, the Forest was successful in obtaining $435,447 in grant funds to provide the public with world-class OHV recreation opportunities.

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On Friday, April 20, 2012, the Taft College Foundation will present the Second Annual Al Baldock Memorial Athletic Golf Classic at the Buena Vista Golf Course. Entry fee is $100 per player, in a four person scramble format. Sponsorships are available at the Platinum level ($5,000); Gold level ($2,500); Silver level ($1,000); Bronze level ($500) and Black Gold level ($250).

The day begins with registration at 11:00 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Dinner and a raffle follow the event. Prizes include $1,200 for first place team; $800 for second place team; $600 for third place team; and $400 for fourth place team. In addition, there is a $10,000 prize for a Hole in One on #2 & #13 holes; a $5,000 prize for Hole in One on #6 & #17 holes; and $100 prize for each closest to the Hole. The Golf Tournament is sponsored by AP Architects, Dinner is sponsored by the Taft College Alumni Association and the Raffle is sponsored by Cooper’s True Value Home and Garden.

Baldock (1929-2009) , a 1954 graduate of the University of Southern California where he earned four letters on the gridiron for the Trojans, Baldock received Collier’s All-American honors in 1950. Baldock began his coaching career in 1951 as a head coach/player for the Ft. Riley, Kansas U.S. Army team. In 1954, he served as the frosh coach for his alma mater.

He then served coaching stints at Leuzinger (CA) H.S., Taft College, Allan Hancock College, College of the Sequoias, San Diego State University, and Los Angeles City College, before returning to Taft College as the Cougars’ head coach for 16 seasons (1976-1991). Coach Baldock served for many years as the Head Football Coach at Taft College and was an inspiration to hundreds of students in the athletic department. His football teams at Taft College dominated California for three decades. Taft College has a long tradition of athletic excellence and Coach Baldock was an integral part of that tradition.

For more information please call tournament coordinator-Sheri Black at 661.763.7746.

Taft College Hosts Reception Of First Show In New Art Gallery

By Jane McCabe

The new technical arts building at Taft College has an art gallery—this is the first time Taft College has had a gallery on campus. Its first show is of student work—photographs, drawings and paintings, even some encaustic work—done during fall semester, 2011. The student reception was held on February 15th from 4 to 7 p.m.

“It’s very nice to see the wide range of people who came to see the gallery—community members, professors, staff, college employees, and, of course, students,” says Sonja Swenson, Art Department chairman and gallery coordinator.

A faculty reception will be held later in the month.

Normal gallery hours are 11 to 7, Monday through Thursday, and 11 to 4 on Fridays. The public in invited to attend.

12

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