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Independent The Taft

March 1 - 8, 2013

www.Taftindependent.com

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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Publisher@Taftindependent.com

March 1 - 8, 2013 • Volume 7 Issue 33

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

The Place 4014 Highway 33

Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa (661)766-2660

Saturday, March 9th BBQ Pork and Chicken Red Potatoes, Salad $12 per person Starts at 5:00 pm until gone!

No To Go’s

Try Our Friday Fish Fry With Salad Bar Starts at Noon Until 7 pm $1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

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

Passion For Nails Nail Services:

HOLIDAY SPECIAL 10% OFF $20 SERVICE OR MORE. OFFER GOOD UNITL 12- 31-12.

The 2013 4th of July Fireworks Show Will Go On Two Taft Buisnessmen Donate $6,000 to Kick-Off Fireworks Fundraising Effort

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

1014 6th Street • Taft

Monday to Friday In the Save A Lot Shopping Center 10am-7pm and Saturday 9am-6pm

(661)745-4913

610 Center Street • 661-745-4954 Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

NOW OPEN 7 Days a Week

Mon-Sat 10am8pm and Sun. 10am-7pm.

Internet Cafe.

QIK SMOG & TUNE Your Hometown Auto Care Center 500 S. 10th Street (661) 763-4445

See Us About Low Income CAP Program. Up to $500 Available for Smog Related Auto Repairs.

No Matter Where You Failed Smog Test, Come See Us! No Appointment Necesssary.

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

March 1 - 8, 2013

Shop Taft

Ten Percent Firearms

Passion For Nails Nail Services:

HOLIDAY SPECIAL 10% OFF $20 SERVICE OR MORE. OFFER GOOD UNITL 12- 31-12.

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair WatchWatch Batteries Batteries Replaced Most $4.00 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Some $8.00

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

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

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

(661)745-4913

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Personal Style Used to be Paul’s Boutique Bike Shop

Taft’s Best and Only Bike Shop.

Come on in and see our Inventory.

New Corky’s and Montana West Flip Flops 423 Center Street • 763-3527

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

A Hint of Class

610 Center Street • 661-745-4954 Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

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

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

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

J e w e l r y

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

NOW OPEN 7 Days a Week

608 Center St.

745-4919

Ten Percent Firearms

Mon-Sat 10am8pm and Sun. 10am-7pm.

Spring Arrivals!

Garden, Clothing & Home Decor.

Internet Cafe.

REJUV 10 23 Healthy Face and Body Spa

Blue Jeans & Bling Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA

FREE

Tire Rotation & Brake Check Plus We will check all fluids & tire pressure

Women’s Sizes 0-21 Women’s Plus Sizes Children’s Jeans & Shirts Monday - Friday 11am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 5pm Host a party 401 Center Street Visit us on Facebook sales@bluejeansandbling.com

763-9100

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

*Most Cars & Light Trucks Up to 5 Qts.

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

39

Plus Tax

$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee Exp. January 30, 2013

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

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

Elaine Arnold, Owner Pedicures, Manicures @ Detoxing Dee Morgan, Esthetician Facials Waxing and Microdermabrasion Samantha Hagstrom Massage Therapist European and Hot Stone Prenatal Massage 510 6th Street, Ste. A - Taft (661) 765-2335

March 1 - 8, 2013

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs......................3 Recreation Report..........4 Westside News.................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Movie Review...................8 Classified Ads.................10 Opinion and Feature....11 Shop Taft........................12

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.

Calendar

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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 us at Publisher@Taftindependent.com

Grandma’s Attic Resumes at Taft Library

Grandma’s Attic Storytime resumes at the Taft Branch Library on Saturday, January 19, 2013 and will continue every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. through April 20.

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.

Also starting on Thursday, January 17 at 11:45 a.m. is Preschool Storytime, for 3 to 5 year-olds. Join us for stories and fun for the younger set.

For more information, call 763-3294 or visit the library at 27 Emmons Park Drive.

ARC Irish Bunco March 2nd The Taft ARC will sponsor and Irish Bunco fundraiser at 204 Van Buren St. on March 2nd. Cost is $25 per person. Dinner is included and begins at 5pm.

There will be a 50 / 50 drawing at halftime. For tickets call 763-1532 ext. 1.

Westside Little League Sign-ups On-line Taft’s Westside Little League is currently offering sign-up for the new season. To register, go to www.taftwestsidelittleleague.org

Maricopa Tea Room Specials Weekly Specials for March 4th Tuesday-LowCal Plate

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

Contributing Writers Kent Miller, Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost Columnists Randy Miller Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGS Tuesday March 5th, 2013 – 6:00 p.m.

Thanks for your support. WSROP

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

Advertising

On February 23, 2013, the Taft Police Department conducted an enforcement operation with the assistance of several allied Kern County agencies. A total of 35 officers participated, including officers from the Taft Police Department, the Kern County Probation Department, the Ridgecrest Police Department, the Delano Police Department, the Shafter Police Department, the Kern High School District Police Department, and the Arvin Police Department.

The operation began with the service of two narcotic related search warrants.

The first search warrant was served at 701 Buchanan Street (Apt. C). During the investigation, approximately 1.7 grams of suspected heroin were seized along with about 17 grams of marijuana.

In addition, several illegally possessed opiate prescription pills were located, including oxycodone and methodone. The total street value of the narcotics seized is estimated at about $1,500.00. Evidence of narcotic sales was also seized, such as packaging material, scales, and pay and owe sheets. Tammie Waldie (age 45) and Debra Montez (age 52) were both arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sale, Maintaining a Residence for the Purpose of Drug Sales, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Less Than One Ounce of Marijuana.

The second search warrant was served at 119 Adkisson Way in Taft. This investigation resulted in the seizure of a small amount of marijuana, and approximately 60 grams of suspected methamphetamine, with a street value of about $6,000.00. Indicia of methamphetamine sales was also located. Thomas Vega (age 45) was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sale, Possession of Less Than One Ounce of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

After the search warrants were completed, officers began a probation sweep, concentrating on AB-109 probationers in the Taft area. By the conclusion of the sweep the following people had been arrested: Mikel Blankenship (age 45) was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Daniel Pate (age 58) was arrested on an outstanding warrant, and for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Prescription Drugs without a Prescription, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

James Arnold (age 35) was arrested for a violation of his probation.

Nicholas Ridenour (age 19) was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Katherine Dinwiddie (age 28) was arrested for a violation of her probation.

Mario Alarcon (age 42) was arrested for a violation of his probation.

Heath Jones (age 32) was arrested for being a felon in possession of ammunition.

Loaded Baked Potato Friday-Tacos, Rice, Beans

acme jewelry co.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com

Taft Police, Kern Law Enforcement Conduct Several Drug Related Arrests

Wednesday-Tuna Salad stuffed Tomato Thursday-

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.

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

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

News Briefs

F i n e

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

J e w e l r y

Gold • Sterling Silver New14K Inventory Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Hand Made Watch Batteries

Greeting 426 Cards

by Donna CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Sterling Silver Knuckle Rings $5.00 New Arrival of different Clocks.

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

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

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.

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

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

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. Wed., Thur. 6 am-8:30 pm Sun. Fri. & Sat. 6 am - 9 pm 765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft Sagebrush Annie’s Restaurant and Wine Tasting Wine Tasting and Lunch Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pm 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa (661) 766-2319

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

Black Gold Cafe & Deli Pastas - Sandwiches Espresso - Beer - Wine Craft Beers Open Monday to Friday 6:30am to 8pm Saturday 7:30am to 8pm Sunday 10am to 2pm 508 Center Street 765-6556

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, March 01, 2013 through Thursday, March 07, 2013

Jack the Giant Slayer (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri & Sat: (5:00), 7:15 Sun: (3:00), (5:15), 7:30 Mon - Thu: 7:00 PM Identity Thief (R) Fri & Sat: (5:15), 7:45 Sun: (3:30), (5:45) Mon - Thu: 7:15 PM Warm Bodies (PG-13) Fri & Sat: (5:30), 7:30 Sun: (3:15), (5:30), 7:30 Mon - Thu: 7:15 PM

Westside Watcher Flies and Fungus vs Jobs and Prosperity We need to support Governor Brown in his efforts to reform CEQA, the California Environmental Quality Act. CEQA requires that all projects be analyzed to determine if the potential exists for the project to have a significant impact upon the environment. The devil is in the details! Just what constitutes a significant impact and what resources are worthy of the protection of CEQA? CEQA was created to ensure that anything defined as a project identify potential impacts to the environment and mitigate the same.

Unfortunately, lawyers and NIMBYs have helped morph CEQA into a bulwark against progress of any kind and projects of all types.

CEQA is a deal killer when its provisions are triggered by people who use the tactic of delay to slay a project. CEQA has become a literal blank check of obfuscation due to the vagaries of its requirements and the insatiable demands and challenges generated under its cover.

Things we considered as impacts to environmental resources at one time meant something substantial and truly significant. CEQA could and should represent the opportunity to ask whether there is a better way to do projects with less harm to the environment, the community and our quality of life, but it has become distorted.

Tracing this line of the evolution of CEQA constitutes a trail of tears, financial ruin and economic havoc in the State of California. There are too many communities and jurisdictions in our State who specialize in exploiting the vagaries of CEQA to prevent growth and development.

Moreover, there are a cadre of activists and attorneys who make their living using CEQA to kill projects. We don’t need to do away with the law, but we do need CEQA reform, and we need it now!

To accomplish reform, we need to eliminate attorney’s fees in CEQA lawsuits, as legal challenges have become a cottage industry. Relatedly, we also need to set a limit as to what constitutes a resource and what constitutes a significant impact to a resource. Currently, there is no limit on what can be construed as a resource to be protected, nor is there any limit as to what can be considered an impact to the same. Any “impact” to any “resource”, no matter how trivial, can be deemed significant.

For example, some years ago, the tag team of CEQA and the Endangered Species Act (ESA) stalled a hospital project out of concern for eight flies! We now actually have a fly preserve as a result! CEQA doesn’t always need the help of the ESA, it can kill common sense single handily! How about the fungus growing on rocks in a field in Santa Barbara that warranted a lichen restoration program! Flies and fungus!

These are resources worthy of stalling projects?

CEQA must be amended to balance its provisions with economic considerations. Economic vitality and job creation must be considered and appropriately valued in the CEQA process and should be considered an overriding consideration in approving projects.

Limitless appeals and studies on projects that have been thoroughly vetted must cease. We need a quicker, expedited process of CEQA review. The obfuscation afforded project opponents is used to bankrupt projects by years of associated delays and expensive studies. Opponents should have to prove abuse of discretion to prevail.

Governor Brown’s interest in CEQA reform indicates his realization that the evolution of this law has created insurmountable obstacles to economic investment and recovery in our state. He is personally interested in reforming CEQA for the sake of the California High Speed Rail Project and to implement Smart Growth policies. We might not agree on the projects we want to move forward, but we can all agree CEQA is no longer helping any of us realize our California dreams.

How this lesson has been lost on some factions of organized labor, who are currently opposing CEQA reform is beyond me. Labor should be interested in reform as the abuse of the law hinders investment in our economy and growth of our tax base, the ultimate source of wages and benefits in both the public and private sector. CEQA is a literal job killer.

We need less paralysis of analysis and more jobs and prosperity!

Delay and obfuscation accomplishes nothing for the environment or the economy. For too long, CEQA has been exploited to rob people of their dreams, communities of their vitality, and California of its ability to plan its future with confidence.

Paik’s

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

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

March 1 - 8, 2013

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, I am writing in response to the comments made by Mr. Randy Miller in the recent Independent newspaper about Westside Little League. The Westside Little League (WSLL) Board decided not to have a Westside Little League pancake breakfast (sponsored by the Kiwanis) this year and this has struck Mr. Miller by surprise. His first response was to attack Westside Little League and ultimately the parents. In years past the Kiwanis would organize the event, issue tickets for the Little League to distribute to the players to sell. The Kiwanis would then base the attendance of the Pancake Breakfast on the tickets distributed, not actual attendees. As time went by, tickets were not being sold and the interest in the event was diminishing, and/or money was not turned in which created a huge loss to the WSLL who was charged for the supplies purchased. In order to attempt to make the Westside Little League (Kiwanis) a success it was decided that the parents would pay for the Pancake Breakfast tickets at the time of registration; which doubled the cost of registration and the players could sell them to recoup the cost of the tickets, which in turn reduced their cost of registration. The original intent of the Pancake Breakfast was to assist underprivileged children get into the program so they may play baseball. When ticket money was extorted from parents already registering their children it was up to the WSLL to fund players who did not have the money to play, thus ending up with a baseline budgeting approach and counting on the pancake money as part of operating cost. After extensive discussion for the benefit of the WSLL it was decided to try alternative methods.

Mr. Miller complained about parents not making their children go door to door and sell tickets. According to the Police logs in the local papers, I am not sure it is the right decision to have children go door-to-door. Furthermore, the neighborhoods are being inundated by every school fundraiser so the children may experience field trips, etc. what used to be so common in our local schools but has faded away to ADA, test scores, AR reading etc.

Westside Little League has this year started a new 50/70 Intermediate League which allows children 12 and 13 to play on a slightly bigger field to help them transfer to the high school level with skills and knowledge that will carry them through College and for some maybe the Pro level. This is what the WSLL feels should be the focus. Keeping kids involved and not ending up in the police log of the local paper because they have nothing better to do. I think five hours ofa community service club hosting a pancake breakfast has long faded away and in the end the WSLL gets the bill for supplies. There are many other ways the Kiwanis may help the WSLL that will benefit the community in a positive way. The Westside Little League hosted a work day to prepare the fields for the upcoming season. Five Kiwanian women showed up to help hoe weeds, shovel dirt, rake leaves, etc. The WSLL is extremely grateful for their service. We would not have made the progress we did without their assistance! The WSLL is accepting Field Sponsors, Snack Bar assistance, additional scoreboards, etc.

The Rotary has purchased a scoreboard for the WSLL; Midway Lions is sponsoring a field and has committed to events during the season.

Finally, the Westside Little League has ALWAYS asked for team and banner sponsors since it was founded. We try not to go around and ask for donations as little as possible and we appreciate the fine establishments that continue to support our efforts by making baseball affordable again and helping our community’s best assets, our children! I encourage anyone to come out and catch a game, eat a hot dog or have some popcorn and watch Westside Little League grow into the power house it once was.

Respectfully submitted, Chris Hickernell, President Westside Little League, District 61 Dear Editor: Why is it that Taft College offers a Degree in Industrial Health & Safety, but doesn’t ever put the courses in their curriculum?

In addition, why aren’t these classes available in the evenings for those employed in the Oilfield during the day? It makes sense that Oil Producers hire College Graduates for Safety Positions, however, those who are current Oilfield workers in any other craft get denied basically, because of not enough education. If a laborer (roustabout), truck driver, equipment operator with years of work experience gets the opportunity to go to College and receive a Degree, one would think that the work experience/education combination would be more beneficial to the producer to ensure workplace safety. As they move up, it creates new jobs for the entry level worker. Education alone does not make a Safety Professional, the combination of education and work experience does however.

In an Oil Industry town it is beyond me that the classes are not offered, but Dentistry is?

Jason Swaim

March 1 - 8, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

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

by Stephanie House PLAYDOUGH FACTORY Wednesday, March 13 3:00-4:00 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room Grades K-6 $3 per person If you love Play-Doh, then you’ll love this fun workshop where you can make some of your very own to play with and take home. We’ll even give you the recipe!

REC CENTER TEEN NIGHT Friday, March 1 8:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Recreation Center Grades 6-12 (must show school ID for entry) $10 per person The first Friday of every month is Teen Night at the Recreation Center! Come in and bowl, play basketball or just hang out with your friends in a fun, safe environment.

PLAY & GROW WITH ME ** NEW DAYS & TIMES ** Who: Ages 10-30 months (kids should be walking to participate) When: Tuesday & Thursday Mornings Time: 9:00-9:45 a.m.

Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $25 per month or $5 per day Instructor: Adrienne Cloud This class is designed specifically for interaction between mothers (father, grandparent, guardian or other adult) and their babies in a fun activity-type atmosphere. We play on the mats and have a tunnel, parachute, balls and other fun gadgets. Children should be walking to participate. Classes will be held on a monthly, ongoing basis. Register for a whole month or just pay by the day!

AEROBIC KICKBOXING Who: Ages 14+ When: Monday, Wednesday & Friday Time: 8:00-9:00 a.m.

Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $25 per month Instructor: Amy Steers This fun fast-paced class will include kicking, punching and the use of hand weights. The objectives are to increase cardiac health, improve muscle tone and learn some self defense. Classes will be held on a monthly basis and new students are welcome as space permits.

YOGA & PILATES Who: Ages 14+ Pilates – Tuesday & Thursday, 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Yoga – Tuesday & Thursday, 8:00-8:45 p.m.

Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $25 per month ** register prior to attending class Instructor: Valerie Taylor, R-HYI Pay one low monthly fee and have access both classes classes! Students should bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. Class space is limited – registration is REQUIRED prior to attending class.

ZUMBA FITNESS Who: Ages 17 + When: Wednesday Evenings Time: 6:30-7:25 p.m.

Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $20 per month Instructor: Chelsea Dickard This fun fitness class focuses on Latin-inspired dance and dance exercise to Latin music: Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, Raggaeton, Hip Hop and Mixed Music. Classes operate on an on-going basis. New students are welcome at any time. Fees must be paid prior to attending class.

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

TINY TOT WHIFFLEBALL Who: Ages 2-3 When: Thursday Evenings Time: 5:15-5:45 p.m. or 6:00-6:30 p.m.

Session: March 14 – April 11 Where: Wrecker Field (Recreation Center) Fee: $25 per player Registration deadline: Thursday, March 7 INSTRUCTIONAL T-BALL Who: Ages 4-6 When: Tuesday Evenings Time: 5:15-6:00 p.m. or 6:15-7:00 p.m.

Session: March 15 – April 5 Where: Wrecker Field (Recreation Center) Fee: $35 per player Registration deadline: Thursday, March 7 TAFT COLLEGE VOLLEYBALL CAMP Who: Ages 6-14 Time: 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Monday: Instructional (ages 6-10) Wednesday: Youth (ages 11-14) Session: March 18 – April 24 Where: Taft College Gym Fee: $30 per player Registration deadline: Thursday, March 14 YOUTH BASEBALL Who: Ages 12-15 (league age as of June 30, 2013) Tryouts & Draft: Saturday, May 11 Practices Begin: May 20 Session: March 15 – April 5 Fee: $50 per player Registration deadline: Thursday, April 25 YOUTH BOWLING LEAGUE League Begins: March 9 When: Saturdays 10:00 a.m. – Bantam (ages 10 & younger), $5 weekly fee 12:00 p.m. – Juniors (11-21 years), $6 weekly fee Where: West Side Lanes, Recreation Center All bowlers must purchase a USBC card for $15 Registration deadline: Saturday, March 9 For more information, please contact the Recreation Center at 765-6677.

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.

BOWLING PARTY RENTALS Make your reservation now!

Reservations are now being accepted for party rentals at West Side Lanes in the 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. Please phone 765-6677 or 7634246 for more information or to make a reservation.

SUMMER LIFEGUARDS NEEDED! We are in search of some lifeguards to work part-time this summer at the Natatorium Swimming Pool. Applications are available in the District Office, 500 Cascade Place in Taft. Lifeguard candidates must be at least 16 years of age (as of June 1) and successfully pass a Lifeguard Training Course.

Application deadline is Thursday, March 21. For more information, please contact Stephanie at 763-4246 or steph@wsrpd.com

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

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.

EASTER EGG HUNT Saturday, March 23, 2013 10:00 a.m. SHARP ‘A’ Street Park, Taft FREE! Ages 2-8 are welcome!

6 TAFT INDEPENDENT

March 1 - 8, 2013

Westside News & Business Briefs Hampton Joins Noerr To Sponsor Taft’s Fireworks Show

Elk Hills Claims Overall Victory in Whiz Kids competition

The Taft District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Bob Hampton of Westside Waste Management’s $5,000 sponsorship of the Taft Fireworks Show.

Hampton joins City Councilman Dave Noerr, of Huddleston Crane Service, who was first to pledge $1,000 towards bringing fireworks back to Taft.

Planning for Independence Day celebration is well underway at the Taft Chamber.

The 2013 Taft Fireworks Show presented by Westside Waste Management is being held on Wednesday, July 3 on the Rails to Trails and will feature vendors, live music, and a fireworks display.

Fireworks cannot be brought back to Taft without sponsorships and private donations from the community.

The all-community funded fireworks show has raised $7,197.14 and is still seeking donations to make this event a reality. Individual donations and company sponsorships are available and include VIP seating, logo banners, and recognition for your company in support of the Taft Fireworks Show.

Private donations can be made through the Chamber office or by purchasing a Tribute banner, honoring veterans and active military, to be displayed around Taft through Veteran’s Day. Companies can support the Chamber and the Taft Fireworks show with the purchase of these banners. Banners are designed to include pictures of honorees or a company logo for advertisement of your business.

Donation containers are located at the Taft Chamber, Vicente’s, Asian Experience, 7-11, Super Tom’s, and Chicken of Oz. Please drop your loose change and dollars in these buckets so we may reach our goal.

WCMA with the Taft Chamber will host the 3rd annual picnic on Thursday, July 4. This free event includes a watermelon eating contest, pie eating contest, water slides, children’s bike parade, and live music to celebrate Independence Day. For more information, call us at 765-2165.

Small schools in the rural parts of Kern County held an annual academic competition today called “Whiz Kids” at Puite Mountain School in Caliente. The competition is for seventh and eighth grade students and is modeled after the high school “Academic Decathlon.”

Students from Belridge, Elk Hills, McKittrick, Midway and the Caliente School District participated. Each school/district selected six students for their team for a total of 30 participants. Competition consisted of four subjects — Math, Social Studies, Science and Essay, plus the Super Quiz. Individual titles were contested in the Essay and Social Studies categories.

Super Quiz is the highlight of the event — facing teams off against each other in a TV game show type of competition. Teams are given 24 questions and each student must answer four questions in an allotted amount of time. Questions were based on the book “Rifles for Watie,” by Harold Keith.

Elk Hills claimed overall team victory, while Elk Hills’ William Martin was victorious in the Essay category and Belridge’s Lucia Diaz was the Social Studies winner. McKittrick won the Super Quiz.

“Whiz Kids” is sponsored by the competing schools with logistical support from the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office (KCSOS).

Please contact Kathleen Hansen, Caliente Union School District superintendent/principal, at (661) 867-2301, for more information.

Spring Fling at CALM scheduled for March 23-30 Spring Fling is scheduled March 23-30, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the California Living Museum. As a way of welcoming springtime to Bakersfield, all children (up to 12 years-old) will be admitted free with a paid adult admission.

During the week, CALM Docents and Animal Keepers will be onsite to give visitors an up close and personal animal encounter.

Weather permitting, the Central California Children’s Railroad will be chugging along the tracks at CALM from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and tickets are only $1. To add to the experience, a Children’s Crafts Corner will be open in the Education Center.

For information, call 872-2256. CALM is located at 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway (between Lake Ming and Hart Park).

2013 Whiz Kids Results: Overall Team Results 1. Elk Hills 2. McKittrick 3. Belridge Team Category Winners Science — McKittrick and Elk Hills (TIE) Math — McKittrick Super Quiz — McKittrick

HOOKER’S AUTOMOTIVE Complete Automotive Service

Individual Results

OT

Cookhouse & Saloon

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

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

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

Essay 1. William Martin — Elk Hills 2. Lora Lopes — Caliente Union School District 3. Shelby Watts — Elk Hills / Jaycee Sharp — Midway (TIE) Social Studies 1. Lucia Diaz — Belridge 2. Rocky Mankini — McKittrick / Fernando Barboza — Belridge / William Martin — Elk Hills (TIE) 3. Irma Negrete — Elk Hills / Olivia Ortlieb — McKittrick / Shelby Watts — Elk Hills (TIE)

218 HARRISON STREET (661) 765-2437

Skin Care by Cortney Cortney Madsen Esthetician Facials - Waxing - Spray Tanning www.facebook.com/SkinCareByCortney

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!

SALE!!!

Saturday, March 2nd EVERY book in the store - .10cents That’s right - .10 cents

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

Call or text for an appointment Bangs & Tangles 404 Center Street (661)623-4855

HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

New School Hours Mon. & Tues.

9am - 2pm Closed Wednesday Thur. & Fri. 9am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 2pm Closed Every 2nd Sat. of the Month

All Dishes 1/2 Off!

God Bless!

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

Closed Feb. 9th thru the 11th.

March 1 - 8, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

8 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Liberty Under Fire Citizens and Sheriff ’s Rally to Preserve Threatened Second Amendment Rights

By Dr. Harold Pease

All over the land, from California to New York and from Florida to Alaska, thousands gathered on February 23, to remind the federal government that the “right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” They are saying, in effect, “Back off Mr. President with your executive orders and Congress with your proposed new laws, you are on sacred Constitutional soil.” The establishment press was weak, almost non-existent, in its coverage.

The 124 cities participating largely had to enter their own pictures of their event on the Internet to get coverage—so weak was press response. Seventeen such rallies were held in California alone, a state already sensitive to the loss of gun right freedoms and threatened with more of the same by a largely hostile democratically controlled State Legislature.

Bakersfield, California alone had 2,000 participants with standing room only. Late participants had to park a half-mile away to find a place but they were willing, so angry were they at both their state and federal governments threatening their “God given rights.”

Angry elected county sheriffs too are continuing their rise against Congress and the President for the same reason. “Leave the Bill of Rights alone.” Their movement, starting in mid-January, also has yet to break through the unsympathetic establishment press. In a previous column, “Sheriffs vow to Defend 2nd Amendment from Federal Government!!,” we provided breaking news that still is largely unbroken. Simply stated, elected county sheriffs (each county in the United States has but one) have put their names to a document vowing to defend their citizens from the federal government if federal agents begin enforcing gun laws outside the limits of the 2nd Amendment to the Constitution.

Utah’s Sheriffs’ Association went as far as to say, “we are prepared to trade our lives for the preservation of its traditional interpretation.”

As of February 14, nine state sheriff ’ associations have signed similar pledges to defend their citizens from either Barack Obama’s unconstitutional executive orders (remember the president cannot make law) or any gun legislation coming out of Congress that, in effect, damages this constitutional amendment. Those states refusing to comply are, as they came on board: Utah, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, New Mexico, Nebraska, Wyoming, Indiana, and the most recent Illinois.

Even the California State Sheriffs Association’s letter to Vice President Joe Biden was stronger than had been expected, putting him, and the federal government, on notice. “It is the position of CSSA, in accordance with the Constitution of the United States and the statutes of the State of California, that law-abiding persons who meet the established requirements have the right to acquire, own, possess, use, keep and bear firearms. This right shall not be infringed.”

Community Blood Drive Set For Tuesday For a grandmother fighting leukemia, a child battling sickle cell anemia, or a parent awaiting a liver transplant, a safe and accessible blood supply is more than just a wish. It’s a necessity—and it’s something most of us take for granted. Blood must be available to patients when they need it, and no one can predict when a life-threatening emergency might strike any of us. Some 33,000 blood donors are needed in our country every day.

The Houchin Bloodmobile will be in Taft next Tuesday, March 5, from 1-6 p.m. in the parking lot of the Chamber of Commerce at the corner of Kern and Fourth Streets.

Blood supplies are perilously low. Blood has a shelf life of only 42 days, so the supply must be constantly replenished. Donors can safely give blood up to six times a year, with eight weeks between donations. Currently we have the Bloodmobile in Taft every other month.

Blood donation is safe and easy and takes only about one hour or less.

To be eligible to donate, you must be at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Eat a good meal within four hours before donating. Know any prescriptions you might be taking, because that might affect whether you can give. The single unit of blood you donate could help to save the lives of up to four people.

So, come on out and donate. It will benefit people in our community, and it will give you a good feeling to serve other people. You never know when you or someone you love might be the one who needs blood. Remember that people live when people give! Thank you very much!

By Mid-February, 336 elected county sheriffs have signed pledges that they will not enforce any unconstitutional gun control laws or executive orders, seventeen of them in California.

This kind of resistance is unheard of and more counties and state associations are expected to follow.

Some states are preparing for the worst should the federal government become even more tyrannical on enforcing unconstitutional gun laws or decrees.

Wyoming’s new “Firearm Protection Act,” threatens federal officials with up to five years in prison and $5,000 in fines if convicted of attempting to enforce unconstitutional statutes or decrees infringing on the gun rights of Wyoming citizens. Reportedly, Missouri and Texas have similar legislation pending.

According to the Patriot Newswire, Police Chief Mark Kessler of Gilberton Borough, Pennsylvania wants citizens as a reserve force to defend against federal agents coming into his jurisdiction. There would be extensive training required for the voluntary reserve unit and it would not have arrest capabilities but would be called in on short notice should he need it to protect his citizens. They would provide their own firearms.

Obviously we are riding a wave of resentment at, and fear of, the federal government, and with good reason. All this would go away if the federal government would return to the limits placed upon it in the U.S. Constitution. Pray that it will.

One note of interest, the county sheriff is the only elected law enforcement agent in the United States. As such he has more authority than the FBI or ATF in his county or any other bureaucratic law enforcement agent.

March 1 - 8, 2013

Early Draft of Calif. Hydraulic Fracturing Regulations To Be Discussed at Public Workshop in Bakersfield BAKERSFIELD – The public will have the opportunity to comment on a “discussion draft” of California’s hydraulic fracturing regulations at several workshops around the state. The first – hosted by the California Department of Conservation (DOC) and its Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources – was held recently in Los Angeles.

The second will be held Wednesday, March 13 in Bakersfield, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Four Points Sheraton, 5105 California Avenue.

“We received some interesting and helpful comments in Los Angeles and look forward to receiving additional input in Bakersfield that will help us achieve the goal of having regulations in place within the next year to 18 months,” DOC Chief Deputy Director Jason Marshall said.

The discussion draft of regulations was posted in December following a series of seven public listening sessions around the state last summer.

This draft is California’s first attempt to specifically regulate the oil production method commonly called “fracking.”

The goal of the regulations is to provide regulators and the public with disclosure of hydraulic fracturing details, to protect public health, and to give the oil and gas industry a clear set of standards for which it will be accountable when using hydraulic fracturing.

The discussion draft regulations focus on evaluation of the wells involved before hydraulic fracturing takes place, and monitoring during and after the hydraulic fracturing process to ensure that the well is not damaged and no leaks occur into sensitive underground areas, thus protecting groundwater.

“All wells must be constructed to robust construction standards,” State Oil and Gas Supervisor Tim Kustic said. “Those regulations have been in place for many decades and they ensure against environmental harm. It is important to understand that the hydraulic fracturing regulations we are developing are an addition to a large body of law and regulation already in place. Public health and safety is paramount in all of the state’s oil and gas regulations.”

The workshop will consist of four morning sessions, followed by a one-hour lunch break, and then three afternoon sessions. Each session will focus on a component of the discussion draft. The final session will also solicit comments and conversation about topics not already included in the discussion draft of proposed regulations.

“We look forward to input from a board range of stakeholders and the public,” Marshall said. “This is a first step to engage all interested parties – government, the public, non-governmental organizations and the industry -- in a discussion of what the state’s hydraulic fracturingspecific regulations ultimately ought to include.”

The meeting agenda, discussion draft regulations, and other background information are posted on the DOC Web site (www.conservation.ca.gov), as is an email link for public comment.

At least one additional workshop will be conducted in Sacramento.

The date, time and location will be announced soon.

Jackson’s Automotive Now Doing Smog Tests!

Front End Repairs Transmission Service Brake Service Tune Ups and Fuel Injection Service and Repairs Call Today for an Appointment 763-1055 Corner of 3rd and Center Street 110 3rd Street - Taft, CA. (661) 763-1055

March 1 - 8, 2013

Available at Albertson’s

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

Cafe & Deli The Only Mortuary On The West Side Where All Arrangements And Funerals Are Personally Directed By

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

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

Now Celebrating Our 23rd Year

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

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

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 • 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!

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

Ice Blended Mocha Fat Free and Sugar Free Available in Most Flavors

Open 7 Days - 765-6556 508 Center Street • Taft TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557

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

St. Mary’s Church 110 E Woodrow Street • Taft 661 765-4292 Mass Schedule Tuesday-Friday 8:00 A.M. Sunday 8:30A.M. English 11:00A.M. Spanish

First Baptist Church

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

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.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

Your Church Ad Here!

765-6550

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

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

Pastor Scott Pearson

Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship Celebration 10:30 a.m.

Evening Service 6 p.m.

Awana Childrens Program Wednesday 6 p.m.

220 North Street - Taft 661 763-3138

Advertise In The Taft Independent

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Licensed Funeral Directors

Call Today!

765-6550

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

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

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 $5 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

For Rent

520 Shattuck

$750 month Paul Joyce 805-218-1686 Joyce Properties 661-765-6300

For Rent

220 Montview

$795 month Paul Joyce 805-218-1686 Joyce Properties 661-765-6300

Preserving for the Future

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

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

Taft Independent210 508 CA 93268 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.

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.

freezer. 1 year old. $250. Also have a lot more household items for sale. Call 7633586.2-30.

407 E Street. Sat. Baby clothes, toys, adult clothes, jewelry.

409 A Street. Sat. and Sun. 400 Finley. Church Yard Sale. Sat. only. 8 a.m.

306 Eastern in home.

Junk Sale. Frid. and Sat.

ANNOUNCEMENTS New AA meeting just started in Taft at the Chevron Valley Credit Union Community Room. 7:30 am every Saturday morning. We read a topic from As Bill Sees It. 9-19.

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. 3-27.

B License 442018

Establshed electronics and shipping store.

Includes equipment, inventory. Former Radio Shack. $19,500. (661) 805-8722. 3-10.

HELP WANTED IMMEDIATE OPENING FOR ATTENDANCE AND SPECIAL EDUCATION SECRETARY AT BUTTONWILLOW SCHOOL. PLEASE GO TO WWW.BUTTONWILLOWSCHOOL.COM FOR DETAILS.

CHILD CARE SERVICES WANTED Junk Cars Wanted.

Cash Paid. 805-0552.

FOR SALE Convection range andmicrowave. Stainless steel. Both $550 or best offer. Will sell sep.

Tall table and 4 chairs. $350 obo. excl. cond.

619-1057.

Upright like new GE

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list.

AUTOMOBILES PETS LOST PETS

MOBILE HOMES FSBO. Large 3 bedroom 2 bath mobile beautifully remodeled. Owner will carry. Own your own home for $800 month.

Swimming pool. rec. room and more. Call 661-5448238. 3-15.

BUSINESS FOR SALE 433 and 436 Phillippine St. Sat. and Sun. Green Sec., Nice organ, and lt’s more. 7:30am - ?

sale!

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

$500 Reward. Lost Mini Aussie. Black\grey\white w/tan spot on face. Blue eyes, female. Rexxie.

REWARD. 661-7655862 or 623-0758.

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

ROOMS FOR RENT Rooms for rent.

Maricopa. Private home, furn. or unfurn. Call for info. 745-4211. 2-26

HOMES FOR SALE

Real Estate eBroker Inc.

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

HOMES FOR RENT

$20,000 cash. Call 805 651-9720.

Homes for Rent 2bed. 1 ba.

411 Shattuck. $600.

3bd. 1ba $750.

520 Shattuck.

3bd. 1 1/2 ba. $800.

118 Crystal.

3bd. 1 ba. $800.

220 Mont View Call Paul Joyce (805) 218-1686 Joyce Properties (661) 765-6300 Se renta uma casa de 2 cuartos y un bano 650 por mes y 400 seguro de deposito. En 520 olive, taft ca por favor llame 8057465410.

2 Bd Home for Rent, Available Now, located at 520 Olive Ave., Taft, CA Good Family Home, Big Back Yard, Washer Dryer Hookups, $650 per month, plus $400 deposit.

Hablo Espanol, 805 746 5410

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500 Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT Large newer Taft Home.

(661) 763-1500 Near TUHS, 4br, office, Lic # 01525550 2 bath, patios, 3 car FOR RENT garage & RV space, big 522 Center 1/1 $500 yard, fenced. 626 San 2/1 $825 3/1 $875 Emidio. Call 623-3923 or 205 W Ash 2/1.5 $700 412-8558. 2-16.

203 W Ash 2/1.5 $700 400 Woodrow 2/1 $725 115 Kern St. 3 bd. Large 104 North 2/1 $725 Liv. Rm. Dble lot, wash.

561 Front 2/1 $800 dry. hookups $685. Avail.

709 Kern St 3/1 $900 now.

512 D St 3/1.75 $900 405 San emidio. 1/1 507 Tyler 3/1.75 $1,000 Duplex. Private fenced 27558 Hwy 119 3/1.75 yard. wash dryer, hook $1,100 ups. $485. Avail now.

340 F St 3/1.75 + 1/1 616 Lucard Str. 3/1 large $1,200 liv. rm. private yrd. Sing. car garage. Lrg liv. rm., Looking to buy a house in Taft. Have

Business Services Rite Away Carpet Cleaning Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General Cleaning Owner Operated Visa\Master Card 765-4191 large kit. larg laundry rm. $825. avail 4-1-13. (805) 689-4122. 3-15. $700 Mo. Renter pays utilities 3 bd 1 ba. Pet’s ok. Call 745-3211.

2bd. w/garage $675. mo 429 Rose.

2 Units 319 1/2 San Emido w/utilities. 1 bd $600. abnd 1 bd. plus office $700. plus dep.

522 San Emidio 3/1 $800 month.

765-5000.

License 01914953 402 Pierce St. 3bd 1 ba. w/ gargae. $880. mo. plus dep. 765-5000.

APART. FOR RENT 1bd. 1ba. Upstairs. $450 Mo. plus $450 dep. 155 1/2 North Street. (661) 4779636. 2-8.

Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.765-7674. 420 Finley Dr. Center Street Apartments.

1 bed room 1 bath. $99 move in special based on approved credit. No Pets Allowed. Call (805) 3751458 or (661) 765-7678.

Large 1 bd. 1 ba. Upstairs Apt. Stove, Refir. no pets. $495. mo. plus $500 sec. dep. 661-428-3252. 3.8.

March 1 - 8, 2013

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

Plumbing • Septic • Rooter Framing • Electrical • Concrete We Do All Phases of Construction Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507 30 Plus Years in Construction License No. 927634

Real Estate Services and Property Management Listings – Sales - Property Management Local Service You Can Depend On

322 Kern Street Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-5000

Real Estate eBroker Inc.

By Appointment

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

WANTED TO RENT Wanted to Rent. We are a couple in our 50’s. Long term renters looking for a house with an in ground pool and garage. 2 or 3 bedroom 1ba. Will pay 3 months in advance plus sec. dep. 661-293-0116 or 293-0413. 2-16.

BID REQUEST Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be accepted by the Board of Trustees of The West Side Mosquito and Vector Control District for the following equipment.

SOLD “AS IS” 2004 Ford Ranger XL 2003 Chevy S-10 ID#FTYR10U94PA87069 ID#1GCCS14X938195428 V-6 Engine, Auto V-6 Engine, Auto P/S, P/B, Air & Cruise P/S, P/B, Air and Cruise 101,177 miles 75,500 Maintenance records available Maintenace records available Minimum Bid: $3,800 Minimum Bid: $5,500 Available for inspection at West Side Mosquito and Vector Control District yard, 7004 Gas Company Road, from 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Minimum acceptable Biod for each vehicle will be stated. All bids must be in the District office by 3:00 p.m., Thursday, March 21, 2013. All bids will be opened at 7:00 p.m., March 21, 2013 at the regular scheduled Board of Trustees meeting at the District office. The District reserves the right to reject all bids.

Signed: Board of Trustees, West Side Mosquito and Vector Control District

7004 Gas Company Road

Taft, CA 93268

765-4191 or 549-1068

Writers Wanted At the Taft Independent Experience Required.

Please call 765-6550.

Visit Us Online at www.taftindependent.com

California In Crisis: A Five Part Series

What happened to the Golden State? California’s Education Failure

The California Spending Rush

By Conn Carroll

By Conn Carroll

By Conn Carroll

California Gov. Jerry Brown discusses pension reform during a news conference on August 28, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. Brown unveiled what he called “sweeping” pension reforms that cap benefits, boost the retirement age, prevent abusive practices such as “spiking” and require new state employees to pay at least half their pension costs.

We Americans love to tell stories about ourselves. Californians may be the best ones at it. During his State of the State Address in January, California Gov. Jerry Brown spun a tale that reached all the way back to the first Spanish Missions, through the gold-seeking ‘49ers, and up to the founding of Apple.

“What is this but the most diverse, creative and longest standing mass migration in the history of the world,” Brown said of the Golden State. “The rest of the country looks to California. Not for what is conventional, but for what is necessary to keep faith with our courageous forebears.”

It’s a nice story. And up through the tech boom in the late 1990s, it was largely true. California was an engine for innovation and job growth. It was a prime destination for middle-class families throughout the country who were looking for a better life.

But it isn’t true anymore. More Americans now emigrate from California to other states than immigrate from other states to California.

This exodus has cost California more than 1.5 million residents since 2000. And the reason is simple -- the jobs are fleeing first.

In his state of the state speech, Brown claimed, “California lost 1.3 million jobs in the Great Recession, but we are coming back at a faster pace than the national average.” The first half of Brown’s statement is true, but the second half is not. California has only gained back 556,000 jobs since the recession ended, or 42 percent of those lost -- well below the national average of 60 percent regained. As a result, California’s unemployment rate is still near double-digits at 9.8 percent. By comparison, Texas, which lost 427,000 jobs during the recession, has gained them all back and created an additional 265,000.

California is no longer a model that other states want to or should emulate. It currently has the nation’s third highest unemployment rate, its highest poverty rate and more than one-third of the nation’s welfare recipients.

What happened?

To make a long story short, the same political constituencies that have made Brown’s Democratic Party invincible at the ballot box have also made the state unable to compete economically. California public employees, who are represented by the nation’s most politically powerful government unions, benefit from some of the nation’s most generous compensation packages. These unions have made it nearly impossible to keep spending down, thus making debt and higher taxes inevitable.

These unions also make it impossible to improve how government services are delivered to taxpayers. As a result, while California once had the most admired education system in the nation, it now ranks near the bottom in almost every measured educational category.

The state’s powerful environmental lobby has secured a slew of green energy regulations, including strict clean air rules, the nation’s first carbon cap-and-trade program and an ambitious renewable energy mandate. As a result, energy prices have shot up, consumers now have less to spend on everything else they need to survive, and many manufacturers can’t stay profitable in the state.

Finally, wealthy urban environmentalists have completely inverted the infrastructure spending priorities that once made California an engine of economic and population growth. Endangered species of wildlife are now favored over farmers and food. Highways and suburbs are losing out to mass transit and urban centers. The emerging result is a disappearing middle class, and what’s left of the state is split between a highly educated, landed, wealthy and elderly elite, and a poor, government-dependent, uneducated lower class.

Over the next four days, The Washington Examiner will look at what ails California, and how it got to its current state of failure. We will look at the state’s out-of-control budget and debt, the powerful union interests driving it, the decline of its education system, the failure of its “clean energy” initiatives and the environmental regulations that are wrecking the economy in many regions of the state.

The current trends in the Golden State point to a failing state -- a California in crisis.

California Gov. Jerry Brown talks with students of a second-grade class at Perkins Elementary School on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012, in San Diego. California was once considered an “excellent” education system, according to RAND Corp, but now ranks in the bottom three states for eight grade math and reading levels. (Lenny Ignelzi/AP file) Third part of a five-part series. Read the previous day’s installment at this link, and see the entire series, including video and graphics, at this link.

“Nothing is more determinative of our future than how we teach our children,” California Gov. Jerry Brown said in his January State of the State address. “If we fail at this, we will sow growing social chaos and inequality that no law can rectify.”

Bad news, governor: California is already failing its children. And it wasn’t always this way.

According to RAND Corp., as late as the 1970s California’s public schools still had an “excellent” reputation. Then, in 1975, Brown (in his first stint as California’s governor) signed the Rodda Act, giving government unions the power to take money directly out of government employees’ paychecks.

The California Teachers Association quickly poured this new revenue stream into an organizing drive, more than doubling the union’s ranks. The Golden State’s politics have never been the same since -nor has the quality of its public schools. Between 2000 and 2010, the CTA spent more than $211 million to influence California voters and elected officials. That is more money than the oil, tobacco and hospital industries combined.

The CTA’s first big political victory came in 1988, when it helped pass Proposition 98, which amended the California Constitution to mandate that at least 39 percent of the state budget be spent on K-12 education spending. Since then, California teacher salaries have skyrocketed and are now among the highest in the nation (only Massachusetts and New York pay more).

At an average salary of $69,434 per year, a family of two teachers would bring in almost $140,000 in income per year. That is almost triple the state’s $57,000 median family income -- and teachers get summers off.

But all of that money for teachers salaries hasn’t helped students in the classroom. By 1992, the first year for which state-by-state comparisons are available, California ranked second to last among states tested (ahead of only Mississippi), in reading proficiency among fourth-graders.

Since then, California per pupil education spending has continued to rise, and student test scores have not. In 2011, the most recent year available, California eighth-graders finished 48th in reading, ahead of just Louisiana and Mississippi, and 48th in math, ahead of just Alabama and Mississippi. Perhaps California should change its state motto to “Thank God for Mississippi.”

One big reason California’s highly paid teachers are failing to educate California’s public school students is that their pay has nothing to do with their ability to educate kids.

Thanks to union contracts, teacher pay is based on seniority, not performance. Well-performing teachers cannot be rewarded. Regardless of how well a teacher performs on the job, pay is strictly based on time served. Even worse, on those rare occasions when California schools do have to cut staff, firings are based on seniority too. Many effective young teachers got the boot during the state’s latest economic downturn, whereas older ineffective teachers were allowed to hang on.

The CTA has fought every effort to reform how California teachers are paid and held accountable for their performance. The union resists even modest and reasonable changes as the proverbial camel’s nose under the tent. In 2012, CTA blocked a bill that would have made it easier to fire teachers accused of “serious and egregious” conduct involving sex abuse, drugs or violence toward children. Currently, teachers accused of such offenses are sent to “rubber rooms” where they are paid to do nothing, and can drag out an appeals process for years before being fired.

California’s failing education system is also beginning to have a noticeable effect on the state’s economic competitiveness. Yes, California still has one of the nation’s most educated elderly populations -- it ranks No. 6 in the nation for its percentage over age 65 with bachelor’s degrees. But the percentage of Californians age 25-34 with a bachelor’s degree is actually a full point below the national average of 31.5 percent. California is better known for its recent demographic changes in terms of ethnicity, but this demographic change may be far more significant in the long run.

According to a 2010 report from the Public Policy Institute of California, for the first time ever, young adults in California are less likely to graduate from college than their parents.

By 2025, a projected 41 percent of all jobs in California will require a college degree, but only 35 percent of California adults will have one -- an expected gap of 1 million graduates. What this projection really suggests is that the jobs won’t be created at all -- they will instead go to other states that are producing college graduates at a fraction of California’s cost.

California already has one of the most unequal income distributions in America. In relation to the highest-earning percentile, the middle-earning 20 percent of California families fares worse than the

California’s budget is balanced ... or at least that is what Gov. Jerry Brown wants you to believe, now that he “temporarily” hiked taxes on all Californians by $6.8 billion last year.

This past November, after voters approved Brown’s income and sales tax hike through a referendum, the state’s Legislative Analyst’s Office projected that California would still end fiscal year 2014 with a $1.9 billion deficit. In January, just two months later, Brown claimed in his State of the State address not only that “the budget is balanced,” but that the Golden State was on track to end the fiscal year with a billiondollar surplus.

So what exactly happened in the span of two months that added $2.9 billion to California’s bottom line? Did the economy suddenly turn around? Was spending cut? Not at all. What happened is that Brown simply made up new numbers.

Brown’s budget not only assumes $1.1 billion in higher income and sales tax revenues than the November projections, but it also takes advantage of an additional $1 billion in revenues that will supposedly be created by the state’s new cap-and-trade program and the elimination of certain development tax breaks.

But Brown was hardly in a position to make such assumptions.

Before his speech, the first round of cap-and-trade auctions had already taken place, producing only 14 percent of expected revenue. In addition, California’s state controller had already released numbers in December showing that actual tax collections were 10.8 percent below projection.

Will any of Brown’s magic new revenue actually materialize in state coffers? History suggests it won’t. A recent California Common Sense study showed that, since the recession began, governors’ budget projections have overestimated revenue by an average of 5.5 percent.

Apply that average to Brown’s 2013 projections, and California’s budget would suddenly go from $1 billion in the black to $3.9 billion in the red.

And those are just the debts that Brown chooses to acknowledge.

California has been running almost yearly budget deficits since 2000. By last year, those shortfalls had accumulated into a $28 billion “wall of debt.” Brown’s new budget begins to dismantle that wall -again, assuming his fantasy revenue projections come in as advertised.

But even if they come true, California will still owe $4 billion to assorted creditors by the end of 2017.

And even those numbers ignore California’s biggest fiscal liability: the billions in pension and health benefits promised to government retirees.

California is controlled by the Democratic Party, and the California Democratic Party is controlled by the state’s government employee unions. You can’t win a statewide election there without at least the tacit approval of those unions. And for decades, the cost of their friendship has been protection from spending cuts in lean times and generous retirement package increases in good times.

California actually has fewer state government employees per capita than the national average, but its employees are the best-paid in America. This often has a negative effect on government services. It is hard, for example, to hire enough cops to keep violent crime down in Oakland if the city can’t afford the six-figure compensation packages of the existing officers.

The same is true of the state prison system, which was recently forced by the Supreme Court to release thousands of prison inmates due to an overcrowding problem. It’s hard to build new prisons with so much money going toward generous pension packages for the corrections officers -- pensions calculated based on their top earning years at six-figure pay.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, government unions at the state level won huge increases in retirement benefits, including a lowered retirement age and more favorable benefit formulas. As a result, the state’s two biggest retirement funds, the California State Teachers’ Retirement System, or CalSTRS, and the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, or CalPERS, are both underfunded by $64 billion and $52 billion respectively. According to a recent report, Brown would need to spend an additional $4.5 billion per year just to make CalSTRS solvent.

But Brown, and whatever Democrat the unions anoint next, will never acknowledge these mounting retiree debts until they absolutely have to. When that time comes, you won’t want to be a business owner in California.

As recently as 1994, California’s state government spent just $38 billion a year. Twenty years later, Brown has proposed a budget that spends almost three times that amount ($97 billion). Californians will soon discover there is nothing “temporary” about their rising tax bills.

Part One of a Five Part Series. Reprinted wtih permisison. First appeared in the Washington Examiner.

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Part Two of a Five Part Series. Reprinted wtih permisison. First appeared in the Washington Examiner. middle earners of 48 other states. California’s failure to reform and improve its education system will only make that situation worse.

Part Three of a Five Part Series. Reprinted wtih permisison. First appeared in the Washington Examiner.

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