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Independent The Taft

March 7 - 13, 2014

TAFT INDEPENDENT

www.Taftindependent.com

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Publisher@Taftindependent.com

March 7 - 13, 2014 • Volume 8 Issue 32

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

Mexican and Seafood Taqueria Open 7 Days a Week - Open Late Night 4 am to Midnight Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner 330 Kern Street Corner of 4th and Kern Street (661) 745-4898

Taco Monday’s .99 Tacos

Tuesday’s Chicken Frajitas Tuesday $7.95

Bring this coupon for FREE 16oz Soft Drink Catering Available for Meetings. Free Delivery.

Qik Smog & Tune

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street Now Servicing Japanese and European Motorcycles

Is Downtown Taft Worth Saving?

The Taft Planning Commission Says Yes! O P E N S AT U R D AY S 8 A M T O 4 P M

Visit Us Online www.taftindependent.com.

Classified Ad Deadline.

Wednesday 5 p.m.

765-6550.

Monarch Fleet Services and Automotive

Alignment - Diagnostics - Brakes - Tires and Wheels TIA Certified ASE

Open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm

217 Center Street (661) 765-2886

END OF THE YEAR TIRE AND SERVICES SPECIALS SEE STORE FOR DEATILS

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

March 7 - 13, 2014

Shop Taft

Passion For Nails western shop & PET Wash Fish - Reptile - Supplies Tack - Feed - Livestock Supplies Western Clothing - Boots - Work Apparell Pet Grooming Fred and Cheri Shaw 419 Harrison Street, Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

Cell Phone Cases 1016 6th St. Taft 661-745-4855

Next Step Cardio & Fitness

506 Center Street - (661) 745-4918

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Try Our New Pedicure Chairs Men & Seniors &

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

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

Salon and Boutique

For all your hair needs 763-3527

Shop Downtown Taft!

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

A Hint of Class

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

20% Off on

F i n e

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

New Arrival in Stock Sunglasses Slippers and More!

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

acme jewelry co.

Spring has Arrived!

Succulents, Garden Decor & Gifts for Any Occasion!

Watch Batteries Batteries Changed Most $4 426Some CENTER STREET $8 • 661.763.5451 Store Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm Closed Sunday and Monday

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery

Now Serving Splash Cafe Clam Chowder in a Pyrenees Bread Bowl 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

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

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery in Taft

Grilled Tri-Tip Special Every Thursday $8.95 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

March 7 - 13, 2014

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

Events

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Taft Business of the Week Domino’s Pizza

Taft Calendar...................3 Westside News.................5

Taft Calendar

By John Swearengin Saturday March 15th the Taft ARC is having a BBQ at the Taft Moose Lodge from 1-5pm. Only $10.00 a Plate. Dine in or to go. They are also having a raffle. Tickets are on sale now at the ARC, from ARC Members, and the Taft Moose Lodge. All proceeds go to the Taft ARC. Have a great meal while helping the great Taft ARC. Tonight- 1st Friday Cruise Night on Center Street. Hot Rods, Lions BBQ, Shopping, and good times.

“Blue Day,” wear blue in honor of Colon Cancer Awareness Month.

Sunday- “Spring Forward” Daylight Saving.

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

Save the Date for these Future EventsLiberty Under Fire.........8 Classified Ads.................10 News.................................11 Shop Taft........................12

Domino’s Owners Bob and Tina Leikam

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

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: Publisher@taftindependent.com.

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long Publisher@taftindependent.com Advertising Publisher@taftindependent.com Contributing Writers Wesley Morris, Mimi Collins Joan Raymond Columnists Randy Miller, John Swearengin Dr. Harold Pease Newspaper Delivery Tim Webb

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

By John Swearengin The Taft Business of the Week: Domino’s Pizza at 530 Kern Street in the Country Corner Plaza. Domino’s has a lot more than just great Pizza, they have sandwiches, chicken, pasta, breadsticks, and desserts. Domino’s is carry out or delivery. Domino’s employs around a dozen people. Domino’s is one of Taft’s biggest supporters. It is owned and operated by Bob and Tina Leikam. They are both very involved in Taft and Tina was the 2012 Taft Business Woman of the Year. Call Domino’s today for a great meal at 763-3030 or order on line.

The Taft Independent is seeking Experienced Writers News and Feature Writers Experience Required.

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

Visit Us Online www. taftindependent. com or on Facebook

March 15th: Taft Arc BBQ at the Taft Moose Lodge from 1-5pm.

Only $10.00 a plate. Eat in or take out.

March 17th: St. Patrick’s Dinner at the West Hills Church of the Nazarene.

March 22nd: Kern County Raceway is having their Inaugural Car, Truck, and Bike Show from 6am- 2pm. Live Music, Burnouts, Race Car displays. Free admission.

April 2nd: Taft Industry Night at the Taft Petroleum Club. Tickets only $12.00. Dinner at 7:30.

April 4th: First Friday Cruise Night on Center Street. Starts at 6pm.

Lions BBQ, Hot Rods, and Shopping.

Spring Vendor and Craft Show at the Rec, Community Center from 5-8:30pm. Saturday April 5th 8:30am-3pm. Free admission for shoppers.

April 5th: West Side Little League Opening Ceremony April 10th: State of the City Luncheon at OT Cook House from 12:00-1:30.

April 24th: Taft Fort and TAPT Wine Tasting Celebration from 5-8pm. Wines, Beers, Non-Alcoholic Drinks, Hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, and much more. Contact the Fort at 765-7371 for more info.

April 26th: TUHS Hall of Fame 2014 Induction Dinner and Ceremony. Tickets are $40.00.

April 30th: Job Fest 2014 at the Taft Fort from 9am-noon. For more info call Marie Covello 763-0206.

May 3rd: Soroptimist Garden Tour.

May 10th: West Hills Church of the Nazarene Carnival.

May 16th: Taft College Al Baldock Golf Classic.

May 17th: West Kern Oil Museum Pioneer Days.

May 17th and 18th: Taft Relay for Life at the Taft High Track. Keep your eyes open for several events leading up to the main event. Please support and think up ways to raise money to beat Cancer.

May 31st: Taft Chamber’s “Rails to Trails Car Show.”

The Taft Chamber is taking brick orders for the Taft Oilworkers Monument. A 4x8 Brick is only $100. A 8x8 Brick is $175. Be a part of Taft History.

Fall Sports are in full swing. Come out and CHEER on the Taft High Baseball, Softball, Swimming, and Track teams. Taft College Baseball and Softball. Taft Tigersharks, Westside Little League, Ponytail Softball, and Rec Track. Support our Youth Sports.

Monday, March 17th The West Hills Church of the Nazarene is having a Traditional St. Patrick’s Dinner at 300 Lassen Street, across from the Rec. Tickets are only $15.00 and will help support this year’s Mission Trip. Served from 5-8pm, carry out only. Several members are currently selling tickets or you can call the Church Office at 763-4196.

4 TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

Westside Watcher

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 SHOWTIMES FOR WEEK OF Friday, March 7, 2014 Through Thursday, March 13, 2014 300: Rise of an Empire (R) Fri & Sat: 6:30, 8:45 Sun: (4:30), 6:40 Mon - Thu: 7:00 PM Mr. Peabody & Sherman (PG) Fri & Sat: 6:00, 8:00 Sun: (4:00), 6:00 Mon - Thu: 6:00 PM Son of God (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 6:15, 9:00 Sun: (4:15), 7:00 Mon - Thu: 6:45 PM Starting 3/21: Muppet’s Most Wanted Divergent

Paik’s

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

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Why is a Revitalized Downtown Taft Important?

Can malls and discount centers take the place of downtowns in the future? The answer is most definitely no. Though malls and discount centers play important roles in our community, downtown is much more than a shopping center. It is critical for everyone who supports the community of Taft to understand the value of our downtown. Here are some good reasons why downtown is important: 1. Our downtown is a potential employment center. Even the smallest downtown can employ hundreds of people. A downtown is often the largest employer in a community.

2. As a business center, our downtown plays a major role. It could even represent the largest concentration of businesses in the community. It also serves as an incubator for new businesses—the successes of tomorrow.

3. Most of the businesses on Center Street are independently owned. They support a local family - The Fox Theater, Pizza Factory, Asian Experience and Get Your Sweet On for example - who supports the local schools and community events. Unlike large corporations who take all their profits out of town and invest them elsewhere, independent businesses keep profits in town and invest them directly in the community.

4. Downtown - and this is important - is a reflection of how the community sees itself—a critical factor in business retention and recruitment efforts and local community pride. When industry begins looking at our community as a possible location, they examine many aspects including the quality of life. Included in quality of life is interest in the downtown — is it alive and viable, or does it represent local disinterest and failure?

5. Downtown Taft could represent a significant portion of the community’s tax base. If downtown declines further, property will decrease in value and subsequently increases the tax burden on other parts of the community.

6. The downtown is an indispensable shopping and service center. Though it may no longer be like it was in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s, it still includes unique shopping and service opportunities.

Restaurants, doctor offices, accountants, and insurance offices, as well as financial institutions, are often located downtown.

7. Downtown Taft is the historic core of our community. Many of the buildings are historically significant and help highlight the community’s history.

8. Downtown represents a vast amount of public and private investment. Imagine the costs to recreate all the public infrastructure and buildings already existing on Center Street. Think of the waste of past dollars spent if downtown is neglected.

9. The downtown is often a major tourist draw. When people travel, they want to see unique places. There isn’t a downtown like ours anywhere in the world!

10. And, perhaps, most important, Center Street provides a sense of community and place. As Carol Lifkind, author of Main Street: The Face of Urban America, said “...as Main Street, it was uniquely American, a powerful symbol of shared experiences, of common memory, of the challenge, and the struggle of building a civilization... Main Street was always familiar, always recognizable as the heart and soul of the village, town or city.”

Let’s get behind the revitalization of downtown Taft and Center Street, and rebuild our community from the center of town to the limits of our community, and let it reflect the pride and how we feel about ourselves and our little town.

Michael Long Publisher

March 7 - 13, 2014

Taft Chamber Report

On behalf of the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, I would like to thank you for your participation in the success of our recent Installation and Awards Ceremony, Hollywood Nights, A Red Carpet Affair on February 6, 2014.

No event, especially a community event, can work without the cooperation, generosity, and en-thusiasm of many people. The fact that so many were willing to participate and sponsor our annu-al Installation and Awards Ceremony is testimony to the interest people have in our town. The Taft Chamber is blessed to have so many folks who care enough to take time to honor community people who stood out in the past year and to encourage those who will serve on the Chamber Board to create an even better year for Taft in 2014.

Our guest speaker, Corbin Bernsen, was taken with the number of people in attendance and the reason for the gathering. If you were at the event, you know from his remarks that Corbin sees Taft as brimming with potential.

We agree with him, and we look forward to the possibility of being part of his (and son Oliver’s) future film making plans. He and Oliver assured me they had a wonderful time.

We want to thank you for your part in making the evening special. From the red carpet entrance into the beautiful Fox Theater, Renee Hill of Old’s Cool made us feel welcomed and important. Thank you, Renee for your lovely entry staging. To those who volunteered serving, tidying up, and directing/parking cars, we could not have managed without you. The volunteers from the Westside Recreation and Park District, the Taft College Dental Hygiene Program, and the Taft College Women’s Soccer Club made it possible for us to “circulate”—to greet friends, to talk with long-time Chamber members, and to acquaint ourselves with new and potential members. To the Taft Fox Theater Staff, Curtis Walchock and Cameron Bunch, you were wonderful. We appreciate all the help you gave us before, during, and after the event. Billy and Krista Long, with Richie Brown—our Entertainment Tonight correspondents—did a great job creating the mood for and documenting the evening. Special thanks go to Eric Cooper and his crew at Cooper’s True Value for the special items necessary to transform the lobby of the Fox into a Hollywood premier-like atmosphere. To Ron Sousa and Victoria Banuelos of Albertson’s, we thank you for the champagne and its preparation. Bubbly in those old-fashioned glasses furthered the image of old elegance.

To Orchel Krier and the Tumbleweed crew, thank you for providing a bar for those for whom “the bubbly” is not the beverage of choice. Adele Ward and Grace Twyman held down the door and kept us in the know about who really was who at the party and Carey Carpenter was everywhere, anticipating every need from decorating to clean-up. Thank you!

The evening would not have been complete without the sponsors of stars, which were prominent-ly displayed along the Walk of Fame on the entry way along the Red Carpet into the Fox Theater. And thank you to the Chamber member restaurants that provided the food for the evening.

If this event had been a movie, we would say the 2014 Taft Chamber Installation and Awards cele-bration was “in the can”! For us, it is simply over. As one can imagine, we are happy to have en-joyed another successful event, and we are thankful to many for having made it so. Now we turn our sights and our energy to the future programs, issues, activities, and . . . yes, events.

As always, we will keep you informed of upcoming events because your participation in the Chamber makes the Chamber work.

Dr. Kathy Orrin Executive Director Taft Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau

March 7 - 13, 2014

Should the City Save Center Street?

By Michael Long, Publisher “Some people just won’t come downtown,” says Rene Hill, owner of Old’s Cool Antiques and More.

Hill, who was recently appointed to the Taft City Planning Commission and opened her antique store on Center Street more than a year ago, is surprised by the number of people who have asked her why she and her husband Greg would open a business on Center Street.

“They tell me that they don’t go downtown anymore because many store fronts are empty, the street has fallen into disrepair and it just is not inviting,” Hill said.

“I grew up in Taft and remember how busy the downtown was back in the day,” Hill said. “I am proud to have a business downtown, and since we have opened we have noticed that more and more people are coming to Center Street,” she said.

Downtown has definitely seen its share of hard times.

But today, many new shops and restaurants have opened and more people are venturing downtown, and business owners are finding the rent reasonable when compared to shopping center rent prices.

Rene and Greg Hill in front of their The reopening of the Fox Theater and the installation antique store on Center Street of new digital projectors has helped bring people back downtown again Hill said.

On Wednesday, the Taft Planning Commission held a special meeting to discuss exactly what is needed on Center Street.

The commission which has four new members, has become very concerned with Center Street and the lack of code enforcement, the blight, the boarded up windows, and lack of planning to improve what is considered the heart of the community.

For several hours, the commission discussed planning goals and objectives, permitted uses, discussed short and long term goals and heard public comment.

Hill said that the special meeting was an opportunity for the commission to examine past plans for the downtown and see what actions the commission might take to start implementing plans to improve the street.

Dr. Kathy Orrin, Executive Director of the Taft Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, who spoke at the meeting, has a lot to say about the value of the old downtown and why it is worth the effort to clean up and get property owners to improve their properties and make them attractive.

An example of a beautifully restored building “Taft’s Downtown is the centerpiece of our comon Center Street. Pizza Factory has experimunity,” Orrin said. “Downtown defines what was enced a very successful move to Center Street important to Taft’s people one hundred years ago from their old location in Albertson’s Plaza

TAFT INDEPENDENT

and what is important to them now. It is where the essence of our community’s current well-being, our progress, and our desires resides.”

Orrin is concerned about what people who are visiting Taft might think about the whole community when they see the neglect on some of the buildings on Center Street.

“At first glance it may seem as if we no longer care,” Orrin said. “We have abandonment issues; in some blocks there is a vacancy rate of over sixty percent. Absentee landlords own a large percentage of the buildings on Center Street, most of which need a good bath and a coat of paint. Even The Taft State Bank building is undergoing a full the occupied spaces look worn out and hopeless. remodel where a new sports bar and restaurant Some businesses look as if they do not expect any will be located later this year customers. Those who have made an effort to spruce up their entries and facades have to put up with nearby business owners who are content with storefronts that look tired and sad.”

The planning commission has decided to tackle these issues, according to Hill.

“We’re going to look as past plans and begin to see how we can update and implement what has been planned for several decades on Center Street.

Hill is talking about the Downtown Specific Plan, a document that the city developed in 1981, revisited and approved in 1991, and updated and approved again in 1999.

But, even though the plan has been much discussed and updated, not much has been done that the plan states should be implemented to make the downtown a place where businesses thrive, people visit and businesses prosper.

The city has invested nearly $3 million in the Rails to Trails project, and as that project moves forward, many wonder what the city is willing to do to invest in the downtown.

“We hope the city will now look at Center Street and invest in what is really the hear of the community,” Hill said.

City Manager Craig Jones and the city council has said that the downtown is a priority and that the city is willing to do what it can to improve the downtown. The city will receive a grant soon that will see two blocks of Center Street repaved. Jones also said that the city is looking at planting grass and several mature trees in the 5th Street Plaza this Spring.

Downtown Taft is worth saving, and has the potential, when new businesses move in and vacant building are repaired to once again be the community center piece and the beautiful downtown that it once was.

Orrin praised the planning commission’s and the city’s efforts and looks forward to their work to improve Center Street.

“Taft’s message is a little ragged now,” Orrin said. “But this strong Planning Commission and able City Planner have the stuff necessary to write not just a The location of the approved Best Western Plus Hotel, an rough draft, but a great story.

80 room 3 story hotel that will be located on the Rails to Trails at the corner of 6th and Maon Street

Let’s make Historic Downtown Taft Even Nicer

By John Swearengin After my article a few months back about how busy downtown Taft was the day of the Soroptimist Luncheon and Home Tours I have received lots of feedback. Everyone agreed with most of the things I and some should not. I heard there was a new business going in by the Fox Theatre but no one knew what. Most of the people hoped for an ice cream shop. I went by and noticed the white curtains. It looked to me like a possible ice cream shop or small café. I was very excited but later found out it was a tutoring place. I later found out it is called Kitchen Table Tutoring. Tutoring is needed in Taft and I hope it does well but I was hoping for something else but it is nice to see something nice in an empty shop.

There are still lots of empty shops around and most of them look bad. I’m glad to see some work being done on the old Sno White at 10th and Center Street. There are a few places that people feel should not be in downtown Taft. Instead of complaining on Facebook, there is somewhere you can take your complaints, the Taft Planning Commission. The Taft Planning Commission meets twice a month. You can get more info from City Hall. I do not know what all they can or cannot do just because you have a complaint but it Proposed Downtown Arch that would be located at the might be worth the time to see what the Planning Commission is able to do. intersection of 6th and Center Street downtown Taft.

We went up the Coast on a day trip to Cambria, Harmony, and some other spots a while back. These places all have great shopping The Arch was proposed several years ago as an entrance to for tourists. Everything from Candy, Ice Cream, Jewelry, Deli’s, Antiques, Stain Glass, Pottery, Wind Chimes, Wine Tasting, Restaurants, home decorations, and much more. I would love for Downtown Taft to look like these places. It would be great if it looked Center Street. Several downtown business owners have approach Taft Mayor Paul Linder who is the 2015 Oildorado somewhat like The Village in Arroyo Grande or downtown Paso Robles. All of these towns have nice clean buildings. If there is an President, to have the city and Oildorado adopt the sign empty store, the building still looks good. as an Oildorado project that would be constructed and Be happy the Fox Theatre is going strong and several new great stores have opened and appear to be doing well. Downtown Taft should have Antiques, Restaurants, Clothing stores, Hair Salons, Jewelry Stores, Gift Shops, a Brewery, Bakery, kids clothing, Dentist, unvieled during Oildorado. Funds would be raised by the Eye Dr., Tax Service, Insurance office, Barbershop, Appliances, and Furniture. We have all of this and we are getting a Restaurant and downtown committee and other interested organizations.

Sports Bar by Taft Chevrolet. It would be nice if we had Wine Tasting, more nice Restaurants and Deli’s, Men’s Clothing, good knick knack stores, etc. We need more things to get people downtown and bring people in that are driving by on the highway. Our downtown is good and we have some great stores but some things down there need to go. When you are downtown all the places should make you feel safe. Some people do not like the automotive repair places being downtown but I have to disagree with them. They get people downtown and they can shop and eat while their car is being repaired.

It is not the mid 80’s when downtown Taft was booming, the Taft College Cougar Football Team was beating teams 45-0, Kay’s Frozen Yogurt had a line to the door, everyone’s Doctor was here in Taft, there were people waiting out front to eat dinner at White Elephant, Toppers, Jeno’s, and Buck’s Steak House in Maricopa, C&C Video was packed, everyone hoped for a double feature at the Fox Theatre, all the Lincoln Jr. High kids packed the Honda Shop every day after school to dream about a new motorcycle, the Rifle Range off A Street was packed on Saturday mornings, everyone did their grocery shopping in Taft- either at 11-C Market, Hallmart Foods, or Safeway, the doughnuts, cookies, and cakes were amazing at Taylor’s Bakery and Loperena’s Bakery, you could get a mouthwatering meal at Royal Sub and Leonard’s, all the kids lined up for haircuts at Razor’s Edge when it was in the Mi Casita building, everyone got their furniture at McMahan’s, County Corner was a huge amazing Nursery, Taft Sporting Goods was the place to get all your gear, and who didn’t love Frozen Mug for their Big Daddy Burger.

Those days were great and I hope one day we get Cougar Football back, Frozen Yogurt, and some of the others. We do need to appreciate some of the good things we do have like our Schools, Pizza Factory, OT Cook House, The Rec, Artz Deli, Oasis, Oil Museum, Sky Dive Taft, The Fort, Historic Downtown Taft, Asian Experience, all the great jobs our oilfields create, our Police Department, our Parks, Black Gold Brewery, our great dirt biking around Taft, and much more. Use it or lose it. Don’t complain, get involved in our community. Stay positive Taft!

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

March 7 - 13, 2014

19th Annual Kern County Biologist, Explorer, Adventurer Healthy Stores for a Healthy Autism Awareness Conference and star of Discovery’s “Biggest Community Survey 2013: & Baddest” to open 26th annual In Kern County, the majority of stores (80%) that sell candy, With the new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mint, and liquor flavored non cigarette tobacco products are numbers showing that one in 50 children in the United States Kern County Science Fair on located within 1000 feet of schools, 74% of stores sell the most are being diagnosed with autism, a nearly doubling of prevalence popular brand of cigarillos for under $1, and 36.6% of stores since the CDC began tracking this number, autism is now ofMarch 18 surveyed sell any fresh fruit or vegetable. These findings are part ficially becoming an epidemic in the United States. We are dealCanadian-born biologist, adventurer and TV personality Dr. Niall McCann will provide the opening address to kick-off the 26th annual Kern County Science Fair March 18 at the Rabobank Convention Center. The annual event is the culmination of months of hard work for hundreds of local 4th through 12th graders who have risen through their school and district ranks for a chance to showcase their science projects and compete at the county level.

McCann will open the day at 9 a.m. as he shares his exciting life story. McCann studied Zoology at the University of Bristol, completing a PhD at Cardiff University, studying Baird’s Tapir, the largest mammal in the neotropics and one of the most threatened species in the Americas.

McCann has dedicated his life to seeking out adventure on six continents, either in combination with his zoological studies, or on stand-alone adventures. These adventures have included a month-long cycling excursion in the Himalayas and crossing the Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved pass in the world. McCann has since cycled the highest road in the world, canoed the River Yukon, rowed across the Atlantic Ocean from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean and skied across Greenland.

In his career as a zoologist, McCann has specialized on working with endangered species and has conducted zoological research in the UK, Italy, Mauritius, Bolivia, Namibia, Guyana and Honduras; spending over 21 months living and working in remote and challenging parts of the world. As well as his involvement in research, McCann is actively engaged in ongoing conservationprojects in Honduras, Nepal and Guyana, and is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

McCann made his television debut in 2011 with the PBS documentary “Lost in the Amazon: the enigma of Col Fawcett,” which aired in the History Channel in the UK. As a result of the success of this documentary, which won two international awards, he landed a six-part wildlife adventure series with the Discovery Network’s “Biggest and Baddest.”

After McCann’s address, judging of student projects will commence at 10 a.m. The public is invited for viewing of displays from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Judging will concentrate on scientific thought/engineering goals, creativity, organization, completeness, clarity, effort and motivation. Students have to explain their displays, log books and hypothesis to a panel of judges.

Awards ceremonies will be held at 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

First or second place finishers may be eligible to compete in the 63rd annual California Science Fair to be held at the California Science Center in Los Angeles on April 28-29.

The Kern County Science Fair is administered by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools with primary sponsorship provided by Aera Energy LLC. Additional sponsorship and support is offered by Chevron North America Exploration and Production, Occidental of Elk Hills, Kern County Science Foundation, Tejon Ranch Company, Comprehensive Blood & Cancer Center, Bakersfield College and TYBRIN Corporation.

For more information, please contact Eldred Marshall, KCSOS mathematics/science coordinator, at (661) 636-4640.

of new data released today on the availability and marketing of tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy and healthy food products in stores that sell tobacco-the first time all three categories of products have been analyzed together. “Kern County ranks one of the highest in deaths due to heart disease in California. This survey allows us to face the awful indicators giving us insight to the ongoing challenges here in Kern County,” said Matt Constantine, Director of Public Health Services. “It is important we raise awareness of these health impacts for the future of our community.”

Health advocates up and down the state released the survey results today, with 13 press events taking place simultaneously throughout California. The large survey collected information from more than 7,300 diverse retail stores – including convenience, supermarket, liquor, tobacco, small market, discount, drug and big-box stores – in all 58 counties, with the goal of shedding light on what products are available and promoted in our communities. Nearly 700 public health representatives, community volunteers and youth participated in the survey, which was conducted from July through October 2013.

In Kern County survey results show that 70% of stores have advertising for unhealthy products on the outside of stores, 88% of stores sell alcohol and alcopos, and of stores that sell alcohol, 40% have alcohol ads near candy/toys or below 3 feet. The findings also show that electronic cigarettes are widely available, alarming health officials and community partners. In Kern County, 42% of stores sell e-cigarette. Statewide, the number of stores selling e-cigarettes quadrupled in the last two years, from 11.5% in 2011 to 45.7% in 2013. “Over the years schools have become increasingly concerned about the health of their students and the impact of outside influences on student behavior”, said Christine Lizard Frazier, Kern County Superintendent of Schools. “Anti-tobacco education and similar efforts in Kern County have made a significant difference in educating students and their families about the importance of making healthy choices. For many years our office has been at the forefront of helping schools educate students against the use of tobacco, and we will continue to be a partner in this important work. New trends such as e-cigarettes, and the misperception that these are healthy alternatives to regular cigarettes, tell me we still have work to do. When students and their families are healthy they can focus on learning and student achievement.”

The survey includes state, regional and county level data with new insights on the density of stores selling tobacco and their proximity to schools; types of tobacco and alcohol products being sold; advertising and placement of such products in stores; the availability of e-cigarettes; and the availability and promotion of unhealthy and healthy food options including low- or non-fat milk and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Today’s data release also marks the launch of Healthy Stores for a Healthy Community, a statewide campaign – formed by tobacco prevention, nutrition and alcohol prevention partners working in collaboration – to improve the health of Californians by informing them about the impacts of unhealthy product marketing in the retail environment.

For state, regional and county specific data and more information on Healthy Stores for a Healthy Community, visit www.

HealthyStoresHealthyCommunity.com.

Visit Us Online

Let’s Go! Location Photos!

taftindependent.com email us at Publisher@

ing with a national emergency that is in need of a national plan; we now have over 1 million children directly affected by autism.

Here in Kern County alone, there are over two thousand children and adults who are overcoming and working through the specific needs that arise for a person on the Autism Spectrum.

The Kern Autism Network-Autism Society (KAN) is a grassroots organization dedicated to helping families deal with all aspects of autism, as it affects their lives. They provide support, awareness, information and education to families, professionals, and the public throughout Kern County.

On Friday, March 14th from 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – KAN is hosting over 400 individuals who will attend the 19th Annual Autism Awareness Conference at Hodel’s in Bakersfield.

This year the keynote speaker will be Dr. Lawrence Fung, Child Psychiatrist and Fellow of Stanford University Medical Center. He will be addressing “The Changes in the DSM-5” (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is what doctors and other clinicians use to diagnose mental disorders among children and adults. It also can be used as a guide in public health for collecting consistent and reliable data. There have been several editions of the DSM since the 1950s; the most recent edition, DSM-5, was released in May 2013.

Additionally, Dr. Robert Naseef, Psychologist, Author and parent of an adult child with autism addressing “Father’s & Masculinity and 911 First Aid for Couples and Relationships Affected by Autism.” Sadly, the majority of families who find themselves caring for a child with any type of special need often end up divorced due to many of the struggles they face.

Lastly, Caroline McGraw, Author, Copywriter and Speaker will address “Sibling Perspective and Family Support Choices.”

Our hope is that by increasing education, awareness and networking, we will make Kern County a better place for anyone affected by autism.

For More Information about The19th Annual Autism Awareness Conference, please contact Ramona Puget, Kern Autism Network-Autism Society President at 661.588-4235, kernautism@gmail.com or visit www. kernautism.org

Enrolling in Affordable Care Program Enrolling in health insurance through the Affordable Care Act can be confusing, but on March 20 in Taft you can get the answers to all of your questions about this program.

On Thursday, March 20 at 6pm at the West Side Parks and Recreation Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place for an Affordable Care Act education meeting. This meeting will explain the application process and list the documents which will be required for enrollment. The meeting will be followed by an enrollment event on Thursday, March 27 where attendees will be assisted with their application. For additional information on the Taft Community ACA Education Meeting, please call the West Side Community Resource Center at 765-7281 or 763-4489.

WEST SIDE URGENT CARE

765-1935 HOURS

Senior Portraits Class of 2014 Fun and Easy

Free clothing change, multiple pose packages, yearbook photo Starting at $99 + Tax. Book now to purchase 16x 20 print for $27.00 with any package. Offer ends August 24th.

MONDAY TO FRIDAY NOON TO 9 P.M.

Have Camera, Will Travel. Call today for more details and appointment 763-5429.

SATURDAY, SUNDAY AND HOLIDAYS 10:00 A.M. TO 9 P.M.

www.kcphotographyandframing.com

100 E North St. Taft CA

427 Center Street • Since June 1986

March 7 - 13, 2014

Volunteers Wanted for Los Padres Preservation Project

Los Padres National Forest officials today announced the Monterey Ranger District is seeking volunteers to work in an exciting archaeology program. Applications are being accepted for “Partners in Preservation” site stewards. The deadline for submitting your application is March 17.

To qualify as a “Partners in Preservation” volunteer, applicants are required to complete a 2-day training workshop.

The next workshop will be held Saturday, April 5, and Sunday, April 6. Training will take place April 5 at the Monterey Ranger District office in King City, followed by training in the field April 6.

This training is sponsored by the Ventana Wilderness Alliance and will be led by the Society for California Archaeology through its California Archaeological Site Stewardship Program with the assistance of Los Padres National Forest staff.

Additional volunteer opportunities on the Monterey Ranger District are available on an individual basis.

For additional information on the “Partners in Preservation” program or for other archaeology volunteer opportunities, contact North Zone Archaeologist Bob Strickland by phone at (831) 385-5434, extension 20771, or by email at rnstrickland@fs.fed.us.

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Kern County Teacher Recruitment Fair Scheduled for April 26

Athlete of the Week

March 4, 2014 — The 14th Annual Kern County Teacher Recruitment Fair is scheduled to take place Saturday, April 26 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Larry E. Reider Education Center, 2000 K Street in Bakersfield. Individuals who are fully credentialed or will be intern-eligible by August of 2014 are invited to attend.

Sponsored by the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office, the event is the county’s largest gathering of school district recruiters in one location. It is an excellent opportunity for those who are credentialed or intern eligible to see what positions or anticipated future openings may be available in the 2014-2015 school year.

Districts are interested in meeting individuals who hold multiple subject, special education, speech pathologist, school nurse, school psychologist, and single subject credentials.

“The Teacher Recruitment Fair is organized each year to ensure that school districts have the opportunity to recruit fully-qualified teachers for their programs,” said Desiree Von Flue, KCSOS Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. “Even though a district may not currently have openings, they must be prepared to fill unanticipated teacher vacancies created due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances.”

All eligible individuals are encouraged to pre-register online at: www.kern.org/recruitmentfair The online pre-registration deadline is April 20 at 5 p.m.

Pre-registered attendees will be allowed into the event at their scheduled time and will be allotted one hour to meet with as many districts as possible. Available time slots are 8:15 a.m., 9:35 a.m., and 10:55 a.m. Non-registered attendees should report to the event no earlier than 10:30 a.m. for onsite registration. Admittance will be determined by occupancy.

Photocopying services will not be available on the day of the event. Resume and credential copies are not required. However, attendees may bring them to distribute at their discretion. During the event, districts may request completion of an on-site or an on-line application.

For more information, please contact Evelyn Feliciano, event coordinator, at (661) 636-4750, or Diane Steward, event coordinator, at (661) 636-4371.

Mitchell May WSRPD\Pizza Factory Athlete of the Week Mitchell May is a 4.0 Lincoln Student Athlete playing Basketball for Lincoln 6th grade boys, the WSRPD D2 Division and filling in at the D3 (13-15 year old) division when needed. He also plays Soccer D2 and fills in at the D3 level along with playing Little League Baseball.

He is a hard worker practicing 5 days a week during the season and 2 days a week all year long who studies the game and likes to talk strategy with his coaches/friends.

This year in Rec basketball he averaged 10+ assists per game and helped lead his team Los Bulls to the D2 championship this week. In the last 53 days Mitch has played in 28 basketball games between Lincoln and WSRPD D2 for a record of 22-6.

Congratulations Mitchell and keep up the great work!

The Taft Indepenent Every Issue Free No Subscription Required Visit our Free Website to view entire paper in digital newspaper format www.taftindependent.com

Ben’s Books

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft

We will be closed for the week March 4th to March 11th 810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery

www.taftindependent.com 765-6550 Classified ads $2 per line

Now Serving Splash Cafe Clam Chowder in a Pyrenees Bread Bowl 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

8

Liberty Under Fire Amazing Story of the Five-YearOld Tea Party Movement

By Harold Pease, Ph. D

Pundits do not agree on the specific origin of the Tea Party Movement but they do agree that it began in the last week of February 2009 and became a powerful sensation over-night with no specific identifiable founder.

There were hundreds of founders including myself. It was as though everyone was frightened by the direction of government at the same time—certainly a grassroots movement. Encyclopedia coverage of its origin and early history is foreign to those of us who were there on the front lines. They tie the movement to extreme break offs of other movements going back to the sixties seemingly in some bizarre attempt to cast doubt on its legitimacy, but the Tea Party Movement was as American as apple pie. Unfortunately, the vast majority of the press, excepting FOX News, has never been friendly toward this movement.

Actually the movement began in opposition to George W. Bush’s $700 billion stimulus bailout package at the end of his term, which received bi-partisan support from President-Elect Barack Obama and the Democrats. Both parties were on the same page and taking us in the wrong direction—bigger government and debt insanity. Tea Party groups began to spring up everywhere in February 2009, each with their own leaders.

Three city leaders in the east, learning of the simultaneous rise of sister cites, contacted each other to compare notes. They liked the name Tea Party because they wished, by that name, to emulate our founding philosophy. Even so, they were uncertain what their core values should be so they invited Internet submissions from the thousands who felt similarly. Still, there was no known single leader. My daily submissions encouraged getting back to the Constitution. The three most frequently submitted core values, and the one’s selected, were: limited constitutional government, free market and fiscal responsibility—precisely the collective views of our Founders and believed to be the values supported by most Americans today.

In time prominent names would emerge notably Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin, and the now strongest group, the Tea Party Patriots, led by Jenny Beth Martin would come to dominate the movement’s presence on the national level. Still, many groups chose to remain independent and influence only local governments.

In my community the leader of the movement was Julie Demos, a second grade teacher, who had no prior political experience making her the perfect leader. This was the gathering of the people who no longer wished to use political party, but the Founders core values, in promoting good government. Between three and five thousand folks gathered at the Liberty Bell in April 15, 2009, many spoke, including myself. Over 600 cities throughout the nation had similar gatherings. The movement was not party based. We wished to attract those who desired to get back to these neglected core values. Our own Congressman Kevin McCarthy and House Speaker John Boehner, were denied the podium for that reason. They attended and viewed the proceedings as spectators as did everyone else. This was not a

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Republican Party rally! Fifteen thousand heard myself and others speak on getting back to the Constitution at the Tulare Ag Center on July 4, 2010, in support of over a million who gathered in Washington DC. Two other times such numbers gathered in the capitol before years end making these gatherings the most assembled since the days of Martin Luther King Jr. Although not intending to align with either political party, negative press coverage, primarily from the left hostile to its core values, emerged from the outset.

The Tea Party, so undermined by a hostile press, never had a chance in the Democratic Party. Establishment Republicans accepted it in the 2010 election because it gave them the House of Representatives but treated it as a wayward child. Trust between them never really developed the following years. The Tea Party views establishment Republicans as but giving lip service to America’s core values. Today the Tea Party appears to be more popular than ever despite the demonizing from both political parties and the establishment press, excepting Fox News.

LEGAL NOTICE WEST KERN WATER DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY

BY SILENT AUCTION Notice is hereby given that the governing Board of the West Kern Water District will conduct a silent auction of personal property not needed for District purposes. By the silent auction, bidders must write their bids on a bid sheet. Bidders may increase the bid amount by adding that bidder’s name and bid amount to the bid sheet until the auction is concluded. The highest bidder on the bid sheet per individual item or designated lot of items will be the purchaser.

Personal property to be sold is: Misc. office furniture, computers/computer items, tools, equipment, survey equipment, and vehicles. For a complete list contact Carol Havens at 661763-3151 x111.

AUCTION LOCATION: WEST KERN WATER DISTRICT 800 KERN ST. (WAREHOUSE PARKING LOT) TAFT, CA 93268 DATE: SATURDAY MARCH 1, 2014 VIEWING TIME: 8:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.

BIDS RECEIVED: UNTIL 9:45 a.m. SATURDAY MARCH 1, 2014 WINNING BIDS ANNOUNCED: MARCH 1, 2014

10:00 a.m. SATURDAY

This is a CASH SALE ONLY (NO CHECKS, CREDIT CARDS, or ALTERNATIVE PAYMENT FORMS ACCEPTED).

All items will be sold AS IS – with no warranties, express or implied. West Kern Water District makes no representations whatsoever as to the condition or operation of the property to be sold. All sales will be final and no purchased property may be returned for a refund of any kind. All risk transfers to buyer upon payment.

The entire cash price must be paid upon notice of acceptance of the bid and before delivery of property. Property must be removed from the District grounds by 12:00 noon, Saturday March 1, 2014. If not removed by the deadline, the right to remove the property will be deemed waived and the property may be sold to the next highest bidder, if any.

For the governing Board of the West Kern Water District Harry O Starkey General Manager

March 7 - 13, 2014

Happy fifth birthday Tea Party, some of us value movements that actually fight for liberty. We believe that we literally fight for the same principles as our Founding Fathers and invite everyone that loves the Constitution and liberty to stand with us. We believe that our time is just as critical as was theirs. See you there.

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.

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.

Serving Since 1939

WE HAVE ALWAYS STAYED CONSISTENT! Unlike other funeral homes we have retained • Our Same Name • Our Same Ownership • Our Same Management • Our Same Licensed Staff

Charles V. & Jennifer Landwehr and Angie Milner

501 Lucard St., Taft • 765-4111

March 7 - 13, 2014

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

Cafe & Deli Serving Since 1939

WE HAVE ALWAYS STAYED CONSISTENT! 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

Charles V. & Jennifer Landwehr and Angie Milner

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

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

Gateway Temple

Sunday Morning Worship 9:45 Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 Monday Evening Mens Prayer 7:00 Wednesday Evening Worship 6:30 For a ride: Call Dorine Horn 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.

Taft First Assembly Your Neighborhood Church 314 Asher Ave

Parish Hall Available for Rent

Join us for our Encounter Service Sundays 10:30 am

First Baptist Church

Where on Earth Are We? A sermon series on Prophesy Pastor Trent Meadors

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

West Kern Christian Center Join us this Sunday at 6pm at our new location, 1000 6th Street in Taft.

Pastor Randy Bunch

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Unlike other funeral homes we have retained • Our Same Name • Our Same Ownership • Our Same Management • Our Same Licensed Staff

Midweek services start Wednesday, March 5 at 7pm.

For more information: Email, info@wkcc-taft.org Phone, (661) 623-5001 Website: www. wkcc-taft.org 623-5001 1000 6th Street, Taft.

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Bible Study 9 a.m.

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Clergy The Rev. Heather Mueller 703 5th Street - Taft (661) 765-2378

Trinity Southern Baptist Church 400 Finley Drive We invite you to join us each week as we worship

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

Info call 765-7151

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

10 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Classifieds

Joyce Properties (661) 769-6469

Classified Ads are $3.00 per issue for up to three lines, $5 per issue for upAds to 5are lines, and $7line. per Phone, issue forfax, up mail to 10orlines.

Classified $2.00 per dropYard off Sale ads arethe free. fax, mail or drop off your ad to the your ad to TaftPhone, Independent.

Taft Independent.

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

Boxed\outlined\bolded classified ads start at $12.00 for 8 Boxed are $5 $20 additional. (or bring to our lines, $16ads for 12 lines, for 15 lines,E-mail $25 forus 20 lines. office) a photo of your home, car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll the rest.

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

Classified ads is now Wednesdaysat at 12 2 p.m.

Classified addeadline deadline is Wednesday p.m. (noon) Fax: 765-6556 E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card.

Taft Independent 508byCenter St., Taft, CA 93268 Payment can be made cash, check, or credit card.

Taft Independent 210 6th St., Taft, CA 93268.

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.

411 McKinley. 7:30 am to noon. Household items, and misc.

203 Buchannon. Yard Sale.

ANNOUNCEMENTS HELP WANTED

Person to hand out flyers in front of stores. $10 per hour.

Part-time. 661-7453211.

Drummer wanted For local band, Drum kit provided!

Auditions Mom-Sun 6pm-9pm. 126 Buena Vista Pl. Taft 661)3466680 leave mess.

M & S Security is now hiring individuals witrh bth EMT and Security Guard Certification. Need clean DMV. (661) 3979616 x 202.

Midway Elementary School District is looking for classified personnel to substitute in the office, as a classroom aide andalso for janitorial duties. Must have an A.A. Degree.

Applications are available @ Midway School District, 259 F Street, Fellows, CA. Or call 768-4344 for more information.

Immediate opening for Full Time Analytical Laboratory Technician. Salary DOE. Benefits.

Applications can be found at Midway Laboratory located at 315 Main St. or midwaylaboratory.

com. Applications and resumes can be brought in or sent to email : midwaylab@ verizon.net & our Fax Number 661-7656920.

Accepting Applications EOE Maricopa Unified School District Bus Driver/Grounds 10 months/5 hrs per day $13.87/hour, partial benefits Must have Calif. Drivers License with school bus driver certification and use equip. to maintain grounds Contact the 769-8231 ext. 204 INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT– HEALTH AIDE Taft Union High School District is accepting applications for an Instructional Assistant – Health Aide. C.N.A. License and an AA Degree or a Para-Professional Certificate required.

This is an in-school day position, 7-hours per day, Pay Rate 15, $15.63 p/hr. E.O.E. Employment process includes: Application and Resume, Written Exam, Interview, DOJ Clearance, Physical and Drug Screen.

Applications, Job Descriptions and Salary Schedules are available at the TUHS Business Office, 701 Wildcat Way, between 7:00 a.m. & 3:00 p.m.

M-F . Applications must be received in the Business Office no later than 3:00 p.m. on Wed., March 5, 2014. Written test will be given to ALL applicants submitting an application on Thurs., March. 6th at 7:00 p.m. in the TUHS IRC Lecture Hall.

SERVICES FOR SALE Whirpool washer and electric dryer. Good

Rentals Real Estate

(661) 769-6469

Phone: Phone:765-6550 765-6550

YARD SALES

Preserving for the Future

condition. 10 yrs. old. $150 765-2666 Heavy duty trailer ramp.

18 Ft. $3,800 Can also haul tractor. (661) 9727807.

AUTOMOBILES 2003 Black Saturn Auto.

4dr runs Excl. Sunroof, all elec. $3,700 (661) 972-7807.

RV for sale 87’ RV 454 For sale. $3,500.

Nothing wrong with it.

745-4074.

PETS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT HOMES FOR SALE House for Sale 400 Hillard 3BR/3BA, 2074 sq.ft.

Fireplace, indoor laundry; $225,000 Call for more information or to walk-thru 763-1222/Ext. 12 3bd. 2 ba. plus studio.

Clean, remodled, stove. $1,100 mo. + $700 dep. 623-5637, 577-2110. Se Habla Espanol.

Home for Sale. 2 bd.

1 ba. 417 Montview.

Home built in 1917.

Has wood flooor.

Needs TLC. $15,000 or best offer. Land rent $313.50 extra, or buy land. Taft. (661) 9727807.

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 sale!

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

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list 104 North Street. 2 bd. 1 full bath. Hardwood floors, dishwasher. garbage disp., fenced yard, hook ups for wash/dryer. ($700 mo. plus dep. $400. (213) 500-3304.

417 Montview. 2bd. 1 ba. house. Fend yard. $15,000 cash or owner will carry with down payment for 5 years.. Land is on a lease for $314 per month.

Do not disturb tenant.s.

(661) 972-7807.

MOBILE HOMES HOMES FOR RENT

West Valley Real Estate www.BuySellManage. com (661) 763-1500 BRE Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 502 Lucard 1/1 $375 224 B St #B 2/1 $550 904 Stanislaus 2/1 $600 202 Philippine 1/1 $650 605 4th St 2/1 $675 307 Philippine 1/1 $700 501 ½ Jackson 2/1 $700 522 Center #D 3/1 $700 210 General Petroleum 2/1 $750 607 Taylor 2/1 $800 306 Taylor 4/2 $900 127 Lexington 3/1 $1,350 100 South Commercial Property/Yard $750 518 Center St Retail Space $500

2 bd. 1 ba. water and trash paid. Like new inside. 614 Phillippine.

Avail. for viewing Friday. $750. mo. $750. dep.

2-14-14. (909) 499-2866.

549-1068

Home For Rent 2 bedroom 1 bath. 118 Lincoln $650 mo. (1 year lease) $750 deposit. No indoor pets, suitable for 2-3 people 661-589-9130 or 3314650.

For Rent 3 br 1 ba, Pool, huge shop w/ half ba. In airport addition, lawn & pool service included. $1,350 mo + deposit.

Available Feb 1st. (805) 314-4121

Westside Americana Real Estate 661-765-5000 4/2 119 South St, Remodeled, 1 car garage, Tile Floors $875/$875 dep 3/2 Taft Hwy in Dustin Acres, Remodeled Total Interior $825/$825 dep 3/1 Taft Hwy in Dustin Acres, New flooring/ paint $750/$750 dep Pick up an app at 322 Kern St. 661-765-5000 Westside Americana

“No Job To Small” Immediate Installation!

Carpet Vinyl Hardwood Laminate Ceramic Tile 661-398-3044

7000 District Blvd Bakersfield

Contractor’s Lic. #352844

Air Conditioning & Heating

Real Estate 3 br 1 ba, Pool, huge shop w/ half ba. In airport addition, lawn & pool service included. $1,350 mo + deposit. (805) 3144121 Downtwn 2/1. A/C in everyroom, newer vynl floors, wash./dryer hook ups., private fenced yard. Secure off streert parking. Lrge living room. $695. mo. $900. sec. dep.

(805) 689-4122.

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

APART. FOR RENT

Creekside Apartments.

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

MOVE IN SPECIAL! FIRST MONTH FREE. Based on approved credit. No Application Fee. Pet’s OK. 108 Center Street Apartments.

1 bed room 1 bath.$475 per month. Plus Sec. Dep. Call 2 bedroom, 1 bath.. Large (661) 846-6403 or (661) 765backyard and garage.

7678.

Newly remodled. Avail. immediately. $1000 per mo. $1000 dep. Gardner included.

(661) 805-0928.

G&S CARPET CO Hours: T-F 9-5 Sat. 10-3 Closed Sun./Mon. Eve By Appt.

Ken Shugarts

Home For Rent 2 bedroom 1 ba. 411 Shattuck 2 2 Bedrm homes w/ priSt. $650 mo. (1 year lease) vate fenced yards. w/d $750 deposit. Pick up applicahookups. $795 and $650. tion at 318 North St. (661) (805) 689-4122. Mark.

769-6469. Joyce Properties.

Avail. Now. Home for rent. 416 Montview. 2bd 2 ba. Newer home. Fenced yards. $775. plus sec. dep.

Avail now. 1 pet ok. Taft.

(661) 972-7807.

March 7 - 13, 2014

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

www.BuyKernCounty.com Thought of buying a house Not sure how it works

FREE VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS IT ALL Real Estate eBroker Inc. 432 Kern St., Taft, CA 93268 Karri Christensen 661-332-6597 call or text today!

CalBRE# 01333971

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

209 Harrison Street • Taft (661)765-2505 or (661)763-1887 fax

Diagnostic Specialists Service & Repairs • Smog Repairs Air Conditioning • Tune Up • Front End Brakes • Fuel Injection

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

$15.00 OFF with mention of this ad* *1996 Vehicle or newer

Qik Smog & Tune

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery in Taft

Used to be Paul’s Bike KHS Mountain Bikes and 2014 BMX Bikes Are Here!

608 Center St.

Shop

745-4919

Devon’s Body Shop

(661)763-4445 No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

Now Servicing Japanese and European Motorcycles

General Automotive Repairs

BBQ Ribs Special Every Friday $9.95

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

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

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

Would you like to REDUCE OR ELIMINATE your STATE INCOME TAX LIABILITY? If you own a business in the Taft area you may be eligible for tax credits up to $37,440 per qualified employee.

There are many advantages and cost savings for businesses in the Taft Enterprise Zone.

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Call today for more information: 661763-1222, Ext. 12

The Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant

Located in the Heart of Oil Country On the Petroleum Highway We Cater Your Place or Ours Full Bar Available For Your Special Event

Come and Join Us at The Tumbleweed The Tumbleweed Cafe Reservations Recommended

24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

FULL BAR