4th District Supervisorial Candidates Face Off In Forum

Independent The Taft

April 27 - 3, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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April 27 - 3, 2012 • Volume 6 Issue 44

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

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First Thursday & Farmers Market Start Thursday, May 3rd Downtown

4th District Supervisorial Candidates Face Off In Forum Meet Candidates Harley Pinson and David Couch

By Kent Miller Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

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April 27 - 3, 2012

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April 27 - 3, 2012

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs......................3

Community Events News Briefs Taft California “Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument” Have a community event that you would like to include?

Email it to us at Publisher@Taftindependent.com

Westside Watcher............4 West Side Recreation Report..........5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Relay For Life Bake Sale Saturday, April 28th Relay for Life Bake Sale Saturday, April 28th at Heritage Park 11am to 3pm. Cakes, pies, cookies and candy! All proceeds go to Relay for Life.

TUHS Hall of Fame Saturday, April 28th

Westside News..................9

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

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased from Sheri Gregory at TUHS, One Wildcat Way, or at the Taft Chamber of Commerce, 400 Kern Street. Five people will be inducted into the Hall of Fame: Curtis Barnes (Class of 1960), Charles Beard (Class of 1957), Les Haney (Class of 1942), De Ann Gaither Sampley (Class of 1972), and William Silcox (Class of 1940). Doors to Main Hall will be open from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. for persons who want to view the Hall of Fame Plaques and visit the generational display cases which feature memorabilia from ten decades of the high school’s history.

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

Beer Tasting at Black Gold Thursday, May 3rd

Westside News...............11

Help kick off the first Farmers Market of the season and First Thursday with a beer tasting at Black Gold Cafe and Deli. Beer tasting begins at 5pm on Thursday, May 3rd at 508 Center Street.

Community Voices..........7 Liberty Under Fire.........8 State of the City...............8

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.

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Taft Relay For Life Saturday & Sunday, May 19th & 20th Annual Taft Relay for Life is set for Saturday and Sunday, May 19th and 20th at TUHS. To get involved, contact La Nell Howell at 661-330-5606, lhowellrfl@gmail. com or visit online at: relayforlife.org/taftca

Valley Oaks Charter School 2012-2013 Enrollment Valley Oaks Charter School is accepting applications for enrollment for K-8 students for the 2012-2013 school year. Valley Oaks gives parents materials and guidance to home school their children. At our Taft facility we hold meetings, enrichment classes, testing, and activities. For information please call 747-9818.

Valley Oaks is sponsored by the Kern Co. Superintendent of Schools & has been a Taft extension site for 6 years now & we would like the community to know about our alternative education choice.

Taft’s Got Talent Auditions Friday Taft’s Got Talent will be held on Friday, April 27th , at the Taft High Auditorium! Auditions will begin at 7:00 pm. We are asking all Talent participants to arrive at the auditorium by 5:30 pm to audition for the show. All participants will also need to be present and ready to perform on Saturday, May 19th, at 4:30pm Taft’s Relay For Life.

All singing acts will need to bring your music on a CD unless you will provide your own music via musical instrument.

Entrance fee will be a cash donation and a canned food item. Canned food items will be used in the Luminaria Ceremony and will later be donated to a Taft food bank.

It’s going to be a fun evening seeing what Taft has to offer!

Bonita’s phone number is 661-338-0898 or 661-623-0325 call her for event information.

Survivor Social on April 29 Kicks Off Taft Relay for Life Taft Relay for Life, supporting The American Cancer Society is scheduled for May 19-20, 2012 at the TUHS Football Field. Teams are formed and raising money, purple ribbons are hung all around town, and survivors are getting ready to walk their lap. This life-changing event helps communities all over the world celebrate, remember, and fight back – Celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, Remember loved ones lost, and Fight back against the disease.

Survivors, Caregivers, Teams, and Supporters and the community are encouraged to come out for a 24 hour walk at the track at Taft Union High School.

There are games, activities, food, fun, and lots of laughs. Registration for the Taft Relay for Life is available online at www.relayforlife.org/taftca. An amazing Luminaria ceremony to Remember those we have lost to cancer, Honor those still fighting, and Celebrate the Survivors is a must see event, which begins at dusk on May 19.

Prior to the large Relay for Life event, there are small fundraisers and events being held all over time. Everyone should participate in at least one of these events that teams have worked hard to put together to raise money for a great cause.

One great event is the Survivor Social. On Sunday April 29, 2012 from 1:00pm-3:00pm, there is a special social event honoring all cancer survivors.

This event, held at the Historic Fort, features a light lunch, chance for all survivors to get together, and if they choose, share their own tales of heroism with one another. Barbara Duggins, a Hero for Hope, will be the guest speaker. Survivors will receive their purple shirts and can sign up for the Relay for Life Survivor Lap if they have not already done so. To register as a survivor and/or RSVP for the Survivor Social, please call Jessica or Shannon at the Taft Chamber at 765-2165.

For more information about the Relay for Life event, please call Lanelle at 3305606.

Taft Chamber Plans Cinco De Mayo Celebration on 5th Street Plaza

Taft Farmer’s Market Returns May 3rd

Saturday, May 5, join the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau for the 2nd Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration. Taking place on 5th Street Plaza from 11am to 4pm, this event is sure to be a success. Mariachi Real de Jalisco will be performing, a talent show will occur, and Hercules Jump will have bounce houses for the kids (wristbands are available for $5 at the event).

Several Mexican food and craft vendors will be on hand as well as informational booths including the Mexican consulate offering information about their services and assisting the community with legal issues. There will be a beer garden and live music throughout the day. This event is free to attend!

Event sponsored by Harley Pinson, Campos Tire Service, Next Step Gym, Edward J Herrera Insurance, and Las Brasas Grill. Find the Taft Chamber on Facebook at www.facebook.com/taft.chamber to stay up to date on all of the activities and events in Taft. Contact the Chamber at 765-2165 or 400 Kern Street for Vendor booths or more information.

It’s back! Starting Thursday, May 3, the Taft Farmer’s Market returns to 5th Street Plaza. Several local produce farmers bring fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and honey to Taft every Thursday from 5-8pm. Cherries, Strawberries, Blueberries, Blackberries, Mixed Greens, Onions, Beets, Oranges, and Eggplant, are just a few of the wonderful, seasonal produce that will be at the market each week.

The Taft Farmer’s Market will run Thursdays from May 3 until September 27. On the “First Thursday” of the month, several downtown businesses and restaurants will stay open later for your shopping convenience. Those markets also include a performer, an expanded street faire and farmers market. Shop local and shop fresh!

We are also accepting any vendors selling snow cones, jewelry, clothing, purses, and other non-farm items. If you have a backyard garden, it is very easy to become a certified produce vendor. Contact the Chamber at 765-2165 for additional information or to participate. The market will be accepting EBT later in the season.

Save The Date

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGS

Upcoming Event Dates On The Westside

MAY

JUNE

3 Farmers Market Starts 4 TUHS Evening of Jazz 5 Chamber Cinco de Mayo Celebration and West Kern Oil Museum Bailing Out Days & BBQ 19-20 Fourth Annual Relay for Life 24 Kaiser Permanente mobile office grand opening

1-2 West Kern Oil Museum Yard Sale 9 Chamber Annual Car & Motorcycle Show and Kiwanis Breakfast at the Car Show

Tuesday May 1st, 2012 – 7:00 p.m.

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

JULY

4 Westside Christian Ministers Association and Chamber 4th of July Family Picnic 28-29 Tumbleweed Festival

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.

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

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

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

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

NOW OPEN

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, April 27, 2012 through Thursday, May 3, 2012 Marvel’s The Avengers (PG-13) Midnight show Thursday night at 12:05. Tickets on sale now at the boxoffice. Come before all gone!!

The Pirates! Band of Misfits (PG) Fri: (4:30 AM), 6:45, 8:50 Sat: (12:00), (2:15), (4:30), 6:45, 8:50 Sun: (12:00), (2:15), (4:30), 6:45 Mon - Thu: (4:30), 6:45 The Three Stooges (PG) Original stooges short “Gem of a Jam” before each show!

Fri: (5:00), 7:15, 9:30 Sat: (12:40), (2:50), (5:00), 7:15, 9:30 Sun: (12:40), (2:50), (5:00), 7:15 Mon - Thu: (5:00), 7:15 American Reunion (R) Fri: (4:45), 7:20, 9:45 Sat: (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:45), 7:20, 9:45 Sun: (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:45), 7:20 Mon - Thu: (4:45), 7:20

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

Industry Night Sponsored by Harley Pinson for Supervisor Next Wednesday, May 2nd Bar opens at 4:30pm and dinner served at 7:30pm Come out for a great dinner and great drinks, door prizes and 50/50

Good Question? In Concert for Relay for Life Who wants to see Taft’s own Good Question? They will be playing at the Taft Petroleum Club May 12 at 6pm. There will be an auction for a date with band members and some of their closest friends! All proceeds go to Relay for Life for cancer research. There will be lots of raffle prizes, free stuff and great music for just a $5 cover charge. So make sure you come and help Good Question give to this wonderful cause.

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

4th District Supervisor Candidate Forum

Candidates Pinson and Couch Discuss Campaign

By Kent Miller An audience of about 50 people – including family-members and political-supporters – attended the Fourth District Supervisor Candidates Forum on Tuesday evening at OTs Cookhouse in Taft.

Bakersfield residents David Couch and Harley Pinson are seeking to replace retiring Supervisor Ray Watson in the district that includes the Greater Taft Area, southwest Bakersfield, Rosedale, Buttonwillow, Frazier Park, Lebec, Lost Hills, Maricopa, Pine Mountain Club, and Wasco.

Taft Chamber of Commerce sponsored and ran the forum. A panel – consisting of Eric Cooper, local businessman; Dennis McCall, representing the Midway Driller newspaper; and Kent Miller, representing the Taft Independent – asked nine questions selected David Couch in advance but not revealed to the candidates and four questions submitted by audience members.

Curbs and gutters One of the questions asked of the candidates was about the lack of curbs, gutters and sidewalks in county areas of “Greater Taft.” If these areas are annexed by the city and then the curbs, gutters, sidewalks and even sewer connections installed, the city of Taft could face unfunded obligations of more than $100 million.

The question asked the candidates was: What would you lead the county to Harley Pinson do to help annex into the city those currently unincorporated areas without bankrupting the city of Taft?

Couch and Pinson presented different ideas on what to do, the only question of the night over which that offered differing answers.

“I think that government, whether it is city or county, has a duty to provide the most basic items of curbs, gutters and sidewalks,” said Pinson, who serves on the Executive Advisory Council of the School of Business and Business Administration at California State University, Bakersfield, and is a retired oil industry attorney.

Kern County should provide the “most basic items” in South Taft, Taft Heights and Ford City, to prepare them to be annexed by Taft, he said.

Funds being used inefficiently in other areas of the county could be used to fund the infrastructure improvements to the local unincorporated areas before annexation, Pinson said.

Continued on Page 8

Paik’s

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

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

April 27 - 3, 2012

Kern County Sheriff ’s Dept.

Partner With DEA For Nationwide Take-Back Day On Saturday April 28th, 2012 the Kern County Sheriff ’s Office will partner with the Drug Enforcement Administration for a fourth time to collect potentially dangerous, unused medications from medicine cabinets and homes throughout Kern County.

This nationwide Take-Back day will provide a unique opportunity for the public to surrender expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutically controlled substances and other medications to law enforcement officers for destruction. The one day effort will also bring national focus to the issue of the dangers associated with the abuse of pharmaceutical drugs, and the inherent danger of these substances falling into the hands of juveniles.

The first three events were a huge success. Due to the overwhelming turnout at those events, the Kern County Sheriff ’s Office will be hosting Take-Back collection sites at the following locations; Sheriff ’s Office Headquarters, 1350 Norris Rd. in Bakersfield, Taft Substation, 315 N. Lincoln in Taft, Buttonwillow Substation, 181 E. First Street in Buttonwillow, Mojave Substation, 1771 Highway 58 in Mojave, Frazier Park Market, 632 Laguna Trail in Frazier Park, Rosamond Substation, 1379 Sierra Highway in Rosamond, Tehachapi Police Department, 129 E. “F” Street in Tehachapi, Edwards Air Force Base, 240 West Fitzgerald Blvd. in Edwards Sheriff ’s Office personnel will be on hand at each collection site from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm to accept unused and unwanted medications. The service is free of charge, anonymous, and no questions asked.

The following regulations apply to the program: Only controlled, non-controlled and over the counter substances will be collected. Participants must maintain control of the substance they wish to drop off until it is placed in a sealed container at the drop off site. Only pills, tablets, and capsules will be accepted. Intra-venous solutions, injectibles, and syringes will not be accepted. Illegal, illicit substances will not be accepted.

Additional collection sites in Kern County can be found by visiting www.dea.gov If you would like additional information, please contact Kern County Sheriff ’s Office Public Information Officer Ray Pruitt at 661-391-7605 or by email at pruittr@kernsheriff.com.

Maricopa Tea Room Specials Tuesday, May 1st: Lemongrass Chicken with Fried Rice Wednesday, May 2nd: Orange Chicken with Chow Mein Thursday, May 3rd: Vegetarian Egg Roll with Fried Rice and Chow Mein Friday, May 4th: Szechuan Chicken with Rice

Telephone: 769-8231 Extension 5 323 CYCLE KATZ INC. HAS MOVED TO 320 HARRISON ST. 745-4931

PARTS • SALES • SERVICE Locally owned and operated We work on all makes and models Larger showroom and larger mechanic Area Now offering a customer lounge with coffee and donuts Come check out our new location!!!

WWW.CYCLEKATZ.COM cyclekatz@att.net 320 Harrison st. (661) 745- 4931

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

April 27 - 3, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

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

by Stephanie House COOKIE WORKSHOP Tuesday, May 1 3:00-4:15 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Ages 4 and up $3 per person Come create a jumbo sugar cookie with us! While cookies are baking, we will draw and color.

Younger kids will need to bring along an older helper.

MOTHER’S DAY CRAFT Tuesday, May 8 3:00-4:00 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Grades K-6 $3 per person Show your mom how much you appreciate her by making her a special present (shhh… it’s a surprise!) just in time for Mother’s Day. NATATORIUM NEWS Swim Programs at the Natatorium Pool will be starting soon!

OPEN SWIM: Monday – Friday, 1:00-5:00 p.m., June 11 – August 17 NIGHT SWIM: Monday and Thursday, 7:30-8:45 p.m., June 11 – August 9 MORNING LAP SWIM: Monday – Friday, 5:30-7:00 a.m., June 4 – August 10 EVENING LAP SWIM: Monday – Thursday, 6:00-7:30 p.m., June 4 – August 9 SATURDAY SWIM: Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., June 16 – August 11 SWIM LESSONS: Sessions begin June 18; Registration begins May 30 in the District Office For more information, please contact the District Office at 763-4246 or visit us online at www.wsrpd. com.

HUNTERS SAFETY COURSE Monday, May 7 through Wednesday, May 9 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium 500 Cascade Place, Taft $5 per person (facility fee) With cooperation from the volunteer instructors Ray Mortimer and Larry Heptinstall and the Taft Sportsmans Club, materials and instruction for obtaining a California Hunting license are available approximately every three months. Registration begins the first night of class and a minimum of 10 paid students is required or the class will be postponed until August. Upcoming class dates are August 6-8 and October 1-3.

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

Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Ages 18 and older The District holds Bingo games every week for adults. Average buy-in is $15 per person. Cash pots are awarded and we also sell pull-tabs. Stop by and check it out!

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

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

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

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

Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee: $1 daily or $15 monthly (program is ongoing, join us at any time!)

During the cooler weather months, we invite you to walk the track in the Recreation Center Gymnasium. There will be prizes for reaching milestones and we will also help you track your miles and progress.

STAYING FIT AFTER FIFTY When: Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings Time: 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.

Fee: $20 per month (classes are ongoing, new students welcome at any time!)

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

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

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

YOUTH BASEBALL (BABE RUTH) Who: Ages 13-15 (league age as of June 30) When: Practice begins May 12 Where: TUHS Baseball Fields or Franklin Field Fee: $50 per player Registration deadline: Thursday, May 3 NO TAP BOWLING TOURNAMENT Who: Ages 16+ When: Saturday, May 12 Where: Recreation Center, West Side Lanes Bowling Alley Fee: $25 per player Registration deadline: Thursday, May 10 BOWLING PARTY RENTALS Make your reservation now!

Reservations are now being accepted for party rentals at the West Side Lanes Bowling Alley inside of 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. Call 7634246 for more information or to make a reservation.

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGES Make your reservation now!

Need help planning a birthday party, bridal shower or baby shower? We can help! For one low fee, we will provide a room, plates, napkins, forks, cups, balloons and invitations – all to match your theme or colors. And for a little extra, we can help with activities, too! Package prices start at $110. For more information, or to make a reservation, please call the District Office at 763-4246.

NATATORIUM POOL PARTIES Make your reservation now!

Reservations are now being accepted for private party rentals at the Natatorium swimming pool. Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday between June 1 and August 19. Rental fees start at $165 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information.

WEST SIDE LANES BOWLING ALLEY OPEN BOWL: Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 6:00pm LEAGUE BOWL: Monday – Thursday, 7:00-9:00pm GLOW BOWL: Friday and Saturday, 8:00pm – Midnight OPEN BOWL/PARTY RENTALS/YOUTH LEAGUE: Saturday, 9:00am – 8:00pm and Sunday, 10:00am – 10:00pm Fees start as low as $5 per person, per game ($3 for children). Shoe rental is $2 per pair.

For more information, or to check on programs and bowling availability, please phone the Recreation Center at 765-6677.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

MOTHER DAUGHTER LUNCHEON Saturday, July 14 (date change!)

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium Girls ages 3+ $30 per couple, $5 each addt’l daughter *registration deadline – July 3

EAGLE MTN. BUS TRIP Monday, May 7 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

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

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs The Place

April 27 - 3, 2012

Taft Celebrates Arbor Day

Petroleum Club MC Ride

4014 Highway 33

Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa (661)766-2660

Saturday, April 28th

$10.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT

FISH FRY Dinner Served at 5pm

$1.50 Domestic Drafts 5pm Until Close NO TO GO’s

Blue Jeans & Bling Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA 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 415 Center Street Visit us on Facebook sales@bluejeansandbling.com

763-9100 HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

Shirts $.25 Pants $.50

Open Mon., Tues., Thurs 9am - 6pm Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 4pm Closed Wednesday &

Sunday

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

WE HAVE MOVED! NOW AT 428 CENTER ST. We Take Donations!

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

God Bless!

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

Taft Petroleum Club members took a ride last Saturday to the coast to support local charities.

TUHS Seniors Walked Away With $200,000 In Scholarships At Honors Night

By Nicole Frost

Taft Union High School’s annual Honor’s Night was held on Monday in the auditorium and a total of $208,650 was given to 90 recipients of the 2012 graduating class. There were 321 scholarships given from 61 local donors.

Hadley Pittman was the big winner of the night, receiving a total of $20,800. She was awarded $12,000 from the Confidence Foundation, $3000 from Holmes Western Oil Corporation, $2000 from the Class of 1949, $1000 from the Mathew Brice Dragoo Memorial Scholarship and $1000 from Carl Roeder Petroleum.

Other stand-out recipients were Tyler Adkins with $10,000, Caleb Lopez with $6,400, Aaron Kolb with $6,200, Alec Terrazas with $6,200, Jennifer Hinojosa with $6,050, Nathaniel Bryan with $5,800, Christine Wikoff with $5,700, Stephanie Arellano with $5,200, Andrew Lund with $4,400, Justin Miller with $4,300, Hunter Self with $4,250, Chantelle Dockery with $4,200 and Eloisa Garcia with $4,200.

Chevron gave 10 scholarships, each worth $1000, to students in the AVID program. Recipients of this scholarship were Trisha Adams, Stephanie Arellano, Kimberly Hale, Jessie Hutchison, Tina Perez, Tatiana Alvarez, Chantelle Dockery, Stacee Reed, Elizabeth Saldana, and Leeann Shinn.

ExxonMobil Pipeline gave 11 scholarships, $1,500 each, to the following students: Alec Terrazas, Justin Miller, Casey Brockett, Ian Reimers, Cristian Magana, Hunter Self, Eloisa Garcia, Daisy Guitron, Aaron Kolb, Courtney Cloud and Tyler Adkins. All students are members of the TUHS Oil Technology Academy.

The Taft College Merit Scholarship contributed $47,400 to the night’s total and this scholarship, in the amount of $600, was awarded to students who earned at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA. The TUHS Parent Support Organization was another large donor.

They gave a total of $20,000 to 75 students and the money for these scholarships came from the proceeds from TUHS snack bars.

Before the ceremony began, pianist Caleb Lopez and drummer Tyler Johnson performed a mash-up of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” and “He’s a Pirate” from the film “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Senior Class President Raveena Bhakta led the audience in the Flag Salute and Michael Hernandez, the Associated Student Body President, gave the closing remarks.

Taft Crude

Taft Crude Is Closing After 7 Years Join Us Now At Black Gold Cafe & Deli 508 Center Street Starting Monday, April 30th Open 6am to 8pm • Monday to Saturday

The City of Taft celebrated Arbor Day on Thursday, April 26th with a tree planting ceremony on the Rails to Trails.

New Salon, Bangs & Tangles, Opens On Center Street Taft’s newest salon, Bangs and Tangles is now open at 404 Center Street.

Seen here are the slaons staff: Shacee Young, stylist, Alicia Bryant, stylist/ manicurist, Tiffany Yaws, stylist, Danielle Wagner, stylist, Melisa Thome, stylist, Rachel Reyes, stylist, and JoLadnea McAfee, manicurist make up Bangs and Tangles.

All the girls have worked together for about six years with up to 19 years experience.

Emergency Loan Requested For Fox Theater Air Conditioning The Taft City Council will hold a hearing at their regularly scheduled meeting next Tuesday to hear a request for an emergency loan for the Taft Fox Theater.

The theater is requesting a $35,000 emergency loan from the city council to pay for the repair of the air conditioning system in the large theater.

The loan request would seek funding from a city established loan program for local businesses. The normal loan process would take several months. Unseasonally warm weather is forcing the theater to seek immediate funds to repair the system in order to keep the large theater open.

Black Gold Cafe and Deli Thank You Taft!

For all your support, we look forward to seeing you at Black Gold

Pastas • Sandwiches • Espresso • Beer • Wine The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!

508 Center Street • Taft DIne In Or Pick Up • 661-765-6556

April 27 - 3, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business

Taft College Faces And Places Art Exhibit Now Open

Taft College Offers Summer Watercolor Class Have you ever wanted to try your hand at that elusive form of watercolor painting? This summer may be the time to do so. Art department chairman Sonja Swenson announces that for the first time ever a summer session water color class is being offered at the college.

The class will be taught by Jane McCabe, a fine artist, teacher and previous owner of the End of Times Gallery. It will begin on June 4th, end on August 14th, and meet twice a week, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from 5:15 to 8:15 p.m. Some supplies will be provided by the college and some students will need to purchase for themselves.

The cost of the class is $46. If you are interested in registering, please call Taft College Admissions: 763-7741

The public is welcome to meet the photographer featured in the current exhibit at the Taft College Art Gallery Friday, April 27, 2012 between 5:30 and 7:30 pm. This is the first of what will be a series of “emerging artist” exhibits at the TC gallery. These selected artists have not exhibited publically before their show at the TC Gallery. The Art Gallery is T11, Tech Building, 29 Emmons Park Drive. Hours this week are 11-7 and the phone number is 661 763-7982. Don and Kanoe Bandy are underwriting the cost of the reception.

Weekly Gas Price Update & Outlook

Average retail gasoline prices in Bakersfield have fallen 1.2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.19/g Monday, April 23rd.

This compares with the national average that has fallen 4.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.85/g, according to gasoline price website BakersfieldGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Bakersfield during the past week, prices Monday, April 23rd were 4.8 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 9.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 0.7 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 1.5 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Average gasoline prices nationally continue to slowly drop,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “I’ll go on the record and say that come Wednesday, I expect the national average in the U.S. will actually be lower than it was on the same day in 2011. Perhaps looking at the big picture with prices having failed to reach new records so far in 2012, we can restore some gas-sanity in this country. Prices go up and down every year, every season, regardless of who’s name is on the ballot,” DeHaan said.

Taft Student Travel Group, Washington DC Trip Update

Taft Student Travel is extending the deposit deadline until May 15th. If you are interested in sending your student (age 13-19) to Washington DC July 28-Aug 3 2013, please contact Cari Fivecoat or Lisa Polk at (661)623-2714 or taftstudenttravel@gmail.com

Taft High Band Booster To Host “An Evening of Jazz” TUHS Band Boosters will be hosting “An Evening of Jazz.”

The event will feature live jazz music from the Taft High Jazz Band along with dinner and dancing. Dinner and dessert will be served by students of the Taft High Concert Band. Proceeds from this event will be used to provide graduating seniors with college scholarships.

The event will be held on Friday, May 4 at the Taft Masonic Lodge, 521 North Street. Doors to the event will open at 5:30pm and dinner will be served at 6pm. The evening’s festivities are expected to last until 8pm. A limited number of tickets will be available. Individual tickets are available for a $25 donation. Reserved tables for six people are also available for a $150 donation.

A special Gold Package is also being offered for a $250 donation.

This package includes a reserved table for six and the opportunity for an individual from your table to conduct the jazz band for one song.

The event is open to the public. Band alumni members are encouraged to attend. No alcoholic beverages will be served at the event. Tickets are available at the Taft Chamber of Commerce or from Amanda Posey at TUHS. Tickets may also be purchased by calling Robin Norton at (661)619-5771, Jane White at (661)6231299, or Amanda Posey at (661)763-2351.

Museum Pioneer Days The West Kern Oil Museum’s annual Pioneer Days celebration will be held May 5.

The event will feature antique gas engines, a barbecue and plant sale.

The Early Day Gas Engine & Tractor Assoc., Inc. will display and run their unique gas engines.

The Museum’s working blacksmith shop will also be up and running.

Pioneer Days will begin at 9 a.m. and run until 3 p.m.

The barbecue will be dished up beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Admission is free, but the cost for the barbecue is $10 for adults, $5 for children under the age of 10.

Yard sale June 1-2 It’s time to clean out your garage and storage areas.

The Museum’s annual Yard Sale will be June 1 and 2 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Items for the sale will be accepted Thursday -Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sundays from 1-3 p.m.

Sorting and pricing everything takes time, so the volunteers encourage everyone to bring donations to the Museum as soon as possible.

If you can’t bring your donations, pick-up can be arranged by calling the Museum at 765-6664.

The Yard Sale is one of the Museum’s most successful fundraisers, and it is a great way to make space in your garage. Donated items may be tax deductible.

Community Voices Unemployment The Scourage Of Modern Times

By Jane McCabe TIME Magazine recently carried an article on the high unemployment rate among young people in Europe—a whopping 50% in Spain and nearly that in Portugal, Italy and Greece. The article came with a double-spread photograph of young people marching arm and arm down a street in Madrid. There was an expression of anguish on their faces.

These young people do not look to be homeless or indigent; they are attractive young people who looked to be intelligent and they were fairly well dressed. The article said that many of them are well educated and speak several languages. Many are recent college graduates. But they lack the essential thing that will allow them to advance their lives: employment.

The biggest problem in modern times worldwide is unemployment. It goes without saying that a person’s happiness and sense of well-being is dependent on his having work. If you have work, even if the employment is lowly, you are valued by your family and community because you are able to contribute to its maintenance.

You can buy the things necessary to sustain your existence. You have the respect of others. It is essential to the very fabric of society that people have work.

My father used to say, “The world doesn’t owe you a living.” This used to confuse me. I didn’t think I was to sit around and do nothing and yet be supported. I knew that I had to work. I wanted to work. If I became educated and skilled, what I did think the world owed me was employment.

This fall Americans will either grant Barack Obama another term in office or we will have a new president. Most people feel is the most pressing problem in the United States today is the economy, and therefore they will most likely pick the candidate they feel will be best at creating new jobs. This is easier said than done, because over the past 30 years many of our manufacturing jobs have been shipped overseas where the cost of labor is much cheaper than it is here.

The situation in the US is not be as bad as it is in Europe. Our employment rate, if we accept what the government tells us, hovers at about 10%. It is slightly above that in California. In Kern County it is approximately 15.9 percent and in Taft, according to the Bakersfield Californian, it’s 15.7 percent. Since these statistics don’t count people who are no longer looking for work we can assume at least one in five Taft residents is unemployed.

Kern’s County’s unemployment rate rose in March. Some of the county’s increase is likely seasonal. Unemployment rises every year in March because of hiring cycles related to agriculture. None of the county’s top three crops—grapes, almonds and pistachios—are active in March, and citrus, is winding down at that time.

The Mining and Logging category, which includes the region’s critical oil industry, was up by 1,300 jobs. In Taft the oil companies are the biggest employers. Taft profits because they train young people to work in the fields.

American youth have an option available to them: If all else fails, they can join the military where they will receive education and deployment. They are rightfully viewed as heroes when they return home and efforts are made to ensure their employment. Many a young man has become a mature man because of time spent in the military.

This spring another crop of college students will graduate, all seeking to join the work force. The competition for positions will be more vigorous than ever before. We are still in a recession and although the recovery for jobs is still slow in some areas, that is not the case for two groups. Asians and Hispanics are seeing the strongest job growth ever.

According to new numbers, the employment level for Hispanics and Asians is higher now than before the start of the recession.

This may because Hispanics and Asians have trained themselves for the kind of jobs available.

This is a problem that concerns us all. If you would like to contribute suggestions or comments, please address them to the Taft Independent. Publisher@taftindependent.com.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

8

Liberty Under Fire

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Should Canadian Legals Get Same Education Taxpayer Benefits as Mexico’s Illegals?

Dr. Harold Pease Most know that the Dream Act came to us in two phases, the first many years ago, and the second initiated into law just last January. The initial process was to allow illegals to enter U. S. colleges, after high school graduation, even if they had only been in the country a few months, without paying fees required of foreign students or even out of state students. The argument made by out of state students was that illegals had more assistance than they. The argument made by foreign students, who seek to be educated in the United States, is why does one country get free assistance and not another. It is certainly a double standard.

A powerful argument against equal funding of everyone is that it is not equal. The huge education expenses necessary are subsidized by the long-term taxpayer and should benefit his children first. This is why we have extra fees for out of state or foreign students—to make the process fair to our own. New immigrants, whether legal or not, could not contribute enough on a short-term basis to make this fair. Certainly Mexico would not even try to subsidize Americans sneaking into their country.

The second phase of the Dream Act became law in California January I, 2012. It authorized illegals to compete for state grants, fee waivers and university scholarships—about 40 million dollars in public funds—with those of legal residents.

Meet Jennifer (name changed as she fears repercussion from our government for her views), a Canadian student in the college where I work. She shared her story of the multi-levels of hoops that she has had to endure to go to college in the U. S. and still without any subsidized assistance as is readily available to illegals. “Before my mother and I could move here from Canada my mother had to have a secure job awaiting her, along with a visa sponsored by that job. She also had to take several exams and become licensed as a nurse here in California.” She was already a nurse in Canada. This process took about a year. Visas had to be renewed annually at a cost of $50.00 each. After five years of visa renewal we “were eligible to apply for permanent residency at a cost of about $10,000.”

She continued, “During this process you have to go through a lot of paper work and appointments at the local immigration office. We had all of our fingerprints taken, background checks, along with all of our immunizations that we have had throughout our lifetime. We were also tested for various diseases such as TB, HIV, etc. and even had to take a urine test.

After all of that was cleared, after a waiting period, we received our social security card and a work authorization card. My mother was already allowed to work in the U. S. with her visa, but since I was her dependent, I was not. So I was not able to work, or obtain my drivers license until I had my social and work authorization documentation.”

After four years of this they still await their green card approval and were told, “it could take up to five more years, if not longer, due to the back log. I was told that only now are they reviewing applications for permanent residency from 2005.

So who knows, maybe in a few years we will have our approval. After this, we can apply for citizenship which, in itself, will be another long process.”

She spoke of her difficulty getting into college, even as a 2006 California high school graduate, because she was a legal immigrant. She was told that she could not attend college without a green card (which she could not provide because she was in the application process) or a student visa (which one does not have to renew annually once you apply for the green card)—bureaucratic run-around at its best. Finally, after four years of failed attempts to get into college, she learned of AB 540 which enabled her to attend by paying out of state tuition, although, “I still do not qualify for any assistance such as fasfa, etc. [Federal Student Aid] due to the fact that I am awaiting my green card.” Even so, although otherwise qualified, she still cannot get into the universities nursing program without the green card. “There are no exceptions.

Contrast her story with those who sneak across our southern border illegally, run from law enforcement, and easily find work in the U.S., without all the testing and preconditions, because employers and government look the other way and reward their children with incentives and now scholarships not available to those who are honest and open in their entry.

Her response, “The Dream Act upsets me greatly, I could have been finished with school.”

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 articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.

TUHS Seventh Street Players Will Play Willy Wonka The Taft Union High School Seventh Street Players, under the direction of drama teacher Kelly Morris, will present the play, “Willy Wonka” May 10 to 13.

The play is based on the 1964 children’s book by British author Roald Dahl, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The story follows young Charlie Bucket inside the chocolate factory of the eccentric Willy Wonka.

Matt Maxcy plays Willy Wonka and Whitney Graham plays Charlie Bucket. Other major characters are: Jordan Romero as Augustus Gloop, Kayla Schuler as Veruca Salt, Ryan Hardy as Mike Teavee, Sara Jewell as Violet Beauregarde, Matt Smith as Grandpa Joe, Courtney Carr as Mrs. Gloop, Val Richardson as Mr. Salt, Ellisha Yeley as Ms. Teavee and Jessica a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group Rofkahr as Mrs. Beauregarde.

The music and lyrics are by Leslie BriRich Miller • Jordan Miller cusse and Anthony Newley and the play was adapted for the stage by Bricusse and Kathy Devine • Shelly Hamilton Timothy Allen McDonald.

The play will be performed in the License # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131 auditorium at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 10-12, and at 2 p.m.

531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985 Sunday, May 13, (Mother’s Day).

(661) 765-4798 FAX Admission costs $7 for adults; $5 for Taft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell children and seniors. Children under 3 will be admitted free. For the Sunday Mother’s Day matinee, moms will be E-Mail: Richrmia@bak.rr.com admitted for $5.

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ROGER MILLER INSURANCE

April 27 - 3, 2012

From The Mayor State Of The City Address Well here I am again, a year later, isn’t that something.

Imagine Randy Miller as your Mayor, I got through the year with nary a scandal. It has been quite fun being introduced as Mayor Miller, or as the Mayor of Taft. Of course it is a great honor for me to have the privilege to represent you and the City of Taft, it is something that I don’t take lightly, but none the less it has been a lot of fun. My family seems to make the most fun of it as they have known me the longest. The perks are mainly the smile on people’s faces as it finally sinks in, yes he’s is the Mayor ?? I have extra business cards if anyone would like one.

Kidding aside, didn’t Craig do a great job. We are even getting him into shirt and ties. Unfortunately, the the City Council accepted Bob Gorson’s resignation the 1st of March after five plus years of service to the City of Taft as City Manager and we unanimously asked Craig to step up. It wasn’t an easy time for Bob or the council but we did get a number of things accomplished even as the Great recession finally descended upon us. Two of the more important things is that we updated our general Plan and purchased the railroad property. Lots of time and effort were spent on those two projects. Unfortunately, the State can’t seem to get its act together to support Cities and counties so we have faced numerous amount of issues that have strained our budget and our patience. The biggest issue has been the forced closure of our Community Correction Facility this past November which caused the layoff of over 50 employees. Why would the state want to do that ?? We were housing state inmates at about half the cost of what state prisons cost to house their inmates. The main reason, we suppose, is that we are not part of the Dept of Corrections and we are not controlled by the Correctional Officers union. In the name of cost savings and budget constraints we were put out of business. Stupid, stupid idea. But hopefully we’ll have good news shortly that will get us back in business again with the County of LA who has seen the value of our facility, our staff, and our commitment to provide a low cost win-win situation alternative for them and the City of Taft. It will allow us to put back the fifty good paying jobs in to our community again.

I don’t know about you, but having a neighbor who is involved in law enforcement as my neighbor is a mighty good reason to live in Taft. We salute all our law enforcement officers on the Westside who make us the safest community in Kern County.

The other big issue was the loss of our Redevelopment Agency. The state has seen fit to shut down all redevelopment agencies in the State on a money grab while they are putting us through a series of ridiculous steps that can only be construed as a way to make it difficult for us to hang on to our property we purchased. The City of Taft loaned the Taft redevelopment agency 2 million dollars to purchase the railroad property, to then develop it, and based on the difference of the higher property tax value of the developed property, the agency would use those funds to pay the city back. That all came to a screeching halt last spring, when the State wanted to extort us by paying them $180,000 a year to keep our property. If we didn’t pay the fee then the state would seize the property from the redevelopment agency. Well the Supreme Court shot that down but not shutting down the agencies. Now we have had to set up a successor agency (your City Council) and an over site committee and hire a lawyer to see that we are doing the right development projects. Kiss the extra tax revenue good by; so the city’s only hope to get our money back is the sell the property and hope for a higher portion of the property tax and for new sales tax generation. Could it get any more complicated ?? The hoops that your legislators and governor are putting us through to save their budget wows’ is astounding .

Lets talk about living in Taft. How do we get some of those thousand of cars coming over to Taft every day to live here ?? Have you been a top of Elk Hills on 119 at 6:00 am and see the cars coming this way ?? It is quite a headlight spectacular. Seeing all the lights merge from Panama Lane onto Enos Lane, that traffic is backed up to the traffic light on 119, and seeing the lights from 119 backed up to I-5 all trying to squeeze through that two lane intersection to get to work over here. Wow. Of course, we need houses for the folks to live here.

We are smart enough to have known that for a long time. But it is the economy stupid. How can we get new housing if banks aren’t lending and developers aren’t building. Maybe we can attract some interest if we provide the infrastructure, amenities, and businesses that people have come to expect. So, that is what we are doing especially with our Rails to Trails project and a number of other developments we are looking at. We have Dollar General making a commitment to come to Taft at the corner of Supply Row and 10th Street. We are very close to inking a deal for a motel at the corner of Main and 6th Street, Family Dollar is going through the permitting process for a store next to McDonalds. We are very optimistic for a chain brand restaurant coming to Taft if the motel enters escrow. We have a work force housing unit of apartments and a condo complex on the drawing boards. It is like trying to sell your house and your buyer selling their house, all the deals all have to all fall into place. That is what we are waiting for -- all the deals to fall into place. We will have two new cell phone towers, one Continued on Page 11

April 27 - 3, 2012

THE CITY OF TAFT IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYER MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAM The City of Taft First Time Homebuyer Mortgage Assistance Program (FTHB) has been implemented to provide financial assistance to Program-eligible homebuyers. The Program is available only to those who are most in need of assistance with Down Payment, Gap Financing, and Closing Costs.

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Eligible homebuyers include residents who have not owned a home during the 36 months prior to receipt of the FTHB application for assistance (time requirements may be waived for displaced homemakers and single parents). Eligible FTHB’s must also conform to the maximum income limitations, set by the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

City Assistance: City loan will be secured by a second Trust Deed and payment will be deferred for 30 years.

Eligible Address: Within the City of Taft.

Eligible Properties: Single-family residences, condominiums, manufactured homes and planned unit developments.

Down Payment Required of Buyer: Based on need. Gap financing may be employed.

Bank Loan: First Trust Deed – Interest rate, terms and conditions as required by Bank.

APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT 209 E. KERN STREET, TAFT, CA 93268

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 Supervisor Candidates Continued from Page 4 Couch, a first-vice-president and financial adviser with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, proposed utilizing a system used by the city of Bakersfield, where he has been a councilmember for 14 years.

“I would advocate for a system at the county that we instituted at the city of Bakersfield that has been successful,” Couch said.

“If someone would like to put in curbs, gutters, sidewalks, ... first we work (with the neighborhood) to make it as big a project as possible.

(The city) allows property owners to finance it on their property tax bill (over nine years) with zero interest.

“The government does the improvements but is paid back with property assessment. Only those that do the improvements get the assessment. It is not a perfect system but if they want it (improvements) they get it. They are not forced to do it.”

Some residents in northwest Bakersfield used the method for sewer service and some in southeast Bakersfield had curb, gutter and sidewalks installed, Couch said.

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Election and hospital Pinson mentioned the importance of all Republicans focusing on “electing principled conservatives at every level of government ... (in) the 2012 election.”

Couch, also a Republican, didn’t mention the November national election where the presidency, many federal House and Senate seats, and California legislative seats will be up for grabs.

However, Couch did mention “the importance of a medical facility on the Westside, which can’t be understated.”

Part-time supervisors Couch spoke about his proposal for part-time county supervisors.

“If you want the county to operate more like a business, it has to be structured more like a business,” he said.

“One way is to strengthen the county administrative officer position.

“The job of the Board of Supervisors would be materially change. It’s a legitimate question: Would it still be a full-time position or part-time.

(Supervisors) would still have fulltime staffs. “Most cities up and down

501 Lucard St., Taft • 765-4111 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

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Mass Schedule

Tuesday-Friday 8:00 A.M. Sunday 9:00A.M. English 11:00A.M. Spanish the state have part-time councils. It is an interesting question to pose. You would have to restructure county government, a stronger county administrative officer.”

It is worth looking at, Couch said.

And he wants to be a supervisor, regardless of whether it is a full-time or part-time position, he said. In 2005, the Kern County Grand Jury said having part-time county supervisors should be strongly considered,” Couch said.

Pinson stated that: “Mr. Couch now says he favors Kern County having only part-time county supervisors.

He didn’t say how that change would better serve the people of Taft and the Westside.”

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765-6550

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Gateway Temple

Community Christian Fellowship

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

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

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

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

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH Sunday Services 10am 1000 6th St. Weekly Classes Mon - Thurs Please call 765-7472 for info For a ride to church call 765-7472 before 9am on Sunday

Pastors Shannon N. and Shannon L. Kelley

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

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

www.nlctaft.org or nlctaft@bak.rr.com

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

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

The Pregnancy crisis center is now open and available for support and assistance.

For information, call 763-4791 If you have a prayer request please call (661)765-2488.

Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available

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

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

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

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

Phone: 765-6550 Phone: 765-6550

For Rent

426 Shattuck

2 bed 1 bath Cottage $550 Paul Joyce 805-218-1686 Joyce Properties 661-765-6300

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

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.

House. If interested, call June Selby 763-4845.

Experience required.

765-6556.

Business Services

Experienced writer wanted. 765-6550

COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Wanted

WANTED

Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

Relay For Life Bake Sale Saturday 4/28 at Heritage Park 11am-3pm. Cakes, pies, cookies, candy.

Proceeds go to Relay for Life.

Computer Repair Graphic Arts Web Design Virus Removal 661-623-5188 YARD SERVICES

Rite Away Carpet Cleaning Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General Cleaning Owner Operated Visa\Master Card 765-4191

Preserving for the Future

With The

E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com

YARD SALES

Business Services

Advertise

Fax:765-6556 765-6556 Fax:

Community

April 27 - 3, 2012

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

For Sale FOR SALE

Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street Karri Christensen LIC# 01522411 & #01333971 661-332-6597 www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase Can’t make payments call me!! I can help direct you to a loan modification or assist you in your short sale!

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

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list or drop by the office. ____________________ Newly remodeled 3bd/2ba house with pool, fenced yard, new everything!

302 Sunset Ln. $103,500 (714)244-8877

MOBILE HOMES

avail 5/1. $700 mo + dep. 805-712-0354.

APART. FOR RENT MCKITTRICK. 3/2 Apt. Newly furn.$650 mo.

Taft Property Mgt. 661 745-4892. Brokers Licence 01417057 Imperial Gardens 424 Woodrow Street 2bd $625 mo. 1bd $550 mo. Stove fridge, dishwasher, pool, private car port. 661623-3699 or 661-7654299.

Creekside Apartments.

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

Get It Rented!

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

West Side Real Estate And Property Management

Taft Independent

OPENING SOON

Call

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

Today!

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

765-6550

Real Estate eBroker Inc.

Classified

325 Kern Street

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

Ads

661-332-6597

Starting At

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

$2 Per Line!

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

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

For problems with Alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous. 765-4016 or 763-3856.

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

Widows meet twice a month on Tuesday 10 a.m. at the Buena Vista Mobile Home Club

COOLER SERVICES Cooler Service: Motors, pumps, pads, cleaning, installations. New & Old Scott 661-900-0917.

CLEANING SERVICES BUSINESS SERVICES

AUTOMOBILES

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS LOST PETS

Real Estate Employment HELP WANTED

American Greetings Part Time Possition vailable. Merchandising greeting card dept., http:/careeres. americangreetings.com Choose merchandiser application, Territory number 2786. EOE

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

Short order cook and bartender.

Tumbleweed cafe.

Must have experience.

809-4634.

BUSINESS FOR SALE

TC Student wanted for part time waitress.

HOMES FOR SALE

HOMES FOR RENT West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 418 San Emidio 1/1 $500 420 ½ San Emidio 2/1 $600 203 W Ash #C 2/1.5 $700 315 7th Street 1/1 Furnished! $850 302 Jefferson 2/1 $850 111 Lexington 2+1 $875 304 Calvin 2/1 $900 116 Franklin 3/1 $1,000 426 D St 3/1 $1,000 535 B Street 3/1 $1,000 302 E San Emidio 3/1.75+ pool! $1,300 501 F St. Quality, smaller 2 bd. 1 ba. $625 + 625 dep. 1 car gar. Lrg shop w\fenced yd. w\RV parking. 7634373.

402 Pierce St. 3bd/1ba 1 car garage + shop $889 mo. + dep. 661343-0507 707 Filmore 3bd/1ba $780 mo. + dep. 661343-0507 27595 Valley West Rd. 2bd/1 ba, w&d included

Place Your Ad for $2 Per Line!

Call Today (661)765-6550

Passion For Nails 1014 6th Street

Mon. to Fri. 10am-7pm Sat. 9am-6pm (661)745-4913

Taft Independent Call Today!

765-6550

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.

April 27 - 3, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

State of the City continued from page 8

near first and Supply Row and one on the S/W corner of OT’s Cookhouse’s parking lot, which will improve service for everyone. OT’s will be a mighty pine tree, and the other will resemble a wooden oil derrick.

Have you looked past the airport runway and seen the buildings going up at the industrial park across from the Mosquito Abatement. We have an oil company making a commitment to relocate their headquarters back to Taft, that being our good friends and neighbors TRC Operating. How nice is that ?? Also a major oil industry contractor is making inquiries about locating their main yard in the same area. We also have some interest by some homebuilders to start a new tract on the west side of town. Wouldn’t that be great. Speaking of housing, notice very few if any for sale signs around town. Haven’t seen any because there aren’t any. Our housing stock is really suffering due to the banks not lending and builders not building. Those that want to move up or for the first time home buyer, they are kind of out of luck. You have to be really on your game to get a foreclosed or short sale home, they are mostly never advertized and the sharp investors and home buyers are snapping them up, some are renting them out, and waiting for housing prices to rise again.

One thing that has really been enjoyable for me as Mayor has been working alongside the professionalism and dedication of my fellow council members. It certainly has been a much easier time for me as Mayor than my predecessors. We have agreed to disagree as gentlemen and our commitment to the citizens of Taft is to do what is right and best for the City and not ourselves, while always keeping an eye on the budget. Although there have been changes in personnel down at City Hall and some people have left, others have stepped up and are taking on new responsibilities. Our expectations for our City staff is for them to do their jobs, enjoy their jobs, weather with us through this unprecedented difficult economic time that we are in, and to always remember that they are there to serve the tax payers who pay their salaries. You don’t need to worry about your job if you are doing your job, that goes for all of us. The council approved unanimously this week Shannon Grove’s initiative to limit the legislatures time in Sacramento. Also we approved unanimously a resolution to not support the high speed rail project. The state cannot afford it.

I love Taft. Don’t you ?? Is there anything wrong with saying that ?? I love cruising Center Street still after all these years. I love the people of Taft even the ones that make it difficult for all of us. I love our schools and you have seen the great leadership presented here today, our parks, our fabulous new REC Center, the museum, the Fort, our biggest baddest tallest bronze monument, the rails to trails, being able to go a few blocks and be out in the fields. I love riding my motorcycle around the area; we are close to the beach, the mountains, the desert, LA, a great nearby lake, and one of the best golf courses in the county, I even love looking at our dry old hills scared up from dirt bikes and oil steam lines. You can jump out of an airplane over the airport or ride all out at Honolulu hills raceway. How about a dinner and a first run movie right here in Taft ?? The Fox is open again with a wonderful staff, great prices, and very clean facilities. It is the anchor for our revitalization efforts for the downtown area.

Where can you find the diversity and the history and especially the people that you can find right here in Taft ?? If you are a joiner and a doer, there are so many clubs, organizations, churches and groups to get involved in that they are too numerous to mention. Nothing to do in Taft, then you haven’t really tried.

I have to mention the great efforts that the Taft Chamber of Commerce is doing as the city’s partner to promote the City and provide venues for people that live here and those who want to come and visit us. They are our voice to get the word out and we are very proud of that partnership. This gathering today is an example of their efforts to help us showcase Taft. We also support their efforts on forming a joint task force for economic development on the Westside by joining forces with our industry partners and the County to create jobs. We also support their efforts to bring highway signage to Hwy 119 and 33 to try to divert traffic going by to come visit and shop in Taft.

Lastly, I hear mention of some people referring to the City fathers running City Hall. What is with that ?? Who are they talking about ?? I suppose then, that if I are one, then I’m here to tell you that I am damn proud of it. I work with a lot of good people who are committed, dedicated, and are unselfishly doing all that they can to make this community a better place to live. I hope that we can count on you in this room to be the best you can be and join us as we travel down the long and winding road as we are still energized for the future so that Taft can always remain the best of places to live work and play.

Nation’s Largest Single-Day Food Drive Set for May 12 U.S. Postal Service and National Association of Letter Carriers Continue 20-Year Tradition

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. On May 12, local communities across America will be asked to join the U.S. Postal Service and its letter carriers to combat one of this nation’s growing problems — hunger.

About 50 million Americans — including 17 million children — now live in families that lack sufficient food.

The Postal Service, the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), Campbell Soup Company, Feeding America and other partner organizations are working together to collect food donations on May 12. It is the nation’s largest single-day food drive in local communities across America — including Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands.

Now in its 20th year, the Stamp Out Hunger food drive benefits Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization.

“The Postal Service is pleased to continue supporting the National Association of Letter Carriers as we enter our 20th year together to help Stamp Out Hunger in America,” said Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe. “I am confident the 2012 campaign will be our best ever because the need continues to grow.”

In 2011, letter carriers collected 70.2 million pounds of food donated by customers on their delivery routes, which marked the eighth consecutive year the total food collection was at least 70 million pounds.

This year, Nick Cannon, multi-talented entertainer and member of the Feeding America Entertainment Council, is the national spokesperson for the Stamp Out Hunger food drive for the second consecutive year. The drive particularly hits home for Cannon, who experienced hunger and visited food pantries as a child. Cannon will promote the drive on television and radio, as well as in print and social media to encourage even greater participation and donations.

To participate in the 20th Stamp Out Hunger food drive, residents are encouraged to leave a sturdy bag containing non-perishable foods, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, pasta, rice or cereal next to their mailbox prior to the time of regular mail delivery on Saturday, May 12. Letter carriers will collect these food donations as they deliver the mail and take them to their local food bank or pantry.

Post cards and shopping bags promoting the food drive will be delivered by letter carriers to more than 90 million homes across the country as a reminder to participate in the drive.

Other partner organizations supporting the Stamp Out Hunger food drive are the National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association, Valpak, United Way, AFL-CIO, Uncle Bob’s Self-Storage and AARP. The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive began at the local level in the late 1980s and went nationwide in 1992.

For more information about the annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive, visit www.helpstampouthunger.com or www.facebook.com/ StampOutHunger, and follow the drive at www. twitter.com/StampOutHunger.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Plan de celebracion del Cinco de Mayo de la Camara Comercial de la Ciudad de Taft La Camera de Comercial de Taft fue contactado por Claudia DelgadoMatus del consulado mexicano. Ella es el Cultural y el Oficial de Laision de asuntos comunitarios. Tendra una cabina en nuestro evento del Cinco de Mayo, Sabado a 11am haste 4pm de le Plaza de calle 5 para dar informacion sobre matriculas y otros documentos legales y transacciones, asi como informacion de sus servicios. Aqui podre escuchar musica de Mariachi Real de Jalisco, participar en nuestro programa de talento, y disfrutar unas platillos authenticos de Mexico.

Los primeros patrocinadores son Harley Pinson, Campos Tire Service, Next Step Gym, Edward J Herrera Insurance y Las Brasas Grill. Llama la Camera de Comercial a 765-2165 o www.taftchamber.com

UNITE’s Arrive Alive Tour 2012 Program to Educate on Dangers of Texting While Driving and Drunken Driving Taft College is offering a distracted driving and drunken driving education program for students, as part of Drunk Driving Awareness Week. The Arrive Alive Tour from UNITE will visit Taft College, in Taft, CA, in the Quad, on May 1, 2012, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. UNITE’s Arrive Alive program uses a high-tech simulator, impact video, and a number of other resources to educate students about the dangers of texting while driving.

The simulator allows students to experience, in a controlled environment, the potential consequences of distracted or drunken driving.

One of the most commonly recognized driving distractions is cell phone use. About 89 percent of all Americans have a cell phone, according to CTIA – The Wireless Association. Drivers under 20 years old have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Their lack of driving experience can contribute to critical misjudgments if they become distracted.

Not surprisingly, they text more than any other age group and the numbers of young drivers who text is only increasing.

UNITE brings health and wellness programs to high school and college campuses across the nation. Their programs are designed to heighten awareness to the dangers and consequences of drunk driving and distracted driving. Their follow-up programs have a powerful impact on students to reinforce the subjects that schools and parents teach them daily.

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

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

Now Celebrating Our 23rd Year

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

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

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

12

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

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

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Used to be Paul’s BMX

April 27 - 3, 2012

Devon’s Body Shop

Bike Shop

Bikes Are Here!

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

745-4919 Qik Smog & Tune

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

608 Center St.

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

508 Center Street 765-6556

(661)763-4445

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

General Automotive Repairs

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

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

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

western shop & PET Wash

New Shipment

Men’s Short Sleeve Shirts Sizes M-4X Two New Styles of Women’s Jeans

Chicks Arriving!

April 25th -

Full Grooming Salon LARGE DOGS

Summer Wash & Shed Or Full Coat (hard to handle dogs always welcome)

Barred Rock Rhode Island Red $3.49

April 18th - Turkey’s

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

www.shawswesternshop.com

SMALL DOGS

Cut To Breed Style We use flea control and clean grooming practices.

Some Saturday Appointments & Nail Spots Available!

Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 9-3

419 Harrison St. Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987

The Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant

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

Open 7 Days a Week

FULL BAR

Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner - Full Bar - Catering - RV Parking Available 24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations