Monarch Fleet Services

Independent The Taft

May 10 - 16, 2013

www.Taftindependent.com

TAFT INDEPENDENT

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

May 10 - 16, 2013 • Volume 7 Issue 43

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

The Place 4014 Highway 33

Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa (661)766-2660

Barn Dance & BBQ Saturday May 11th

Sign-ups for the Horseshoe Tournament are from 2:00pm-3:00 pm with a $10.00 buy in.

Tournament starts at 3:00pm.

Teams are chosen by a blind draw BBQ starts at 5:00pm: Top Sirloin and Chicken, Corn on the Cob, Salad, & Bread $12.00.

YesterYear will start playing at 7:00pm

Monarch Fleet Services and Automotive Campos Family Continues Business Tradition

There will be a full bar hosted by the Exchange Club!

Please bring your tent and camp.

Bob Leika m Appointed to Planning Commission

Get Your Sweet On Bakery and Sweet Shop NOW SERVING! Good Old Fashioned Hot Fudge Sundaes New Single and Double Scoop Ice Cream Cones Hours M-F 10am - 6pm Saturdays 9am - 2pm 420 Center Street, Taft (661) 745-4894

OUR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY SEE US FOR YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS

15% OFF SERVICES IN CELEBRATION OF OUR FIRST ANNIVERSARY IN BUSINESS

SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS

531 Center Street (661)763-1123 MONDAY - FRIDAY Over Different Craft & -Imported Beers 8:00am 5:00pm WE SERVICE MOST50 MAKES AND MODELS *Must ask for discount

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

May 10 - 16, 2013

Shop Taft

Passion For Nails Call for an Appointment Today!

Toni White

510 Center Street - Taft, CA 93268 661-763-5445

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

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

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

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

Boutique

Women’s Wear Jewelery Purses Shoes Gift Items

Infant and Toddler Wear and more Shop Taft!

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

That is $50 or More Spring Arrivals!

Garden, Clothing & Home Decor.

Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

FREE

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

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

763-9100

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Used to be Paul’s Bike Shop

Taft’s Best and Only Bike Shop.

Come on in and see our Inventory.

608 Center St.

745-4919

Ten Percent Firearms 1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899 REJUV 10 23 Healthy Face and Body Spa

Blue Jeans & Bling Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA

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

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

Prepaid Phones, Accessories and Cards

610 Center Street • 661-745-4954 Taft, Ca. 93268

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

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

A Hint of Class

$10 Off Any Phone

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

Try Our New Pedicure Chairs Men & Seniors &

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

Mother’s day Sale

F i n e

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

Kandi Gullo Kim Doyle Jan Easley Melissa Thornsberry

acme jewelry co.

*Most Cars & Light Trucks Up to 5 Qts.

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

39

Plus Tax

$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

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

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

May 10 - 16, 2013

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs......................3 Westside News.................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Liberty Under Fire.........8

Events

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Taft California “Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

7th Street Players Present CAMP Rock The Taft Union High School Seventh Street Players, under the direction of drama teacher Kelly Morris, will present, “Disney’s CAMP ROCK: The Musical” Thursday through Sunday, May 9 to 12.

The musical is based on the hit Disney Channel original movie, “Camp Rock.”

It is a classic story of rivalry and power. The high-energy show features a large ensemble cast with many featured roles as singers, actors and dancers.

The musical will be performed in the auditorium at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 9-11, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 12, (Mother’s Day).

Admission costs $7 for adults; $5 for children and seniors. Children under 3 will be admitted free. For the Sunday Mother’s Day matinee, moms will be admitted for $5.

Classified Ads.................10 Opinion and Feature....11 Shop Taft........................12

Taft Calendar

By John Swearengin The West Hills Church of the Nazarene at 300 Lassen Street is having their Annual Kids Carnival this Saturday May 11th. Bring your swimsuit and sun block. They will have Bounce Houses, Hot Dogs, Chips, Cotton Candy, Snow Cones, and much more. This is FREE and is from 10-2. Each child will have to check in and get a wristband stating if they know how to swim or not. Contact the great Youth Leaders Billy or Krista Long for more info. Vacation Bible School is June 10th-14th. Sunday Service is at 10:30am.

Coming soon- The Taft Chamber will have a Radio Station on WQLV am 1610.

Wednesday- Bike night at Chilled n Grilled Thursday Night- “Last Chance Showing” at the Taft Fox Theatre.

Friday- “Disney’s Camp Rock; the Musical” by the Seventh Street Players at the Taft High Auditorium. Friday and Saturday at 7pm, Sunday at 2pm. $7 for adults, $5 for Children.

Saturday May 11th- WORCS Races at Honolulu Raceway all weekend. $10 a day. Motorcycles, ATV’s, Side by Sides, and Vendors.

Relay for Life Bowling Tournament at the Rec, starts at 5pm. Contact Lisa Wayne for Info.

Tactical Shotgun Match at the Taft Sportsmen’s Club Range. Contact Wes Morris for info.

Relay for Life Softball Tournament at Franklin Field. Contact Greg @ 805-8984 for Info.

Saturday May 18th- Relay for Life at the Taft High Track.

Future Events- Kern County Baseball’s Best Showcase June 1st at Taft College, The Best High School players will play two Games. Several Pro and College Scouts and Coaches will be there.

The Taft Chamber needs donations for the 3rd of July Fireworks Show. Contact the Chamber to donate.

Last Friday Night’s Cruise Night was so much fun for everyone. People were everywhere. The Live Music was great. There was a huge line to get into the Fox. Mi Casita, Pizza Factory, Black Gold, Asian Experience, and OT’s were all jam packed. It is crazy to think how many beautiful cars are in Taft. I hope the stores that were open made some money. I know the Root Beer Floats were flowing out of Get Your Sweet On. The next Cruise Night is June 7th, the night before the Car Show. I thank the Taft Chamber, Personal Style, Olds Cool, and all the others that made this event so much fun. Stay Positive Taft!

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.

West Kern Oil Museum Yard Sale May 31st, June 1st

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.

acme jewelry co.

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.

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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 taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Advertising Publisher@taftindependent.com

F i n e

J e w e l r y

14K Gold • Sterling Silver Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Mother’s Day

Watch Batteries

May 12th 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

Order Your Mother’s Day Ring Early

Contributing Writers Wesley Morris, Mimi Collins Columnists Randy Miller, John Swearengin Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

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

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Museum volunteers also are reminding Westsiders that it’s time to clean out the garage and storage areas.

The Museum’s annual Yard Sale will be May 31 and June 1 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.

Moron Golf Tournament August 10th The Taft Union High School support golf tournament, The Moron Invitational, has been scheduled for August 10, 2013.

We’ve had a great 10 year run with $25,000.00 in direct donation to their golf program. Thanks go out to all our supporters and participants that have made this a fun day in the sun and you can count on plenty of sun!

Thank you for your continued support of our very successful raffle and try to set something aside, it is always greatly appreciated. Invitations will be sent at a later date. Go Wildcats!

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

The Taft

Independent

Westside Watcher

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

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

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

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

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, May 10, 2013 through Thursday, May 16, 2013 Star Trek Into Darkness (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Thu: 7:30 PM Star Trek Into Darkness (PG-13) Midnight Premiere! All seats $7.50; No Passes Allowed Thu: 12:05 AM The Great Gatsby (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri: (5:00), 8:00 Sat: (4:00), 7:00, 10:00 Sun: (1:00), (4:00), 7:00 Mon - Thu: 6:45 PM Iron Man 3 (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri: (5:30), 8:30 Sat: (4:30), 7:30, 10:15 Sun: 1:30, 4:30, 7:30 Mon - Thu: 7:15 PM Pain & Gain (R) Fri & Sat: 6:00, 9:00 Sun: (2:00), (4:45), 7:45 Mon - Wed: 7:30 PM

Dear Editor:

Obama’s Sequester is a Joke Below is a news release sent to the Independent by the Bureau of Land Management announcing postponement of oil and gas lease sales in California due to the budget sequester.

The release, which we first thought was a joke, is a symptom of our failed national government leadership and evidence of how politicized government has become at the expense of serious business interests trying to operate in these difficult economic times. How can our economy recover and prosperity return when the best that our federal government can do is to support an overregulated and unpredictable business environment for oil producers, and shamelessly promote a political agenda that results in the publication of amusing news releases like this one?

BLM Postpones Oil and Gas Lease Sales Due to budget constraints resulting from the sequester and an emphasis on the higher priorities for conducting Inspection and Enforcement on existing leases and processing new Applications for Permit to Drill, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has postponed all oil and gas lease sales for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2013 (September 30, 2013).

For questions regarding the postponement of the lease sales, contact Laurie Moore at the BLM California State Office (916) 978-4377.

Has anybody been laid off at BLM? No. Are they closing up shop because of the sequester? No. What does it cost to do an auction of oil and gas leases?

BLM employees will still go to work and be at their desks, and no employees will have been furloughed.

Doesn’t the oil and gas leases bring in revenue to the federal government? Yes. Nothing has changed at BLM and this announcement is nothing more than a fabrication that unwittingly supports President Obama’s disingenuous political argument that he hopes the American people will buy.

The sequester is a joke. While the President is out blaming Republicans, he has been misleading Americans about who is really to blame.

In 2011 President Obama himself presented the sequester plan to the Congress and asked them to pass it.

In a $3.8 trillion budget the sequester affects only $85 billion. That is only a 2.2% cut in future spending. What are we paying for now anyway?

It’s time for President Obama to get serious and lead the country, not politicize our livelihoods, and let our economy grow.

Paik’s

Ranch House Restaurant “Where Everybody Meets”

TAFT PETROLEUM CLUB 450 Petroleum Club Road – 763-3268

Come out for the Club’s Monthly Industry Night Steak Dinner On

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Sponsored this month by Owens Fleet Services

Come meet different sponsors from the oil industry and have some fun!

Bar Opens at 4:30 p.m. Dinner at 7:30 p.m. 50/50 Drawing/ Win Door Prizes Donation $12.00 TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE

The club is available for Weddings, Birthdays, and Anniversaries. We do bar and food catering to fit your event! Monday – Thursday the Club has hourly rates in bar area for Business Meetings, Baby Showers, Scentsy Parties etc. Hall holds up to 200 people and the bar can hold 70.

Call Deanne to book your special event 661-301-1882 or 661-763-3151 ext. 130

Letters to the Editor Streets are Broken, Why Sweep Them?

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

May 10 - 16, 2013

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

I live with a friend in our fine city and on occasion see the street sweeper go by. Not doing much sweeping but at least making a stab at it.

The sweeper comes up Oak and turns onto South 8th. Right on the corner is a small pothole and when the brushes hit it, it gets bigger. He has to swing wide as we have a car parked at the curb. When he reaches the curb he is almost past our property.

(We have only about 80 feet of curb). If no one else parked at the curb he has a straight line to Hope Street. But seldom does his brush hit the curb and he leaves behind what he is there to clean up. At Hope Street there is a dip. As he goes through it he leaves behind a lot of dirt he is there to clean up. We have always kept our curb/gutter clean and weed free.

I watched him as he went down South 10th Street. Most residents park at the curb therefore the curb area is not cleaned and near Front Street tall grass and weeds grow at the curb. I think his spray helps them grow.

So many of our streets are in such disrepair why sweep them at all as it surly makes the potholes bigger.

No, our city council has decided to charge residents to keep our potholes clean. They plan to charge each resident $3.27 a month increasing each year for five years to $4.55 a month. In addition to increased sewage fees of 9% a year for five years to a whopping 45% and 7% increase for five years of 35% for trash service.

My big question is how is the city going to alert the residents when their street is being swept, what happens when the sweeper is down, what about bad weather days, and what about the weeds growing in the streets?

Our council needs to get out and about town more often to see what our streets look like, and take along a broom and shovel, you might do a better job than the sweeper.

Preston Jennings Taft Property Tax, Sewage and Trash Fees Dear Editor: I just recently paid my property tax. My total for the year is $516, and of that $274 for sewage and $158 for trash collection for the city of Taft. I pay $82.89 for landfill use fee which I never use. Property tax is $25.95 (small lot) plus some additional fees.

But the city found on about March 13th that about 1 million gallons of raw sewage had been flowing down Sandy Creek, a natural water way, from a broken sewer line. A creek bed where our wildlife try to survive including the kit fox that hangout at night at Veterans Park nearby, looking for food left behind.

Motorcycle riders use it to go into the foothills and often kids play there.

After the spill, residents received a letter fro the city to raise the sewage tax fees 9% a year for 5 years or a whopping 45%.

Monthly base fees are $20.57 and in 5 years will be $32.79 a month. Average household sewage fees will go up from $247.04 to $393.48 a year after 5 years.

Plus, trash fees will increase 7% a year for 5 years or 35%.

And let’s don’t forget they want to charge us $3.47 a month to sweep our pothole filled streets.

Unemployment is still high and so many live on a fixed income as I do.

It seems our city council wants to flush us down the toilet.

Enough is enough.

James McCall Taft

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

May 10 - 16, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

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

by Stephanie House

SENIOR REC ROOM Who: Ages 55+ Where: Community Center Activity Building, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Hours: * Monday-Thursday, 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. * Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 6:00-10:00 p.m. * Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (1st and 3rd week of the month) The Senior Rec Room is located in the Community Center Activity Building and includes televisions with cable programming, computers with internet access and basic Microsoft programs, comfortable furniture, games, magazines and books. The Rec Room is a great place to socialize and spend time with others.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TENNIS CLASSES Who: Ages 7-14 When: Monday and Wednesday Time: 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Where: TUHS Tennis Courts Fee: $30 per month Instructor: Doug Taylor Students will be introduced to the rules and fundamentals of tennis. Classes will include drills, game play and athletic fitness activities. No previous experience or knowledge is needed; all skill levels are welcome.

Racquets will be available for use at the first practice; parents can speak with the coach prior to purchasing a racquet. Class enrollment is limited. Classes operate on a monthly basis from May through October.

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

FIRE & ICE ELITE COMPETITION CHEER Who: Ages 5-17 (as of 8/1/2013) Registration: April 1 - May 16 Fee: $25 (non-refundable; fee will be applied to Term 1 payment) Evaluations: May 21-23 (Tuesday-Thursday) Time: 5:00-7:00 pm Practices Begin: August 5 Coach: Heather Foss Our first year as a competition squad has been great and now it’s time to open up registration for new cheerleaders to join us! Interested cheerleaders must be registered prior to evaluations. Space is limited! An info packet is available in the District and on our website.

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

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

TINY TOT P.E. Who: Ages 2-4 When: Monday - Friday Times: * 10:00-11:00 am, Session 1 * 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, Session 2 * 12:00-1:00 pm, Session 3 Place: Aera Gymnasium, Recreation Center Fee: $25 monthly (includes t-shirt) or $3 per day/visit Tiny Tot P.E. is an open gym format designed exclusively for Tiny Tots. It’s a great way to burn off some energy before naptime, and/or for mom to get a chance for a workout! The program operates on a monthly, ongoing basis. Join us at any time! For more information, please contact the Recreation Center at 7656677.

PRESCHOOL SUMMER DAY CAMPS Who: Ages 3-5 Week 1: June 10-13, Things That Fly (currently enrolled WSRPD Preschool students only) Week 2: June 17-20, Camping Fun Week 3: June 24-27, Tot Chef Cooking Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Where: Recreation Center Preschool Room Fee: $35 per week The District’s Summer Day Camp program for preschoolers take place Monday-Thursday. Day Camps are led by our Preschool team – Rene Adamo and Stacey Wooley. Snacks will be provided. Please be sure to dress your child in play clothes; no flip-flops, please. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

NATATORIUM NEWS Swim Programs at the Natatorium Pool will be starting soon!

OPEN SWIM: Monday – Friday, 1:00-5:00 p.m., June 10 – August 14 NIGHT SWIM: Monday and Thursday, 7:45-9:00 p.m., June 10 – August 29 MORNING LAP SWIM: Monday – Friday, 5:30-7:00 a.m., May 28 – August 16 EVENING LAP SWIM: Monday – Thursday, 6:00-7:30 p.m., June 3 – August 15 SATURDAY SWIM: Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., June 8 – August 10 SWIM LESSONS: Sessions begin June 17; Registration begins May 21 in the District Office For more information, please contact the District Office at 763-4246 or visit us online at www.wsrpd.com.

SWIM LESSONS Registration begins Tuesday, May 21 in the District Office Session 1: June 17-27 Session 2: July 8-18 Session 3: July 22 – August 1 $20 per session – Parent & Child $30 per session – Preschool, Levels 1-3 All ages are invited to learn to swim or improve their skills by participating in one of our swim lesson classes.

Classes include Preschool, Parent & Child and Levels 1-3. Each session is 2-weeks long, with classes taking place Monday through Thursday. **We now have more classes available – including a limited number of evening classes! STOP Program Scholarships are available.

LAP SWIM Monday-Friday, 5:30-7:00 a.m. ** begins Tuesday, May 28 Monday – Thursday, 6:00-7:30 p.m. ** begins Monday, June 3 Admission: $30 per session or $3 per visit Lap Swim is a cool way to exercise this summer! Lap Swim is open to ages 16 and older.

There are three sessions during the swim season: May 28 – June 21, June 24 – July 19 and July 22 - August 16.

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 7 and August 18. Rental fees start at $165 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information.

6 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News Briefs

Monarch Fleet Services Grand Opening on Center Street

Cruise Night Taft

Campos Family Continues Business Tradition Wednesday was the Grand Opening of Manny Campos’ new Monarch Fleet and Automotive Services on Center Street. The new downtown automotive, tire and fleet service company located at 217 Center Street is a former horse carriage shop, a Studebaker automobile showroom, gas station, and auto repair shop.

Campos, after purchasing the building in 2007, opened the business in February this year. The celebration was held with family, friends and the Taft Chamber of Commerce.

The impressive building, that has sat on Center Street for nearly 80 years, is the perfect spot for serving local customers needing new tires, air conditioner repair and most other automotive service needs.

Manny, who grew up in Maricopa and Taft, attending Taft Union High School, is a local businessman with no small amount of education or business experience.

He worked for 10 years for the GEO company in Taft and Texas, and left the company to start Monarch. Manny attributes his accomplishments to the help of friends and others.

“My parents were agricultural workers in Maricopa,” Campos said.

“We moved to Taft when I was in 5th grade and I learned English with the help of a friend. “When I graduated from Taft High School, on Honors Night strangers gave me money for college and it helped.”

Campos went on to attend college at UC Berkeley where he received a degree in business.

Campos parents, who own Campos Tire, have been in the Tire business for 17 years. Manny is now continuing the tradition.

With his new Monarch Fleet Services and Automotive, Campos plans to build his company based on excellent customer care and service.

“That help that received from others instilled in me that there was a possibility that I could not only go to college, but one day come back and give back to the community,” Campos said.

Manny is married to his wife Celia of 8 years. They have 3 children, Athena, Emmanuel Jr. and Andreas with a 4th child on the way.

To contact Manny or to get services, call 765-2886.

Leikam Appointed to Planning Commission Local Domino Pizza owner Bob Leikam has been appointed to the Taft Planning Coommission.

Leikam opened his Domino’s Pizza franchise here in Taft June 1986. He has 35 years of experience with blue prints, design, development and construction of small businesses. He is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Greater Taft Economic Development Agency; the Taft Chamber of Commerce; the Rotary Club of Taft and is the President of St. Mary’s Finance Council. He is a past president of the Rotary Club and former Treasurer for Taft Little League.

Bob studied Business Management at Texas A&M University and St Louis College and has an AA degree from Taft College. Has received training in business ethics; labor laws in California and numerous seminars related to small business. He is active with fundraising for charities such as Taft’s Relay for Life and The St. Judes’ Childrens Hospital; and is involved with the Taft College TIL program and local youth team sponsorships.

Bob was an Eagle Scout; Grand Marshal for a Taft Christmas parade; received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition; named “Business of the Year” by the Taft Chamber of Commerce and with the help of the entire City of Taft, holds a Guinness World Record.

Today Bob is happily married to his wife Tina of 20 years and they have two children Rhealee & Tanner attending Taft High School.

May 10 - 16, 2013

By Richie Brown This past weekend, Taft went back in time and brought out some very classy cars and vehicles from the past. From Mustangs, to hotrods to taxis, there were plenty of memories to be had and brought to life.

There was food you could had purchased at a few of our local businesses and there were a few ‘live’ bands as well than kept the energy going in Downtown Taft.

Taft Fox Theatre was alive and kicking with a few movies to select from including the newly released Iron Man 3, which drew in many from young to old.

It was very nice to see downtown booming with life and fun and seeing many cars and vehicles you just don’t see everyday cruising the streets of Taft.

Taft is planning on hosting ‘First Friday” every first Friday of the month and will be adding much much more each time as well.

Expect to see live music, food, beer, movies, fun, games and more as ‘First Friday’ heads to Taft every first Friday of every month unless noted.

If you or your group have any ideas for our next ‘First Friday’, feel free to contact the Taft Chamber of Commerce at 765-2165.

See you June 7th for ‘First Night”!

WEST SIDE URGENT CARE

765-1935 HOURS MONDAY TO FRIDAY NOON TO 9 P.M. SATURDAY, SUNDAY AND HOLIDAYS 10:00 A.M. TO 9 P.M.

100 E North St. Taft CA

OT

Cookhouse & Saloon

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

We are also proud to offer our “Chef ’s Personal Creations & Selections” Five Specials Available Daily

Warren Schuyler and Amanda Sewill at the service counter of Campos Fleet Services and Automotive.

OT Cookhouse can accomodate smaller or larger Private Dining Events Reserve your Banquet today!!!

661.763.1819

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft

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

Ben’s Books

Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion Childrens • Cookbooks and More!

New Shippment of Large Print Books In

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

Mexican and Seafood Taqueria Open 7 Days a Week 4 am to Midnight

330 Kern Street Corner of 4th and Kern Street 745-4898

Now Serving Breakfast Open 4:30 a.m. - Fast Service To-Go Happy Hour 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

$2 Bud Light Budweiser and Tecate

Catering Available for Meetings. Free Delivery.

May 10 - 16, 2013

Taft Chamber News

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Postal Service Holds Canned Food Drive May 11th

By Dr. Kathy Orrin Executive Director, Taft Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau Although I am beginning to sound like my parents did when I was growing up, I must confess I really do find it hard to believe that it already is May. We are at the beginning of Graduation Season, and soon it will be summer!

The Chamber continues to be busy with its normal activities, e.g., Sit n Sips, meetings, membership contacts, meetings, selling bricks, meetings, event planning, meetings . . . however, we have had some exciting “extras” of late. Mr. Hampton, our great friend and benefactor here at the Chamber, celebrated 30 years in the waste management business here in our community, and we were able to throw him a party on May first. (You will note some pictures taken at that celebration in this edition of the Newsletter.)

Congratulations to Westside Waste Management! Next week, we will be helping Manny Campos officially open—grandly—Monarch Fleet Services on 217 Center Street, during our regularlyscheduled Wednesday Sit n Sip, at 9:00 a.m. Ribbon cutting will be part of the festivities which will last through the end of the week. Make sure you make an appearance at MONARCH Fleet Services some time between Wednesday, May 8, and Saturday, May 11, to take part in the raffle and prizes.

Rite Aid has contacted us with their desire to have a grand reopening during the same week, probably on May 9. Watch your emails for an update on their plans. If you have not visited their refurbished store, do so. It looks great.

The openings of Popeye’s and Pizza Hut seem to be on the horizon. We look forward to their joining us at the Chamber, and when they do, we will alert you to their plans for celebration.

With the formation of the Greater Taft Economic Development Authority (GTEDA), my job has taken a slightly more behind the scenes/planning aspect. As a Chamber executive, I have the luxury of a staff who can handle everyday routines and event planning, freeing me to work closely with the City, County, and regional entities to formulate plans and strategies for the economic development of our area. A great example of that effort can be seen in the Visit Historic Taft Billboards along I-5 near Frazier Park and

north on Highway 99 near Goshen. Those billboards represent the work of the Chamber in writing a Kern County Board of Trade grant, the Rotary Club of Taft sponsoring the effort, the Enterprise Zone of the City supporting the effort by contributing to the length of the “run” of the billboards. We have had many folks give us positive comments on our billboards in the past few weeks.

As I say each month, I enjoy my job. Representing the business community of Taft, planning events and programs, and meeting with people who want to start or expand existing businesses makes life here at the Chamber both busy and interesting. Once again, we thank you for your support!

Letter carriers care about the people in the communities they serve, and on the second Saturday in May for the past 20 years they have done a lot more than collect and deliver mail. They have picked up non-perishable food donations left at mailboxes as they visit every home in the nation.

This coming Saturday, May 11, 2013, letter carriers from throughout the nation will be participating in the 21st Annual National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) Food Drive — the largest one-day food drive in the USA. The U.S. Postal Service and the National Rural Letter Carriers Association join NALC as official sponsors in this effort to ‘Stamp Out Hunger.’

Other sponsors include Campbell Soup Company, Feeding America, Valpak, AFL-CIO and United Way of America.

It is a very simple and easy concept: the public is asked to leave non-perishable food in a sturdy bag by their mailbox on Saturday, May 11, 2013. That food will be collected by letter carriers and distributed to local charities that provide it to people who need it — right in the same community.

Hunger and under-nutrition in America are much more serious problems than most people realize. With current economic conditions and high food prices, more families than ever struggle to keep food on the table. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s annual study measuring food security in the United States, the number of Americans living in food insecure homes is more than 50 million, with approximately one in every three food-insecure Americans being a child (17.2 million).

Through a lot of hard work, dedication and compassion, and the support of customers in the communities they serve, letter carriers collected over 70 million pounds of food last year -- the ninth consecutive drive surpassing 70 million pounds collected.

The total donations received since the drive began in 1993 now stand at nearly 1.2 billion pounds of food. They are counting on the public’s generosity once again to help feed the hungry this year.

8 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Liberty Under Fire “No Child Left Behind,” Left All Children Behind.

By Dr. Harold Pease and John Kopp

I have noticed a major difference in the level of performance of our incoming college freshman in the social science area the past ten years. Contributing factors are varied and include: the breakdown of the family, parents do not read as much to their children as once they did, illegal immigrants without adequate English skills fill our classrooms and teachers are forced to teach to the lowest common denominator, and etc. Apathy and indifference have replaced drive and incentive. Some students remind me that a letter grade of D in a course still stands for “degree.”

One major influence has been the George W. Bush, “No Child Left Behind” (NCLB) educational program that essentially left all children behind—by two to three years. I am told that about 85% of our students enter college under-prepared. As a college professor I cannot assume that the vast majority of my students know the basics of U.S. History or government and quite frankly the gap to bridge for many may be too much. I asked John Kopp, a high school history instructor, to describe how this government program worked in the trenches.

“When NCLB was released in 2001 it radically changed how we educated our students,” he responded, “but it didn’t happen overnight.” Before NCLB, he added, “high school teachers were expected to follow a general guideline called ‘The Framework.’

This listed the basic topics that should be covered at each grade level in each subject. Teachers were encouraged to use a variety of methods to evaluate learning and achievement—none were required. Each school district was given the freedom to teach their children in a way that worked best for them—with materials and assessments of their own choosing.”

“This all changed after NCLB was released,” he said. If billions of federal dollars were going to be used for education the government wanted to affect that expenditure; this, despite the fact that the Founders left no role for the federal government in education because of its too close proximity to propaganda. When does education become propaganda? Constitutionally, education was left entirely to the states and lesser governments as per Amendment 10. Nevertheless, the government’s “pied piper” promise of better schools and more funding was powerful. This would help us catch up to Asian and European students; teachers were told, with the side benefit that “no child would be left behind.”

Very soon the administration, Kopp continued, “recognized the political fallout from low test scores and so pressure was applied to change how we teach. Experts were brought in to transform how we teach so that students could improve their learning and we were told that this would result in higher test scores. We were not being taught—yet—to teach to the test.”

“We were trained to use the STAR test as the starting point for how to prepare lessons for a class. We were to ‘backward-map’ our classes beginning with the test. We were given a list of ‘standards’ that became the Bible in our classes. Students were to be evaluated on how they were progressing on the state standards and we were strongly encouraged to use questions from the state of CA that were on previous STAR tests — these were called released questions. They became the cornerstone of our preparation tool.

We drilled students using these questions believing that it would improve their test scores. Textbooks were all written based on these new standards. We only purchased textbooks in the core areas (math, science, English and social science) that were ‘standards-aligned’.” Still, the scores did not rise as promised.

Mothers Should be Celebrated

May 10 - 16, 2013

By Julie Mitchell Mother’s Day is one of America’s most popular holidays, with moms across the country annually showered with flowers, cards, candy, breakfast in bed, and dinners out. But the practice of honoring and celebrating mothers occurs in many other countries, from Argentina to New Zealand.

In the U.S., Mother’s Day falls on the second Sunday in May. The original holiday was established in 1914 by President Woodrow Wilson as a celebration of peace. Other countries also observe the holiday in the spring, probably dating back to the Roman celebration of “Magna Mater” (great mother) which fell in mid-March. Later, early Christians began to celebrate the holiday on the fourth Sunday of Lent as a way to honor the church in which they were baptized, known as their “mother church.”

In the United Kingdom, the holiday became known as Mothering Sunday, and it quickly became a time for churchgoers to not only visit their home church but to celebrate with family. Today the U.K celebrates the day much as we do, with cards, cakes, and dinners for mom, along with flowers, especially violets.

Other countries observe Mother’s Day in the following ways: In India, a westernized version of Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 10, but Hindus celebrate their divine mother, the goddess Durga, with a ten-day festival known as Durga Puja. Families spend weeks preparing special meals and gifts for friends and relatives.

The Japanese call Mother’s Day haha no hi. Japanese children draw pictures of their mothers, and the drawings are entered into a contest. The winning drawings are shown throughout Japan and other countries in a moving art exhibition. Many Japanese today, however celebrate a westernized holiday on the second Sunday of May. In Yugoslavia, Mother’s Day is observed in December as part of a three-day series of holidays, starting with Children’s Day three days before Christmas. On this day, children are tied up and not released until they promise to be good. The following Sunday, Mother’s Day, the mother is tied up, and she cannot get up until she gives her children treats and gifts. The next Sunday is Father’s Day where dad is also bound and must provide gifts that are usually the family’s Christmas presents.

France observes the National Day of Mothers in May where mothers are given cards, candy, flowers, perfume, and traditionally, a cake shaped to resemble a bouquet of flowers.

In Mexico, Dia de las Madres, Mother’s Day, is celebrated on May 10. It is widely celebrated, with sons and daughters coming to their mothers’ homes the night before, and then mom is serenaded the next morning and treated to a lavish family breakfast or brunch and homemade gifts, flowers, and cards.

Italians observe Mother’s Day with a family feast and a cake made in the shape of a heart. Children bring presents to their mothers and help with chores and housework.

In Finland, the whole family gets up and begins Mother’s Day with a walk, picking spring flowers to make a bouquet for their mother.

At home they present her with the bouquet along with breakfast in bed.

This Mother’s Day, trace your family’s cultural heritage and discover which new tradition from around the world you might incorporate into your own celebration.

“After a few years of average test scores we were required to but when they are robbed of incentive and their unique creativity create new lesson plans that would culminate in a ‘benchmark test.’ in presenting what they know, their motivation wanes and their This test—given every few weeks—would be “standards-aligned” love of learning is less likely to be passed on to the student. When and would directly prepare students for the STAR Test. Teachers excitement for learning or teaching is a victim both students and were then required to ‘scan’ their student responses into a computteachers will tend to just put in their time. No wonder incoming er program so that the administration could compile data about college freshmen are so far behind with little motivation to catch how students were doing on these benchmark exams so that they up. Administrators who “bought” into this program for the “free” could see whether adequate progress was being made in anticipamoney and false promises get a failing grade for this one. tion of the STAR being given.”

Those not achieving “a certain level of success on the test would have to go through mandated remediation.” Scores still did not improve.

Unfortunately creativity, love of learning, and motivation were early fatalities.

Mr. Kopp continued, “All student field trips were required to be justified using the state standards— we were asked which standards this trip met. Trips that took students out of the classroom were discouraged—kids needed to be in their classes to meet their benchmark scores to prepare for the STAR. Field trips were to be taken after school or weekends if at all possible.”

What was initially not mandated became so. “Teacher evaluations were changed to include a teacher’s compliance with the benchmark process and the data collection requirement. Every teacher would give the district-approved benchmark and agree to meet together to assess the data. Teachers were not assigned to classes by what they taught best or enjoyed teaching, but how they could help the school reach its API (adequate performance index)—this is the score that would be used by the state and federal government to determine whether growth had occurred.”

Despite the much enlarged government control in the classroom we still have fantastic and gifted grade and high school teachers, Mr. John Kopp is one of them,

May 10 - 16, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

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

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

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

Now Celebrating Our 23rd Year

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

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

Check Out Our Website Maricopaquiltcompany.com And Facebook Page 370 CALIFORNIA • 769-8580

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich Miller • Jordan Miller Kathy Devine • Shelly Hamilton

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

Yates’ Detailing 600 Center Street Taft, California

(661) 623-0827 (661) 765-1171

All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

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

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

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

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

First Baptist Church

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

Gateway Temple

Community Christian Fellowship

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

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

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

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

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

Your Church Ad Here!

765-6550

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

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

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

Pastor Scott Pearson

Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship Celebration 10:30 a.m.

Evening Service 6 p.m.

Awana Childrens Program Wednesday 6 p.m.

220 North Street - Taft 661 763-3138

Advertise In The Taft Independent

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Licensed Funeral Directors

Call Today!

765-6550

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

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

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

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

Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUP

Ford City Tuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of Taft Wednesday

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

All green waste must be bagged.

Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

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

10 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Classifieds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phone: 765-6550 Phone: 765-6550 Fax:765-6556 765-6556 Fax: E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Payment can made by cash, check, or card. credit card.

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

Taft Independent210 508 CA 93268 Cooler Services. Swap Cooler services and repair. Pumps, motors, etc. (661) 900-0917.

YARD SALES Advertise your yard sale ad. 3 lines for $2, additional lines after that $2 each. Fax your ad to 765-6556 or call and leave message at 765-6550 by 12 p.m.

Wednesday.

Need Extra Cash?

I need: Dust wiped from drywall. 3 walls to be drywalled and taped.

Approx. 10 outlets to be installed. Someone strong to move items from yard and inside house. Call (626) 4857852.

ANNOUNCEMENTS Alzheimer’s Disease Association Of Kern County is offering Respite Care here in Taft. Call-Cathy Perkins at 760-379-0848 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.

HELP WANTED Restaurant seeking cook and two bartenders.

Experienced only. (661) 809-4634.

Part-time Waitress. Black Gold Brewing Co. Exp. Req. 508 Center Street.

Looking to fill part-time and full-time positions.

Must have clean DMV. Must have a clean background. Must be flexible to work weekends. Must have reliable transportation.

Visit abm.com to apply.

Call 661.322.3289 if you have any questions.

SERVICES

CHILD CARE SERVICES

WANTED FOR SALE Close out sale on dog accessories and clothes formerly Bow Wow Baker.y 420 Center Street. 745-4894.

1999 GMC Sonoma V-6 80,000 miles. $6,000.

763-3878.

South Taft Lot. With septic and cess pool. Power and water on lot. Make offer. (661) 835-3997.

5-5.

AUTOMOBILES PETS LOST PETS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Taft Property Management 1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms now available in good areas.

CRIME FREE HOUSING Brokers Licence 01417057 661-577-7136

ROOMS FOR RENT HOMES FOR SALE Real Estate eBroker Inc.

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

MOBILE HOMES HOMES FOR RENT $700 Mo. Renter pays utilities 3 bd 1 ba. Pet’s ok. Call 745-3211.

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 224 B St #C Studio $475 400 Woodrow 1/1 $625 522 Center 3/1 $700 701 Taylor 2/1 $725 400 Woodrow 2/1 $725 617 Buchanan 3/1 $775 315 7th St 1/1 furnished! $750 709 Kern St 3/1 $800 512 D St 3/1.75 $800 404 Fillmore 3/2 $800

G&S CARPET CO “No Job To Small” Immediate Installation!

Hours: T-F 9-5 Sat. 10-3 Closed Sun./Mon. Eve By Appt.

Carpet Vinyl Hardwood Laminate Ceramic Tile

Contractor’s Lic. #352844

661-398-3044

7000 District Blvd Bakersfield

For Rent

520 Shattuck

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

Preserving for the Future 2 bed - 1 bath home 411 Shattack $575.

3 bed 1 1/2 bath home 118 Crystal $775 Call Paul Joyce (805) 218-1686

Joyce Properties (661) 769-6469 302 Calvin St 1/1 condo $850 535 B St 3/1 $850 424 Lucard 3/1 $900 522 F Street. 3 bd.

1 ba. $750 mo. plus $700. Dep. Avail. 4-5.

661-765-4016.

2 bedroom 1 bath in Taft. Fenced yard. $650. mo. Plus dep.

420 Montview Ave. Avail. June 2nd. (661) 972-7807. 5-10.

2bd, 1b, furnished Very quiet, private, new appliances, large yard. $600.00, first and last with $300.00 deposit. Call 742-8679 between 7 am and 9 pm. Available by April 20. 4-5.

Homes for Rent 2bed. 1 ba.

411 Shattuck. $585.

3bd. 1ba $750.

520 Shattuck.

3bd. 1 1/2 ba. $775.

118 Crystal.

Call Paul Joyce (805) 218-1686 Joyce Properties (661) 765-6300

Westside Real Estate 765-5000 319 1/2 San Emidio 1bd + office incl. utilities $650 + dep.

402 Pierce 3 bd 1 bth w/ garage $825 + dep.

1 bed. 1 ba. 155 1/2

North St. B. $450.

3bd 1 ba in Dustin Acres $800 mo + dep. .

765-5000 License 01914953

Business Services Rite Away Carpet Cleaning Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General Cleaning Owner Operated Visa\Master Card 765-4191 Center Street Apartments.

1 bed room 1 bath.$475 to $500 per month. Plus Sec. Dep. No Pets Allowed. Call (805) 375-1458 or (661) 765-7678.

Studio 350. Month 866 367 8171 alintaft@yahoo.com

902 Williams Way. 3 bd.

1 bath, plus large office or 4th bedroom. Large fenced back yard. Large 2 car garage. Good neighborhood in Taft. $1,150 mo plus dep.

Renter pays utilities.

Avail. June 1st. 6234296 3bd. 1 ba. New wood floors and refinished oak floors. Lrg rooms, huge laundry, fully fenced.

Avail now. $850 Mo. plus $1,100 dep.

2 bd. 1 ba. all remodeled. Large rooms. l aundry, downtown. $650. mo. plus $950 Dep. (805) 689-4122.

APART. FOR RENT 2 bedroom 1 bath Apt. in newer duplex. Central heat and air. Very nice with private fenced front yard. carport. $600. mo. plus dep. Renter pays all utilities. Credit check req. 623-4296. Michael.

Studio 350 inc utilty 866 367 8171 alintaft@ yahoo.com. 4-20 Creekside Apartments.

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

420 Finley Dr.

Be Seen!

May 10 - 16, 2013

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

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

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

Classified Ads

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

in the

Real Estate eBroker Inc.

Taft

By Appointment

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

Independent

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

$2 per line Box your ad for $5 more

765-4191 or 549-1068

Writers Wanted

West Side Health Care District- Job Fair 10:00am-2:00pm Tuesday, May 28, 2013 Cougar Room at Taft College 29 Emmons Park Drive West Side Health Care District will be seeking energetic, professionals with strong customer service skills for the following positions, RN, LVN, MA, Reception, Front office Manager.

Please bring a Resume and references. No phone calls please.

At the Taft Independent Experience Required.

Please call 765-6550.

Visit Us Online at www.taftindependent.com

Kern County Supervisors Appoint Strickland to Head County Airports

Giving Students the Gift of a Prosperous Professional Future

The Kern County Board of Supervisors appointed airport administrator Richard Strickland as Director of Airports to replace retired Director Jack Gotcher.

Strickland assumes the Director position on May 13, 2012.

Taft Airport is one of the county airports that Strickand will oversee.

Mr. Strickland has more than 15 years of experience in international airport Richard Strickland management. He comes to Kern County from Axis Consulting of Chicago, where he conducted financial feasibility studies for a number of international and foreign airport projects.

Prior to his consulting work, Mr. Strickland managed aviation for San Diego International Airport. He was assistant Airport Director of aviation services at Detroit International Airport before that, and he began his career as deputy director of Palm Springs International Airport.

In these positions, Mr. Strickland oversaw property leasing and airline relationships, managed operating and capital budgets, conducted revenue analysis and developed capital financing plans. Mr. Strickland earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from San Diego State University, and he is a member of the American Association of Airport Executives.

“The Board interviewed an excellent field of candidates for the Airports Director position, and Richard Strickland emerged as the most qualified of a very strong group to deliver outstanding air travel service at Meadows Field,” Board of Supervisors Chairman Mike Maggard said. “The Board offers our congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Strickland.”

Every spring, Americans celebrate volunteerism during National Volunteer Week. So now is precisely the time to ask ourselves how we can best donate our time and talents.

Of course, there is no shortage of worthy causes. But one area where volunteer work is particularly impactful is educational programs that help young Americans develop an interest in science, technology, engineering and math -- the so-called “STEM” fields. Developing proficiency in these subjects can set students up for a career in some of the nation’s most promising industries.

Even during this period of high unemployment, the demand for qualified STEM workers vastly outpaces supply.

A recent report from the non-profit Change the Equation found that, in the broader economy, unemployed Americans outnumber job postings by three to one. However, for STEM professions, there are about two open jobs per jobless American.

The demand for well-trained professionals in fields such as biotechnology, aerospace, and software development won’t wane anytime soon. A recent report from the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology found that for the United States to remain a dominant force in sciencebased industries, we will need to produce roughly 1 million more STEM professionals over the next decade.

Achieving this goal starts with motivating young Americans to pursue STEM degrees. Today, a mere 300,000 Americans earn a bachelor or associate degree in a STEM subject each year. More troubling still, only 40 percent of students who intend to major in one of these areas actually completes a degree.

Students who end up pursuing a STEM education often developed an interest in science and technology at an early age. A single formative experience can provide a lifetime’s worth of motivation. That’s why helping young Americans discover their passion for these subjects is such a worthwhile volunteer opportunity.

Executives in technology and science-driven industries have an enormous role to play in sparking an early enthusiasm for STEM subjects.

Classified Ad Deadline.

Wednesday 2 p.m.

By Keith Peden

Already, some industry leaders are doing their part to generate STEM excitement in our schools.

For example, tech giant Google uses its talented workforce to help spark student interest in science. In collaboration with the Citizen Schools initiative, Google volunteers have participated in 139 apprenticeship courses. These educational programs expose middle school students to technical subjects like software engineering and robotics.

Students in these courses receive hands-on instruction from some of the most talented minds in the tech world.

Last year, Altria gave a sizeable donation to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to help new middle school teachers learn hands-on approaches to making math and science instruction interesting, relevant and fun.

Here at Raytheon, we have a rich culture of STEMrelated philanthropy. For instance, firm employees give their time to initiatives like MATHCOUNTS, which inspires interest in math among middle school students through competitions, clubs, and other enrichment programs. Firm employees also give their time to initiatives like the FIRST program, which engages high school students in robotics competitions nationwide.

Volunteerism is strongly encouraged at Raytheon. In fact, during 2011 and 2012, company employees donated nearly 400,000 hours to serving their communities.

The emphasis we place on volunteerism is in line with a broader national trend. In 2011, the number of American volunteers reached a five-year high of 6.4 million. And more than 18 percent of those volunteers spent their time teaching or tutoring.

These efforts to encourage student achievement in the STEM fields are extremely important when it comes to preparing young Americans for the jobs of tomorrow.

If the United States is going to produce the kind of qualified professionals that the job market demands, industry leaders must continue to donate their time to cultivating STEM passions in local student bodies.

National Volunteer Week is the perfect opportunity to redouble our efforts to improve the lives of young Americans and set them on a path to professional success.

Keith J. Peden is senior vice president of Human Resources and Security for Raytheon Company.

12 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

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

May 10 - 16, 2013

Used to be Paul’s BMX

Bike Shop

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

Black Gold

Qik Smog & Tune

Cafe and Deli

608 Center St.

745-4919

Devon’s Body Shop

(661)763-4445

508 Center Street 765-6556

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

General Automotive Repairs

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

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 Arrivals In Time for Mother’s Day Cool, Cotton Tops Sizes Sm thru 2X Women’s Western Jeans Western Purses and Matching Wallets Montana Silver Jewelry

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Full Grooming Salon We Love Cats!

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Dog Nail Trim 12.00 2nd Pet $9.00 Birds - nails and Wings $9.00 with beak $14.00 www.shawswesternshop.com

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

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