This Week In Taft

Independent The Taft

May 25 - 31, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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May 25 - 31, 2012 • Volume 6 Issue 48

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

Soroptimist Luncheon & Garden Tour This Weekend

New Rules Planned To Prevent Further Sinkhole Deaths

This Week In Taft

Taft Relay For Life

TUHS 2012 Hall Of Fame Inductees

Kaiser Permanente Mobile Health Comes To Taft

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2

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May 25 - 31, 2012

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May 25 - 31, 2012

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

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Community Events News Briefs Taft California “Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

News Briefs......................3

Have a community event that you would like to include?

Email it to us at Publisher@Taftindependent.com

Westside Watcher............4 Letter To The Editor......4

Soroptimist Luncheon & Garden Tour Saturday, May 26th

West Side Recreation Report..........5

The annual Soroptimist Garden Tour & Luncheon will take place Saturday, May 26th. Tour begins at 10am at the West Kern Oil Museum. Tickets are $25, includes a map to the home tour and lunch at the Fort. See you there!

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

Taft Chamber of Commerce Annual Car & Bike Show Saturday, June 9th

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

The Taft Chamber of Commerce will be holding their annual Car & Bike Show Saturday, June 9th at the Rails to Trails near 6th Street and Supply Row. Registration begins at 7am and is $30 the day of the event. Early registration is due by June 6th for $25. For more information and to register contact the Taft Chamber of Commerce at 765-2165.

Liberty Under Fire.........8 Westside News..................9 Classified Ads.................10 Westside News...............11

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

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

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We welcome contributions and suggestions.

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

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

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

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Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Advertising Jessica Skidgel Layout & Design Jessica Skidgel Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost Columnists Randy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins, Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

2nd Annual Paws In The Park Saturday, June 9th 2nd Annual Paws in the Park June 9th 9am-2pm Veterans Park next to City Hall.

Sponsored by Taft Lions Club Beach Bunco Saturday, June 16th The Taft ARC is holding a Beach Bunco fundraiser on Saturday, June 16th at the Taft ARC, 204 Van Buren St. Tickets are $25 and include Bunco and Dinner. Dinner will be served at 5pm, Bunco to follow. 50/50 drawing at halftime. For tickets and more information call 763-1532 ext 1.

Taft Chamber Annual Car Show To Be Held June 9th Taft Chamber annual car show to be held in June with Kick off Concert Friday night with Good Question. Pre-register today for the 4th Annual Rails to Trails Classic, Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show hosted by Taft District Chamber of Commerce. On Saturday, June 9, 2012, the highly anticipated car and motorcycle show returns to Taft. Registration begins at 6th Street and Supply Row from 7am to 9am with judging starting at 10am. Each pre-registered vehicle includes a goodie bag with a t-shirt. Early registration is due by June 6 for $25 per entry and registration the day of the event will be $30. T-shirts may be ordered for an additional cost.

There are 20 different entry classifications for Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles, each receiving a dash plaque and a chance for award trophies for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. There will be Craft, Business, and Food vendors along with a large beer garden, bounce houses, and live entertainment all weekend. Registration forms for car show entries and vendors are available at www.taftchamber.com or at 400 Kern Street, Taft.

Friday June 8, a summer kick off concert will be held on the stage at 6th Street and Main Street. The Aviators and Good Question will perform beginning at 6pm. The stage area and beer garden will open at 4pm with a $5 cover charge for the concert. Any questions, please call Shannon at 661-765-2165.

Schedule of events: Friday June 8 4pm-midnight Beer Garden Open 6pm-8pm The Aviators perform Friday 8:30-11:30pm Good Question performs Saturday June 9 7am-9am Car Show Registration 7am-10am Kiwanis Club Breakfast 9am-3pm Vendors Open, Beer Garden Open, Music, Raffles 2pm Car Show Winners Announced

Save The Date

Upcoming Event Dates On The Westside

MAY

JUNE

26 Taft College Children’s Center Fundraiser at Petroleum Club 26 Soroptimist Garden Tour

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

JULY

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

Soroptimist Luncheon And Garden Tour This Saturday, May 26th There is still time for you to get your ticket and come to the annual Soroptimist Luncheon & Garden Tour, which will be held This Saturday, May 26th.

Tickets are $25.

The Soroptimists is a local service organization that does a lot of good in our community. This event raises money to help people in Taft who are on dialysis, or are cared for at the Senior Nursing Home or the Women’s Shelter. Soroptimists also give scholarships each year to Taft high school and college students; they also sponsor a lunch each year for eight grade girls who have done public service. According to president-elect Becky Ashcraft, the purpose of the Soroptomists is to “promote young girls and women.”

If you would like to join them for this year’s event, at about 10 a.m. on Saturday go to the West Kern Oil Museum, 1168 Wood Street, buy your ticket (if you don’t already have one,) and receive your map of the homes on the Tour. Two of them are in Maricopa and one is in Taft, so you might want first go to Maricopa: 1.

Linda & Bill Friend, 26644 Scholefield Road, Maricopa.

2.

Pat & Ron Bracken, 1215 Bush Street, Maricopa.

3.

Reneé Ginther, 207 E. San Emidio Street, Taft.

You’ll want to finish your tour by noon so that you’ll be ready for the luncheon at the Fort, 915 N. 10th Street. All of the dishes served will be cooked by Soroptimist members. You will entertained by singers, and a speaker, sponsored by True Value Hardware, will present a lecture on gardening and plants.

The table decorations are prizes, and there is a wheelbarrow full of gardening supplies that will be raffled. Tickets are $1 or 30 tickets for $20.

Last year about 100 people attended this event. This year the same number is expected.

Taft College Childrens Center Fundraiser At Petroleum Club The Taft College Chrildens Center Staff and parents are hosting a big fundraiser Saturday May 26 at the Petroleum Club in Taft. This fundraiser is going to be alot of fun for all . There will be activities for the kids such as face painting, gold fish throw, bounce house, a 50/50 raffle,and cake walk just to mention a few.

There will hot dogs, chips and drinks to purchase plus you can purchase tickets for a wonderful spaghetti dinner. 6 o’clock there will be live music sponsered by Entrypoint Productions and Tim Healy, there will be local bands also.

All proceeds and donations will go towards cribs, outdated furniture, toys, and educational material for the kids.

This fundraiser was the idea of Cathy and Tim Healy who brought there idea to Cathy’s Boss, Genovive, who was in favor of the idea and it was brought up and the idea went crazy, parents , family and friends were all in favor of the fundraiser.

For any other information please call Genovive at (661) 763-7850 . This fundraiser is for the kids so please come out and have a wonderful day and help raise some much needed money. Again save the date: Saturday May 26 at the Taft Petroleum Club. The hours are noon to midnight.

Maricopa High School And Westside ROP Present “Sleeping Beauty And The Beast” The Maricopa High School drama department in conjunction with the Westside ROP (Regional Occupation Program) will be performing the dinner theater production of, “Sleeping Beauty and the Beast,”at 6:00 pm on Friday, May 25, in the Maricopa School Auditorium. Tickets will be available at the door for $2.00 for the performance only, and $7.00 for the dinner and show. Come out and join us in celebrating Princesses Rose’s birthday with hotdogs, beans, coleslaw, and of course, birthday cake, as you watch this hilarious fractured fairytale comedy that is fun for all ages.

For more information contact Maricopa Drama Director, Deborah Myers at 769-8231 ext 329

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

Westside Watcher

The Taft

Independent

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

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

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

Paik’s Ranch House Where Everybody Meets Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Open 7 Days Mon. Tues. 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

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

NOW OPEN

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, May 25, 2012 Through Thursday, May 31, 2012 Men in Black 3 (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri: (3:00), (5:30), 8:00, 10:15 Sat & Sun: (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00, 9:30 Mon: (11:30 AM), (2:00), (4:30), 7:00 Tue - Thu: (5:45), 8:15 Battleship (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri: (5:00), 7:50 Sat & Sun: (12:00), (2:50), 6:00, 9:00 Mon: (12:00), (2:50), 6:00 Tue - Thu: (5:30), 8:30 Marvel’s The Avengers (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri: (5:45), 9:00 Sat & Sun: (11:15 AM), (2:30), 6:00, 9:10 Mon: (11:15 AM), (2:30), 6:00 Tue - Thu: (5:15), 8:45 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (PG) Special Showing Friday, June 8th at 7:00 Only. All seats $5.00. On sale now at boxoffice.

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

Have Your next event at The Club!

Weddings, Receptions, BBQ’s, Parties, Anniversaries And More!

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

May 25 - 31, 2012

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor,

Taft City Council Report

By Kent Miller Taft City Council approved a revised budget for the remainder of the 2011-12 fiscal year at its meeting Tuesday evening.

It’s a budget that is more than $630,000 – or 10 percent – smaller than the original.

The city started the fiscal year on July1 with a budget of $6,353,366. But that was before the state pulled its prisoners out of Taft’s California Correctional Facility and then did away with redevelopment agencies.

Removing prisoners from Taft’s CCF has lead to a decrease in city revenue of nearly $423,000 for the fiscal year.

And with the end to redevelopment agencies, anticipated interest of nearly $161,000 from the city’s loan to the Taft Redevelopment Agency won’t be coming in.

And miscellaneous changes subtract an additional amount of more than $47,000 from anticipated city revenue for the fiscal year.

“We were dealt some crappy cards,” Councilmember Dave Noerr said of the city’s need to revise the budget.

Councilmember Paul Linder noted that despite the reduction in revenue, “the city is in good shape. We do have some reserves to get us through tough times. We have managed to stay afloat.”

Councilmembers praised city staff for the extra efforts that have been put in.

“We had a problem and staff addressed it,” said Councilmember Orchel Krier.

Councilmember Ron Waldrop said that “this shows everyone has been working hard.”

Linder added that there has been “a lot of work done by city staff.”

The revised budget was adopted by a vote of 5-to-0.

2012-13 budget Staff is working on a budget for the 2012-13-fiscal year, said interim City Manager Craig Jones. “(It will anticipate) a $700,000 hit due to the closure of CCF,” Jones said. “We will spend less on operations and capital, and maintain staffing levels.”

Another negative created by the CCF closure is unemployment benefits due the staff of the prison. And with an increase in the length of time the unemployed can collect benefits, the situation won’t soon end unless the prison is reopened.

Councilmembers approved a loan of $195,594 from General Fund Reserves for payment of first quarter 2012 Employment Development Department benefits.

The city is seeking tenants for the prison, with the possibility that other counties in California will contract with Taft to house their prisoners.

If that happens, all or part of the “$700,000 hit” could be erased.

And Jones noted that sales tax revenue in the city is up for fiscal 2011-12.

Paik’s

Ranch House Restaurant “Where Everybody Meets”

Dr. Harold Pease Endorses Harley Pinson Because The Constitution leaves all power not identified in the document with the states and the people. For many years federal and state governments have been quietly absorbing city and county jurisdiction because state, county and city officers have been constitutionally inept in protecting their jurisdictions. Harley Pinson understands the importance of Amendment 10 in insuring this distinction and will protect us with it.

The County Supervisor position is far more important than just funding sidewalks. He must use his influence to protect his area of jurisdiction from federal or state encroachment.

Politicians tend to move to state and federal levels and with that elevation their constitutional ignorance, which ignorance is destroying our liberty. Of the two candidates for County Supervisor only Harley Pinson has shown me that he is constitutionally based and will defend me from intrusive higher levels of government.

Harley Pinson does not know of this column. I only offer it to help the community see the critical need for constitutionally based leaders while we yet have free elections.

Dr. Harold Pease

Memorial Day Remembrance Monday, May 28th is Memorial Day. The West Side Cemetery District along with Erickson and Brown Funeral Home and Fellows American Legion Post #63, will be holding a remembrance ceremony at 10:00am. The ceremony will consist of honoring local Veterans with graveside floral tributes and the wreath of remembrance, as well as a POW and MIA remembrance. There will also be a dedication to the Veteran Memorial.

The Lincoln Junior High Band will be perform “Two Marches for America.” The American Legion Firing Squad will be conducting the 21 gun salute and Dee Dee Stoller will be performing on Bag Pipes.

This event is free and open to the public.

West Side Cemetery District 440 E. Cedar Street, Taft.

Friends of TC Library Annual Luncheon Members of the public are invited to FOTCL’s annual luncheon meeting and program at West Kern Oil Museum. The meeting is Tuesday, May 29, 2012, from 11am to 1pm and includes a program by Dr. David Layne of Taft College and lunch by All in the Sandwich. A donation of $5 per person is requested.

Taft College Library is open to the public. The Friends of TC Library are volunteers who share interests in the cultural, educational, research, and recreational aspects of the college, the library, and the community.

For more information, please email fotcl@ymail.com or contact any FOTCL member.

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

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.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

May 25 - 31, 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 SUMMER BASKETBALL Who: Ages 7-15 When: Wednesday Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Session: June 13 – July 25 Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee: $20 per person Looking to get out of the heat and have fun playing basketball without the serious structure? This program is for you! Players will have limited instruction, play pick-up style games and participate on different assigned teams each week. Officials will be provided.

BASKETBALL CAMP Who: Ages 8-15 When: June 18-22 (Monday-Friday) Time: 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Where: Taft Union High School Mullen Gymnasium Fee: $40 per person Registration deadline: Thursday, June 7 TUHS head varsity basketball coach Jeff Hughes and the TUHS basketball team will instruct on the fundamentals of basketball through drills, exercises and scrimmages. Coach Hughes has invited guest speakers to share their expertise with the participants. Snack bar will be open for snacks and drinks during camp. There will be a free hot dog BBQ meal for each camper on Wednesday.

JR. TENNIS CAMP Who: Ages 6-14 When: Monday - Thursday Time: 3:00-4:00 p.m.

Session: July 3, 5, 9-12 and 16-19 Where: Taft Union High School Tennis Courts Fee: $40 per person Registration deadline: Thursday, June 21 Taft High Tennis coaches and players will work with participants on developing hand-eye coordination and agility through games and drills. Young athletes will also develop skills such as forehand, backhand and match play. A racquet is included.

B.E.S.T. (British European Soccer Training) SOCCER CAMP Who: Ages 6-16 When: July 23-27 (Monday-Friday) Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Where: Wrecker Field and TUHS Soccer Fields Fee: $99 per person Registration deadline: Thursday, July 12 The B.E.S.T. UK/US staff offer cutting edge, modern soccer training. Every B.E.S.T. coach has the ability to capture the imagination of each player. The training is a structured program that encourages players to take their game to the next level. Players need soccer cleats and shin guards.

WOMEN’S FASTPITCH SOFTBALL Who: Women, Ages 14+ When: Tuesday Nights Season Begins: June 19 Where: Franklin Field Recreation Complex Fee: $250 per team, plus $15 umpire fee per game Registration deadline: Thursday, June 14 MEN’S SUMMER SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL Who: Men, Ages 16+ When: Wednesday and Friday Nights Season Begins: June 27 Where: Franklin Field Recreation Complex Fee: $350 per team Registration deadline: Thursday, June 21 S.T.O.P. PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIPS (Strive To Optimize Participation) Did you know that the District has a youth scholarship program? Children in low income, single parent or multiple participant households are eligible! For more information, or to find out how your child can take advantage of reduced program fees, give us a call in the District Office at 763-4246.

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

COED SUMMER SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL Who: Ages 16+ When: Thursday Nights Season Begins: June 28 Where: Franklin Field Recreation Complex Fee: $350 per team Registration deadline: Thursday, June 21 3-on-3 RETRO BASKETBALL MINI LEAGUE (35+) Who: Men, Ages 35+ When: Sunday Afternoons Time: 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Season Begins: June 17 Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee: $50 per team Registration deadline: Thursday, June 14 3-on-3 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL MINI LEAGUE Who: Women, Ages 14+ When: Monday Nights Time: 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Season Begins: June 11 Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee: $50 per team Registration deadline: Thursday, June 7 DODGEBALL MINI LEAGUE Who: Ages 14+ When: Tuesday Nights Time: 6:00 p.m.

Season Begins: June 12 Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee: $50 per team Registration deadline: Thursday, June 7 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.

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 multi-sport/physical activity time by tumbling on mats, shooting baskets, catching footballs, kicking soccer balls, running obstacle courses and other fun activities.

FUNKY BOWLING Who: All Ages When: Friday, June 1 Time: 8:00 p.m.

Where: Recreation Center, West Side Lanes Fee: $12 per person In Funky Bowling, each frame will have to be bowled a different way; left-handed, two hands, right-handed, between your legs… it’s an exciting twist to the usual game of bowling!

80’s NIGHT BOWLING Who: All Ages When: Saturday, June 9 Time: 8:00 p.m.

Where: Recreation Center, West Side Lanes Fee: $15 per person Come in for a totally rad night of bowling. There will be 80’s music, appetizers and prizes for best dressed and biggest hair.

“HAPPY HOUR” BOWLING Who: All Ages When: Monday – Friday Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Where: Recreation Center, West Side Lanes Fee: $3 per person, per game (includes shoe rental) 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 763-4246 for more information or to make a reservation.

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Warmth and Support, A Feature at Taft’s Relay For Life

By June Woods

The City of Taft had its fourth annual Relay For Life on Saturday and raised almost $100,000; about $60,000 of that was raised before the opening ceremony. A cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event that affects not only the individual diagnosed with cancer, but also family, friends and sometimes the entire community, which is what makes the intimate community event with only a few hundred attendees much more meaningful for participants.

After being diagnosed with kidney cancer, Bonita Bullard started her involvement in Relay For Life in Bakersfield and is glad that Taft finally began holding its own Relays. “It was so overwhelming (in Bakersfield) because there were always so many people.”

This year’s local luminary ceremony was dedicated to someone most remember as having worked many years for the betterment of Taft, former Taft School District Superintendent Dr. Michael Harris, who succumbed to brain cancer in April. And many who are involved in the annual event are motivated because they have either overcome cancer themselves or have a friend or family member that has. Whatever the motivation, everyone at the Relay had a story of their own about how cancer has affected them. “A lot of people in my family have had breast and skin cancer,” said Chrissy Rodart of the All-Stars. She added that the community’s support is important to people who attend the Relays each year.

“It couldn’t have been such a big success without so many people in the community coming out to support it,” said Bullard, who arranged the entertainment.

The smaller, more community-focused Relay is especially encouraging to those who have only recently suffered the shock of a diagnosis. Amanda Robison, 28, was raised In Taft and moved briefly to Arizona, but she came back to be with her family after being diagnosed with brain cancer. “If I’m going to die,” she said, “I want to be with my family.” She is currently in remission. “The doctors are not seeing it (the cancer), but they say that doesn’t mean it’s not there. What I need to do is stay in remission.”

Robison said that Saturday’s Relay was her first, and her recent diagnosis was her first experience with cancer. “I hear about people having cancer and I feel so bad for them,” she said, “but I didn’t ever expect to have cancer myself.” Robison, who has six daughters, carried the torch for the silent lap. She said that it’s not the cancer diagnosis alone that has caused hardship in her family. “We’re struggling financially, two of our daughters are sick, all of this stuff

is happening at once.”

The Relay was encouraging and very personal for the Robison family. “My kids are taking this pretty hard. I know the odds are totally against me, and I really appreciate all the community support.”

She said that some of what she saw Saturday tugged at her heart. “The slideshow was heartbreaking,” Robison said. “I was crying as they showed people who beat cancer and others who lost their battle…I love life; I don’t want to die.”

There were also plenty of fun events to lighten the mood. In her duty overseeing entertainment, Bullard focused on enlisting local talent. “It’s been a real fun job this year,” she said.

Entertainment included local talent, such as singers, dancers and the improve group from Taft High. “The improve group was really good and they had a lot of fun,” Bullard said. There were also a lot of new events this year that went over well with those attending. “The watermelon eating contest was a lot of fun, and we did pretty well with the auction.” As auctioneer for the team auction, Marvin Fuller helped the community bring in about $500. A hula hoop contest, tug of war, watermelon eating contest, and road to recovery kept participants entertained after lunch.

The Old Hollywood theme wouldn’t be complete without a few old Hollywood flicks. Organizers lined up three movies for nighttime entertainment: To Kill a Mockingbird, Three Stooges and Ghost Busters. There was also a repeat of one event that reached beyond cancer to help fill food banks. “We encouraged the teams to bring canned goods…kind of a double whammy for a good cause,” Rodart said. She said that 5,000 or more canned food items were brought in.

The ideas for events and entertainment that round out the local itinerary sometimes come from outside of the city. “We borrow ideas from Relays in other communities,” said LaNell Howell, who was diagnosed with first stage breast cancer in 2006 and has been involved in all of Taft’s Relays For Life. She said local organizers put a lot work into the annual events. “We’re all ready planning for next year and will start gathering and working on it in January,” Howell said. Next year’s theme will be “Totally ’80s.”

Photos c/o Cyndi T Photography

May 25 - 31, 2012

May 25 - 31, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Kaiser Permanente Mobile Hospital Unit Grand Opening

Taft Union High School 2012 Hall Of Fame Inductees

HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

By June Woods

Shirts $.25 Pants $.50

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

Sunday

A ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Taft Chamber of Commerce on Thursday introduced Kaiser Permanente’s new Mobile Health Vehicle to the community. After the ribbon cutting, the public had an opportunity to see the equipment provided and hear about the services available.

“We are thrilled to be able to outreach beyond the metropolitan of Bakersfield,” said Susan McKenna, Administrator of Mobile Health.

In an effort to make doctor visits more convenient for its 1,600 clients in West Kern, Kaiser Permanente will bring its mobile healthcare unit to Taft on Tuesdays and the first Saturday of each month. The mobile unit will be parked in front of the building that once housed Westside Hospital, 110 E. North St. Besides routine primary care for adults and children, Kaiser care providers will offer gynecological services, chronic care management, vaccinations, blood, urine, glucose and other testing, allergy management, eye and ear testing, and referral services to specialists. Preventative care is also available at mobile health clinic, and it is possible to arrange same-day appointments if a time slot is open.

Lab tests and prescription orders may also be made at the mobile unit.

“We value our members here and want to provide care as locally as we can,” said McKenna.

Services, which are only available to those with Kaiser Permanente coverage, are designed to offer a continuity of care. Patient medical records are available to the medical personnel at the mobile unit and the results of the visit are noted in the electronic medical record just as at a conventional office so that the patient’s doctor will have immediate access to the information.

Kaiser Permanente clients do not need to change doctors in order to visit the mobile facility. The Mobile Health Vehicle is wheelchair accessible, but the restroom in the unit is not. Notify staff at the clinic to be directed to an accessible restroom nearby.

The mobile unit is spacious with two private exam rooms, waiting lobby and more.

The 2012 members of TUHS Hall of Fame: L-R: Curtis Barnes, William Silcox, DeAnn Sampley Gaither, Charles Beard, Tab Haney (receiving for his father, Les Haney).

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

Closed Saturday & Monday Happy Memorial Day! We Take Donations!

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

God Bless!

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

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

2012 HOF BANQUET: Members of Hall of Fame Attending: l-r: Mike Garratt, Melanie Parrent, Curtis Barnes, William Silcox, DeAnn Gaither Sampley, Charles Beard, John Silcox, Tab Haney (father, Les Haney), Bob Colston, Don Zumbro, Pete Gianopulos, Robert Barrett, Charlie Hanna.

To view the Hall of Fame banquet with slides and music please go to: http://blip.tv/dickspics/tuhs-2012-hall-of-fame-6157812 For best viewing, when program begins, go to bottom of the picture with cursor and click on the empty box on the far right.

That will make the program play on your full screen. Press ESC to return to normal view upon conclusion of the program.

For better quality program, go to http://www.photodex.com/ share/lindasnyder/8c7wcmg4. You will be asked to download Photodex Presenter, but it is free, safe and quick.

Ben’s Books The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft

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

Shop Our Huge Selection of Half Priced Books!

Taft Tigersharks Are Looking For 810 Center Street • (661)805-9813 You This Summer Now that Baseball and softball are coming to an end, it’s time to hit the pool. Looking for something to do during the hot summer?

Why not join the Tigersharks Swim Team!

Practices at the Taft Union High School Pool, Monday through Friday beginning at 4:30 (Come to as many practices as you like) Swim meets begin June 2 and continue through July 21. $100 for first child. $75 for each additional child. If interested please contact: Greg Golling at 661-301-2125 tafttigersharks@yahoo.com

Taft Crude Coffee House

Taft Crude Is Closing After 7 Years Join Us Now At Black Gold Cafe & Deli

Thank You Taft!

taftindependent.com

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

508 Center Street Open Monday - Friday 6am - 8pm Saturday 7:30am - 8pm Sunday 10am - 2pm

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

8

Liberty Under Fire

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Squat, Cough and Spread Your Cheeks! Is This Really Constitutional?

By Dr. Harold Pease Are body cavity searches constitutional? In the recent Supreme Court, decision Florence v. County of Burlington, the Court ruled 5 to 4 that law enforcement may strip search those arrested for even minor infractions before incarceration, “even if the officials have no reason to suspect the presence of contraband” (Adam Liptak, Supreme Court Ruling Allows Strip Searches for Any Arrest, New York Times, April 2, 2012).

This is not particularly new, as the Supreme Court had previously ruled in 1979 that “visual body cavity searches of all detainees after they had contact with outsiders,” was permissible. In practice, however, lower courts had ruled “the prison had to have a reasonable suspicion that the arrestee was concealing contraband before subjecting him to a strip search upon entering the facility” (Glenn Greenwald, The Obama DOJ and Strip Searches, New York Times, Apr. 3, 2012).

But the Obama Department of Justice and five conservative justices (strange bedfellows) both wanted a blanket, more universal policy. When you have a rule that treats everyone the same you don’t have folks that are singled out. You don’t have any security gaps,” argued Justice Department lawyer Nicole A. Saharsky. So now everyone arrested is subject to possible strip searches on the discretion of law enforcement alone.

The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution reads in part, “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated.” Clearly the states, who initiated the Bill of Rights as a condition of their acceptance of the Constitution, had had negative experiences with government overreach with respect to “unreasonable searches” and wanted no such practices from the new government they were creating.

The issue of naked body searches for minor infractions came to a head when Albert W. Florence, a passenger in a car cited for speeding, was arrested and detained for an unpaid fine (which, unknown to the arresting officer, he had in fact paid). In the process of confinement over the next week he twice was made to remove his clothing and squat, cough and “spread your cheeks.” He found it humiliating and sued. Certainly he did not feel “secure in his person” as guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment.

He is not the only victim of this practice. Unfortunately, “according to opinions in the lower courts, people may be stripsearched after arrests for violating a leash law, driving without a license and failing to pay child support.” In his minority argument Justice Stephen G. Breyer “wrote that people have been subjected to ‘the humiliation of a visual strip search’ after being arrested for driving with a noisy muffler, failing to use a turn signal and riding a bicycle without an audible bell.” He even noted that “a nun was strip-searched…after an arrest for trespassing during an anti war demonstration” (Liptak).

With respect to the Fourth Amendment a list of areas of potential wrongs is sandwiched between the words secure and reasonable, with person being the first area noted. If government can force one to open butt cheeks, he decidedly, is not secure in his person. Also notice the passion exemplified by the words, “shall not be violated.” There is no give on this Justices. If the Founders felt so strongly with respect to their effects, obviously they would have even stronger feelings about their own bodies. As far as I can tell the British government never required a naked search. This is excessive and unreasonable.

So to answer the question, “Are body cavity searches constitutional?” No! Neither the republican dominated justices nor the democratically controlled Department of Justice have any constitutional right from the Fourth Amendment to force body cavity examinations for any purpose, more especially for minor infractions that have nothing to do with contraband.

Government must return to the states, as prescribed in Article V of the Constitution, and get ¾ th of the states to agree upon a new amendment that authorizes this practice. In the process there will be much debate and other courses of action found that can work to keep contraband out of our prisons without emasculating the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and searching fecal cavities.

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.

May 25 - 31, 2012

New Rules Planned to Prevent Further Sinkhole Deaths

By Jane McCabe It’s been almost a year now since the tragic death of supervisor Robert David Taylor, who on June 21st of 2011 fell to his death in a sinkhole in the Midway Sunset oil field.

The crater into which Taylor fell was created by steam, oil and other fluids spewing from the ground.

Although such occurrences are “relatively rare,” nevertheless state oil regulators say they have the potential of happening again. “There is some risk,” says State Oil and Gas supervisor Tim Kustuc. Monday’s comments came as the department released a “report of occurrences” that detailed the its investigation of the sinkhole: that minor seepage to forceful eruptions can result from a technique known as cyclic steaming or steam fracking, a technique that has become common since it was pioneered in western Kern County in the 1990’s.

Chevron and Taft’s TRC Operating Co. Inc. face enforcement action relating to the sinkhole and have been force to shut down their steaming operations temporarily neat the sinkhole, which formed at the site of a “broken” Chevron well that had been spewing fluids.

Until last summer regulators only required that oil producers clean up the fluids that come to the surface during cyclic steaming. There are no formal rules on to how govern this practice. Monday’s report says that TRC continues to conduct cyclic steaming at Midway-Sunset despite finding of several unusual ground movements in the week before the accident.

Taylor’s family has filed a wrongful death suit against construction companies Chevron hired to help build an underground system designed to contain fluids seeping at the site. A TRC spokesman wrote in an email that the company received tilt meter readings showing ground movement in the area “after the fact” from a contractor that monitors such data. It said TRC and Chevron continue to test their wells near the sinkhole “in an attempt to determine the cause of surface and remediate such surface expressions.”

Kustic said proposed new regulations regarding cyclic steaming are being drafted by the Conservation Committee of California Oil and Gas Producers, a Bakersfield-based nonprofit group composed of industry representatives. The group’s director declined to be interviewed at this time. The draft is expected to be completed by the end of the years and would need state approval.

Such legislation cannot come soon enough to prevent such occurrences!

Westside ROP Scholarships Awarded

Los Padres Implements High Response for Declared Fire Season Los Padres National Forest officials announced that wildland firefighters will transition into a “high response” posture beginning May 25 in conjunction with the declared start to fire season. This action is based on low plant moisture levels and increasingly dry conditions across the Central Coast and inland regions. The Forest Service is adopting this heightened posture along with fire departments throughout the local area.

“This past winter and spring saw below average rainfall, and with a hot summer ahead of us we need to take precautions against wildfire starts,” said Los Padres Forest Supervisor Peggy Hernandez. “Our fire staff is shifting to high response and we’ll be prepared for whatever the (fire) season brings.”

As seasonal fire staff report for duty, suppression resources will reach full capacity. The Reload Base at Santa Maria Airport will have full-time staffing throughout fire season. Although Santa Maria is not a Tanker Base, the Forest Service will request air tanker support through national federal emergency managers in the event of a large fire. Full staffing at the Reload Base will ensure that whenever national or Cal Fire air assets are available, the Forest Service will ensure retardant is efficiently reloaded onto the aircraft.

“The Reload Base at Santa Maria is a force multiplier for the Forest and the community,” said Los Padres Fire & Aviation Chief Anthony Escobar. “The retardant loading operation is based on a quick turnaround. It’s ready to go whenever it’s needed and tankers are on-site.”

Forest officials estimate that Level II fire restrictions will take effect next month, and visitors are reminded to exercise caution when enjoying recreation activities in Los Padres.

For more information, visit the Forest website at http://www.usda.gov/lpnf.

taftindependent.com

On Tuesday, May 15, the West Side Regional Occupational Program celebrated the successes of three great students. Lizeth Carrera, Bailey Moore and Lee Ann Shinn were honored at the annual WSROP Spring Program Advisory Event. Each of the students was presented a scholarship award to help with future career-technical training.

A check in the amount of $250 was given to each student. Funds were provided by the Golden Empire Chapter of California Association of Regional Occupational Programs and Centers (CAROC/P). Presentations were made to the students by WSROP teachers Debbie Cloud (Shinn, Careers In Education), Mark Fitzsimmons (Bailey Moore, Graphic Communications) and Tom White, Jr. (Lizeth Carrera, Careers In Law Enforcement)

May 25 - 31, 2012

Kern County Walk To End Alzheimer’s The 2012 Kern County Walk to End Alzheimer’s has been set for November 10 at River Walk Park in Bakersfield. The purpose of the Walk is to raise funds in support of the Alzheimer’s Association in its mission to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. On May 15 the Association announced release of the first ever National Alzheimer’s Plan by the federal government. The Plan sets a deadline of 2025 to finally find effective ways to treat, or at least stall, the minddestroying disease.

The Kern County Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee is looking for Walk teams to support this fund raising activity. Anyone who has had a family member or loved one affected by this disease or any other form of dementia is invited to form a team in their honor and walk with us. Businesses are invited to form teams or become sponsors in support of employees whose families may be suffering as a result of this disease.

The committee is sponsoring a kick-off party for walk teams and sponsors on the evening of June 26 at Glenwood Gardens, Calloway and Stockdale Highway.

The program will include fund raising ideas and support for walk teams as well as entertainment and prizes. Please call 861-8629 for more information.

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

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

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

Licensed Funeral Directors

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

St. Mary’s Church 110 E Woodrow Street • Taft 661 765-4292 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

Yates’ Detailing

Mass Schedule

Tuesday-Friday 8:00 A.M. Sunday 9:00A.M. English 11:00A.M. Spanish

Advertise

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

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.

With

All your detailing needs!

The Taft

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

Gateway Temple

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS

600 Center Street Taft, California

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

FD756 FDR50 FDR595 FDR618

Independent

Call Today!

765-6550

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

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

Wednesday.

earth am I here for?

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

Business Services COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services

409 A St. Saturday Sunday 8am-?

Furniture, baby clothes, womens clothes, childrens toys and electronics.

Yard Sale for Ronny Wise Sr. funeral expenses. Saturday 402 S 7th St. 7am4pm. Tools, clothes, household items and furniture.

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

Computer Repair Graphic Arts Web Design Virus Removal 661-623-5188 YARD SERVICES Lawn mowing, weed eating and yard clean up. Reasonable prices.

Call Dustin 623-4755.

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

Employment HELP WANTED

WEST KERN WATER DISTRICT 2 Temporary Positions for Summer “Office Assistant” “Field Assistant” West Kern Water District is looking for two motivated individuals, who would like to join

our team for temporary full-time employment during the summer.

Apply immediately at 800 Kern Street. Must be 18 years of age.

Deadline for submitting application is Tuesday, June 5, 2012. Resume will not be accepted in lieu of District application. The successful applicant will be subject to a physical, pre-employment drug screen, and background check. E.O.E. Cuyama Joint Unified School District is hiring for MAINTENANCE WORKER I Must have High School Diploma; GED (Interested candidate MUST be willing to complete requirements to become a substitute bus driver for the District) $10.56/hr $16.61/hr (wage step depends on experience & qualifications) $12.03/ hr (Bus driver substitute hourly rate when qualified) Full benefit package. Starting date is Monday, June 11, 2012. Schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day. Please visit our website at www.cuyamaunified. org for a complete job description, salary schedule, and to print out an application.

Submit application and resume to: Personnel Department Cuyama Joint Unified School District P.O. Box 271 New Cuyama, CA 93254. Application deadline is May 30, 2012 4PM. Midway Elementary School is hiring a first grade teacher. The deadline for applications is June 8th, 2012 at 3pm. Interviews will be scheduled following the deadline. For more information please call 768-4344 or pick up an application at Midway School, 259 “F” Street, Fellows, CA 93224 Midway Elementary School is hiring a second grade teacher.

The deadline for applications is June 8th, 2012 at 3pm. Interviews

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

Preserving for the Future

Fax:765-6556 765-6556 Fax: E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com

May 25 - 31, 2012

will be scheduled following the deadline.

For more information please call 768-4344 or pick up an application at Midway School, 259 “F” Street, Fellows, CA 93224

& Motorparts. Cash Paid $1 - $20 Call David 661293-0359 or 661-7656497. We will pick up!

Midway Elementary School is hiring a BUS DRIVER/ CUSTODIAN/ MAINTENANCE/ GROUNDS/ TEACHER AIDE. The deadline for applications is June 22nd at 3pm. Interviews will be scheduled following the deadline.

For more information please call 768-4344 or pick up an application at Midway School, 259 “F” Street, Fellows, CA 93224

FOR SALE

Midway Elementary School is hiring a 4 hour Teacher Aide/Custodian.

Must have experience in both and qualify as a teacher aide. Deadline for applications is June 22nd at 3pm. Interviews will be scheduled following the deadline.

For more information please call 768-4344 or pick up an application at Midway School, 259 “F” Street, Fellows, CA 93224.

American Greetings Part Time Position available.

Merchandising Greeting Card Department. http:// AmericanGreetings. jobs.com Choose Merchandiser Application, Territory Number 2786. EOE Short order cook and bartender.

Tumbleweed cafe.

Must have experience.

809-4634.

TC Student wanted for part time waitress.

Experience required.

765-6556.

Experienced writer wanted. 765-6550

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Wanted

WANTED

Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552 Old Appliances, In ANY Condition. Car Batteries

For Sale AUTOMOBILES

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS Found dog in South Street area. Call to identify 661-293-0166.

LOST PETS

Real Estate PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property Management 1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms now available in good areas.

CRIME FREE HOUSING Brokers Licence 01417057 661-577-7136

BUSINESS FOR SALE

HOMES FOR SALE

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

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.

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

Plumbing • Septic • Rooter Framing • Electrical • Concrete

HOMES FOR RENT

We Do All Phases of Construction Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

30 Plus Years in Construction License No. 927634

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT 418 San Emidio 1/1 $500 420 ½ San Emidio 2/1 $600 408 Philippine 2/1 $650 203 W Ash #C 2/1.5 $700 315 7th Street 1/1 Furnished! $850 302 Jefferson 2/1 $850 304 Calvin 2/1 $900 116 Franklin 3/1 $1,000 426 D St 3/1 $1,000 535 B Street 3/1 $1,000 27545 Cypress 3/1.5 Horse Property $1,200 404 Hillard 3/1.75 $1,500 __________________ 402 Pierce St. 3bd/1ba 1 car garage + shop $889 mo. + dep. 661343-0507 707 Filmore 3bd/1ba $780 mo. + dep. 661343-0507 116 Pierce St. 1bd/1ba house $560 mo. + dep.

661-343-0507

Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507

West Side Real Estate And Property Management

OPENING SOON

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

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

Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

3bd/1 ba. 350 Olive St. in Maricopa $850 mo + $500 dep. Lrg backyard, W&D hookup, garage.

Hablo espanol. 805746-5410.

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.

Studio Apt. $450 mo + $450 dep. Water included. Recently remodeled. 661-4966064.

Get It Rented!

Place Your Ad for $2 Per Line!

Call Today (661)765-6550

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

May 25 - 31, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Weekly Gas Price Update And Outlook

Average retail gasoline prices in California have fallen 2.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.32/g Monday, May 21st This compares with the national average that has fallen 2.8 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.70/g, according to gasoline price website CaliforniaGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in California during the past week, prices Monday, May 21st were 21.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 14.8 cents per gallon higher than a month ago.

The national average has decreased 15.1 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 13.7 cents per gallon lower than this day one year ago.

“With Memorial Day a week away, it’s time to put to bed an old myth that gasoline prices rise ahead of a major holiday,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “Average gasoline prices will likely continue to decline in the days ahead of Memorial Day, but folks will still say come next year that prices went up over the weekend this year. It’s a sign of how sensitive motorists become to gasoline prices around the holidays, nothing more, and most of the time, the myth isn’t true. This year will be one of those years- unless you’re on the West Coast, prices have been slowly coming down,” DeHaan said.

California’s Infant Mortality Rate Reaches Historic Low California’s infant mortality rate has reached a record low, announced Dr. Ron Chapman, state health officer and director of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). In 2010, the most recent year data are available, the rate was 4.7 infant deaths per 1,000 live births, down from 4.9 infant deaths per 1,000 live births in 2009. Infant mortality is defined as the number of deaths in infants under one year of age.

“Optimal infant health outcomes are influenced by a woman’s health even before she becomes pregnant, including avoiding tobacco, alcohol and drugs, maintaining a healthful weight, and taking folic acid supplements,” said Chapman. “Early entry into prenatal care, genetic testing to identify health risks at birth, breastfeeding, immunizations, and continuing proper nutrition through a baby’s developing years all contribute to improving infant health outcomes.”

African Americans in California experienced the largest decline in infant mortality, from 10.6 infant deaths per 1,000 live births in 2009 to 9.5 in 2010. While this is a significant improvement, racial/ethnic disparities in infant mortality persist. African-American infant deaths occurred 2.3 times more frequently than Caucasian infant deaths in 2010. The infant mortality rate among Caucasians remained unchanged between 2009 and 2010 (4.1 deaths per 1,000 live births) and dropped from 5.0 to 4.9 among Hispanics.

Among the factors that may have contributed to the declining infant mortality rate is the decline in the percent of births born prematurely (less than 37 weeks’ gestation). The percent of births born prematurely in California declined from 10.4 percent in 2009 to 10.0 percent in 2010.

Optimal health of women before pregnancy and during pregnancy is likely to contribute to fewer babies born prematurely and to better survival rates of babies overall.

California had the fourth-lowest infant mortality rate among all 50 states.

Many CDPH programs and initiatives target reduction of infant mortality as a goal. For information on these programs, as well as resources that can help pregnant women or women who are considering pregnancy, visit: · Maternal health before, during and after pregnancy · Nutrition needs for pregnant women, nursing women and infants · Immunization needs of pregnant women and infants · Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program · Genetic Disease Screening Program

Carrizo Plain National Monument Advisory Council Plans June Meeting

The Bureau of Land Management’s Carrizo Plain National Monument Advisory Council will meet June 30 at the Carrisa Plains Elementary School to discuss management planning for the monument.

The school is located approximately two miles northwest of Soda Lake Road on Highway 58.

The public meeting will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a public comment period from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch will be available for $8 or you may bring a sack lunch.

“At this meeting, monument staff will outline the process of developing the Travel Management Plan for the monument, provide updated information on continued implementation of the Resource Management Plan and accomplishments,” said Johna Hurl, monument manager.

The ten-member council advises the Secretary of the Interior, through the Bureau of Land Management, on a variety of public land issues associated with public land management in the Carrizo Plain National Monument in Central California. The public may present written or verbal comments. Depending on the number of persons wishing to comment and the time available, the time allotted for individual oral comments may be limited. Individuals who plan to attend and need special assistance such as sign language interpretation or other reasonable accommodations should contact the BLM as indicated below.

Council members are: Dale Kuhnle, Santa Margarita; Ellen Cypher, PhD, Bakersfield; Michael Khus-Zarate, Fresno; Raymond Watson, Bakersfield; Jim Patterson, Atascadero; Carl Twisselman, McKittrick; Raymond Hatch, Taft; Alice Bond-Miller, San Franciso.

For more information, contact Johna Hurl at the BLM Bakersfield Field Office, 3801 Pegasus Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93308, telephone (661) 391-6093, e-mail jhurl@blm.gov or go to website http://www.ca.blm.gov/news/rac.html

Taft Union High School Awards Night

Top: The TUHS Jazz band, conducted by Amanda Posey. Soloists include senior Xavier Chavez on alto saxophone, freshman Pastor Magana on trumpet, and senior Wyttnie Campbell on percussion. Bottom: TUHS Colorguard led by Kelly Morris. Captain is senior, Courtney Carr.

Bikers Against Child Abuse

Advertise WIth The Taft Independent Call Today!

765-6550 Blowing Dust Prompts Health Caution Throughout Air Basin Gusty winds over the San Joaquin Valley have prompted local air-pollution officials to issue a health cautionary statement through this evening.

Winds in San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and the Valley air basin portion of Kern counties may produce areas of localized blowing dust. Blowing dust can result in unhealthy concentrations of particulate matter 10 microns and smaller, or PM10.

Exposure to particle pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, trigger asthma attacks and acute bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections. For people with heart disease, short-term exposure to particle pollution has been linked to heart attacks and arrhythmia, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Residents in these areas are advised to use caution through this evening. People with heart or lung diseases should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of unhealthy air quality. Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion. Everyone else should reduce prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion.

For more information about the Valley Air District, call a regional office: in Fresno, 559-230-6000; in Bakersfield, 661-3925500; and in Modesto, 209-557-6400.

Many came out and supported the “Bikers Against Child Abuse” event at Cycle Katz, held last weekend, to bring awareness to child abuse.

12

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

TAFT INDEPENDENT

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

May 25 - 31, 2012

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

Used to be Paul’s Bike Shop

BMX

Bikes Are Here!

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

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

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

Qik Smog & Tune

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

745-4919

608 Center St.

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

Shaw’s Has Gone

BIRD CRAZY

Cages • Toys • Dishes Vitamists & More!

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Full Grooming Salon LARGE DOGS

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

Kaytee Bird Food We clip bird beaks, nails & wings

SMALL DOGS

Cut To Breed Style

We use flea control and clean grooming practices.

Some Saturday Appointments & Nail Spots Available! 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

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