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Independent The Taft

May 8 - 14, 2015

The Taft Independent

www.Taftindependent.com

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

May 8 - 14 2015 • Volume 9 Issue 44

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

Qik Smog & Tune

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

Local Motorcycle Repair

European and Japanese Street Bikes and All Dirt Bikes Safety Inspection Professional Service Dirt and Street BikeTire Mount and Balance Experienced Mechanics Basic Tune-up to Major Overhaul

Taft Building New Transit Center Next to Oilworkers Monument

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

Now Servicing Japanese and European Motorcycles

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery Now Serving Authentic Thai Food

N o w S e l l i n g Te c h I n s p e c t e d a n d S m o g g e d Q u a l i t y Us e d C a r s

Orange Chicken Lunch $9.99

Monarch Fleet Services and Automotive Pad Thai with Egg Roll or Soup Lunch $8.99 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

Open Monday - Friday 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm

217 Center Street (661) 765-2886 www.monarchfsa.com

Financing Available - Buy Here-Pay Here Available

The Taft Independent

2

Shop Taft

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

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

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

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery in Taft

Pub Burger and French Fries Every Day $7.50 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

Try Our New Pedicure Chairs Men & Seniors &

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

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

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

(661)745-4913

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

Personal Style

Salon and Boutique

Think Summer Fashions.

Flip Flops, Purses &Jewelry Think Oildorado.

Shop Downtown Taft!

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

A Hint of Class Bakery Pies, Cupcakes, Cookies, Pastries, Cakes & More Baked Goods in the Bakery.

Your Affordable Ad Here Call 765-6550

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

420 Center Street 623-1783

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery in Taft

Coming Soon!

Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna

506 Center Street - (661) 745-4918

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery

Next Step Cardio & Fitness

Sign-up Now and get your first 20 minutes free.

May 8 - 14, 2015

Adam Dayton Lic. No. 983535 (661) 809-3919

Pad Thai with Egg Roll or Soup Lunch $8.99 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

May 8 - 14, 2015

Events Inside

The Taft Independent

Taft Business of the Week Qik Smog & Tune

Shop Taft..........................2

By Gardener Field

Community Events.........3 Taft Calendar...................3 Westside Recreation......5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Liberty Under Fire.........8 Classified Ads.................10

The Taft Business of the Week: Qik Smog & Tune at 500 S. 10th Street. Qik Smog is the only Star Certified Smog Shop on the Westside. They do all general automotive work. They also work on Dirt and Street Bikes, specifically Japanese and European Bikes. John and Holly Walker have owned and operated Qik Smog since 2002. Both John and Holly are Taft High Graduates. John has over 30 years experience. Come in today and get your vehicle ready for summer.

Shop Taft........................11 Shop Taft........................12

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

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGS

Email: Publisher@taftindependent.com

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

Tuesday May 19th, 2015 – 6:00 p.m.

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

The Independent is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies are $1 each. The contents of the Taft Independent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.

We welcome contributions and suggestions.

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

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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.

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

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long Publisher@taftindependent.com Advertising Publisher@taftindependent.com

It pays to advertise in The Taft Independent.

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Call 765-6550 Today!

Contributing Writers Stephanie House, Jerry Livingston Wesley Morris, Mimi Collins Joan Raymond, Andreas Fault

Largest Circulation on the

Columnists Randy Miller Dr. Harold Pease

Westside

Newspaper Delivery Tim Webb

Taft Calendar

3

By Andreas Fault The West Hills Church of the Nazarene at 300 Lassen Street (across from the Rec) is having their Annual Free Carnival from 5-9pm this Saturday. Due to water restrictions it was moved to 5pm. Bounce Houses, Slides, Hot Dogs, Cotton Candy, Chips, Games, Snow Cones, Prizes, and much more for free. They have their Church Service Sundays at 10:30am.

Friday- Comedy Show at the The Oasis Nightclub at 7:30pm. $5 cover charge. 18 and over.

Saturday- Vin Scully will be at Scully Field at the West Side Rec at 11:30am. Scully Field is located next to the Rec Center.

Taft Moose Lodge Horseshoe Tournament at noon. Bring your partner.

West Hills Church of the Nazarene Annual Carnival from 5-9pm.

Inflatables, games, hot dogs, prizes, snow cones, and much more. The best part is- It’s FREE! Pre-register at www.westhills.com.

TUHS Jazz Night at the Rec, Tickets are $25. Dinner, Dancing, and Music.

Coming soon-Westside Little League “Senior League,” ages 13-16, register now at the Rec. Save the Date for these Future EventsMay 16th: Taft Relay for Life at the Taft High Track. It is not to late to get involved.

Franklin Field Arenacross Summer Series, Races start at 6pm.

May 21st: Taft Fort 75th Birthday and Fort Baby Reunion. Music by the Taft High Jazz Band. Social at 5pm, Dinner at 6pm. R.S.V.P. at the Fort or call them at 765-7371.

May 30th: Taft Chamber’s Rails to Trails Car Show. Registration 7-9pm, Judging at 10am, Awards at 2pm. Live Music and Food Vendors. Call the Taft Chamber for info @ 765-2165.

June 3rd: Taft Industry Night at the Taft Petroleum Club. Dinner at 7pm.

June 5th: Taft Fund the Fireworks at 4th and Kern Street.

1st Friday Cruise Night on Center Street at 6pm.

June 8th-12th: Taft West Hills Church of the Nazarene Vacation Bible School June 8th-12th.

June 13th: Taft Chamber Golf Tournament at BV Golf Course.

Paws in the Park at Veterans Park from 10am-2pm.

June 19th: Taft Friends of the NRA Banquet and Auction at OT Cookhouse at 5pm.

June 20th: Taft Kiwanis Night at Kern County Raceway. Buy your tickets from Kiwanis Members for $15.

July 3rd: Taft Chamber’s Fireworks Show. Contact the Taft Chamber for sponsorship information.

October 9th: Wildcats Football at Home at 7:30pm. Posse vs.

Wooden Nickel Gang at Halftime!

October 9th-18th: Oildorado Days- Roller Derby, Hot Air Balloons, Christian Concert, and more.

The Oildorado Maids of Petroleum are now accepting invitations to local public events. Contact Lisa Willhelm or Brittney Odle. Contact Brittney by email address (bkodle07@gmail.com) or her phone number 768-8560.

TC Creative Writing Class Reading at Black Gold May 14th Creative Writing Class Reading--Thursday, May 14, at 6:00pm at Black Gold, located at 508 Center St. in Taft. Students of our creative writing classes will read selections of their original poems, short stories, and memoirs. This is always an exciting event in which students gain experience reading their work to the public. Students will also present their original collections. The event is free.

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The Taft Independent

4

Editorial

Westside Watcher

The Taft

Independent

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide Your Guide To The

Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse

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

Black Gold Brewing Co. American and Asian Food Burgers Pasta Thai Food Espresso - Beer - Wine Craft Beers Open Monday to Friday 7am to Close Saturday 7:30am to Close Sunday 10am to 12pm 508 Center Street 765-6556

Sagebrush Annie’s Restaurant and Wine Tasting Wine Tasting and Lunch Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pm 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa (661) 766-2319

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, May 08, 2015 through Thursday, May 14, 2015 Avengers: Age of Ultron (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 6:20, 8:30, 9:15 Sun: 3:30, 5:40, 6:40 Mon - Thu: 6:45 PM Unfriended (R) Fri & Sat: 6:40, 8:40 Sun: 3:15, 6:00 Mon - Thu: 6:15 PM The Longest Ride (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 6:00 PM Sun: 3:00 PM Mon - Thu: 6:30 PM

Paik’s

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

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Proud of our Wildcats

By William R. Taft The Taft High Wildcats Softball Team is going into Playoffs after another amazing season. In the last 4 years these amazing girls have not lost a league game. There have been lots of great athletes to go through Taft High but not many can say they won every league all four years. Arizona Pilgrim and Caitlyn Emberson have ran the softball fields for four years.

They are not only two of the best athletes to ever play at Taft High but they are also excellent people. Congrats to Coach Emberson and everyone else that has made Wildcat Softball so successful. Please come cheer on our Lady Wildcats Softball Team throughout the Playoffs. We hope they win another Valley Championship.

Taft High has hired a new Football Coach. Taft is excited for Taft High Football next year. Everyone is already looking forward to Taft High’s home football next season on October 9th during Oildorado. The Halftime Shootout between the Posse and Wooden Nickel Gang is always very popular.

Everyone is excited to see Vin Scully this Saturday at “Scully Field.” Kevin McCarthy will also be there. Opening Ceremony is at 11:30am. Scully Field is a replica whiffleball field of Dodger Stadium. It is next to Oil Field which is a replica whiffleball field of Fenway Park. The Rec also recently added a shaded picnic area next to Oil Field. All this is located next to the Rec Center at 500 Cascade Place, just south of the parking lot. Check out all the history around both fields. A lot of work went into these fields. Hundreds of kids love to play whiffleball and T-Ball on them.

About 10 years ago Les Clark the 3rd heard about a man that built several whiffleball field replicas. He wanted to build one for the kids in Taft in the field next to his house. Luckily a short time later Don Koenig hired Les at the West Side Rec. Les has expanded and added several things to the Rec over the years. Les wanted to build replica whiffleball fields at the Rec for all the kids. Taft is an Oil Town and has so much Oil History. Finway Park has so much history and who does not dream of hitting a homerun over the Big Green Monster. Les decided a replica of Fenway Park and naming it Oil Field is the perfect match for Taft.

Les’ favorite baseball team is not the Dodgers but he knows Vin Scully is the best Announcer. Les does know the Dodgers are most of Taft’s favorite Baseball Team so he did what is best for Taft and picked a replica of Dodger Stadium. All our kids love playing on these fields because they feel like Major League Baseball Players. Now that Vin Scully is coming and Kevin McCarthy is coming back everyone will know about Scully Field in Taft. Rumor has it ESPN might be here.

Everyone watching will say, “That field is amazing but where is Taft.” It is so cool to see Les’ dream benefitting all of Taft.

Thank you to Les Clark the 3rd, Don Koenig, Bart Mclean, Matt Davis, and the Rec Maintenance Crew.

On a bad note you may have noticed work being done on the old Peavyhouse Real Estate Building down from Pizza Factory. The window says it is a smoke shop. It is way more than that, they want to sell bongs and other items that Taft does not need. If you remember awhile back someone attempted to open an Internet Café on Center Street. We do not need any of this in Taft. We have enough new crazy druggy bums to worry about right now. Please keep it clean Taft.

On a sad note, Stan Barrett passed away last Friday night.

Stan was one of the best guys around and was loved by many.

He had a heart of gold and loved Taft. We will miss him but he is now pain free in Heaven.

Maricopa Tea Room Specials Monday: pasta salad with grilled chicken Tuesday: ham and scalloped potatoes Wednesday: turkey dinner Thursday: Philly cheesesteak sandwich Friday: Clam Chowder **all specials $6.00

May 8 - 14, 2015

Executive Directions

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

Doubtless you have heard the phrase, “Oh, I’m not political. I don’t do politics.” Apparently, politics, for those that don’t do it, is defined loosely—from innocuous actions, such as declining to state an opinion on an issue, to important lifestyle decisions such as exercising the right to vote. I would submit that both of those responses--staying silent by withholding oral communication and staying silent through non-participation-- are political!

As George Costanza once said to Jerry Seinfeld over lunch at Monk’s when Jerry refused to discuss his recent tryst with Elaine, “You’re not comfortable discussing this?! You’re not comfortable discussing this?! Well, my friend, you had better get comfortable discussing this—because this is big—really big!”

No one would be surprised to know that the Chamber Board deals with many controversial--and yes, political--decisions that take place or are argued daily. We often are asked to support different causes, bills going through the legislature, groups, or organizations that claim to contribute to the common good. With the direction of the Chamber Board, I research the implications of such petitions to determine whether the end results are in the best interests of the people, businesses, and community we serve.

One such call for support came from the office of Assembly Member Jim Patterson who has authored a bill to prohibit contractors from having to pay twice for insurance for their employees.

Currently, the Affordable Care Act (ACA or “Obamacare”) requires contractors to carry insurance on their employees or pay a penalty for not doing so. Additionally, for certain projects, contractors must pay again for insurance through a union-operated healthcare plan in order to bid on or to be awarded a job. AB842 would fix this loophole in our construction contracting processes.

Your Chamber wrote a letter in support of AB842 and sent it to the office of Assembly Member Patterson. Our Board believed this issue to be important to the people we serve.

We all have become aware of the draught and the effects and potential effects of the lack of water on our economy and our lifestyle.

Our West Kern Water District has done their homework, and we here on the West Side have banked enough water to take care of our needs for the next ten years (kudos to the Water Board and General Manager Harry Starkey!); however, we are not in control. The State Water Resources Control Board is in the driver’s seat on this one, and they apparently are not detail-oriented.

According to a letter from Harry Starkey to the State Water Resources Control Board dated April 13, 2015, the newest decisions aimed at reducing the State’s potable water usage by 25% will have far-reaching, serious, and disparate effects. Disparate—not desparate—disparate, meaning unequal, as in unfair . . . OK for some, bad for us.

OK, so let’s take an example-- let’s take Harry’s example: watering a lawn in San Francisco vs. watering a lawn in Taft has obvious differences. One could argue that the folks in inland, non-coastal areas probably could forego pretty lawns for a season; people in San Francisco don’t have to watch their lawns turn brown. But Continued on Page 10

The Taft Independent

May 8 - 14, 2015

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.westsidesports.org 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, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. * Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 1:30 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.

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

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

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

Where: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Fee: $2 daily or $15 monthly (program is ongoing, join us at any time!)

Don’t worry about the heat or the cold outside - come 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.

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION BEGINS MAY 12 The West Side Recreation & Park District’s Preschool program will begin accepting new student registration on Tuesday, May 12 at 8:30 a.m. in the District Office. The 2015/2016 school year will begin the week of August 24. The program is for children ages 3-5 and we have three classes available. Fees vary per class. For more information, please phone 763-4246 or send an email to steph@wsrpd.com.

Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday Class: 8:30-11:00 a.m.

Monday/Wednesday Class: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday/Thursday Class: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

PRESCHOOL SUMMER DAY CAMPS Who: Ages 3-5 Week 1: June 1-4, The Peas & Carrots of Cooking Week 2: June 8-11, The Royal Court Time: 8:30-11:30 a.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 preregistration is required.

FIRE & ICE ELITE COMPETITION CHEER Who: Ages 5-18 (as of 8/31/2015) Registration: April 6 – May 14 Fee: $20 (non-refundable) Evaluations: May 18-20 (Monday-Wednesday) Time: 5:00-6:30 pm Practices Begin: July/August 2015 It’s time to open up registration for new cheerleaders for the 2015/2016 season! Interested cheerleaders must be registered prior to Evaluations and space is limited. An information packet is available in the District Office. Send a request to receive a packet via email to steph@wsrpd.com. A parent/info meeting will also be held on Tuesday, May 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Community Center.

WEST SIDE RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT 500 Cascade Place, Taft CA 93268 www.wsrpd.com * info@wsrpd.com District Office, 763-4246 * Recreation Center, 765-6677

5

SUMMER BASKETBALL CAMP Who: Grades 6-12 (2015/2016 school year) When: June 19-20 (Friday & Saturday) Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Where: Aera Gymnasium, Recreation Center Fee: $50 for camp, $55 for camp and shirt, or $80 for camp, shirt and summer league This summer basketball camp will be led by TUHS Basketball Coaching Staff. Only 50 spots are available – register before it’s too late! Registration is taking place now in person or over the phone in the District Office (763-4246) or at the Recreation Center (765-6677).

SUMMER BASKETBALL LEAGUE Division 1: Ages 7-9 Division 2: Ages 10-12 Division 3: Ages 13-15 Division 4: 17U (Advanced league – dependent upon enrollment) Games: July 6 – August 8 Where: Aera Gymnasium, Recreation Center Fee: $35 for summer league or $75 for summer league and camp Registration deadline: Thursday, June 25 The Summer Basketball League will be similar to the fall/winter league with games taking place on weekdays and Saturdays. New this year is the option to play on a coed team or all girls team for Divisions 1-3. League age is the age of the participant as of July 20, 2015. Volunteer coaches are also needed!

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

OPEN SWIM: Monday – Friday, 1:30-5:00 p.m., June 8 – August 12 NIGHT SWIM: Monday and Thursday, 7:45-9:00 p.m., June 8 – August 13 MORNING LAP SWIM: Monday – Friday, 5:00-7:00 a.m., May 26 – August 14 EVENING LAP SWIM: Monday – Thursday, 6:00-7:30 p.m., May 26 – August 13 SATURDAY SWIM: Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., June 6 – August 8 SWIM LESSONS: Sessions begin June 15; Registration begins May 20 in the District Office For more information, please contact the District Office at 763-4246 or visit us online at www. wsrpd.com.

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 5 and August 16. Rental fees start at $180 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information.

LAP SWIM Begins Tuesday, May 26 Monday-Friday, 5:00-7:00 a.m.

Monday – Thursday, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

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 26 – June 19, June 22 – July 17 and July 20 – August 14.

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 6 and August 17. Rental fees start at $165 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information.

OPEN BOWL Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

West Side Lanes, Recreation Center Fees: * Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and all day Sunday: $2 per game/per person, $2 shoe rental OR $15 hourly per lane, $2 per person shoe rental * Monday-Friday, 4:00 p.m. to close and all day Saturday: $15 hourly per lane, $2 per person shoe rental **Hours and availability subject to change to accommodate party reservations and league play.

WEST SIDE LANES MAY BOWLING SPECIALS Sunday, May 10 – MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL – Moms bowl free from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Monday, May 18 – FAMILY DAY – Get 2 free games from 3:00-7:00 p.m. Shoe rental is not included.

For more information, please contact West Side Lanes at 765-6677.

BOWLING PARTY RENTALS Make your reservation now!

Reservations are now being accepted for party rentals at the bowling alley in the new 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.

The Taft Independent

6

Council Gives Approval for New Transit Center Jerry Livingston J.D. Jerry.Taft.Independent@gmail.com

Taft’s City Council gave permission to staff to issue a request for proposal to hire architectural and engineering services for a new Transit Center to be sited on Supply Row near the Oil Workers Monument.

The City’s Planning Director, Mark Staples made a brief presentation of the site plan, floor plan and elevations. The Council gave its approval following its review of the plans for the center.

The Center’s final conceptual design is a blend of a Craftsman style originally developed in California in the 1890’s. The city of Pasadena is noted for architecture of this type of design. Other design elements include a more modern industrial look. When combined the styles give the Center a remarkable “old time” feel to the building.

Councilmember Noerr commented that the design of the new Center will make a perfect backdrop to the Oil Workers Monument.

The RFP will be issued seeking combined architectural and engineering service in an effort to save on the cost of further developing the plans. Staples said they intend to allow for sixty days for submission of proposals.

The Transit Center will be sited next to a planned parking area between the Monument and the Center both are funded from separate grants.

Jim Fanska named N.E.E.D.S. Center Volunteer of the Year Jim Fanska, a board member and volunteer at the N.E.E.D.S. Center in Taft has been name Volunteer of the Year for the Community Actin Partnership Of Kern Food Bank. Jim volunteers every Thursday to pick up bread from retail stores such as Food Co, Sam’s Club and Vons, and brings them to the Food Bank where they are distributed to individuals and families in Kern County. Jim has volunteered over 200 hours this year and has a profound impact on the lives of thousands of people who were hungry or food insecure. He was honored at a banquet on Thursday, May 7, at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center at 7 PM. Jim is a regular volunteer at the N.E.E.D.S. Center every Friday. He Jim and Lanette Fanska brings a truck load of bread and pastries from the Food Bank to distribute to individuals and families on the West Side. He can be seen at all of our yard sales, cinnamon roll sales, and all other activities. He and his wife Lanette have been board members for the past several years and have devoted hundreds of hours to assist in continuing the mission of The Center.

Black Gold Brewing Company An American Craft Brewery

BBQ Ribs Special Every Friday $9.95 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556

May 8 - 14, 2015

May 8 - 14, 2015

Miller Time Hi Everyone, A couple of nice things happening lately in Taft; Vin Scully of Dodger announcing fame is dropping by this Saturday for the dedication of Scully Field, the West Side Rec and Park District’s newest wiffleball park next to the Oil Field Park at the districts complex on Cascade Place. It is at the invite of our Representative Kevin McCarthy, who came last year to participate in the dedication of the Oil Field when he played with the kids and parked one over the mini-green monster. I’m sure he is eager try his bat at the new park. It is quite a tribute to the staff at the Rec and the generosity of some local folks and our oil company partners to get Vinny here. The other thing is that Taft, in all of California, had the largest population percentage gain, 6.5%, than any other city for 2014. Well, it is due mainly to our newest residents at the CCF, but also we have in-filled quite a bit of our available housing stock. It is nice to be number one for something that is very positive. The story got picked up on the AP Wire service and Channel 29 from Bakersfield came over to Taft do a follow up story. Check their site at bakersfieldnow. com for the video.

I heard some grumbling last week about available parking on Center Street. Seems that some of the vehicles that are parked there are either shop owners or employees.

Slowly but surely the store fronts are starting to fill up as the economy improves and new ventures are willing to take a chance on investing in Taft. There certainly are only a finite number of parking spaces for each store and why would a store proprietor want to take a space intended for their customers ?? We have four public parking lots within five blocks of each other begging to be used by them. Why would you want to force your customers to use those lots so you can park on the street ?? I’ve heard it before, the great unproven myth, that when local folks can’t find a parking space in the same block where they want to shop, they will drive to Bakersfield to get their goods and services and walk a quarter of a mile to boot. Why would our local owners want to test that theory ?? Standing out in front of your store having a cigarette and parking your vehicle close by in front of some else’s store front is certainly not conducive to

The Taft Independent

7

good business practices. Bad habits are hard to break; if you are a business owner, you always have to ask yourself “how do I get customers to come in to my store”; you may have to turn your attention to yourself and how you are perceived.

Do ten things right no one will say anything, do one thing wrong and everyone will know; something to think about as we grow our town.

Aren’t you glad we live here ?? While we have our local issues one of the great things I hear all the time from outsiders; how great the people are. Friendly, courteous, outgoing, helpful are but of a few of the superlatives I hear. We are a safe community, a caring community, and always a supportive community. We welcome all comers who want to come here and live with us to participate in these standards. We have lived down our past transgressions where they aren’t even a memory anymore. The community is very livable with great schools, a fantastic Recreation District, a progressive City government, and excellent first responders that keep us safe. While our local agencies can’t fix everyone’s personal issues they do a great job of offering services that can fit most needs. We have all the organizations, churches, service clubs, non profits, youth and senior activities to fill anyone’s leisure time activities. When was the last time you really sat down and just thought about and looked around to see what we truly have ?? Your favorite fast food or retail store isn’t here ?? Guess what they look at to set up shop here; how many dollars are spent here or flow out of the area ?? If you’re not shopping local, you’re not helping Taft to grow and attract those retailers you want. When was the last time you made a concerted effort to go in the shops on Center street or the other retail centers for that matter ??

You’ll be surprised on what you’ll find; things that are here you never guessed our local merchants had or can get for you. We are all guilty, so let’s turn back to Taft, make our merchants accountable, give them a chance, and support our future. Remind yourself when your school age child is going into the local merchants to ask for door prizes or money for their school projects, when was the last time you went in there to support them. Bakersfield merchants don’t support Taft.

No easy answers for what is going on in Baltimore. All sides have to retrench and re-think their actions. Not all people the police encounter are bad, not all police are bad, there has to be a mutual trust and respect shown on all sides.

It trails back to the home and what is taught or not taught.

We all applaud the mother who wacked her son upside the head for throwing rocks but it is hard to get past the vile language she used to discipline him. If I’d heard my mom use those words, oh wow.

Team at awards Left to Right- Blake Arndt, Jason Fuller, Cindy Kendrick, Justin Studer

Wildcat Welders Compete at State Finals Saturday May 2nd the Wildcat Welders’ FFA Welding Team competed at the State Finals Agriculture Welding Contest in San Luis Obispo California against twenty two other Agriculture Welding Teams from FFA Chapters around the state. At the contest each student competed in the five components of the FFA Agriculture Welding Contest ( Job Portfolio, Written Job Application, Weld Inspection, Weld Application, and General Knowledge Test). The team, consisting of Justin Studer, Blake Arndt, Jason Fuller, & Cindy Kendrick, won 6th High Team; 8 points behind the 5th high team. They also won 4th in the weld inspection portion of the contest and 4th in the general knowledge portion of the contest. Blake Arndt placed 10th high individual and Justin Studer placed 14th high individual out of the 84 contestants at the contest on Saturday.

Thank you again for all of your support for the Agriculture Program.

McCalls Candles and Melts

Randy Miller Let’s Work together for Taft

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8

Liberty Under Fire Should We Fear Operation Jade Helm?

By Harold Pease, Ph. D Military Operation Jade Helm 15 is billed as the largest peacetime military exercise in sixty years, although no one can remember one larger, or one involving more civilians.

Wartime yes, FDR incarcerated over 110 thousand Japanese Americans in World War II. Thousands of troops including America’s greatest: the Navy Seals, the Army Rangers, the Green Berets, US. Air Force Special Operations Command, the USMC Marine Special Operations Command, and the 82nd Airborne Division will practice “realistic” mock operations in nine states mostly in the Southwest. Although the facts remain skimpy, adding to the fear, we are told that it begins July 15 and ends 60 days later, September 15, and will simulate war missions mostly in remote areas.

The U.S. Army Special Operation Command letter detailing the operation claims to have acquired approval from local officials to conduct these military exercises. The operation comes complete with staging areas; airfields, drop and landing zones so it could be scary for some not used to a military presence. Texas, Utah and from Bakersfield south in California, are labeled hostile territory (this part of California is specifically identified as an Insurgent Pocket), New Mexico is identified as leaning hostile. The rest of California and all of Nevada, and Colorado are labeled permissive with Arizona leaning friendly. The map provided in the command letter has code word operations: six in Texas, three in Arizona, two in Utah, New Mexico and Florida. No detail is revealed with respect to these special operations except that Texas is obviously the area of heaviest concentration.

A low population density with access to towns is considered essential in the operation. Their unclassified document explains why: “Operating in and around communities where anything out of the ordinary will be spotted and reported” and “ the opportunity to work with civilians to gain their trust and understanding of the issues.” Obviously Operation Jade Helm 15 will involve numerous citizens and will be noticed. We are told to expect increased aircraft at night, suspicious activities, personnel carrying weapons and some of the military personnel wearing civilian attire and driving civilian vehicles, (Unclassified/Fouo, US Army Special Operations Command, Contact Thomas Mead, JADE HELM Operations Planner/MSEL, phone 910-391-1137).

Opponents, of which there are many, view the operation as preparing the troops for coming civil unrest, as in Ferguson, Missouri or Baltimore, Maryland, or even political unrest

The Taft Independent as happened with the Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas in 1993, or on the Bundy Ranch just last year when federal snipers had their rifles aimed at the Bundy’s and Bundy supporters, coming from as far away as Connecticut, who had their rifles aimed at the government snipers.

Obituary

May 8 - 14, 2015

Reportedly Governor Abbott of Texas has ordered his state’s national guard to keep an eye on Operation Jade Helm 15 in his state, to which the guard responded that it would. Moreover, some veteran groups have launched what they term a “Counter Jade Helm Operation” wherein they intend to monitor and identify the movements of Jade Helm. Their motto: “Body Cams In Place! They Practice, We Practice.” The Internet will be used to disseminate the information.

Why shouldn’t Texas feel singled out, three years ago they spoke openly of succession? Why shouldn’t Utah wonder if this show of military strength has anything to do with the Sheriffs’ Rebellion in western states wherein she wrote the strongest letter to the executive branch informing them that Utah would be enforcing the Second Amendment as understood by the Founding Fathers, “even if it costs us our lives.”

The establishment press is very dismissive of all of this, labeling those who fear the government as anti-government or conspiracy nuts. The problem is, Operation Jade Helm is big, real, and not a conspiracy. Its size and scope frightens people. The military can practice what it wishes on its gigantic military bases and in much smaller groups and in a single state with half their participants in civilian clothing, the other not. It has provided no good reason why it needs nine states to do so.

If this massive show of military strength happened in the fifties when the vast majority of the population trusted what the government said to be true, it may have been acceptable. But we live in a time when most presidents have lied to the people and the trust factor by the people of their government is at an all time low. We live in a time when the government spies on its own citizens. When the NSA records every email generated by the people for permanent storage in Bluffdale, Utah, after telling us that this was preposterous—a conspiracy theory that turned out not to be theory, and when Barack Obama uses the IRS to punish his political enemies just like Richard Nixon did. Frankly, we live in a time when the government, either party, cannot be trusted. It has discredited itself.

So, should we fear Operation Jade Helm? Probably not in the sense that our civil liberties will be threatened, just yet.

But there is a bigger reason for it and the government has not been forthcoming with it. Perhaps it is to get us used to such which one day may be used to round up political dissidents. You would have to be naïve not to have had this cross your mind at least once.

May the work he has done speak for him CHRISLEY QUINT BALLARD 1943 - 2015 The love of my life, my soulmate and a great man, husband and father, loyal brother and uncle, cousin and a friend to a vast number of people. He will surely by missed. Chrisley Q. Ballard was born on July 18, 1943 in Denver, Colorado and left us on May 4, 2015 at his home in Taft, California.

Chris was preceded in death by his father, Quint, mother, Joyce and brother, Greg Ballard. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sharon (Plunkett) Ballard; children and spouses, Matthew and Kambria Ballard, Mark Ballard, Robbie and Kristen Collins, Doyle Angeles and Melissa Ballard-Graben; brother, Brian Ballard; 11 grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; brothers and sisters-in-law; cousins and other extended family and friends. Chris had lived in Taft for 53 years and had been employed by Sun Oil, Standard Oil and Exxon Mobil Oil companies. He retired nine years ago. Chris was always interested in learning new things and sharing his knowledge with others. He was an adventurer and had fun with such hobbies as gardening, raising birds, collecting music and traveling. Chris leaves a legacy of helping us all: he shaped and formed our lives and he will never be forgotten. Chris is with his Lord now. May God bless and comfort us and give us peace as we all join together to grieve our loss, comfort and love one another and celebrate Chris’ life. Donations may be sent to GoFundMe. com, then search Chrisley Ballard. Viewing for Chris will be on Friday, May 15, 2015, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Erickson & Brown Funeral Home, 501 Lucard St., Taft, CA. A graveside service will be held in the West Side District Cemetery, 440 E. Cedar St., Taft, CA on Saturday, May 16, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. To express online condolences or sign an online registry please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.

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May 8 - 14, 2015

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Sunday Service - 10 a.m. www.standrewstaft.org The Rev. Heather Mueller 703 5th Street - Taft (661) 765-2378

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

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

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.

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The Taft Independent

Classifieds

Joyce Properties (661) 769-6469

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May 8 - 14, 2015 Executive Diections, Continued from Page 4

what about evaporative coolers? People in Taft should be able to run them—they need them more than the people on the coast. Here’s where the “Tier system” comes in. The State has organized areas into Tiers according to their usage. Tier 1 water suppliers are (surprise) located in coastal areas and are designated Tier 1 due to their low water usage. Most inland water suppliers are designated Tier 4 suppliers. Here’s the genius regulatory part: The higher your Tier number, the more strict your regulations. So if you sit next to the Pacific Ocean, your water use restrictions are minimal compared to those who live in area that MUST rely on water. And I might add another no-brainer: if you live inland, you are less likely to be a millionaire, less likely to be able to shoulder the burden of higher costs for your water.

Another point made in Harry’s letter to the Water Board was that regarding industrial customers. It was clear at the April 9 meeting of the Water Board that they understood that the Governor’s Executive Order regarding water conservation gave a bye to industrial users such as oilfield operators and power generation facilities and agriculture. The Water Board has made a distinction between “process” water and “outdoor” water, water needed for the internal processes for which the plant or enterprise was designed and those that make the operation look good. The Proposed Regulatory Framework from the Water Board, however, does not distinguish between process water and outdoor water and will require suppliers to reduce the amount of water available to these industrial customers without regard to the Governor’s Executive Order.

Add to that issue a condition with which our own West Kern Water District has to contend: our water district not only supplies oilfield customers and power generating plants (which provide jobs for our local residents), it also supplies numerous residential customers. In the Proposed Framework, suppliers that serve only residential customers will face far less aggressive restrictions than those who, like West Kern Water District, serve both industrial and residential. So, do we reduce the water supply to our industrial customers who need the water for their internal processes (that create jobs for our residents) or do we reduce the water supply to or penalize the water consumption of our residents (who fill the jobs in the industrial enterprises)?

Fortunately, General Manager Starkey has a well-crafted solution to this, again, disparate situation, a solution which I will not attempt to explain here. Suffice it to say, the Chamber is watching this situation closely and will provide support to our Water District in any way we can. We are political.

My point goes back to George and Jerry sitting in Monk’s, talking over lunch: If you are not comfortable with politics, you had better get comfortable with politics. It is jobs, it is lifestyle, it is the air you breathe (some day we will talk about that one!), and it is the water you drink. If you don’t have an opinion about important issues, it may be because you have not informed yourself. Find out about the important directions our leadership and our economy are taking. Get smarter; get involved. Dare I say it? Get political.

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The Taft Independent May 8 - 14, 2015

RE:

MANDATORY WATER RESTRICTIONS

11 May 1, 2015

Dear Water Steward, I am writing to thank you for your ongoing efforts to conserve water during this historic drought. We achieved a 7% reduction in water usage over the past year and that is appreciated.

However, the effects of this drought are worsening and the State Water Resource Control Board has adopted additional emergency regulations. These regulations make additional conservation measures mandatory effective May 15, 2015. As a result, West Kern is initiating the following water restrictions through February 28, 2016 in an effort to achieve a 28% conservation mandate as compared to 2013: 1. Limit lawn watering and landscape irrigation to the assigned days as follows:

a. A resident with even street number addresses water on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

b. A residents with odd number street number addresses water on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

c. No watering is allowed on Mondays.

2. Using outdoor irrigation during and 48 hours following measurable precipitation is prohibited.

3. Hoses must be equipped with shut-off nozzle. Hosing down driveways, street/parking lot, sidewalks, or buildings is not permitted unless necessary for health or safety.

4. Avoid excessive watering that runs off onto sidewalks, streets or gutters.

5. Irrigation of residential and commercial landscape is not allowed between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Lawn watering and landscape irrigation should be adjusted as necessary to avoid runoff.

6. Washing of motor vehicles, trailers, boats and other types of equipment shall only be done using a bucket and/or a hand-held hose with a shut-off nozzle, high pressure/low volume wash system, or at a commercial site that recirculates water on-site.

7. Restaurants shall serve water only upon request.

8. Hotels, motels, and other commercial lodging establishments must offer the option of not laundering towels and linens daily.

9. Pools, spas, and ornamental fountains/ponds should be recirculating and leak proof. Draining and refilling is only permitted for health, maintenance or structural reasons.

10. Repair all leaks within twenty-four (24) hours of notification by the District unless other arrangements are made with the General Manager.

11. Large landscape irrigators should reduce water usage by up to 25%.

12. Penalties will apply to repeat infractions.

We thank you in advance for your additional efforts to conserve and pledge to offer our assistance to help you conserve water for future Westside generations.

Sincerely, Harry O. Starkey General Manager

Mayo 01, 2015

RE: RESTRICCIONES DE AGUA OBLIGATORIO Estimado administrador de agua, Le escribo para agradecerle sus esfuerzos para conservar el agua durante la sequía histórica. Hemos logrado una reducción del 7% en comparación al año pasado y que es apreciado. Sin embargo, los efectos de la sequía están empeorando y la Junta Estatal de Control de recursos de agua ha adoptado normas adicionales de emergencias. Estos reglamentos hacen conservación adicionales medidas obligatoria efectivo Mayo 15, 2015. Como resultado, West Kern tiene el mandato de iniciar las siguientes restricciones de agua hasta Febrero 28, 2016 en esfuerzo para conseguir 28% mandato de conservación en comparación de 2013.

1. Limitar riego de césped y rlego de paisaje por asignado día como sigue:

a. Agua dirige a un residente con número par el miércoles, el viernes y el domingo.

b. Agua dirige a un residente con número non el martes, el jueves y el sábados.

c. Riego no está permitido los lunes.

2. Riego al aire libre durante 48 horas tras la precipitación medible está prohibido.

3. Mangueras deben estar equipadas con boquilla de cierre. Lavando calzadas, calle/estacionamiento, aceras o edificios no está permitido a menos que sea necesario para la salud o seguridad.

4. Evite el riego excesivo que escurra en las aceras, calles o canalones.

5. Riego del paisaje residencial y comercial no está permitido entre las horas de 10:00a.m. y 6:00p.m. considere limitar riego de cesped y sistemas de irrigación ajustarse para evitar escurrimientos.

6. Lavado de vehículos automotores, remolques, barcos y otros tipos de equipo sólo se hará mediante un cubo o una manguera de mano con una boquilla de cierre, alta/baja sistema de lavado de volumen, o en un sitio comercial que circula agua en sitio.

7. Restaurantes deberán servir agua sólo bajo petición.

8. Hoteles, moteles y otros establecimientos de alojamiento comercial deben ofrecer la opción de no lavado de ropa de cama y toallas diario.

9. Piscinas, spas y fuentes/estanques ornamentales deben ser a prueba de recirculación y filtración. Vaciado y llenado sólo está permitido por razones de salud, mantenimiento o estructurales.

10. Repare todas las fugas dentro de las 24 horas de notificación por el distrito a menos que otros arreglos se hacen con el Gerente General.

11. Regantes grande del paisaje deben reducir el consumo de agua hasta en un 25%.

12. Las sanciones se aplicarán a los repetir infracciones.

Gracias de antemano por sus esfuerzos adicionales para conservar y comprometerse a ofrecer nuestra ayuda para ayudarle a conservar el agua para las futuras generaciones de Westside.

Atentamente, Harry O. Starkey

The Taft Independent

May 8 - 14, 2015

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