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Independent The Taft

June 21 - 28, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

www.Taftindependent.com

June 21 - 28, 2013 • Volume 7 Issue 49

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

Chilled n Grilled, Closed

Popeyes, Open May 2013

Roberto’s, Closed

Pizza Hut, Opening Soon

Fiorina’s Italian Restaurant, Closing June 30th

Family Dollar, Opened April 2013

Westside Rec. Report

By Stephanie House

Use It, Or Loose It. Renee Hill Appointed to Taft Planning Commission

The Changing Commercial Landscape in Taft

By John Swearengin

OUR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY SEE US FOR YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS

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

SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS

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

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

June 21 - 28, 2013

Shop Taft

Passion For Nails

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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

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

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

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

Boutique

Women’s Wear Jewelery Purses Shoes Gift Items

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Get Your Sweet On Bakery and Sweet Shop

Root Beer Floats $2.50 Sundaes and Banana Splits Order Your 4th of July Cups Cakes Early

Infant and Toddler Wear and more Shop Taft!

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

A Hint of Class

Prepaid Phones, Accessories and Cards

Coming Soon!

Monarch Wireless No. 2 Save - a - Lot Shopping Center 610 Center Street • 661-745-4954 Taft, Ca. 93268

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

Now Serving Edible Bugs Scorpions, Worms and Crickets

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

Iphone 5 Cases 20% Off!

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

Single and Double Scoop Ice Cream Cones Hours M-F 10am - 6pm Saturdays 9am - 2pm 420 Center Street, Taft (661) 745-4894

Ten Percent Firearms

Summer Arrivals!

Garden, Clothing & Home Decor.

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Blue Jeans & Bling

REJUV 10 23 Healthy Face and Body Spa

Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA

Elaine Arnold, Owner Pedicures, Manicures @ Detoxing Dee Morgan, Esthetician Facials Waxing and Microdermabrasion

Women’s Sizes 0-21 Women’s Plus Sizes Children’s Jeans & Shirts

Samantha Hagstrom Massage Therapist European and Hot Stone Prenatal Massage

Monday - Friday 11am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 5pm Host a party 401 Center Street Visit us on Facebook sales@bluejeansandbling.com

763-9100

510 6th Street, Ste. A - Taft (661) 765-2335

June 21 - 28, 2013

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs......................3 Westside News................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Liberty Under Fire.........8 Classified Ads.................10 Opinion and Feature....11

Events

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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

Taft Seventh Day Adventist Vacation Bible School Mark You Calendar for the Taft Seventh Day Adventist Vacation Bible School. Come join us in the fun, June 24th to 28th. at 6 p.m nightly.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com The Taft Independent is seeking Experienced Writers Feature Writers Interviews Reviews Experience Required.

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

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

acme jewelry co.

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

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Advertising Publisher@taftindependent.com Contributing Writers Wesley Morris, Mimi Collins Columnists Randy Miller, John Swearengin Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

F i n e

J e w e l r y

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Hand Made Greeting Cards By Donna Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Watches NewWatch and Batteries Vintage Tactical Flashlights 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Knives - Spyderco, Kershaw and Others Mechanical Clocks Store Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm Closed Sunday and Monday

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Taft Calendar

By John Swearengin The West Side Recreation and Park District has several activities for the summer. The Natatorium is open. They have open swim, lap swim, swim lessons, and you can reserve it for swim parties. Did you know the rec now has a senior room and also has a pool room with 4 different pool tables? The weight room was expanded a few months ago, and they have certified trainers. The bowling alley is also available for parties with a party room. Soccer season is coming up soon.

Stop by the rec and see all the sports and activities that are coming up in the near future. Also, check out all the rec sports at westsidesports. org.

Thursday Nights- Every Thursday from 4-7pm is Farmers Market at the Taft Chamber.

Every Thursday, if it is the LAST night a movie is playing at The Fox Theatre, all seats are only $4.00 that night for the “Last Chance Showing” Saturday June 22nd: Summer Storytime for Families at 10:30 am at the Library.

The Sand Lot is playing at the Taft Fox Theatre at 7pm, seats only $5.00.

Rimfire Action Shooters Match at the Taft Sportsmen’s Club Range at 8am.

4th Saturday of the Month Car Show at 7pm in the Chicken of Oz parking lot.

Monday June 24-Friday 28th: The rec is having a Basketball Camp from 2-4pm for ages 8-15 for only $5.00 per visit at the Recreation Center Gym. Contact the rec at 763-4246.

Thursday June 27th Wild Child Adventures- Bubble Fun in the Taft College Cougar Room at 2pm Future Events: July 29th- Round 4 of the Franklin Field Arenacross Summer Series.

Races start at 6pm.

July 3rd: Firework Show and Concert with Truxtun Mile and Cadillac Angels July 4th: Family Fun Day at Rails to Trails.

July 5th: First Friday of the Month Cruise Night.

July 27th: Tumble Weed Festival in Derby Acres- Car Show, Bounce Houses, Food, Games, etc.

October 18th: West Kern Petroleum Summit at Taft College. Tickets are only $60.00.

The Taft Farmers Market is every Thursday in the Taft Chamber Parking Lot at Kern and 4th Street. It runs from 4-7pm. Support the vendors. The Taft chamber works hard, very hard. If you have any positive ideas for the Taft Chamber, stop by or give them a call. Shop Taft, and stay positive!

McKittrick School Pool Hours Monday 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Tuesday 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm & 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Wednesday 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Thursday 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm & 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Friday 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Full Snack Bar Available The pool will be open for the summer starting Monday, June 10th

Mckittrick students Free All others $1 Fee

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

Westside Watcher

The Taft

Independent

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

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

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

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

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

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

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, June 21, 2013 through Thursday, June 27, 2013 Monsters University (G) Fri & Sat: (3:00), (5:15), 7:30 Sun: (12:45), (3:00), (5:15), 7:30 Mon - Thu: (5:15), 7:30 World War Z (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 3:30, 6:00, 8:30 Sun: (1:00), (3:30), 6:00 Mon - Thu: 7:30 PM Man of Steel (PG-13) Fri: 6:00, 9:00 Sat: 9:00 PM Sun: (3:00), 6:00 Mon - Thu: 4:45 PM The Sandlot (PG) Sat: 7:00 PM

Use it or lose it!

By John Swearengin Taft lost Chilled n Grilled last month and now we are losing Fiorina’s next month. Both places say they are closing because they did not have enough business. Chilled n Grilled sponsored Softball, had Toys for Tots rides, and hosted several other events that benefited Taft. Domino’s and Pizza Factory support most of the sports, events, etc in Taft. Now we have a Pizza Hut that will open soon on Kern Street. Like every new business in Taft, everyone will flock to it. Will Pizza Hut do what Pizza Factory and Domino’s have been doing for 20 plus years in Taft, probably not?

I’m glad Pizza Hut is coming and I will support any Taft Business but remember the owners of Pizza Factory and Domino’s live here, shop here, their families are here, and they all support Taft. You see Felix Bravo and Bob Leikam all over Taft. Pizza Hut is another great food option but will the owner support Taft like Bob and Felix.

Taft has two great Air Conditioner repair men, Nick Edgecomb and Ivan from Aire Tech. Both of these guys do great work at great prices but I still see A/C trucks from Bakersfield everyday in Taft. API and Geiger Plumbing are excellent plumbers but I see trucks from Bakersfield. Kenny Jackson at Jackson’s Automotive and Warren Schuyler at Monarch Fleet are outstanding mechanics but people have even towed their cars to Bakersfield to be fixed. Russ Lacy and Kevin Hook are great painters but I see out of town paint trucks here.

Center Street has made a great comeback with several great Restaurants, Clothing, Antique stores, Beauty Salons, and much more. Black Gold will soon be a real Brewery. Black Gold already has great food, coffee, and lots of drinks. The Taft Fox Theatre, shows great movies at good prices. They also have good priced combos but yet the place is not packed? You can’t beat the Thai Food at Asian Experience or the Steaks at OT Cookhouse. The Rec has the nicest and cleanest Bowling Alley around but people still go to Bakersfield. Ten Percent Firearms has the best prices and service and no one should shop elsewhere. Everyone jokes about all the Mexican Restaurants in Taft but I love them all. With all these Mexican Restaurants why would you ever eat Mexican Food outside of Taft?

I just mentioned some of great Taft Businesses and there are so many more. I have to go to Bakersfield for a lot of things and when I’m there I do hit a Buffet or two at Hodels or China Palace. Taft does not have everything but it does have a lot. I do try to buy from our locals. I’m happy K Mart is here even though it ruined some great businesses like Taft Sporting Goods. Even if the owner of Pizza Hut does not live here the Sales Tax stays here. If Taft had more sales tax we would have better streets, sidewalks, etc.

The City of Taft and the Taft Chamber are both doing a great and we need to support them also. Our State is having serious issues but I believe Taft is moving in the right direction.

A new Hotel is coming, the Health Care District has some good things in motion and hopefully we will get new houses off of Hillard Street. We have great Community Leaders, Police, Fire, Hall Ambulance, Schools, and great support from local Oil Companies.

I know times are tough for everyone, believe me I know, but we need to shop local and support Taft. I’m sad to see Chilled n Grilled and Fiorina’s gone and do not want to lose anything else in Taft. Stay positive Taft and remember to use it or lose it.

June 21 - 28, 2013

Letters to the Editor Keystone XL Doesn’t Need DC Cops

By Robert L. Bradley Jr.

If the President is serious about his promise to “grow the middle class,” he needs to approve the Keystone XL pipeline.

Last year, the administration blocked construction of the project, which would carry 830,000 barrels of crude oil from Canadian shale formations to American refineries in the Gulf Coast.

The White House recently announced it would not reconsider Keystone approval for another six months. However, newly appointed Secretary of State John Kerry has hinted that officials may decide sooner.

Keystone XL is a clear win-win for consumers and producers.

Construction and operation of the pipeline would create an estimated 20,000 jobs.

U.S. refineries would produce more gasoline, diesel fuel, and other petroleum products that are part of countless consumer products. And increasing the southward flow of crude oil would help cement energy relations with Canada and reduce imports from less reliable countries.

Keystone XL would help move this country toward less dependence on Middle East oil -- a stated goal of U.S. policy since the 1973 Arab Embargo forty years ago.

A chief criticism of the pipeline is that it would markedly contribute to global climate change.

The Sierra Club even condones “civil disobedience” -- that is, breaking the law -- to stop the project. Indeed, the club’s president recently joined a gaggle of C- and D-list celebrities at a Keystone protest where invite-only participants zip-tied themselves to the gates of the White House.

But the truth is that burning all of the pipeline’s deliveries will have no measurable effect on global climate according to official climate models.

Critics also claim the pipeline would damage a water aquifer beneath Nebraska. But Keystone’s planned pathway has been specifically rerouted to avoid such an outcome. And the pipeline has been fully approved by the relevant Nebraskan authorities.

The Administration’s decision not to approve Keystone was clearly a deep bow to radical environmentalists. Fully 53 Senators from both parties are urging the White House to approve the project.

Continued on Page 11, Keystone Pipeline

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Paik’s

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

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

June 21 - 28, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

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

by Stephanie House

SUMMER FUN! Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

June 10 – July 18 Taft College Gym Ages 6 and up FREE! This fun program keeps kids busy with crafts, games, sports and other fun activities. Younger children are welcome to attend with an adult. Kids must have completed a year of kindergarten to attend the program without a parent or guardian.

MINI CHEER CAMP Who: Ages 4-12 When: June 25-27, Tuesday through Thursday Time: 3:00-5:00 p.m.

Where: TUHS Girls Gym Fee: $30 per person T-Shirt Guarantee Registration Deadline: Wednesday, June 19 Final Registration Deadline: Monday, June 24 The Taft Union High School Cheer Squads, along with the TUHS Cheer Coaching Staff, will be hosting this fun cheer camp where kids will learn cheers, chants and a dance. A performance for parents will also be held. Registration includes a t-shirt (sizes not guaranteed after June 19).

GAMES GALORE Tuesday, June 25 2:00-3:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium Grades 1-8 FREE! Join us for some fun and games! We will have classic board games plus lots of fun games on the Nintendo Wii. TIE-DYE T-SHIRTS Thursday, June 27 1:00-2:30 p.m. and 3:004:30 p.m. (if needed) Community Center Activity Building Grades 2-8 $5 per person ** registration deadline – June 26 Bring a new, 100% cotton t-shirt and we will dye them red and blue just in time for Independence Day. Kids are encouraged to wear old clothes to work in.

Space is limited and preregistration is required.

SLUMBER PARTY EXTRAVAGANZA Friday, June 28 7:30 p.m. – 7:30 a.m.

Community Center Auditorium Girls ages 6-11 $15 per person ** registration deadline – Wednesday, June 26 Girls ages 6-11 are invited to a night of special slumber party fun! We will watch movies, do crafts, make snacks… and eventually get some sleep. We will also have breakfast donuts before you go home on Saturday morning. Pre-registration is required; activity minimum of 15 girls and maximum of 30.

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

BEADS & MORE BEADS Tuesday, July 2 3:00-4:15 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room Grades K-6 $3 per person Bring your imagination to this fun hour of designing and making a variety of projects using a variety of beads. We will have all of the necessary supplies for you to create necklaces, bracelets and fuse bead iron projects – plus some special 4th of July necklaces.

SWIM LESSONS Register now in the District Office!

Session 2: July 8-18 Session 3: July 22 – August 1 $20 per session – Parent & Child $30 per session – Preschool, Levels 1-3 All ages are invited to learn to swim or improve their skills by participating in one of our swim lesson classes. Classes include Preschool, Parent & Child and Levels 1-3. Each session is 2-weeks long, with classes taking place Monday through Thursday. STOP Program Scholarships are available.

SUMMER SOCCER CAMP Who: Ages 6-16 When: July 23 – August 1 Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Time: 9:00-11:00 a.m.

Where: Wrecker Field and TUHS Soccer Fields Fee: $45 per person Registration deadline: Thursday, July 11 Summer Soccer Camp will be led by Taft College coaches and players. This training program is a wellthought out and structured program that permits players to take their game to the next level. They simplify the game of soccer in an environment that is both enjoyable and disciplined. Bring a water bottle, soccer cleats and shin guards. A t-shirt is included.

WSYSL – WEST SIDE YOUTH SOCCER LEAGUE Division 1: Ages 7-9 Division 2: Ages 10-12 Division 3: Ages 13-15 Season: August 26 – November 16 When: Weekday practices and Saturday games Fee: $50 per player Registration Deadline: Thursday, August 1 The goal of the WSYSL is to create a soccer environment that is fun and conducive to learning for all ages and ability levels. Please note: shin guards are mandatory.

UPCOMING ACTIVITY REGISTRATION Registration for some of our Fall activities and programs begins soon, so don’t wait until the last minute! For more information and complete activity descriptions, please visit us online at www.wsrpd. com.

Registration currently underway for: TINY TOT SOCCER INSTRUCTIONAL SOCCER WSYSL – WEST SIDE YOUTH SOCCER LEAGUE Registration begins July 2: PRESCHOOL – returning students Registration begins July 9: PRESCHOOL – new students Registration begins July 30: TAP & JAZZ DANCE CLASSES RECREATION CENTER: SIZZLING SUMMER MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL Monthly Memberships (new or renewal) are just $20 through August 31 Regular price is $30 – you save $10!

Recreation Center Memberships cover use of the gymnasium and weight room for drop-in activities.

For more information, contact the Recreation Center at 765-6677.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! COMMUNITY THEATRE AUDITIONS Monday, July 22 Wednesday, July 24 6:30 p.m.

Community Center Activity Building All Ages Fall production – “The Sound of Music”

HUNTERS SAFETY COURSE August 5-7, 2013 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium All Ages $5 per person facility fee (minimum of 10 paid students required)

6 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside Feature

Renee Hill Appointed to Taft Planning Commission Southerland, Thompson Reappointed

The Taft City Council selected Renee Hill to fill a vacancy on the Taft Planning Commission, and reappointed Robert Thompson and Shaun Sutherland to anther term each on the city committee.

Hill, who last year opened the Center Street antique and home decor store Old’s Cool along with her husband Greg, said she was delighted to be appointed and looked forward to working with her colleagues on the commission to plan a better, more enriched and stronger community.

Hill grew up in Taft and attended Roosevelt, Lincoln and Taft Union High School. Upon graduation from TUHS, she attended Fresno State, and later Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she obtained her BA degree in Design.

After a career in finance, and as a CEO of an automobile dealership in San Diego County, Hill returned to Taft last year to open Old’s Cool.

“Greg and I returned to Taft because we wanted to live in a small town, and open our antique store that we had dreamed about for years,” said Hill. “Today, we are celebrating our one year anniversary in business on Center Street, and people have been very supportive of our business.’

“I believe our historic downtown has huge potential, and as a planning commissioner I hope to be a part of the revitalization of Center Street and Taft,” said Hill.

Hill’s term begins immediately and she will serve for a year term.

OT

Cookhouse & Saloon

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

We are also proud to offer our “Chef ’s Personal Creations & Selections” Five Specials Available Daily OT Cookhouse can accomodate smaller or larger Private Dining Events Reserve your Banquet today!!!

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

June 21 - 28, 2013

Taft College To Host West Kern Petroleum Summit Oct. 18th

Urgent Alert from Houchin Community Blood Bank

On Friday, October 18, 2013, the Taft College Foundation will host a one-day conference entitled “West Kern Petroleum Summit.”

Featuring energy experts, policy makers, academic and regional leaders, the Summit will discuss current and newly developed petroleum and natural gas technologies and their impact on both local and regional economic development. In addition, the workforce needs of the petroleum industry will be discussed, as oil industry leaders share their view on the future of their businesses regarding technology, partnerships and expansion.

In discussing workforce needs for the petroleum industry, Taft College’s efforts in science, technology, engineering and mathematics as focal points of its educational offerings, demonstrates how the College has worked to meet those needs, especially at the technical levels.

Within the last three years, Taft College has developed an Energy Technology Program that includes both a two-year degree program as well as five certificate programs designed to provide skills to assume technical related duties both in the business office and out in the field.

Hands on training, secured through internships, allows these students to practice the very skills they have been taught.

Currently, Congressman Kevin McCarthy has agreed to speak on Energy Policy, as has John Hofmeister, former Chief Executive officer of Shell Oil, Founder of Citizens for Affordable Energy in Washington, D.C., and author of Why We Hate the Oil Companies: Straight Talk from an Energy Insider. The Summit will also include local and regional energy industry panel discussions, a presentation from the USC Monterey Shale Development Study and an update on regulation and legislation.

“Considering the vital impact of the petroleum and natural gas sector in the California economy, this conference will provide important information to those who have an interest in the economic vitality of Kern County”, states Dr. Dena Maloney, Superintendent-President of Taft College. “The community colleges are critical to producing an educated workforce for this important industry. This conference will highlight how we are responding to the needs of our industry partners for a trained workforce to sustain economic growth in California.”

Registration will begin at 7:45 a.m., with a continental break-

It is a very rare day when we have to go outside our own community for blood supplies, but Houchin Community Blood Bank has had to seek O- blood from sister blood banks around the state. “We really need to take care of our own, especially during the summer when supplies are traditionally low for all blood banks” said Carola Enriquez, Director of Community Development. People with O-, A-, B- and O+ blood in particular, and those of any blood type willing to give platelet donation a try are urged to plan to come in to donate very soon. “Blood components on the shelves are what save lives”, Enriquez added. New and repeat donors are welcome, and those who don’t know their blood type will receive a card in the mail with that information.

Donors are welcome to stop by or call for an appointment at 661323-4222. There are two donation centers this summer: 5901 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, which is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 am to 6 pm, Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm, and Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm; and the new center at 11515 Bolthouse Drive is open Monday and Wednesday, 11 am to 7 pm and Tuesday and Thursday, 7 am to 3 pm, closed Friday and Saturday. Both centers are closed on Sundays.

Mobile drives are booked around Kern County and listed at www. hcbb.com. More mobile drives could be booked this summer. For information on hosting a blood drive, or to find out if a mobile drive is located in your area, call Carola Enriquez, Director of Community Development at 661-378-6224 or cenriquez@hcbb.com. fast reception. The formal program will begin at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude at 3:30 p.m. Luncheon will be served mid-day. The cost for VIP Sponsorship is $2500 per table and includes seating for 8, logo recognition on all printed and digital materials, state and media locations and event program. Individual tickets can be purchased for $60 each, with open seating.

A Chevron Economic Development Initiative Grant has provided major support for this project. Currently, other sponsors include Occidental of Elk Hills, Aera Energy LLC, Holmes Western, Berry Petroleum, Electrical Systems & Instrumentation (ESI), Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) and Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E).

For information, contact Sheri Horn-Bunk, Executive Director, Taft College Foundation at 661.763.7936 or shorn-bunk@taftcollege. edu.

Black Gold Brewing Company Presents

Thursday, June 27th 7 p.m.

Truxton Mile Ryan Coulter, Taylor Unruh and Alec Olivieri Fresh Country Sound by Taft’s Own

508 Center Street, Taft (661) 765-6550

June 21 - 28, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Houchin Race In To Give!

Houchin Community Blood Bank is proud to partner with the new Kern County Raceway on Monday, June 24th through Saturday, June 29th. The event will kick off with a week of fun starting with an Evening Social on Monday, June 24th at Houchin’s new Bolthouse facility at 11515 Bolthouse Drive from 4 ~ 7 pm. A selection of Racecars will be on display and drivers will be on hand to kick off the RACE IN TO GIVE Blood Drive! Donors giving Monday will receive a General Admission ticket to Saturday night’s race on June 29th at the new Raceway Park as well as enjoy raceway themed food Monday evening. An additional 100 vouchers will be part of a daily drawing during the remainder of the week for donors who RACE IN TO GIVE at either of Houchin’s fixed site locations. Those vouchers may be redeemed for any race between now and July 27th. A grand prize drawing of a Family Pass for Four to attend the Fireworks Night on Saturday, July 6th at the Kern County Raceway will be issued at the end of the week for one lucky donor.

The need for blood is always high in the summer months because high schools drives are over and our regular donors begin their summer vacations. This partnership could not have come at a more critical time for Houchin as we are in desperate need of O-, A- B- and O+ blood types. We encourage new donors and existing donors to take action and RACE IN TO GIVE to replenish and maintain an adequate blood supply for our community.

Taft PD Make Arrest, Recover Stolen Property On June 18, 2013 at about 1:45am, a Sergeant with the Taft Police Department contacted a suspicious person in the south alley of the 300 block of Center Street. The subject was later identified as Mitchell West (age 28), who had an active arrest warrant for recently removing an ankle monitor pursuant to a prior unrelated conviction. Just prior to the Sergeant making contact, West was seen placing an object in a nearby trash can. West was immediately taken into custody on his warrant.

West was found in possession of several pieces of jewelry. A search of the trash can revealed West had hidden a loaded .40 caliber pistol in the trash can. The jewelry and the pistol matched the description of items taken during a residential burglary reported to the Taft Police Department on June 17, 2013. Further investigation led officers to a residence on North Street in Taft, where Taft Police Officers and Kern County Sheriff ’s Deputies located and recovered additional property taken in the burglary, including a 30.06 bolt-action rifle, two televisions, and other miscellaneous electronics.

At the conclusion of the investigation, Mitchell West was arrested and booked into the Taft Jail on his active arrest warrant and open charges including Burglary, Carrying a Loaded Firearm in Public, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Felon in Possession of Ammunition.

If you have any questions, or would like additional information, please contact the Taft Police Department.

The Truxtun Donor Center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 am to 6 pm, Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm and Saturday 7 am to 1 pm. The Bolthouse Donor Center is open Monday and Wednesday 11 am to 7 pm, and Tuesday and Thursday from 7 am to 3 pm. It is closed Friday and Saturday. Both centers are closed on Sunday. For more information about eligibility or to make an appointment, call Peggy Smith at 661-616-2505.

Walk-ins are also welcome.

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

CITY OF TAFT

Stolen property recovered from suspects home in Taft.

Complete Automotive Service

HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

New School Hours Mon. & Tues.

9am - 2pm Closed Wednesday Thur. & Fri. 9am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 2pm Closed Every 2nd Sat. of the Month

.25 Cent shirts .50 cent pants

God Bless!

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

Classified Ad Deadline.

218 HARRISON STREET (661) 765-2437

DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES $80,025 - $97,271 Annually

Call today for more information: 661-763-1222, Ext. 12

HOOKER’S AUTOMOTIVE

The West Side Little League is partnering with the Taft Fox Theatre to show The Classic Movie “Sand Lot,” at the Taft Fox Theatre on Saturday June 22nd at 7pm. Tickets are on sale now for only $5.00. The Little League is run by great volunteers. They are at the end of another successful season. Running everyday operations at the Little League can be costly, plus this year they had restroom and scoreboard problems. They did a terrific job and the Little League has never looked or ran better. Please support the Little League by watching The Sand Lot in the amazing Taft Fox Theatre!

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

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

Little Leaague To Show “Sand Lot”

Wednesday 2 p.m.

765-6550.

Supervise & personally performs a variety of professional and technical level work related to City’s Planning, Economic Development, Housing programs, Enterprise Zone and allied functions.

Minimum Quals: 5 years senior level management exp in gov’t planning & land use. Degree in Planning, Enviorn Studies, Civil Engineering or related. Masters Degree highly desirable. AICP or CEDC preferred. Valid CDL. City Application must be received by Friday, June 21, 2013. www.cityoftaft.org. EOE.

8 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Liberty Under Fire The Government’s Secret Court, there is no real congressional or judicial oversight

By Dr. Harold Pease

With the recent outbreak of establishment media coverage of the National Security Administration’s, NSA, spying on over 100 million Americans, recording their telephone conversations, emails, and other electronic messages for the last seven years, the attention has turned to whatever happened to Congressional or judicial oversight. Defenders of the spying are assuring us that such is in place and we should not worry. The government’s surveillance of its own citizens is old news dating back to at least 35 years as is the government’s secret court, the FISA court, authorizing them to do so. I have told my students about this court for at least 25 years.

This secret court began during the Jimmy Carter Administration with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, in 1978. Initiated by Ted Kennedy it had strong bipartisan support. It was created as a response to President Richard Nixon’s usage of federal resources to spy on political activist groups during his tenure as president, which likely violated the Fourth Amendment. Ironically, the solution, legalized spying on our own citizens, was a greater violation of the Amendment than before. Few voices opposed giving the government extra spy power during the “Cold War” when it seemed that the whole planet was falling under the totalitarian influence of communism but, once legalized, the surveillance moved to other groups notably the socialists who opposed the Vietnamese War. CBS News commentator Dan Rather, in his program, Eye on America, was one of the first to speak out on the in-

WEST SIDE URGENT CARE

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

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tricacies of this secret court and he did so in 1994--nineteen years ago. He correctly spoke to the issue that all federal courts are supposed to be open, that the Constitution has no place for secret courts. His program opened, “Chances are you have never heard of this court because it does operate in secret.” The FISA court “holds no public hearings, classifies its rulings top secret and has wide freedom to order domestic spying in the name of national security.” Alan Deshowitz, a defense attorney at the time, was cited as having said, “The idea of there being a secret court in America is so UN-American and the end result is that the rights of American citizens are being violated by this court. What is at stake here is the liberty of the American people. Secrecy and liberty are incompatible.”

The 1994 program continued, “Behind the stone walls of the Justice Department’s sixth floor the court sits in an ultra-high security vault, guarded by impenetrable double doors. There, seven federal judges hear surveillance requests from the FBI, the CIA, and the Department of Defense.

And it appears the court has never heard a request it didn’t like. Over the years the government has asked for 7,500 surveillance warrants. The number refused by the court is zero. The government has never been denied.” In 1994 this amounted to two surveillance approvals on U. S. citizens a day. There was no follow up on how the information obtained was used in the defense of freedom.

It gets worse, “The questions “under FISA aren’t quite as tough as they are in even an ordinary criminal case. In any other court for an ordinary surveillance warrant a judge must find that a suspect is involved in a crime. Under FISA the standard is lowered to ‘may be involved.’ An ordinary wire tap runs 90 days. FISA taps can last a year. A suspect under ordinary criminal surveillance ‘must be told’ about it eventually but not under FISA. And finally, if prosecuted, a defendant is never allowed to see the top-secret warrant applications used against him.” Ironically, all this is happening “in a windowless vault just beyond Constitution Avenue,” the program concluded.

To date the secret court has reviewed 33,900 requests denying, in its 35-year history--only eleven—so much for oversight. This means that 968 Americans are approved for secret spying, through wiretapping and other surveillance techniques, each year with only one rejection. This number is not to be confused with the 100 million Americans subjected to secret blanket extraction of their electronic data for the last seven years for some future purpose by the NSA. These are they where your Congress, through FISA, authorized actual study of your private information without your permission or knowledge. I guess that is okay as long as it is on someone else. The problem is, it may be on you for the last anti-government thing you said or wrote. How Orwellian is this? Tell your congressman to end the FISA secret court. Secrecy and liberty are incompatible.

Dr. Harold Pease is an expert on the United States Constitution. He has dedicated his career to studying the writings of the Founding Fathers and applying that knowledge to current events. He has taught history and political science from this perspective for over 25 years at Taft College. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.

LibertyUnderFire.org.

June 21 - 28, 2013

Obituary

Verma Nichols Verma Fern Nichols was born 12/7/1929 in Edger Springs, Mo. and was called home on 6/15/1913.

She was preceded in death by her husband Alfred Nichols and grandsons Andre Ryan and Sam Woods. Verma and Alfred were married on Nov. 15, 1947 and from that union they had five children: Daughter Colleen and Robert Peters (children: Cassie, MiMi, Sam, Kaddie, Joey, CeCe and Mahalia) Daughter Jewel Simmons (Chiloe and Jesse) Daughter Sondra and John Ryan (Andre, Alfred and Angelica) Son Allen Nichols (Alex, Mackie, Aaron and Jacob) and son Gordon Nichols. Verma was Mema to 21 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. There were many who called her “Mom” and “Grandma”. Viewing will be at Erickson and Brown Funeral Home on Thursday, June 20, 2013, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Graveside service on Friday, June 21, 2013, at 9:00 a.m. Per Verma’s request for her celebration of life please refrain from wearing black. A very special Thank You to Pacifica Senior Living and Optimal Hospice.

June 21 - 28, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

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

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

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

Now Celebrating Our 23rd Year

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

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

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

ROGER MILLER INSURANCE a division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich Miller • Jordan Miller Kathy Devine • Shelly Hamilton

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

Yates’ Detailing 600 Center Street Taft, California

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

All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

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

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

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

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

First Baptist Church

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

Gateway Temple

Community Christian Fellowship

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

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

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

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

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

Your Church Ad Here!

765-6550

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

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

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

Pastor Scott Pearson

Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship Celebration 10:30 a.m.

Evening Service 6 p.m.

Awana Childrens Program Wednesday 6 p.m.

220 North Street - Taft 661 763-3138

Advertise In The Taft Independent

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Licensed Funeral Directors

Call Today!

765-6550

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

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

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

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

Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUP

Ford City Tuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of Taft Wednesday

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

All green waste must be bagged.

Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

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

10 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Classifieds

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

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

Taft Independent.

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

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

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

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

Classified addeadline deadline is Wednesday p.m. (noon) Phone: Phone:765-6550 765-6550 Fax: 765-6556 E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card.

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

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

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.

Yard Sale. 505 Van Buren. Sat and Sun. 7 am - Noon . in the back.

Yard Sale. Several Yards Sales in Dustrin Acres.

Fri. and Sta. 7 a.m. to sundown.

Garage Sale. 209 E. Lucard St. Sat. 7am to ?

Yard Sale. 507 McKinley St. Sat. 22nd. 7 am.

Yadr Sale. 123 N. 10th St. Sp. 55. Willow couch $100, antique mirror $75, military table with desk $50, other collectables and misc.

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

M & S Security Security Officers Accepting applications for security officers for Taft area. Guard card required. M & S Secureity.

(661) 763-4279. Apply at 200 S. 4th Street.

Water Service Technician Salary $3,874 - $5,500 per month, plus benefits The West Kern Water District is seeking a highly motivated individual to join their team. Applicants must have the ability to perform manual labor; work independently as well as in a team environment and use customer service skills to deal tactfully and courteously with the public. Requires a High School Diploma or GED equivalent and two (2) years of experience in water works operations and public relations.

Bilingual ability is a plus.

An application and a complete job description can be obtained at the District office, 800 Kern Street, P.O. Box 1105, Taft, California, 93268.

Application and resume must include three (3) work related references, and must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. on Monday, July 1, 2013. Resume will not be accepted in lieu of District application. The successful applicant will be subject to a background check, preemployment physical and drug screen, and must provide current DMV report. EOE. Midway Elementary School is hiring (3) 4 hour Teacher Aides.

Must have A.A. degree and experience plus qualify as a teacher aide. Deadline for

applications is June 21st at 2 P.M. 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 7/8 grade combination class teacher. Must have at least 5 years of experience and also be able to teach P.E. to 5th through 8th grade girls. The deadline for applications is June 21st 2013 at 2 P.M. 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.

SERVICES Painter looking for work.

Exterior/Interior paint.

Residential/Commercial.

Reliable, reasonable.

25 years experience.

Available now. Please call Richard 661-7427311.

CHILD CARE SERVICES WANTED I’m looking to buy a house or apts. Can close quickly, cash, Ok with fixer. Not a realtor.

Greg 805-975-7289. gregetheridge@outlook. com

FOR SALE 2 Las Vegas Coin Style slot machines, 1994 Ford 1/2 ton pick-up, newly smogged and tagged $1,500. 661623-6718.

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

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

Carpet Vinyl Hardwood Laminate Ceramic Tile

Contractor’s Lic. #352844

661-398-3044

7000 District Blvd Bakersfield

June 21 - 28, 2013

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

Joyce Properties (661) 769-6469 Preserving for the Future

Rentals Real Estate

(661) 769-6469 Blue electric lift chair.

Excellent cond. $100.

765-2517.

AUTOMOBILES LOST PETS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT ROOMS FOR RENT HOMES FOR SALE Real Estate eBroker Inc.

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

Wondering how buying a house works? Set an appointment with Karri

to watch a FREE video on the process.

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list

MOBILE HOMES HOMES FOR RENT House for rent. 3 bd.

1 and 1/2 half bath.

Remodeled, great neighborhood. Ref. req. credit check. $985 Mo. PLUS $1000 DEP. 763-1086.

Open House June 20th.

11am to 2 p.m. 3bd 2 ba. $850 mo. Call Betty 661-636-6465.

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 www.BuySellManage. com FOR RENT 224 B St #C Studio $475 103 ½ Buchanan 2/1 $600 522 Center 3/1 $700 701 Taylor 2/1 $725 400 Woodrow 2/1 $725

CITY OF TAFT EXTRA-HELP PART-TIME TRANSIT OPERATOR $1,057.16-$1,284.98 Bi-Weekly Under general supervision operates a transit vehicle up to and including a 20 passenger bus.

The system is a Dial-A-Ride and Fixed Route service. Candidate must be dependable and able to work varied shifts including split-shifts and weekends.

Minimum Qualifications - High School diploma or GED certificate. Must possess or obtain prior to appointment a State of California Class B Driver’s License with Passenger Endorsement.

Candidate will be required to obtain a General Public Paratransit Vehicle (GPPV) operator certificate within the training period.

603 Fillmore 3/1 $725 315 7th St 1/1 furnished! $750 623 San Emidio 2/1 $750 103 Buchanan 3/1 $800 410 Buchanan 2/1 $900 340 F 3/1 + Studio $1,200

Westside Real Estate 765-5000

119 South St, 4 bd, 2 bth, tile floors, garage, $900 + Dep 3bd 1 ba in Dustin Acres $800 mo + dep.

On Taft Hwy in Dustin Acres 3/1 Fenced Yard – Not Acreage $800.00 $800.00 707 Fillmore 3/1 Available 6/15. $750.00 $750.00 119 SouthSt. 4/2 Remodeled. Tile floors, 1 car garage $900.00 License 01914953 765-5000 2bd 1 ba. New interior dry wall, kitch cabinets, double lot. $575. plus $800. Mark King 805-689-4122.

APART. FOR RENT Creekside Apartments.

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

420 Finley Dr. MOVE IN SPECIAL. 108 Center Street Apartments.

1 bed room 1 bath.$475 per month.

Plus Sec. Dep. No Pets Allowed.

Call (805) 375-1458 or (661) 765-7678.

Imperial Gardens. 2 1 bd, 1 ba. and 2 2 bd, 1 ba. with built-ins.

(661) 9007681.

Application Process: Application and job description may be obtained at City Hall, 209 East Kern Street, Taft, or www.cityoftaft.org. Final Filing Date: OPEN UNTIL FILLED. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of application. EOE.

Tim’s Auto Glass

Mobile Auto Glass Repair and Replacement

We’ll come to your home or office

GREAT SERVICE AT A LOW PRICE Fleet and Insurance Work Welcome

(661) 332-8467

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

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

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

Real Estate eBroker Inc.

By Appointment

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

Keystone Pipeline, Continued from Page 4 Ironically, blocking the pipeline promises to increase, not decrease, global carbon emissions. If Canada cannot sell its oil to the United States, it will market to China. And China is not subject to the same restrictions on energy use and emissions as facilities here in the United States. China’s refineries generate significantly higher volumes of emissions than American ones.

Blocking Keystone XL is an affront to America’s energy consumers and energy producers. That insult would, unfortunately, add to Obama’s war on coal, push to federalize hydraulic fractur-

ing, and wasted “green energy” handouts for the wind, solar, ethanol, and electric car industries.

The Obama Administration should stand up to those specialinterest groups more concerned with fundraising than good global citizenship. America’s middle class should truly come first with a permit to build.

Robert L. Bradley Jr. is CEO of the Institute for Energy Research and author, most recently, of Edison to Enron: Energy Markets and Political Strategies ( John Wiley & Sons). He blogs at www.masterresource.org.

Visit Us Online at www.taftindependent.com

Hearing Aids Priced Like Costco!

WEST SIDE URGENT CARE

Save yourself the trip & the hassle & buy in Taft FREE Hearing Evaluation!

765-1935

Limited Market Release

Wanted 10 participants for Field Trial

30 Days Risk Free – Special Price Incentives

Verso by ReSound

Now offered in 3 budget levels $1000 off per pair (for participants)

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

100 E North St. Taft CA

For an appointment call

322-8444

333 South

10th

ReSound Vea 2

Custom fit - All sizes and styles

Street, Suite 4 * Taft

Thursdays (by appointment only)

$799 each 2 for $1550

New T aft

ome H ft a T New

Home

306 Amber Street

New Home Open House Saturday June 21 and 28th 1 to 4 p.m.

3 Bedroom, 2 Bath 1672 sq. ft. Home $210,000 Granite Counters Upgraded Stainless Steel Appliances Fully Landscaped Covered Patio Indoor Laundry 2 Car Garage Ready to Move In! For Information and Viewing Call 763-3517 Colston Construction

12 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

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

June 21 - 28, 2013

Used to be Paul’s BMX

Bike Shop

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

Black Gold

Qik Smog & Tune

Cafe and Deli

608 Center St.

745-4919

Devon’s Body Shop

(661)763-4445

508 Center Street 765-6556

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

General Automotive Repairs

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

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

western shop & PET Wash

It’s Time For A Summer Hair Cut Professional Grooming and Care for your Dog or Cat Free Flea Dip with Full Groom with this Ad! Self-wash facility available.

Nails $12.00 Second Pet $9.00

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Call Today For an Appointment 765-2987

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

Come and Join Us at The Tumbleweed The Tumbleweed Cafe 24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

FULL BAR