TUHS Graduatiomn

Independent The Taft

June 8 - 14, 2012

www.Taftindependent.com

TAFT INDEPENDENT

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

June 8 - 14, 2012 • Volume 6 Issue 50

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

West Side Recreation Report: Summer Edition

Taft Union High School Holds 100th Graduation Ceremony

Maricopa Native Assumes Responsibility for 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

Saturday, June 9th 5:30pm

A Sharp Piece of Awesome 2012 Reading & Release Party

Friday, June 15th 6:00pm

Acoustical Music from Keith Jones, Jason Crawford, Erin Jackson-Johns

Thursday, June 28th 5:30pm Wine Tasting Dubost Ranch Winery

508 Center Street 661-765-6556

Chamber of Commerce Car Show Saturday Which Of These Neuropathy Symptoms Do You Suffer From?

If You Suffer From A Single One Of These Torturous Symptoms - Numbness, Tingling, Or Sharp Nerve Pain - THEN THE FACTS ON THE BACK PAGE OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE THE MOST IMPORTANT YOU HAVE EVER READ

661-765-2225

2

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Shop Taft

Passion For Nails Nail Services:

Preparing America’s Taxes Since 1955

Gel Polish • Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star

Geiger Construction & Plumbing Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Graduation Charm Watch Batteries

SPRING SPECIALS

$5 Off Any Phone $99 or More

With 18 inch Box Chain Both Silver 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 $28.00 Total

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

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

J e w e l r y

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

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

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

426 Center Street

Visit Our Booth At The Car Show!

Saturday, June 9th

(661)763-5451

Edward J. Herrera Insurance

Women • Contemporary • Junior • Toddler • Infant • Men

Auto - Home - Health - Business - Notary Public We are an Independent Agency With Many Pre-Eminent Insurance Companies To Best Suit Your Needs

Tops Shoes Jewelry Corky’s Hide N Sole Glit z

Why go to Bakersfield? We’re here!

We Represent You To Give You The Best Service

WE Offer You Low Discounted Rates

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527 Brand Clothing Shoes • Jewelry A Hint of Class Name Accessories & More

Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

F i n e

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

Like Us on Facebook

Lic # B-721903

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

acme jewelry co.

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

Amanda Esdinosa Angie Rodriguez Megan Hiler 418 Center Street Taft, CA 93268 (661)765-5242 Fax (661)765-5476 hrblock.com

June 8 - 14 2012

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

For Your Grads & Dads Picture Frames • Perfume & Cologne Yankee Candles & More!

Our Friendly Staff

417 1/2 Center Street Taft, Ca 93268 (661)745-4920 Lic. # 0277365 www.edherrerainsurance.com

Ten Percent Firearms

INTERNATIONAL CALLING $1 of credit for new customers

Hablamos Espanol 661-745-4954 610 Center St.

NOW OPEN L CKYLAND Internet Sweepstakes Cafe 522 Center Street 661-745-4980 18 And Over

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

WE HAVE MOVED! Now located at 210 6th Street

FREE

Tire Rotation & Brake Check Plus We will check all fluids & tire pressure *Most Cars & Light Trucks Up to 5 Qts.

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special 95* $

39

Plus Tax

$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee Exp. June 30, 2012

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

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

(661)763-4176

Electronics • Prepaid Phones Service • Accessories

WE SHIP!

June 8 - 14, 2012

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs......................3 Westside Watcher............4 West Side Recreation Report..........5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Liberty Under Fire.........8 Westside News.................9 Classified Ads.................10 Westside News...............11

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

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

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

We welcome contributions and suggestions.

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

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

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

ADVERTISING. Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representative at (661) 765-6550, or email to Advertising@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 Jessica Skidgel Layout & Design Jessica Skidgel Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost Columnists Randy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins, Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease Subscriptions\Delivery Tim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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

Email it to us at Publisher@Taftindependent.com

4th Annual Taft Chamber of Commerce Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show Saturday

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

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

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

McCarthy Announces Mobile Office Hours for June In June, a Field Representative for Congressman Kevin McCarthy will hold office hours in Taft.

“Office hours are a great way for members of our community to communicate with my staff about issues that concern them,” said Congressman McCarthy. “I hope that anyone who is interested and in the area will come out to office hours this month.”

Office hours will be held Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at the Taft College Library, 29 Emmons Park Drive from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. For more information or questions please contact Vince Fong, District Director for Congressman McCarthy (661) 327-3611 Congressman McCarthy’s Website: www.kevinmccarthy.house.gov

Elk Hills Students Visit Chevron Seventh and eighth grade students from Elk Hills School to a field trip to Chevron in Bakersfield, where they spent the morning learning about the oil production business. Chevron also treated the students to a delicious lunch.

The visit was part of the curriculum for the College and Career Club in which all 7th and 8th grade students participate.

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

This weekend is a busy weekend for the Taft Chamber of Commerce. Friday night, the Chamber is kicking off summer with a concert featuring The Aviators and Good Question. Beginning at 4pm, the radio station 98.5 the Fox will be handing out merchandise and kicking off the performances on the stage at 6th Street and Main Street. The Aviators perform at 6pm with Good Question starting at 8:30pm. There is a $5 cover charge. Vendors and beer garden will be open during the show.

On Saturday, June 9, the Taft Chamber’s 4th annual Car, Truck, and MoContinued on Page 7

Taft City Council Report

By Kent Miller Taft Police Department’s request to hire two School Resource Officers for fiscal years 2012-13 and 2013-14 to serve at schools in the city was approved by councilmembers at their meeting Tuesday.

One officer will serve at Taft Union High School and one at Lincoln Middle School during the school year. Then both will serve with the department during three months of the summer while school is out.

Police Chief Ed Whiting reported to the council that TUHS has offered to pay the SRO salary and benefits for nine months of the year, a cost of about $68,100. The city will pay for the other three months, about $22,700, Whiting said.

Lincoln would like to have an SRO but Taft City School District isn’t able to fund the position, he said. The city would fund the SRO at Lincoln for a full year, about $90,800 for salary and benefits, using Community Oriented Policing Services grant funds, Whiting said.

The city/Taft Police Department receives $100,000 a year for the COPS grant and has $346,000 excess funds, he said. Cost to the city would be about $177,000 a fiscal year to fund three months of the high school SRO position, 12 months of the Lincoln SRO position and 12 months for a Taft Community Service Officer position (just under $63,600 a year for salary and benefits), the chief said.

“We could fund the Lincoln Middle School SRO for two years under the grant, at which time we would require them to see the value in the SRO position and fund it as a line item in their budget,” he said.

After the two years the city’s Crime Prevention Reserve Fund would be reduced by just over $154,100, leaving a balance of nearly $192,000, Whiting said.

“I see the value of this,” said Councilmember Paul Linder. Councilmembers Orchel Krier and Ron Waldrop and Mayor Randy Miller noted that having an SRO on campus can change for the better the mind-set of students about law Continued on Page 7

A Sharp Piece of Awesome 2012 Reading & Release Party Saturday, June 9th, 5:30pm Black Gold Cafe & Deli 508 Center Street, Taft • (661)765-6556

The pool will be open for the summer starting Monday, June 11th

Celebrate the 2nd annual release party for the literary journal A Sharp Piece of Awesome. Authors will read their selected works and the issue will be available for $10. Submit your own work for the 2013 issue.

Mckittrick students Free All others $1 Fee

Readings from Chris Chung-Wee, Diane Funston, Mark Fisher, Larry Etue, Susan Vicuna, Bethany McWhorter, Kelsey Gaines, Hannah Kirk & others.

4

TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial

Westside Watcher

The Taft

Independent

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

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

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

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

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

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

NOW OPEN

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM Week of Friday, June 08, 2012 Through Thursday, June 14, 2012

Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (PG) No Passes Allowed Fri - Sun: (11:00 AM), (1:20), (3:40), 6:00, 8:15 Mon - Thu: (1:20), (3:40), 6:00, 8:15 Snow White and the Huntsman (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri: (12:30), (3:25), 6:15, 9:10 Sat & Sun: (11:30 AM), (2:20), (5:10), 8:00 Mon - Thu: (2:20), (5:10), 8:00 Men in Black 3 (PG-13) No Passes Allowed Fri: (11:15 AM), 1:30, 3:45 Sat: (11:15 AM), (1:45), (4:15), 6:45, 9:10 Sun: (11:15 AM), (1:45), (4:15), 6:45 Mon - Thu: (2:45), (5:15), 7:45 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (PG) One showing only Fri: (7:00 PM)

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

Have Your next event at The Club!

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

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

June 8 - 14 2012

Planning Commission Rejects Downtown Food Bank Ordinance Amendment

By June Woods

Planning Commission Does The Right Thing, Rejects Food Bank Relocation To Center Street Business District On Wednesday, the normally placid 5 member Taft Planning Commission was placed in the uncomfortable position of having to decide whether to allow the Laborer’s of the Harvest - a highly praised community food bank - to move its operation from its current county location on Harrison Street in Ford City to a building in the city on Center Street that was donated to the Laborer’s.

Current zoning does not allow for food bank’s in the city’s downtown district. Food banks are currently zoned for industrial areas.

Center Street has always been zoned for commercial activity, and the current zoning was recently updated by the city to confirm the downtown as an area designated for “a mix of uses including retail, office, financial, government, and professional land uses to expand the current business mix and increase the economic viability of the Downtown as a destination for shopping, work, dining, and entertainment.

Downtown business owners and the Chamber of Commerce opposed the move because of the impact the food bank would have on current and future business activity, and the planning commission found that the food bank would be incompatible with existing downtown zoning.

Despite remarks by some food bank supporters that the downtown has declined for several decades and that the food bank would improve the block where they wish to move, Center Street business owners disagree and are rightly concerned about the impacts the food bank would have on their businesses and property values.

The planning commission did the right thing by rejecting the request to relocate the food bank to the downtown commercial district. The Taft city council, which will consider the commission’s action in July, should uphold the commissions decision and support Taft business and the integrity of downtown zoning.

Fox Theater Co-Owner, Projectionist Dies David Mann of Taft who was a partner and main projectionist at the recently reopened Taft Fox Theater has died of unconfirmed causes.

Mann, who was a Taft native and graduated from Taft High School in 1982, was a managing partner in the historic theater.

"It is with a great deal of sadness that we share with you the untimely passing of David Mann, Co-Owner and manager of the Fox Theater," said theater co-owner Kent Coke. "The staff 's thoughts and prayers are with David's family at this difficult time. He was deeply loved by friends, family, and co-workers. He will be greatly missed."

Coke said that the theater will continue to operate with existing staff.

Paik’s

Ranch House Restaurant “Where Everybody Meets”

The Taft Planning Commission voted Wednesday to recommend to the City Council a change in mixed-use district zoning that would alow food banks, but rejected zoning for the downtown or general commercial districts.

Laborers of the Harvest, a food bank that serves 750 clients each month on Harrison Street, had asked for a zone change in the downtown commercial district after a donor gave it property in the 300 block of Center Street.

“We’re going to do everything we can to make that a good property,” said Mike Long, president of Laborers of the Harvest.

“It’s nobody’s choice to have the working poor with us,” said Charles Comfort also of Laborers of the Harvest, “but they’re here.”

Continued on Page 8

The family of Mickey Woods would like to say thank you for the love and support from all the cards, phone calls, visitors, flowers, food, and all the fun memories you brought to us.

Mickey Woods

A special thank you to Pastor Skip Hinton, all the people and churches that pulled together to help make Mickey’s celebration of life so awesome.

As Mickey would say God is Good Thanks for the good life!

I would like to send a public “thank you” to the quick thinking and the quick action of a young man by the name of Ryan Mankin. I recently had a fire in a duplex that I own. Ryan grabbed a fire extinguisher and prevented the fire from spreading.

Many thanks to Ryan and to the Kern County Fire Department for their hard work. I sincerely appreciate what they did for me.

Adam C. Vaughn CYCLE KATZ INC. HAS MOVED TO 320 HARRISON ST. 745-4931

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

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

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Open 7 Days

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

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

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

June 8 - 14, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

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

by Stephanie House

CHEERLEADING Who: Ages 5-9 When: Thursday Evenings Time: 5:15-6:00 p.m.

Session: June 21 – July 26 Where: Community Center Auditorium Fee: $25 per person ** registration deadline – June 19 Join instructor Nicole Cleveland for a fun 6-week summer cheer class! There will be no poms or shirts; just learning some fun cheers and preparing for the fall cheer season.

MINI CHEER CAMP Who: Ages 4-12 When: June 27-29, Wednesday though Friday Time: 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Where: TUHS Mirror Room (north end of the football stadium) Fee: $30 per person T-Shirt Guarantee Registration Deadline: Friday, June 22 Final Registration Deadline: Tuesday, June 26 The Taft Union High School Cheer Squads, along with advisors Kelly Morris, Stacy Haiungs, Rosemary Day and Jordan Cordova, 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.

OPEN SWIM June 11 – August 15 Monday-Friday 1:30-5:00 p.m.

Admission: $2 per person The William M. Thomas Aquatic Center at the Walter Glenn Natatorium is open for summer! All ages are welcome to GLEE CLUB stop by to enjoy the slides, spray park and other facility amenities. Children ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by Who: Ages 4-12 an adult during Open Swim sessions.

When: Monday Afternoons Time: 4:00-5:00 p.m.

SATURDAY SWIM Session: June 18 – July 23 June 16 – August 11 Where: Community Center Activity Building 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Fee: $30 per person ** registration deadline – June 14 Admission: $1 per person Do you love to sing? In this Show Choir class, we’ll focus on vocal performance and choreography – ranging from songs Children ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. that are hip to older tunes. Class is open to any skill level. Instructor is Crystal Mitchell Azbill.

SWIM LESSONS Register now in the District Office!

Session 1: June 20-30 Session 2: July 5-14 Session 3: July 18-28 $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.

JR. THEATRE CLASS Who: Ages 7-11 When: Tuesday Evenings Time: 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Session: June 19 – August 14 Where: Community Center Auditorium Fee: $40 per person ** registration deadline – June 14 Ages 7-11 (grades 2-5 in the 2012/2013 school year) are invited to participate in this fun acting class. You learn how to memorize a script and what it takes to put on a drama performance. We will be studying and performing a fun theatre production. The performance will be held at the end of the session for family and friends. Instructor is Krista Long.

SWIM PASSES Individual: $20 – Monthly or $50 – Season Family: $50 – Monthly or $120 – Season Swim Passes may be purchased at the Natatorium anytime during Open Swim. Passes may be purchased for monthly or full season use and can be used for Open Swim, Night Swim and Saturday Swim only. Family passes cover up to 5 immediate family members (living in the same household).

KIDS YOGA Who: Ages 5-8 When: Tuesday and Thursday Mornings Time: 10:00-10:30 a.m.

Classes Begin: June 19 Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $25 per month ($15 for June) Join us as we act out some of our favorite childhood fables using classic yoga postures. Parents are welcome to join in at no charge. Bring a yoga mat or soft blanket and some water. Classes operate on a monthly basis and new students are welcome at any time. Instructor is Valerie Taylor, R-HYI.

NIGHT SWIM June 11 – August 11 Monday and Thursday Evenings 7:30-8:45 p.m.

Admission: $1 per person Ages 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

LAP SWIM Monday-Friday, 5:30-7:00 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: June 4-29, July 2-20 and July 23 – August 17.

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

June 11 – July 19 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.

PRESCHOOL SUMMER DAY CAMP Who: Ages 3-5 When: June 18-21 – The Olympics Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

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

NATATORIUM 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 through August 19. Rental fees start at $165 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information.

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

COMPETITION CHEER SQUAD Parent Meeting: Tuesday, June 12 – 6:00 p.m. – Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place Who: Ages 5-13 When: Monday and Wednesday Time: 4:30-6:00 p.m.

Term 1: July 2 – August 30 Where: Community Center Auditorium Fee: $100 for Term 1 ($50 will go toward uniform purchase) Coaches: Nicole Cleveland and Heather Foss Competition Cheerleading is here! If your child is interested in being a part of the Fire & Ice Elite Competition Squad, please be sure to attend the Parent Meeting for more information. There will be two squads; ages 5-10 and ages 11-13. If you are unable to attend the parent meeting, please contact the District Office at 763-4246 or steph@wsrpd.com for more information.

STRENGTH SPEED & POWER CAMP Who: Grades 8+ When: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Time: 9:00-10:00 a.m.

Session 1: June 12 – July 5 Session 2: July 10 – August 2 Where: Aera Gymnasium, Recreation Center Fee: $40 per person, per session or $10 daily Register now in the District Office or at the Recreation Center!

S.T.O.P. PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIPS (Strive To Optimize Participation) Did you know that the District has a youth scholarship program? Children in low income, single parent or multiple participant households are eligible! For more information, or to find out how your child can take advantage of reduced program fees, give us a call in the District Office at 763-4246.

SUMMER SOFTBALL LEAGUES – REGISTER NOW! Women’s Fastpitch – season begins June 19 (registration deadline – June 14) Coed Slowpitch – season begins June 28 (registration deadline – June 21) Men’s Slowpitch – season begins June 27 (registration deadline – June 21) Team Fees: Fastpitch - $250 per team, Slowpitch - $350 per team For more information, contact Les Clark III – les@wsrpd.com or 763-4246

6

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

Taft Union High School Holds Their 100th Graduation Ceremony

Soroptimist International of Taft Award Scholarships To Local Girls

By Nicole Frost

By Nicole Frost

Photo c/o Gary Rennie Taft Union High School held their 2012 commencement ceremony on Wednesday in the Martin Memorial Stadium. This year’s ceremony celebrated the school’s hundredth graduating class.

Senior Class President Raveena Bhakta gave the senior class remarks to begin the ceremony. This was followed by a performance of “The Star Spangled Banner,” which was led by the Taft Union High School Chamber Choir, conducted by Amanda Locke, and the Taft Union High School Band, conducted by senior Christie Rogers. Graduating seniors who were apart of these programs were able to perform, as well.

After Mrs. Chelle Koernor, Director of Special Services, introduced the members of the Board, counselors, and retiring teachers, the 2012 Salutatorian and Valedictorian were each presented with their respective medals.

The first commencement speech was given by Salutatorian Nathanial Bryan followed by a speech by Valedictorian Andrew Lund.

The Chamber Choir performed the song “In My Life” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Graduating seniors joined the rest of the choir and each sang a solo from the song.

Mrs. Marilyn Brown, Director of Curriculum Instruction and Assessment, led the awarding of diplomas as “Pomp and Circumstance” played in the background.

After the last of the graduates took their seats, senior members of the band and Chamber Choir were invited to join their respective groups for one last performance: the playing of the Taft Union High School Alma Mater. Students, faculty, and audience members all joined together for a resounding “fight, fight, fight!” before the graduates tossed their caps in the air and became Wildcat alumni.

Midway School Graduation

Midway School graduates (from right) Cassandra Toro, Vanessa Uribe, Bethany Fitzsimmons and Kaleb Harlan attend their graduation ceremony on Tuesday in Fellows. They will continue their education at Taft High in the fall.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Taft’s Soroptimist Club recently awarded $3,500 in scholarships to exceptional Taft Union High School, Maricopa High School, and Taft College students. These students were recognized for their achievements in academia, service, and citizenship.

A scholarship in the amount of $500 was awarded to Taft High senior Raveena Bhakta. Bhakta earned a cumulative GPA of 3.01 and she plans to major in business at either California Lutheran University, California State University, Bakersfield or California State University, Monterey. During her time at Taft High, she has participated in the Associated Student Body, SCLUB, Key Club, and Girls’ Golf team. She also volunteers at the Alpha House and the Community Resource Center.

A $1,000 scholarship was split into two $500 scholarships for Taft High seniors Mariah Melton and Daisy Guitron.

Melton has a cumulative GPA of 3.47 and she plans to study in the field of medicine at Taft College. She is a lifeguard and she has been involved with the SCLUB, Yearbook, Renaissance and Tennis team. She was a 2012 recipient of the Soroptimist “Young Woman of Achievement” award.

Guitron has a cumulative GPA of 3.51 and she wants to major in Criminology, Psychology or Medical at Azuza Pacific University, Fresno State University or California Lutheran University. She participated in SCLUB, AVID, Campus Life, Broad Horizons, Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Oil Technology Academy, Cross Country, Soccer and Track and Field. She was the 2011 Homecoming Queen and she is a volunteer for the Alpha House and Relay for Life.

Senior Claudia Devora of Maricopa High School was awarded a $1,000 scholarship. Devora has a cumulative GPA of 3.24 and she wants to attend Taft College to become an Elementary Teacher.

Taft College student Melissa Miller was awarded a $1,000 scholarship. Miller graduated Taft College with a 4.0 GPA and she plans to transfer to University of California, Davis to major in Biochemistry. Furthermore, she would like to continue her education to obtain a Ph.D in Dermatology. Miller was a member of the SCLUB in high school and she was the Taft High 2010 Valedictorian. She was also a science aide for Taft College, an AVID tutor for Taft High and an officer for the Phi Theta Kappa Club- Beta Lambda Zeta Chapter.

June 8 - 14 2012

Sunset Rails Project Sees Future

By Kent Miller There is good news for Taft on the Sunset Rails Project front.

Geary Coats, president of Coats Consulting and master developer for the 46-acre Sunset Rails Project property purchased by the city from Union Pacific Railroad, attended the Taft City Council meeting Tuesday to issue an update on the development.

The “backbone” of Sunset Rails Development is the Rails To Trails. The proposal includes nearly 1.2 million square feet of building space, most of it for commercial use but with large areas of open space and a multifamily housing area along Rails to Trails.

The Sunset Rails Project is bounded by Main Street to the north, Front Street to the south, 10th Street to the west and 2nd Street to the east.

Loan OK “We did receive notice that the construction lending groups at the banks had okayed Taft for construction loans for a potential hotel site,” Coats said.

“We have two different (hotel) developers that have expressed an interest in coming into Taft. We are waiting for them to make an offer to purchase (a site) and construct a hotel facility in the Sunset Rails area. We’re looking at a minimum of 60 rooms.”

There would be “a separate standalone restaurant adjacent to the hotel site,” he said. “Two companies have expressed interest in a sit-down, family-style restaurant.

“I can’t mention any names at this point. One is a national chain and one is an area chain. Both have multiple restaurants.”

There are also “three fast-food restaurants interested in the area,” Coats said. “No names, but all are national chains with other restaurants within the Kern County area.”

Dollar General “We also have a Dollar General store, similar to (the) Family Dollar (store planned for Kern Street/Highway 33 next to McDonald’s), but going in at the corner of Supply Row and 10th Street,” he said.

“It is not as big as an Albertson’s, about 15,000 square feet. It is not just a grocery store but will have all sorts of items: clothing, soft goods, a variety of different items. The best example is a small version of a Kmart.

“That one is very, I would say a good 90 percent definite. Papers have been signed and it is in escrow right now.

“The more the better; the more we can stimulate growth for the whole community the better.

“We hope to break ground on one of the projects this fall. .. It will most likely be Dollar General.”

Continued on Page 7

June 8 - 14, 2012

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside News & Business Briefs

City Council, Continued From Page 3

enforcement.

The council voted 4-to-0 in favor of funding the positions for the two fiscal years, with Councilmember Dave Noerr absent.

Camera grant The council approved the city using the remaining $8,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Camera Grant to improve and upgrade several areas to maximize the effectiveness of the wireless camera system used by Taft Police Department.

After the installation and initial use of the system, it was found that there were several areas that needed upgrading, Chief Whiting said.

High Desert Wireless, the original contract supplier, will handle the upgrades.

The equipment and labor costs will use all but $2.11 of the total grant funds and close out the grant, he said.

The vote was 4-to-0 in favor of the proposal.

Other actions In other activity at the meeting, the council: * Approved sending a letter opposing the Kern County auditor’s decision excluding the expanded redevelopment area from the territory generating tax increments for the former Taft Community Development Agency’s indebtedness; * Receive a letter from the Downtown Committee of the Taft District Chamber of Commerce opposing any changes in the city code that would allow food banks to operate in downtown commercial or mixed-use districts; * Passed a resolution granting the city manager authority to execute contracts up to $30,000, with council oversight but without council approval; * Heard a proposal from the Westside Christian Ministers Association for the initial Project Restore this fall in which volunteers would do improvement work on 12 homes – preferably those of seniors or the disabled. The proposal will be brought back before the council at its June 19 meeting to consider city non-financial sponsorship of the project; * Approved memorandums of agreement on terms and conditions regarding wages, hours and working conditions between the city and the Taft Police Management Group and the city and the Service Employees International Union; * Approved donating a surplus 1989 Chevrolet Astro Van, which the city was disposing of, to the chamber of commerce to use for moving supplies and equipment to and from community events; * Approved travel expenses to send Councilmember Krier as voting delegate or Councilmember Linder as alternate voting delegate to the League of California Cities annual conference in September in San Diego. Expenses are estimated at $1,400.

Sunset Rails, Continued From Page 6 Commercial uses Coats has said previously that commercial uses – including retail, services, and even education – will comprise 60 to 70 percent of the Sunset Rails land. More than a third will be open space, including Rails to Trails, the Oilworker Monument, and an amphitheater; and six to eight percent will be residential, he said.

It will take 10 to 15 years to fully build out, Coats said. Design standards for the development will complement and mesh with the Old Town Taft look on Center Street, he said.

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

Saturday, June 9th 5:30pm

A Sharp Piece of Awesome 2012 Reading & Release Party

Friday, June 15th 6:00pm

Acoustical Music from Keith Jones, Jason Crawford, Erin Jackson-Johns

Thursday, June 28th 5:30pm Wine Tasting Dubost Ranch Winery

508 Center Street • 765-6556

Maricopa Native Assumes Responsibility for 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade

Army Command Sergeant Major Neihl Keefer Assumes Responsibility for 164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade

Dad’s Need A Day Off With Gifts Too...

A nice selection of Knives Watches Flashlights & More!

Father’s Day is Sunday, June 17th Thank you for shopping in Taft!

426 Center Street Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts(661)763-5451

acme jewelry co.

F i n e

J e w e l r y

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

HAYDENS HOPE

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Watch Batteries

THRIFT STORE

426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

Command Sergeant Major and Maricopa Native Neihl Keefer and his wife Justine.

Maricopa native and Florida National Guard Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Neihl Keefer officially took responsibility for the 164th Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Brigade on Sunday, June 3rd at the 164th ADA Brigade Headquarters in Orlando. Friends and family, including his wife Justine, watched proudly as Keefer took over for Command Sergeant Major John Hafford.

During the honorable ceremony, CSM Keefer admitted, “Following in the footsteps of CSM Hafford will not be an easy task,” but said he looks forward to the challenge. He continued with sentimental acknowledgments to his mother and wife for their support and with a statement to the Soldiers and staff under his new command. “You are true professionals and the reason I put this uniform on each and every day,” said Keefer.

A native of Maricopa, Ca and a graduate of Maricopa High School, CSM Keefer was born September 26, 1964. He is a graduate of Central Texas College, Killeen, Texas, where he earned an Associate of Science Degree. His military education includes the Primary Leadership Development Course, Basic Noncommissioned Officer’s Course, Advanced Noncommissioned Officer’s Course, First Sergeant’s Course, and the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy.

Car Show, Continued From Page 3 torcycle Show will span the Rails to Trails bike path. Saturday’s activities include registration from 7am-9am, Kiwanis club biscuits and gravy breakfast 7am-10am, car show judging begins at 10am with plaques and trophies being awarded at 2pm. Throughout the day, there will be live music, food and craft vendors, raffle prizes, and a beer garden. Entries into the car show will be accepted on Saturday at the corner of Supply Row & 6th Street.

This event is sponsored by Accelerated Environmental Services, Willow Ranch Restaurant, and Taft Midway Driller. Raffle Prize Donors include: 2 Wheel Productions, ACE, Asian Experience, Black Gold Cafe and Deli, Cycle Katz, Fast Trip, GF Ink, Goodyear Tire Service, Harold’s Bike Shop, Lee Patterson, Napa Auto Parts, Personal Style, Scentsy from Becky Long, Speedway Motors, Summit Racing, Taft College, Taft Petroleum Club, True Value, Waldrop’s Auto Parts, West Side Park & Recreation Join us at the Rails to Trails 4th Annual Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show on Friday and Saturday or call 765-2165 for more information.

Almost Everything Half Off! Store Hours Mon., Tues., Thurs 9am - 6pm Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 4pm Closed Wednesday &

Sunday

We Take Donations!

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

God Bless!

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

Blue Jeans & Bling Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA Women’s Sizes 0-21 Women’s Plus Sizes Children’s Jeans & Shirts Monday - Friday 11am to 6pm Saturday 10am to 5pm Host a party 415 Center Street Visit us on Facebook sales@bluejeansandbling.com

763-9100

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

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

Shop Our Huge Selection of Half Priced Books!

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

taftindependent.com

8

Liberty Under Fire

TAFT INDEPENDENT

June 8 - 14 2012

Food Bank, continued from page 4

Treaty to Give the Oceans to the United Nations Now Before the Senate

By Dr. Harold Pease Like a bad penny that one cannot get rid of, the idea of giving the world’s oceans, some 70% of the globe, to the United Nations is once again before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The “full court press,” led by Committee Chairman John Kerry, heard testimony favoring the idea from Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Martin Dempsey. Additional hearings are scheduled this month with a favorable vote scheduled, they hope, before July. President Barack Obama would like a full Senate vote before November to avoid the ratification of the Law of the Sea Treaty from becoming an election issue but is willing to wait, if need be, until December. Then, while his party retains control of the Senate, quietly force it through before January.

This is not a party issue. Presidents and secretaries of state from both Republican and Democratic Parties have favored this idea. Virtually all administration leaders from either party, and the advocates noted above, are Council on Foreign Relations members, an organization decidedly globalist in philosophy, and thought to be the mother of this idea.

The treaty evolved out of a series of United Nations Conventions on the Law of the Sea between 1973 and 1982, with the third such convention, known as UNCLOS III, being the most important. It is designed to create government dictating every aspect of the world’s oceans. What began as an effort “to codify certain navigational rights had … morphed into a ‘constitution for the oceans.’ ” So what does the Law of the Sea Treaty, commonly, and hereafter, referred to as LOST, do? All ocean bordering nations were allowed a total jurisdiction outreach of 12 nautical miles from their shoreline, called Territorial Waters, plus another 200 nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone with sole exploitation rights over all natural resources. All ocean water thereafter was International Water, controlled and managed by organizations created by the treaty but under the oversight of the United Nations. Under this new treaty the United Nations would own and control 70% of the earth’s surface.

Presently nations share fishing rights, treasure hunting or other extraction activities on a first come first serve basis and pay taxes on such gains to their respective countries—every country owns the sea. Under LOST, when ratified by a 2/3rds vote of the U.S. Senate, any wealth extracted from the oceans would be taxed by the United Nations alone. LOST creates the Seabed Authority with power not only to tax and distribute the monies gathered but to manage ocean research, impose production quotas, and create a multinational court to render and enforce its judgments; in short, a world government over seven-tenths of the globe. The United States would be subject to an international government of bureaucrats, none elected, and few would be sensitive to traditions of our republic. Moreover, LOST favors what is known as the New International Economic Order, which all socialists and globalists want—the redistribution of wealth to poorer nations.

Of interest is the fact that the only president to oppose LOST since its inception, also had the least affiliation to the globalist Council on Foreign Relations. President Ronald Reagan very publicly, refused to sign primarily because of the treaties threat to U.S. sovereignty. “He also dismissed the State Department staff that helped negotiate it. And in case anyone didn’t get the message, he sent special envoy Donald Rumsfeld on a globe-trotting mission to explain his opposition and urged other nations to follow suit.” Moreover, in a 1978-radio address entitled “Ocean Mining,” he said, “no national interest of ours could justify handing sovereign control of two-thirds of the Earth’s surface over to the Third World.” His new negotiator, Ambassador James Malone, later explained why Reagan’s vehement opposition to LOST, “The treaty’s provisions were intentionally designed to promote a new world order—a form of global collectivism… that seeks ultimately the redistribution of the world’s wealth through a complex system of manipulative central economic planning and bureaucratic coercion” (Still lost on the Law of the Sea Treaty, Brandenton Herald, Edwin Meese III, June 5, 2012).

So far the Senate, as before has not ratified LOST, but can they withstand the “full court press” to do so now? Twentyseven Senators have indicated that they will not support ratification. Many more are needed to decisively stop this action.

Do you know where your senators are on this issue? All globalists must be removed from power or this “bad penny” will return again and again until the United Nations owns and controls the oceans. U.S. Sovereignty is at stake.

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.

Urgent Alert From Houchin Community Blood Bank

The Downtown Business Committee opposed the change in the zoning ordinance and the Taft Chamber of Commerce voted last week to support the committee’s opposition.

“Our issue is with the appropriateness of the proposed location of the facility,” said Dr. Kathy Orrin, Chamber of Commerce executive director, “not with the work done by the dedicated volunteers of this group.”

She said that the General Plan, which defines the use of the downtown commercial district as mostly primary and secondary retail, “has provided investors with confidence in the future of the Downtown Retail Corridor.”

“The only investment I’ve seen,” Comfort said of the buildings in the 300 block of Center Street, “is where someone invested in a can of spray paint and painted (graffiti) on the backs of the buildings.”

“Our vision is to bring the downtown back to life,” said Michael Long, Chamber of Commerce president. “We have a vision; Rails to Trails zoning is all about the future. I would never buy a business by a food bank.”

“Reality trumps vision,” Comfort told the commissioners. “Give us a chance and you’ll be glad you did.”

Planning Commissioners had four options: voting to recommend no change to the zoning ordinance, voting to allow a food bank as an accessory to a permitted facility, voting to allow a food bank to be permitted in a commercial district (general and downtown), or voting to allow conditional use permitting in a commercial district.

Planning Commissioner Jesse Barron said he felt that with a little more time, a buyer for the Center Street property would come forward and a new location for the food bank could be found.

“I don’t see where more time will help,” said Long, Laborers of the Harvest president. He added that the building had been for sale for five or six years and no buyers had come forward.

“I spoke to a gentleman who was within hours of offering to buy,” Orrin said.

“I spoke to him last night and he said, ‘yes, I would be interested.’” Orrin said the Chamber would continue looking for a suitable building for the food bank.

A motion was made to defer the vote and the commissioners asked the two parties if they would be amenable to discussing the possibility of selling of the building on Center Street and acquiring another building before a vote was taken.

Laborers of the Harvest did not want to wait. “We prefer you act on it tonight,” said the nonprofit’s president. “I don’t see where any more meetings are going to help.”

“Our desire is to defer (the vote) to find another place,” Orrin said. She felt that a resolution of the issue was possible. “We have not talked turkey on the issue of finding a new place.”

The commissioners weighed the issues at length and voted against a food bank in the Downtown Commercial District, arguing that it was incompatible with the downtown plan and would result in an illogical land-use pattern. They also determined that a food bank would be illogical in a general commercial district, such as the areas in which Albertsons and K-Mart are located.

The Planning Commission will return June 22, to sign a resolution confirming its recommendation. Taft City Council will then add the issue to its agenda to hear the parties and decide whether to accept or reject the recommendations of its planning commission. The city council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month.

Carolyn Anderson REALTOR DRE #01408418

Buying or Selling a home?

Get the right professional advice from

Century 21 agent Carolyn Anderson!

Just one person in desperate need of blood components can significantly impact the local blood inventory, a problem only the community can solve. This is the situation faced by Houchin Community Blood Bank today, as the established Hometown Realty inventory levels for many blood types and platelets have been seriously depleted helping local users. One hospitalized 4800 Easton Drive Suite F patient in particular cleared out the entire platelet inventory, and half the O+ inventory, and may need more. We urgently Bakersfield, CA 93309 Cell (661)747-8595 need established platelet donors, and O-, O+, and A+ donors to make plans to donate.

Fax (661)215-5364 The summer is always a difficult time to keep blood inventories up all over the nation, since high school students provide carolyn@c21home.com so much of the supply. Regular donors are also traveling and unavailable to respond. New donors are always needed, and www.c21home.com will find out their blood type as part of the process. “Unfortunately the local usage peaked right when the supply of donors is at the annual low,” according to Patrick Clary, Manager of Materials and Blood Inventory. “With the shelf life of platelets Each office is independently owned and operated at only 5 days, and whole blood at 42 days, keeping inventory fresh and adequate for local needs, without having to throw any away, is a real juggling act. The right supply at the right time is critical,” he added.

Donors are welcome to stop by or call for an appointment at 661-323-4222. Houchin is located at 5901 Truxtun Avenue, Bakersfield, and open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday Over 36 Years MONDAY - FRIDAY from 9 am to 6 pm, Thursday from 9 am to 8 pm, Experience Combined 8:00am - 5:00pm and Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm. Mobile drives can also be booked at churches, businesses, retail SENIOR & and other locations. For more information on MILITARY hosting a blood drive, or to find out if a mobile DISCOUNTS drive is located in your area, call Carola Enriquez, *Must ask for discount Director of Community Development at 661Over 50 Different Craft & Imported Beers 378-6224 or cenriquez@hcbb.com.

WE SERVICE MOST MAKES AND MODELS

MESSENGER AUTOMOTIVE SEE US FOR YOUR AUTOMOTIVE NEEDS

531 Center Street (661)763-1123

June 8 - 14, 2012

BLM Moves Hearing on Vehicle, Aircraft use in Wild Horse and Burro Program to July 10 The BLM has rescheduled a public hearing on the use of aircraft to gather wild horses and burros to provide more notice to members of the public who wish to participate.

The hearing had been scheduled for tomorrow night, Tuesday, June 5. It has been rescheduled for Tuesday, July 10, 2012, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at the Woodlake Hotel (formerly the Radisson) at 500 Leisure Lane in Sacramento.

At the hearing, participants can provide written comments or make statements about the use of motorized vehicles in managing wild horses and burros by the BLM California The BLM periodically gathers and removes wild horses and burros from public lands to maintain populations in balance with other range users, and to ensure that rangeland forage and water sources are not over-used. BLM California manages two adoption facilities, in Ridgecrest and Litchfield, and holds adoptions throughout the state.

Wild horses and burros are protected on BLM and Forest Service lands under the 1971 Wild Free Roaming Horses and Burros Act, which requires population management and control. The Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 gave the BLM authority to use aircraft and motor vehicles in t to complete its work, and required public hearings annually regarding their use.

For more information, contact BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program Manager Amy Dumas at (916) 978-4678.

Weekly Gas Price Update And Outlook Average retail gasoline prices in California have fallen 6.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.20/g on Monday, June 4th. This compares with the national average that has fallen 4.5 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.61/g, according to gasoline price website CaliforniaGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in California during the past week, prices Monday, June 4th were 22.5 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 1.1 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has decreased 18.2 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 16.2 cents per gallon lower than this day one year ago.

“An impressive decline in average gasoline prices will now be extended as the West Coast begins to see lower prices in the days ahead,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “With significant downward pressure on oil prices last week, motorists will continue to see prices sliding east of the Rockies, and even the West Coast will start to get in on the action, thanks to a supply situation that appears to be turning around. Also pushing down oil prices last week was a frightening jobs report, as well as continued concerns about European debt problems,” DeHaan said.

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

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

Licensed Funeral Directors

501 Lucard St., Taft • 765-4111 Ice Blended Mocha Fat Free and Sugar Free Available in Most Flavors Open 7 Days - 765-6556 508 Center Street • Taft

TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”

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

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

Mass Schedule

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

FD756 FDR50 FDR595 FDR618

Gateway Temple

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.

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

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

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

Pastors Shannon N. and Shannon L. Kelley

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

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

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

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS

Advertise

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

Now Celebrating Our 23rd Year

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

Community Christian Fellowship

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

Sunday School for all ages at 9:00 a.m.

With The Taft Independent

Call Today!

765-6550

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

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

Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUP

Ford City Tuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of Taft Wednesday

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

All green waste must be bagged.

Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

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

10

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Classifieds

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phone: 765-6550 Phone: 765-6550

For Rent

426 Shattuck

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

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.

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

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

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

NEEDS Center 518 Main Street Saturday June 9th 7am - 12 noon.

Clothes, household goods and stuff!

Sat 8am-12 noon 4 Family Sale Lots of stuff! 112 E. Warren.

Business Services COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services

Yard sale Friday from 6pm 9pm & Saturday 7am -11am 312 Lucard St Saturday 7am-? 412 2nd St. Household, scrubs, boys and teen girl clothes, exercise equip and more!

Yard Sale. 539 Philippine. 9am to 3:30pm. Sat. and Sun. unitl gone. Hand Tools and power tools.

3 Family Yard Sale Saturday 7am-1pm 325 B St. Clothing and misc!

313 Taylor St. Sat. 7am2pm

and bartender.

Tumbleweed cafe.

Must have experience.

809-4634.

TC Student wanted for part time waitress.

Experience required.

765-6556.

Experienced writer wanted. 765-6550

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Wanted

WANTED

Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552 Old Appliances, In ANY Condition. Car Batteries & Motorparts. Cash Paid $1 - $20 Call David 661293-0359 or 661-7656497. We will pick up!

For Sale FOR SALE

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

Call Dustin 623-4755.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

COOLER SERVICES

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

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

Alzheimer’s Disease

Short order cook

BUSINESS SERVICES

Employment HELP WANTED

AUTOMOBILES

Pets & Livestock FOUND PETS LOST PETS

Real Estate PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

CRIME FREE HOUSING Brokers Licence 01417057 661-577-7136

BUSINESS FOR SALE

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

2bd/1ba 143 Crystal St. $800 mo. + $1,000 dep.

765-4333.

Preserving for the Future

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

Community

Business Services

$1,200 dep. 765-4333.

Fax:765-6556 765-6556 Fax:

Payment can made by cash, check, or card. credit card.

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

Taft Independent210 508 CA 93268

June 8 - 14 2012

HOMES FOR SALE

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

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

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list or drop by the office.

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

Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT

418 San Emidio 1/1 $500 420 1/2 San Emidio 2/1 $600 203 W Ash #C 2/1.5 $700 315 7th Street 1/1 Furnished! $850 302 Jefferson 2/1 $850 304 Calvin 2/1 $900 535 B Street 3/1 $900 116 Franklin 3/1 $1,000 426 D St 3/1 $1,000 27545 Cypress 3/1.5 Horse Property $1,200 302 E San Emidio 3/1.75 Pool $1,300 __________________ 402 Pierce St. 3bd/1ba 1 car garage + shop $889 mo. + dep. 661343-0507 707 Filmore 3bd/1ba $780 mo. + dep. 661343-0507 116 Pierce St. 1bd/1ba house $560 mo. + dep.

661-343-0507

3bd/1ba 109 South St. $800 mo. + $1,000 dep.

765-4333.

2bd/1ba unfurnished house, pest control and garbage paid. $650 mo + $250 dep. 661-7652704 evenings.

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

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

West Side Real Estate And Property Management

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

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

Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.7657674. 420 Finley Dr. Studio apt has cable, utilities included $550 mo. + $500 dep. 6234712.

OPENING SOON

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

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

Real Estate eBroker Inc. 325 Kern Street

Karri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.com Real Estate Sales & Purchase

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

Hablo espanol. 805746-5410.

3bd/2ba 715 Buena Vista St. $1,200 mo. +

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.

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

CITY OF TAFT CORRECTIONAL OFFICER $1,323.53 - $1,608.76 Bi-Weekly Duties: Under direction, supervises inmates to maintain security and monitor inmate behavior and do related work as required.

Essential Qualifications: Completion of a BOC/STC Certified Correctional Officer Core Course (minimum 116 hours), completion of training pursuant to Section 832 of the Penal Code, possession of a High School Diploma or GED, 20 years of age, valid California Driver’s License, good physical condition, and ability to pass an extensive background investigation.

Application Process: For complete job description and application contact Personnel, 209 East Kern Street, Taft or www.cityoftaft. org. This recruitment will establish and eligibility list to fill current and future vacancies. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of application. Postmarked applications will not be accepted.

June 8 - 14, 2012

Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

TAFT INDEPENDENT

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE

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

Used to be Paul’s Bike Shop

BMX

Bikes Are Here!

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

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

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

Qik Smog & Tune

Black Gold Cafe and Deli

745-4919

608 Center St.

Devon’s Body Shop

(661)763-4445

508 Center Street 765-6556

No Appointment Needed for Smog Check!

General Automotive Repairs

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

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

western shop & PET Wash Father’s Day is June 17th Full Grooming Salon Make his day special with a nice selection of

Wrangler Jeans M&F Leather Wallets Belts & Suspenders Short Sleeve Western Shirts

LARGE DOGS

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

Shaw’s Has Gone

BIRD CRAZY

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Cages • Toys • Dishes • Vitamists Kaytee Bird Food & Snacks We clip bird beaks, nails & wings

SMALL DOGS

Cut To Breed Style

We use flea control and clean grooming practices.

Some Saturday Appointments & Nail Spots Available! www.shawswesternshop.com

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

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

The Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant

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

Open 7 Days a Week

FULL BAR

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

Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

12

TAFT INDEPENDENT

June 8 - 14 2012

Which Of These Neuropathy Symptoms Do You Suffer From?

If You Suffer From A Single One Of These Torturous Symptoms - Numbness, Tingling, Or Sharp Nerve Pain - THEN THE FACTS BELOW MAY BE THE MOST IMPORTANT YOU HAVE EVER READ Neuropathy affects every part of your life -- walking, sitting, and even sleeping.

Maybe you’ve had multiple tests, only to find out no one has any idea what you have. Maybe you’ve even been put on a drug with heavy side effects.

My name is Dr. Keith Sparks, owner of Sparks Chiropractic.

Our practice has been helping people with neuropathy and nerve problems for more than 15 years.

More than 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral neuropathy, a problem caused by damage to the nerves that supply your arms and legs.

This painful condition interferes with your body’s ability to transmit messages to your muscles, skin, joints, or internal organs. If ignored or mistreated, neuropathy can lead to irreversible health conditions.

Why not get help by those trained to correct the major cause of peripheral neuropathy?

Data from the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners’ Job Analysis of Chiropractic lists arm and leg neuropathy as the second most common nerve problem treated by chiropractors.

Often neuropathy is caused by a degenerating spine pressing on the nerve roots. This can happen in any of the vertebral joints from the neck all the way down to the tail bone.

Do you have any of the following symptoms...

• Pins and needles feeling • Numbness in the hands or feet • Tingling or burning sensations • Weakness in the arms or legs • Sharp shooting or burning pains

If so, you may have a condition called peripheral neuropathy The Single Most Important Solution To Your Neuropathy By using gentle techniques, I’m able to release the pressure that has built up on the nerve. This allows the nerve to heal and the symptoms to go away.

Numerous studies have proven chiropractic’s effectiveness in helping nerve conditions...

Here’s What Our Patients Say… At the age of 23 I had back surgery to fix my sciatic nerve in my back. I went through a lot of pain and money and it did not fix my problem. I heard about Dr. Sparks, but I thought if surgery didn’t work then this wouldn’t. I decided to give it a try, after six weeks of care, I felt so good, I seldom ever have any pain.

-Christine M. After experiencing severe migraine headaches for more than nine days, during which time I went to the doctor three times , only receiving traditional migraine prescription medication, I felt no relief. I visited Dr. Sparks ‘s office and by that evening the pain was gone!

- Jane S. symptoms after only 9 chiropractic treatments. - Journal of Chiropractic Medicine 2008 With chiropractic care, patients had “significant improvement in perceived comfort and function, nerve conduction and finger sensation overall.” – JMPT 1998 “Significant increase in grip strength and normalization of motor and sensory latencies were noted. Orthopedic tests were negative. Symptoms dissipated.” – JMPT 1994 What these studies mean is that with chiropractic care, you could soon be enjoying life...without those aggravating nerve problems.

How To Find Out If This Will Work For You

Don’t let neuropathy hold you back from enjoying life. can start mapping out your plan to being pain free.

You’ll get to see everything first hand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution, like it has been for so many other patients.

The appointment will not take long at all. And you won’t be sitting in a waiting room all day either.

Here’s What To Do Now The offer is only good until June 18, 2012. Call today 661-765-2225 and we can get you scheduled for your consultation, exam and x-rays as soon as there’s an opening.

Our office is located at 1107 Kern St. #7 (next to Chicken of Oz).

When you call, tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Neuropathy Evaluation so she can get you on the schedule and make sure you receive proper credit for this special offer.

It’s time for you to find out if chiropractic will be your neuropathy solution.

Sincerely, Keith L. Sparks, D.C.

For 10 days only, $29 will get you all the services we normally charge new patients up to $250 for!

P.S. At our office, we have specialized treatment programs for treating patients who suffer from neuropathy.

What does this offer include? Up to everything. Take a look at what you will receive:

Why suffer with years of misery?

• An in-depth consultation about your health and well-being where I will listen…really listen…to the details of your case.

• A complete neuromuscular examination.

“Manipulation [chiropractic adjustments], with or without exercise, improved symptoms more than medical care did after both 3 and 12 months.”– British Medical Journal

• A full set of specialized x-rays to determine if a spinal problem is contributing to your pain or symptoms… (NOTE: These would normally cost up to $125.00).

Patients showed an 85.5% resolution of the nerve

• A thorough analysis of your exam and x-ray findings so we

Due to federal law Medicare restrictions apply

That’s no way to live, not when there could be an easy solution to your problem Don’t live in pain when we may have the solution you’ve been looking for all along.

Call today...To Schedule Your $29 Neuropathy Evaluation. ($250 Value)…661-765-2225