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Independent The Taft

July 12 - 18, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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July 12 - 18, 2013 • Volume 8 Issue 2

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

Taft’s West Kern Oil Museum The Westside’s Museum of History Ten Percent Firearms 1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

July 12 - 18, 2013

Shop Taft

Your Weekly

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Residential • Commercial

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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

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Personal Style Women’s Wear Jewelery Purses Shoes Gift Items

Infant and Toddler Wear and more Shop Taft!

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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

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair WatchWatch Batteries Batteries Replaced Most $4.00 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451 Some $8.00 Store Hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm Closed Sunday and Monday

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

Bakery and Ice Cream Parlor

Boutique

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

Iphone 5 Cases 20% Off!

F i n e

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

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

Geiger Construction & Plumbing

acme jewelry co.

Cupcakes - Cannoli Root Beer Floates Hot Fudge Sundaes Banana Splits Candy & More!

661-745-4894 Downtown Taft

Hours T-F 10am - 6pm Saturdays 10am - 2pm 420 Center Street, Taft (661) 745-4894

Ten Percent Firearms

Summer Arrivals!

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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

July 12 - 18, 2013

Inside Community Events.........3 News Briefs......................3 News...................................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Liberty Under Fire.........8 Classified Ads.................10 Monthly Shots................11 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.

Events

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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

Retail gasoline prices climb over concerns with rising crude prices; oil inventory declines; tensions rise The national average price of gasoline today, $3.52 per gallon, is 11 cents less than it was a month ago, but the gap is closing quickly as prices in recent days begun moving higher. Most notably, the Midwest and Great Lakes region have seen the steepest increases with many of those states recording 10-cent increases (or more) in just the last week.

“With NYMEX crude oil over $105 per barrel today and with concerns about who’s running the government in Egypt and the security of the Suez Canal, it’s not surprising that we’re seeing wholesale and retail gasoline prices rise,” said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst with GasBuddy. The key question is: ‘How long will the run-up in crude oil last?’

“What’s even more troubling is that the Department of Energy’s weekly report today showed the second consecutive week with exceptional declines in crude oil (9.9 million barrels this week) inventory totaling a 20 million barrel decline in the past two weeks,” he added. “So there’s no getting around the fact that prices go up when supply diminishes.”

“The future looks dim again for motorists as oil prices have risen $10 per barrel in just the last two weeks. It’s all but guaranteed to mean another round of price increases as motorists hit the road for summer vacations, taking a bigger bite out of their wallets,” added Gregg Laskoski, senior petroleum analyst with GasBuddy.

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 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

The County of Kern is accepting applications for the Heritage Commission.

The Heritage Commission has ten members, with two members from each supervisorial district. Commission members serve at the pleasure of the Board of Supervisors.

The Kern County Heritage Commission shall ring the Liberty Bell on Lincoln’s Birthday, Washington’s Birthday, Loyalty Day, Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, California Admission Day, Veteran’s Day and any event of special significance deemed appropriate by the Board of Supervisors and the Heritage Commission. The Commission shall secure interested organizations to conduct the ceremonies appropriate to the occasions with a member of the Commission or his designate to be present and responsible for ringing the bell.

Meetings of the Commission are quarterly: 1st Wednesday of March, June, September, & December, in each of the supervisorial districts at 5:30 p.m Members shall serve without compensation but necessary expenses for travel shall be allowed and paid.

For more information call (661) 868-3680.

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

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!

acme jewelry co.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com

County Seeks Heritage Commission Volunteers

Moron Golf Tournament August 10th

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.

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.

Taft Calendar

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 Watch Batteries

ACME Has Gone Nuts

426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

Hammond’s Nuts and Peanut Brittle

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

426 Center Street

(661)763-5451

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGS Tuesday July 16th, 2013 – 6:00 p.m.

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

AGENDA POSTED ON BULLETIN BOARD OUTSIDE CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS AND POSTED AT THE CITY OF TAFT WEB SITE www.cityoftaft.org TELEVISED ON BRIGHT HOUSE CABLE CHANNEL 11: Wednesday 8 p.m.

Thursday 10 a.m. 8 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com or on Facebook

4 TAFT INDEPENDENT Editorial 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, July 12, 2013 through Thursday, July 18, 2013 Grown Ups 2 (PG-13) Fri & Sat: (3:00), 6:00, 8:30 Sun: (1:00), (4:00), 6:30 Mon - Thu: (4:00), 6:30 Despicable Me 2 (PG) Fri & Sat: (2:30), (5:00) Sun: (12:00), (2:30) Mon - Thu: 3:30 PM Despicable Me 2 (PG) Sensory Friendly Showing!

Lights up, sound down, moving around talking is OK. Everyone is welcome Sat: (11:00 PM) The Lone Ranger (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 7:30 PM Sun - Thu: 6:00 PM

Westside Watcher

July 12 - 18, 2013

Letters to the Editor

An Open Thank-You Note to the Community of Taft from The Chamber

No Time to End California’s Enterprise Zone Program California’s Enterprise Zone program is one of the state’s most important economic development tools. Taft is one of the few cities designated in California as an Enterprise Zone.

The program was created in 1984 in order to stimulate business and create jobs in depressed areas with low incomes and high unemployment. The goal is to entice businesses to set up shop, hire locally and hire people with barriers to employment — and revive the local economy by providing companies with tax incentives and other benefits.

Surprisingly, there are some legislators in Sacramento looking to end the enterprise zone program, threatening to stop what little job creation is taking place. This makes no sense. Over the past 25 years, enterprise zones have proven to be beneficial to California’s economy and employment rate.

The program is beneficial to California as a whole. The California Association of Enterprise Zones website reports that “zones account for nearly 30,000 jobs generated over a 10-year period, and that growth brought funds to the state through income tax, sales tax and corporate tax.”

Similarly, as individuals are hired, their dependence on social services decreases.

From a job creation point of view, comparing all of the job programs at the federal or state level, the enterprise zone program is by far the most productive. In addition, it paves the way for business growth in disadvantaged communities.

The enterprise zone program is one of the few remaining programs that make sense. If the legislature comes back from summer recess and votes to end the enterprise zone program, it would be devastating for our business, the employees who rely on us for their livelihood and the economic forecast for the state.

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.

The third of July, at approximately 9:10 p.m., the year-long dream of returning a fireworks display to the people of Taft was realized. More importantly, the accomplishment was done through the hard work of the people of Taft themselves—not by a government “bail-out” or the benevolence of just one person or entity.

As always happens in any endeavor of a large magnitude, there were many people involved. The list of official sponsors has been published over the course of the last weeks, from an acknowledgement of Mr. Hampton’s (of Westside Waste Management) $5,000 to checks from individual citizens. The pennies given at receptacles on countertops around town also provided a way for people to be part of the success of the Taft Fireworks Fundraiser.

This thank-you note is for the folks who came to the Rails-toTrails to celebrate our country’s Declaration of Independence. It is also a huge thank-you to those folks who made the last-minute difference in the success of the evening.

The heat wave gave the Taft Chamber an extra layer of responsibilities; we wanted to make sure all those who came to the event would be comfortable with the extreme weather. To offset the heat, we provided large shade structures in the concert area, but we also needed shade around the Rails-to-Trails. Taft Union High School graciously provided seven pop-ups and the student workers to set them up on the day of the event. They also gave us ice to ice down the tubs of bottled drinking water wonderfully provided and delivered by Fastenal. Thank you also to All in the Sandwich who donated ice on both Wednesday and Thursday.

When an early-Monday-morning assessment of the large areapotentially filled with observers revealed we did not have enough power in our public address system, Billy Long (assisted

by Heather Foss) swung into action, putting together a dream PA system and running it on the evening of the event. The West Side Recreation and Park District “the Rec” provided twenty paid volunteers to monitor the perimeter of the drop zone and direct people to where it was safe to park or sit. They also assisted in the “break-down” and clean-up after the show. A special thanks to Director Don Koenig and his wife Sandy,Supervisors Les Clark and Tessa Pilgrim who supervised the volunteers, making sure they were comfortable and hydrated. Kenny Schuyler and Jessica Emfinger who have been part of the drive for the Fireworks Show for the past year, solicited volunteers who came and gave their time to organize, set up,assist guests, take money, and answer questions. There were too many of them—many of whom we know only by first names— to list here, but they were awesome!

Our vendors were incredible! Imagine coming out in 108° weather, not knowing whether you would make money—or even break even! They came, and they were rewarded by the fine folks of Taft.

A special recognition goes out to our City of Taft Public Works Department who made sure the Monument and the surrounding areas were spotless and clearly-marked for the visitors to the area.

Our law enforcement was visible. A special thanks goes out to the Taft City Police Department and the Kern County Sheriff ’s Department, who worked together to keep the event safe for all.

Now, for our Kern County Fire Department. We have been working with Battalion Chief Brent Moon for the better part of a year. It was he who assured us nearly one year ago that the Rail to Trails venue was a possibility for a fireworks show in our town. He kept his word, shepherding this idea—complete with accompanying paperwork, training, and meetings—to a successful conclusion. It was wonderful to enjoy the evening knowing he was there enjoying it also.

No thank you would be complete without acknowledging the support of the Chamber membership and our Board of Directors. Our Board was willing for the staff to take the time necessary to do a complete event for the citizens of Taft. They felt the goal of a fireworks show paid for by the people and businesses of Taft could be done. They were right! Congratulations, Taft!

We did it! Next year.....

Shannon Jones Taft Chamber of Commerce

July 12 - 18, 2013

1-31-2026

The End of of California’s Enterprise Zones?

State’s Redevelopment Agencies Already History

By John Howard It could be the calm before the storm.

On Gov. Brown’s desk is a hard-fought plan to dismantle California’s enterprise zones, shift key authority over $700 million in business tax and other incentives to the state and boost the pay of new workers. The governor, joined by most Democrats and a handful of Republicans, pushed through a top-to-bottom overhaul of California’s decades-old enterprise zone system, which was created 27 years ago to spur jobs and growth in low-income zones by giving tax breaks to businesses. Brown, who believes the tax breaks have been systematically abused by businesses, is expected to sign the bill within the next few days, but it won’t go into effect until Jan. 1 – which means six months to gear up for a transfer of power. “Basically,” one local official said, “everyone is trying to figure this out.”

Because the bill involved taxation, it required – and got – two-thirds votes in both the Senate and Assembly.

The crux of the new landscape – Brown’s third major policy change upending local governance since taking office -- is the shift of authority from some 40 local enterprise zones across California to the administration’s business agency and to the Franchise Tax Board, as well as the Board of Equalization. Decisions over tax incentives and other benefits, hitherto held locally, effectively will be made by the state instead under the bill, AB 93 by the Assembly Budget Committee. Brown described the new arrangement, which was put together following the 2013-14 budget agreement, as “a big, bipartisan win for California businesses and working people. AB 93 will help grow our economy and create good manufacturing jobs.”

Under the new program, hiring will target veterans, the disabled, low-income and minority applicants, pay will be upped from the minimum wage to $12 an hour, companies that qualify will get hefty sales tax credits to spur growth totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, $100 million to encourage companies locate in California, and other benefits. Eric Johnson of the state Department Housing and Community Development said the change reflected the governor “wanting to make sure that the enterprise zones help those who need it the most in California.”

The dollars remain the same, but they will be redistributed.

“We are fully supportive of this approach because it does weed out the worst abuses and replaces them with incentives to not only create jobs in California, but good jobs, jobs paying at least $12 an hour,” said Steve Smith of the California Labor Federation. In the existing zones, the “hiring credits were going to minimum-wage corporations like Wal-Mart, which were taking big portion of the credits. Even the financial district in San Francisco was able to claim credits. This (AB 93) is a much better way to spend taxpayer money,” he said.

But not everyone is so enthusiastic, especially those who see Brown’s push as another example of the locals losing authority to Sacramento over local programs.

Supporters of the existing enterprise zones said last year alone they created 25,000 jobs and prevented the loss of 100,000 more, and that the combination of tax and hiring incentives enticed busi-

TAFT INDEPENDENT nesses to locate in low-income areas. While there may have been some abuses, they say, the program was useful in building job creation, although that contention was refuted by a study by the Public Policy Institute of California.

The action by the governor and lawmakers “will absolutely end enterprise zones,” said Kirstin Kolpitcke, a lobbyist with the California League of Cities. “I think it creates a larger set of losers than it does winners in the legislation.”

Danny Fitzgerald, an enterprise zone director in Imperial County, said the governor’s plan is deeply flawed.

“It (the new program) is unusable in my opinion. The No. 1 problem is that the enterprise zone program was designed to incentivize employers to take a risk on the hard-to-hire individuals, those with low skills, the chronically unemployed, those re-entering the workforce. The employer takes a risk on that person and you give them a tax credit. Maxine Waters was one of the originators of the (enterprise zone) bill, and she saw it as an anti-crime bill, that people would be less-inclined to commit crimes if they have a job when they return to the community.”

“The new program completely throws that out the window. This is a tax on the have-nots and you’re giving it to the haves. It will target businesses in Silicon Valley or Sorrento Valley in San Diego, and that may be beneficial but not at the expense zones, he added. “Our hope is that he (the governor) will let the enterprise zones go out with dignity and not create the fiasco of the former redevelopment agencies.”

Several major business groups, although opposing the loss of the enterprise zones, were hesitant to discuss the issue publicly. One noted that “it wasn’t our fight, we stayed out of it,” another referred a reporter to the governor’s office for details and two others declined to talk at all.

But the Legislature now has Democratic supermajorities in both houses and Democrats pushed through the change, which they said was long overdue.

“Going forward, the businesses that have been claiming tax credits can’t claim them anymore if there is game playing like hiring somebody, then laying somebody off, but keeping the credit,” said Lenny Goldberg, a lobbyist with the California Tax Reform Association. “It’s a tax loophole or a tax break or a tax incentive, whatever you want to call it, but they are not going to get it anymore.”

Goldberg said the “implementation should be pretty straight forward. We’ve got these credits. It limits their ability to go back and do anything retroactive. It’s not that difficult. People in the zones can’t do what they used to do, which was hire anybody. So now, anybody hired is going to be in addition to those already hired, so they can’t lay someone off and then claim the credit.”

Republican Curt Hagman, R-Chino Hills, while supportive of the existing enterprise zones, helped negotiate the new package.

“They were going to be eliminated at a certain point,” he said. “It was the best we could do to protect the business community. Probably, it was better than most people could get … but anytime you change goals, you are going to have winners and losers.”

A critical piece is a sales tax credit over several years, Kolpitchke said.

“The only thing that might potentially provide benefit is the sales tax exemption, which allows businesses that produce manufacturing and biotech equipment to get their state sales tax back and allows purchases up to $200 million,” she said.

“That’s our only form of economic development now that redevelopment doesn’t exist,” she added.

Taft Enterprise Zone Benefits The Taft Enterprise Zone has been approved and now offers businesses within Taft Enterprise Zone the opportunity to save. Qualified businesses may take advantage of all available Enterprise Zone credits, if applicable. Businesses are not limited to just one.

Hiring Tax Credit Business located in the Taft Enterprise Zone may reduce its State Income Tax by a percentage of the wages paid to one or more qualified employees. A business has the potential of earning $37,440 in tax credits per qualifying employee over a five-year period.

For Example: If a business hires a qualified full-time employee, working 2080 hours at $12.00 per hour*, the hiring tax credit would generate a tax savings of up to $37,440 per employee, over a five-year period.

There are many ways for employees to qualify including: individuals who live in targeted employment areas or individuals who have been recently laid-off to name just a few. The tax credit is retroactive to employees hired after the Taft Enterprise Zone designation date of February 1, 2011, and excess credits can be carried forward to offset future tax obligations. * $12.00 IS THE CREDIT CAP VALUE (150% X CURRENT MINIMUM WAGE, $8.00).

A BUSINESS CAN PAY MORE OR LESS THAN THE CAP, BUT ONLY RECEIVE THE CREDIT FOR THE ACTUAL WAGES PAID TO A MAXIMUM OF $12.00 PER HOUR. Sales and Use Tax Credit Businesses can claim a state tax credit equal to the sales and use tax paid on qualified equipment purchased and used in the Enterprise Zone on or after February 1, 2011. Qualified equipment or machinery parts purchased for exclusive use in the Enterprise Zone include assets such as manufacturing, data processing, office, audio/video, and computer equipment.

In any year, individuals can claim a credit on the first $1,000,000 of qualifying purchases. Corporations can claim credits on up to $20,000,000 per year.

Business Expense Deduction Businesses can deduct up to $40,000, depending on the year purchased, of the cost of business equipment, furnishings, and fixtures as well as other depreciable personal property used in the Enterprise Zone as a business expense. The remaining value of the purchased item can be depreciated in following years under generally accepted accounting practices.

Net Operating Loss Carryover Businesses or individuals in the Enterprise Zone who show a net operating loss may be able to carry that loss forward for up to 15 years to reduce future tax liability. Minimum taxes still apply.

Net Interest Deductions for Lenders A bank or individual making a loan to a business whose sole activity takes place in the Enterprise Zone may deduct direct expenses incurred in making the loan from the interest income. The lender may also take a deduction equivalent to the net interest produced by the loan. The lender may not have an equity interest in the business.

As a borrower, this could mean more favorable rates or terms on a business loan. Be sure to find out if your bank participates in the Net Interest Deductions available to participating Enterprise Zone businesses.

Income Tax Credit for Employees Qualified employees working in the Enterprise Zone may qualify to claim state tax credits on their personal income tax. (Information obtained from the City of Taft Enterprise Zone).

Website.

6 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside Feature

Supervisor Couch proposes plan West Kern Oil Museum Still The Place to Visit, See Taft’s Oil History that could inject up to $100 Million into the local economy.

Never been to the West Kern Oil Museum and lived here all you life?

Or has it been a while, and you need something to do this weekend?

Taft’s own West Kern Oil Museum is a unique and interesting place that tells the history of Taft and the oil fields in a very real way.

The museum is set up as a replica of an old time oil company camp in the early oilfields.

The 3 acre, all volunteer museum is located at the corner of Wood Streets and Highways 119 and 33.

“Our museum is Taft’s biggest tourist attraction,” said Don Maxwell, a retired city school district employee who is the volunteer director of activities at the museum.

“People are just amazed at what we have here,” Maxwell said.

“They’re also surprised we have no paid staff - that we keep it going just with volunteers.”

Through exhibits of artifacts, relics and photographs, the museum traces Taft’s history from the discovery of oil in 186364 - then used to produce kerosene - through more modern times.

The museum setting also gives visitor a glimpse of what it was like when the area was dotted with oil camps that included offices, houses, recreation halls, dining halls, bunk houses for single men, gardens, fish ponds and waterfalls. Most camps had doctors or nurses, and some had swimming pools.

The museum is landscaped with native trees and shrubs, includes a 1912 oil company office from the Joseph McDonald lease restored to its original condition, a 1911 tent house complete with an ice box, kerosene lamps and a pump organ.

The signature piece is the 106-foot tall wooden derrick - an exact replica of Jameson No. 17 - the derrick that pumped oil on the site fro many years before it was preserved in 1974.

Thanks to a donation from the Jameson Company the derrick and surrounding three acres became the West Kern Oil Museum.

Museum hours are Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am to 4pm, and Sunday 1pm to 4 pm. For more information call (661) 765-6664. The website is www.westkern-oilmuseum.org.

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Kern County 4th District Supervisor David Couch is proposing a bold initiative to inject up to $100 million into Kern County’s economy in the next 10 years. The initiative would invest KCERA (Kern County Employees’ Retirement Association) funds allocated for real estate investment into Kern County real estate. KCERA has invested over $164 million in real estate holdings through-out the United States as part of a larger investment portfolio. These holdings are used to provide stability in KCERA’s investment assets to meet pension obligation commitments. Supervisor Couch said “Why should we spend millions of dollars investing in real estate that doesn’t stimulate our local economy? The same money can be spent helping stimulate our local economy without any added expense to the tax payer and while meeting our pension obligations. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

The objective of the initiative is to create within KCERA the structure and capacity to invest locally in business ventures that achieve desired rate of return and manage those investments over time. Categories of local investment would include but not be limited to agriculture, energy, and commercial and residential real estate.

Local investments by KCERA have the advantages of providing 1) diversification of the portfolio, 2) investment yield potential and 3) strengthening the local economy. Additionally, KCERA commands the unique combination of significant investment capacity with access to specialized knowledge regarding the local market. The combination may be reasonably expected to produce a competitive marketplace advantage.

Bearing in mind that keeping investments safe is the first priority, a local investment strategy for a portion of the investment portfolio has many advantages.

HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

Store Closing Sale

Fill a Bag for $2.00 Open 10am to 6 pm All reasonable offers considered

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Saturday 7am to 12 Closed Sunday and Wednesday

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

WEST SIDE URGENT CARE

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

100 E North St. Taft CA

July 12 - 18, 2013

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

July 12 - 18, 2013

Why You Should be Bullish About the American Economy

By Bernie McGinn

You’ve probably already heard about America’s “shale gas revolution.”

Skeptical? You shouldn’t be. This isn’t mindless hype. The rapid expansion of the domestic gas sector is driving the reindustrialization of huge parts of the American economy and setting this country up for sustained growth in the future.

To truly appreciate the economic potential of America’s natural gas reserves, you need to cast aside old perceptions of the energy industry. This is a whole new ball game.

In 2008, oil reached $145 a barrel, gasoline over $4 a gallon, and natural gas over $10 per million British Thermal Units -- a technical, industry-standard measure acronymized to “BTU.” At the time, many experts were predicting energy prices were set to rapidly rise. They assumed supply would contract while demand continued to increase.

Half of that equation turned out to be wrong. Energy demand has certainly expanded, but so has supply -- dramatically. The old saying that “high prices kill high prices” held true. America’s energy companies heavily invested in new energy production and extraction technologies, fueling a natural gas renaissance. The President himself has declared that America is now the “Saudi Arabia of natural gas.”

In just the last five years, America has overtaken Russia as the world’s largest gas producer. That’s no small feat, especially considering that in 2005, the United States was coming off a decade of declining gas production.

Technological innovation has empowered energy firms to develop previously unreachable gas deposits. Supply has gone up and price has gone down. Today, natural gas prices in Europe and Asia are three to four times higher than here in the States.

Cheap gas has reinvigorated industries that were previously thought to be in permanent decline. Take the steel industry. Natural gas exploration and development requires a significant amount of steel for tubes, pipes, and joints. This demand has driven significant growth in steel manufacturer sectors throughout the country.

What’s more, steel plants run on gas -- a drop in per-BTU price lowers plant operation costs and expands revenue margins.

In large part because of the economic benefits of expanded natural gas production, American steel companies have invested over $1.5 billion in recent years to increase production capacity and reopen plants that were once deemed uneconomical.

And the steel industry is just the start. Other energy-intensive industries like manufacturing, agriculture, and petrochemical production have also benefitted enormously from expansions in American natural gas production.

From an environmental perspective, natural gas is also a clear win. Burning gas releases 50 percent less carbon emissions than coal, and 30 percent less than oil.

New research from the U.S. Energy Information Administration finds that in 2012 energy-related carbon emissions fell to 1995 levels. That’s all the more remarkable given that between 1995 and 2012, America’s economy grew 50 percent and our population added 50 million people. This drop in emissions has in part been driven by the environmental advantages of natural gas.

Of course, there is still more work to be done to further reduce carbon emissions and avoid catastrophic global temperature changes. But natural gas has emerged as the ideal bridge fuel to move American industry from oil to renewable energy.

Continued expansion in domestic production will fuel sustained economic growth in a broad swath of industries. The American gas renaissance is a shining example of this country’s incredible resilience and ingenuity -- precisely the traits that will keep us leading the world economy for decades to come.

Bernie McGinn, CFA, is the president and chief investment officer of McGinn Investment Management, based in Alexandria, Virginia.

He is also portfolio manager of the Union Street Partners Value Fund.

HOOKER’S AUTOMOTIVE Complete Automotive Service

TAFT INDEPENDENT

McCarthy Takes Action to Ensure Veterans Access to Timely Medical Appointments

Washington D.C. – Congressman Kevin McCarthy today introduced H.R. 2661, the bipartisan “Veterans Access to Timely Medical Appointments Act” to hold the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) accountable to improve medical appointment wait times and scheduling for veterans seeking medical care. This legislation would implement the non-partisan Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) recommendations, which are a result of an audit that McCarthy requested based on the persistent and unacceptable wait times that local veterans face at the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and VA medical facilities across the country.

This legislation requires the VA to schedule primary care appointments within 7 days and specialty care appointments within 14 days - goals used internally by VA supervisors and identified within the GAO report. Specifically, it addresses the GAO-identified factors contributing to unreliability of appointment wait times by mandating the VA improve its medical appointment scheduling policy within 180 days of the bill’s enactment.

Joining Congressman McCarthy as original cosponsors of this bill are House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations Chairman Mike Coffman, House Armed Services Chairman Buck McKeon, House Oversight Committee Chairman Darrell Issa, Congressman Duncan Hunter, Congressman John Campbell, Congresswoman Susan Davis, and Congressman Ken Calvert.

“It is inexcusable that, despite numerous audits and investigations identifying specific shortcomings causing these egregious appointment scheduling delays for veterans in need of care, the VA has yet to take meaningful and aggressive action to resolve these issues,” McCarthy said. “The VA is failing to fix the known lack of adherence by staff to policy and procedures and lack of scheduler training and unreliable and inefficient data systems, so the House will. By requiring the VA to implement a standardized scheduling policy that includes increased phone access, quicker response times and greater staff oversight, my legislation will ensure that primary care medical appointments are scheduled with seven days, and specialty care medical appointments are scheduled within fourteen days. I will not let VA leadership off the hook until our veterans have timely access to the health care they have earned.”

The bill implements the recommendations and addresses the issues identified in the GAO audit, Reliability of Reported Outpatient Medical Appointment Wait Times and Scheduling Oversight Need Improvement , on VA’s scheduling of medical appointments.

Specifically, it addresses the GAO-identified factors contributing to unreliability of appointment wait times by mandating the VA improve their medical appointment scheduling policy within 180 days of the bill’s enactment.

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.

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

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The bill requires the VA to schedule primary care appointments within 7 days and specialty care appointments within 14 days goals used internally by VA supervisors and identified within the GAO report.

The legislation also addresses the allocation of scheduling resources to meet the demands of veterans, and to improve timely medical appointments by improving the VA’s telephone access and responsiveness.

After receiving complaints from local veterans on the amount of time it takes the VA to schedule medical appointments, Congressman McCarthy led his colleagues in requesting that the GAO conduct an audit of the VA to ensure our veterans get the medical services they are entitled to in a timely manner.

GAO found that the VA’s positive wait time reports are not what veterans actually experience. This is due to unreliable data input

by VA employees, and the VA not requiring stricter adherence to scheduling policy and a lack of oversight on the scheduling process as a whole. · Congressman McCarthy and House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Jeff Miller sent a letter to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Eric Shinseki, calling on him to implement the GAO’s recommendations following the release of the audit. · On March 14, 2013, Congressman McCarthy testified at a Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing on the issues raised by the GAO audit. Click here to watch. · After disappointing responses by the VA to both the letter and answers to questions at the hearing, this bill follows through on Congressman McCarthy’s promise to keep the VA accountable and improve its services to veterans by scheduling medical appointments in a timely manner.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com WEST SIDE URGENT CARE

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

100 E North St. Taft CA

Ben’s Books

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft We will be closed July 4 - 8 and July 18 - 29 for vacation.

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

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Liberty Under Fire Road blocks, police helicopters and blacked-out windows in secretive meeting

By Dr. Harold Pease

The world’s billionaires met again, as they have sixty times before in their annual assemblages. This time in the luxury 227 room Grove Hotel, near Watford, in Hertfordshire; overflow guests were accommodated in London nearly 30 minutes away. This is the most exclusive group in the world said to be the power brokers of the West.

Attendees in this year’s 4-day Bilderberg conference included: Google executive chairman Eric Schmit, Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos, International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde, former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, General David Petraeus, and British Prime Minister David Cameron. Past attendees included politicians, top business executives, bankers and often some academics, royalty and, more recently, technology gurus. This year the invited guest list was 140 of these people. Security costs alone, for what is dubbed “Operation Discuss,” covered by the British government, are thought to approach $2 million. Security costs excluded costs incurred by their having enacted a no-fly zone over the high profile event.

Local presses attempted the best coverage they could give but the assemblage kept them some distance away. This year was the first year the organization had a press office so some coverage is hopeful for the future, but reporters are never allowed in the meetings or even on the grounds. They are given the names of attendees and the proposed topics of discussion. Coverage is very managed.

All local news coverage of the Jun 6-9 event documented that it happened, has been an annual event, used the word “secretive,” spoke of the huge “police operation,” and saw attendees as the “power brokers” of Europe and North America. Even Wikipedia

had these elements in its coverage. Noticeably absent was the establishment press in the United States with the exception of the Associated Press, but they were also absent last year when the annual event was held in Chantilly, Virginia, just 30 miles south of Washington D C. What do they do there? Michael Meacher, a lawmaker from Britain’s Labour Party, reasoned: “When 130 of the leaders from all across the West get together, and many of these are billionaires, they are people who are immensely wealthy and immensely powerful. And when they all get together, it’s not just to have a chat about the latest problem; it is a concert plans for the future of capitalism in the West. That is on a very different scale” (see Bilderberg 2013: Secretive Meetin of Western Power Brokers Begins Near London, Jill Lawless, 06/07/13, Huff Post).

The emphasis of this year’s meeting was technology. Consider attendee Google executive chairman Eric Schmit’s, previous quotes. “We don’t need you to type at all. We know where you are. We know where you’ve been. We can more or less know what you’re thinking about.” And, “We will know your position down to the foot and down to the inch over time… Your car will drive itself, …you’re never lonely…you’re never bored…you’re never out of ideas.”

Some of the suggested Bilderberg topics, wherein surely Schmit added input, included: “cyber resilience,” basically more government control over the Internet; implementing a “Ministry of Truth for the Internet,” a place to screen what can be placed on the Internet; and establishing “smart cities” that “record street conversations.” Another topic of interest for this 2013 meeting was controlling “3D printing” so as to restrict its use to approved users (See Google-Berg: Global Elite Transforms Itself for Technocratic Revolution, Paul Joseph Watson, Alex Jones, Info wars.com).

Older topics were also said to be issues of importance. The destruction of Iran’s nuclear processing facilities within three years should she not forsake it herself, more bailouts for the euro, dealing with a potential global pandemic, and increasing tax collection powers. These are topics that governments consider not normally non-governmental organizations.

No wonder critics see the billionaire Bilderberg meetings as a shadow world government and a bid for total control of everyone on earth. World leaders attend and they talk about government issues. The organization establishes the issues and builds consensus toward their conclusion and they do all this in secret.

So why did 28 prominent high profile U. S. citizens like General David Petraeus and Henry Kissinger attend (see Bilderberg website for list of participants)? Last year the number was 100 and included, in addition to Henry Kissinger, Bill Gates, John Kerry, White House National Security Advisor Thomas E. Donilon, past presidential hopeful and former Utah governor Jon Huntsman, Governor Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. of Indiana, and Vin Weber, a two-time Bilderberg presenter and campaign advisor to Mitt Romney.

And why, if some event is important enough to have a no-fly zone overhead, and has these kinds of people attending, does the vast majority of the establishment press ignore it, more especially when last year it was only 30 miles away? It is way past time that they answered these questions.

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.

July 12 - 18, 2013

Obituary

From the Heart of a Sister

I never dreamed the day would come; you wouldn’t be here with me. Of my forty-five years on the earth I never thought it could be but here I sit with a broken heart wondering why Lord it has to be. Why did you take my big Bro so far away from me? My brothers’ love was amazing, so unconditional and true, living my life without him is something I just really don’t want to do.

Kelly wouldn’t want his baby Sis feeling this way, so for him I must be strong. How I ask, am I suppose to be when this feels oh so wrong? I hear his voice in my heart and mind. These are the words he spoke to me, “Take it to Jesus, Sis, only then will you be able to see, the pain won’t always be so fresh, I know it’s something right now that you don’t see.”

Imagine the pain our Momma feels having to put her baby to rest. So take care of her, Sis, and let that be my very last request.” I promise you Bro I’ll do just that, the best that I know how. But please Bro, don’t be gone, let it be a dream. There is so much I want to say I can’t believe you’re gone. I will say it anyway. “I want to thank you for the man you were and how much you’ve meant to me.” “ It’s been that way from the start, you loved so consistently”. “Growing up, you were my rock and up until today, I had confidence in knowing it would always be that way.”

“It could be said I was your shadow.” I thank God for giving you such an amazing bunch of friends for they never had a problem with your baby Sis tagging along.”

“Wes, Paul, Bruce and Grant, I want to thank you all for that time when it wasn’t even a thought for Kelly’s Sis to be left behind, you guys knew he was my rock.”

“No matter the need it was plain to see he would do all he could for me.”

“He comforted me and guided me as every big brother should.” “I must confess no one on this earth could ever compare to the amazing comfort I felt just knowing he was there.”

“I thank God today for being able to say I have no regrets at all when it comes to the Love we shared.” “Never in life was there a time I wanted anything but the best for him.” “Lord JESUS, I owe that to you.” “If it wasn’t for your unconditional Love in our hearts there is no way it would be true.” “I thank you Lord JESUS for being able to say and knowing deep within my heart when asked about my brother I can say, “He Loved me like Jesus does.”

I LOVE YOU BRO. YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS EVERY SECOND OF EVERY DAY. LOVE, YOUR BABY SIS. STEPH. In Loving Memory and Honor MY BROTHER KELLY JOE KNICK JULY 19, 1962 - JUNE 22, 2013 Please Join us in the Celebration of the life of an AMAZING Man. IN LOVING MEMORY AND HONOR OF KELLY KNICK 7/19/62 to 6/22/13 My momma and I are unable to go to Oklahoma for the service of her son and my brother. With my mom’s health as it is, I guess it’s for the best. We can’t afford a service so I have decided to honor him in my own way. LET’S CELEBRATE HIS LIFE...Please come to join my mother and I as we celebrate my brother’s life on his birthday.

We will be turning on a fountain, planting a tree and presenting A bench in honor of him.

I pray it all comes together and that all who knew him will join us in this celebration. Let’s Give him an amazing BIRTHDAY celebration.

CALL US AT 661-763-3357 or 661-706-3994 for directions if you can be there.

July 12 - 18, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Black Gold

Cafe & Deli Serving Since 1939

WE HAVE ALWAYS STAYED CONSISTENT! 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

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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

Charles V. & Jennifer Landwehr and Angie Milner

501 Lucard St., Taft • 765-4111 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.

Rev. Linda Huggard

Join us for our Encounter Service Sundays 10:30 am

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

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765-6550

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 703 5th Street - Taft (661) 765-2378

Parish Hall Available for Rent

Pastor Scott Pearson

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

Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.

Taft First Assembly

First Baptist Church

Community Christian Fellowship

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

Mass Schedule Tuesday-Friday 8:00 A.M. Sunday 8:30A.M. English 11:00A.M. Spanish

The Taft

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Unlike other funeral homes we have retained • Our Same Name • Our Same Ownership • Our Same Management • Our Same Licensed Staff

Your Neighborhood Church 314 Asher Ave

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

Where on Earth Are We? A sermon series on Prophesy Pastor Trent Meadors

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

Info call 765-7151

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. quired. M & S Secureity.

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

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.

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 West Kern Oil Museum Yard Sale! Furniture, and misc. Sat. July 13th. 10 am to 4 pm. HWY 119 and Wood St. 306 Eastern St. Inside house. Sat. Furn, jewelry and misc.

28167 Cosworth Ave. Dustin Acres. Hugh Yard Sale. pool table, welder, tools and antoques, and misc.

301 Asher Ave. Sunday.

8am. New solar panels, charge controlllers, and pure sine wavew inverters, and acces.

Yard Sale. 6am - noon.

Sat. and Sun. lot’s of stuff, good cloths for school. 306 N. Lincoln

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 re-

#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

WANTED Wanted. Ride to Lerdo facility on 7-14 from Taft and back. Will pay half of gas 623-6849.

FOR SALE Blue electric lift chair.

Excellent cond. $100.

765-2517.

AUTOMOBILES LOST PETS Lost Female Boston Terrier on July 7th. Her name is Thumbprint.

Please return her to her home we all miss her so very much. Black with white markings. Reward for her safe return. Call 661 706-3445

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

By Appointment Karri Christensen LIC# 01522411 &

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.

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House for rent. 2 bd. 1 ba. Garage, large yard.

Call 763-3075 or 6236992. 8-15.

3bd. 2 ba. $850 mo.

300 1/2 Buchannon St. Taft. Open House July 20th, 12-3 p.m. 661 636-6465.

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 www.BuySellManage. com FOR RENT 400 Woodrow 2/1 $725 315 7th St 1/1 furnished! $750 623 San Emidio 2/1 $750 340 F 3/1 + Studio $1,200

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Carpet Vinyl Hardwood Laminate Ceramic Tile

Contractor’s Lic. #352844

661-398-3044

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July 12 - 18, 2013

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

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

Rentals Real Estate Be Seen!

(661) 769-6469 420 B St 3/1.75 + 1/1 $1,300

Westside Real Estate 765-5000

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 Re-

Writers Wanted At the Taft Independent Experience Required.

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modeled. 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.

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HELP WANTED TAFT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ONE (1) SUBSTITUTE BUS DRIVER EMPLOYEE TO SPECIFICALLY FILL NEEDS IN THE FOLLOWING AREA: VACANCY: Substitute–School Bus Driver. The District needs are for a late (evening) school bus driver following athletic practices. Requires a current Class B Drivers License, a valid California school bus certificate with a passenger endorsement, and a medical certificate.

Pay Range on our Substitute Pay Scale is $17.68 p/hr., Substitute positions are paid hourly based on the substitute position being filled. NO hours are guaranteed for our substitute positions. E.O.E. Employment process includes: Application and Resume, Written Exam, Interview, DOJ Clearance, Physical and Drug Screen.

Applications, and Job Description are available at the TUHS Business Office, 1 Wildcat Way, between 7:00 a.m. & 3:30 p.m. M-Thurs. Applications must be received in the Business Office no later than 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 24th, 2013. Written test will be given to ALL applicants submitting an application in the TUHS IRC Lecture Hall on Thursday, July 25th, at 7:00 p.m.

Classified Ads

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

in the Taft Independent $2 per line Box your ad for $5 more call 765-6550

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

Monthly Shots

By Mimi Collins, Taft Camera Club How about some cool photographs for these hot days? When Taft Camera Club met in June for their bimonthly in-club competition, a wonderful variety of images was presented. “Oak at Sunset,” by Arthur Tamayo, received the evening’s high score and the high for digital images, while “At Ease,” by Mimi Collins, received the high for prints. Some of the other competition images are included here, for your enjoyment.

In addition to scheduled meetings, Taft Camera Club members often go on informal photo shoots. Recent shoots took them to Reyes Creek and the Taft community fireworks, and upcoming plans include visits to the Tehachapi Loop, Camp Scheideck, and the Panorama Vista Preserve. If you would like to come along, just join the Taft Camera Club! For more information: www.taftcameraclub.org or taftcameraclub@yahoo.com.

At Ease, by Mimi Collins

Photos: At Ease, by Mimi Collins Judy and Forest Floor Boa, by Karen White Moonlit Clouds, by Arthur Tamayo Oak at Sunset, by Arthur Tamayo Old Ranch, by Mimi Collins Pink Fusion, by Tyrone Maddox Reyes Creek Waterfall, by Esther Livingston Woman in Dust Storm, by Karen White

Woman in Dust Storm, by Karen White Judy and Forest Floor Boa, by Karen White

Old Ranch, by Mimi Collins

Moonlit Clouds, by Arthur Tamayo

Stone Eggs, by Tyrone Maddox

Pink Fusion, by Tyrone Maddox

Reyes Creek Waterfall, by Esther Livingston

Oak at Sunset, by Arthur Tamayo

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

July 12 - 18, 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

Aquatics & Reptiles Animals Aquariums Terrariums Heaters Lamps Food

Our on site Staff Technician, Alonzo Soliz, is here to help advise you in purchasing and caring for your pet.

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

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