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Independent The Taft

July 19 - 25, 2013

www.Taftindependent.com

TAFT INDEPENDENT

FREEWeekly

Publisher@Taftindependent.com

July 19 - 25, 2013 • Volume 8 Issue 3

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

Manuz and Reich Graduate From Boot Camp

A Hint of Class

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

DeAnna Rolin, Taft Treasurers Facebook Administrator

by Joan Raymond

Summer Arrivals!

Garden, Clothing & Home Decor.

Let’s Go! Location Photos!

Family and Senior Portraits, Vacation Photo’s Limited Time 16 x 20 Prints $27.00 * w i t h a n y p o r t ra i t pa c k a g e .

Have Camera, Will Travel. Call today for more details and appointment 763-5429.

427 Center Street • Since June 1986

www.kcphotographyandframing.com

Monarch Wireless No. 2 1016 6th Street Taft, California

NOW OPEN Save-a-Lot Shopping Center (661) 745-4855 610 Center Street • 661-745-4954 Taft, Ca. 93268

Taft Treasurers Connecting Buyers and Sellers on Facebook

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT

July 19 - 25, 2013

Shop Taft

Your Weekly

Passion For Nails

Business Ad Here!

Very Affordable.

Call 765-6550

Residential • Commercial

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

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

F i n e

J e w e l r y

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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

Try Our New Pedicure Chairs Men & Seniors &

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

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

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

Geiger Construction & Plumbing

acme jewelry co.

(661)745-4913

Personal Style

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

Women’s Wear Jewelery Purses Shoes Gift Items

Infant and Toddler Wear and more Shop Taft!

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527

A Hint of Class

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

Monarch Wireless No. 2

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

1016 6th Street Taft, California

NOW OPEN Save-a-Lot Shopping Center (661) 745-4855 610 Center Street • 661-745-4954 Taft, Ca. 93268

Your Weekly Business Ad Here!

Very Affordable.

Call 765-6550

Summer Arrivals!

Garden, Clothing & Home Decor.

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Blue Jeans & Bling

REJUV 10 23 Healthy Face and Body Spa

Hats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA

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

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

Samantha Hagstrom Massage Therapist European and Hot Stone Prenatal Massage

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

763-9100

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

July 19 - 25, 2013

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

Events

TAFT INDEPENDENT

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

News Briefs......................3 News...................................5 Westside News.................6 Westside News.................7 Liberty Under Fire.........8 Obituary...........................8 Classified Ads.................10 Miller Time....................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

County Seeks Heritage Commission Volunteers 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

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.

Feature Writers Interviews Reviews Experience Required.

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

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

acme jewelry co.

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

Small town, family owned, low overhead.

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

• Gifts

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

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

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

Member California Newspaper Publishers Association Printed in California

F i n e

J e w e l r y

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

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

Taft Calendar

By John Swearengin

The West Side Recreation and Park District is making Taft even better yet again. They recently resurfaced the Basketball Courts at A Street Park. They also resurfaced the old Tennis Courts next to the Natatorium on 4th Street.

It is now set up for roller skating, roller derby, roller hockey, etc. Skating has become popular again mainly because of roller derby. There are several local women involved in roller derby. This place has been an eyesore for years and it now looks great. Les Clark and Don Koenig are tossing around lots of ideas for the new skating area. Have a seat next to me on the Rec’s Bandwagon because they are going in the right direction. Contact them if you have any positive ideas.

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

Seven Nights a week the Fox Theatre is open. “Turbo” is now playing.

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

July 27th : 4th Saturday of the month Car Show in the Chicken of Oz parking lot.

August 2nd : 1st Friday of the month Cruise Night on Center Street.

6-10pm.

August 3rd : Taft Fireworks Fundraiser Car Wash at the Taft Chamber parking lot.

August 7th : Taft Industry Night at the Taft Petroleum Club. Dinner at 7:30pm.

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

Come down and support your Taft Tigersharks this Saturday at the Taft High swimming pool. This is the Kern County Championship Swim Meet.

It starts at 9am and goes throughout the day. There is a nice seating area on the south side of the pool to cheer everyone on. Come see the best future swimmers in Kern County. Several hundred families will be here to support their swimmers. This will be great for our Taft Businesses.

Gas Price Average Up 15 Cents The national average price of gasoline today- $3.67/g- is up 15 cents from where it stood just one week and nowhere in the country has the price climb been any steeper than the Great Lakes region.

“Indiana’s prices have risen by 29 cents over the past week, nearly double the rate of increase the rest of the country is seeing,” said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy. “And the price escalation has been nearly as exasperating for consumers in Michigan (+.27), Illinois (+.26) and Wisconsin (+.23).”

Additionally, the U.S. Dept. of Energy’s weekly report today said crude oil inventories decreased by 6.9 million barrels to a total of 367 million barrels, a level that is 10.4 million barrels below last year’s.

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 19, 2013 through Thursday, July 25, 2013

R.I.P.D. (PG-13) Fri & Sat: (4:00), 6:30 Sun: (2:00), (4:30) Mon - Thu: 6:00 PM Turbo (PG) Fri & Sat: (3:30), 6:00 Sun: (3:00), (5:00) Mon - Thu: (4:00), 6:30 Grown Ups 2 (PG-13) Fri & Sat: 5:00 PM Sun: 2:30 PM Mon - Thu: 7:00 PM

Westside Watcher

July 19 - 25, 2013

Letters to the Editor Food, Food, Glorious Food

Plans Shaping Up On Rails to Trails Property Development, More Development Coming to Taft Soon Despite the administrative wrath of the California Department of Fish and Game, a local developer is still hopeful that he will be able to start construction on his 350 new housing project on Hillard Street this October.

This is only part of the new constrution that Taft may soon begin seeing this Fall.

Rails to Trails developer Geary Coats presented a conceptual plan on Wednesday night to the Planning Commission that would see a new 50 space RV park built on the corner of Supply Row and 4th Streets, just in time for Oildorado 2015. Coats also let slip that a 60 unit market rate apartment complex would be built across the street from the RV park.

Also, its rumored that a Taco Bell will soon return to Taft.

The best news of all is that the 60 room, 3 story Best Western Plus Hotel will break ground this August with the promise of new jobs, new revenue to the city and badly needed modern hotel roooms to meet the pent-up demand of business travelers and visitors to Taft.

Taft deserves and needs these improvements. Taft sits at the location of one of the largest oil fields in the US, but is woefully short of housing, retail shops and other amenities that force people who work in Taft to have to live in Bakersfield. This has been a loss for Taft and is part of the reason why our city infrastructure is underfunded, and our quality of life is not nearly what it should be.

Taft residents should encourage this new growth and development for the jobs, improved economy and other benefits it will bring our city.

Teachers’ Ag Seminar to be held Next Week Bakersfield, CA: Teachers’ Ag Seminar to be held July 22nd – July 24th at the Kern County Ag Pavilion located at 3300 E. Belle Terrace Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93307. The three day program is designed to give educators an in-depth course on the intricacies of agriculture through the opportunity to question and learn from those who are constantly in the production of food and fiber. The seminar includes tours of the Western Stockman’s Market, Frito Lay, Grimmway Carrots, and Willets & Newcomb Citrus Nursery.

The highlight of the program includes individual tours with local ranchers and farmers so that teachers get a first-hand experience of agriculture.

We have 44 teachers registered from Kern County. Each year teachers have taken our message back to their schools, developed it into curriculum, and are teaching it throughout their communities.

The 2013 Teachers’ Ag Seminar is sponsored by the Kern County Cattlewomen, Kern County Farm Bureau, Kern County Water Agencies, Farm Credit West, the Lake Foundation and many other local businesses and agencies. Many local businesses have also donated door prizes and supplies for our seminar!

Please let us know if you would like to join us for any of the speakers, tours, or other events. We have to clear additional guests with tour providers.

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.

Several people contacted me after my last article. One thing is for sure, Taft is excited about Pizza Hut being back. I was not putting down Pizza Hut, look at me, I love Pizza. I like Pizza Hut but don’t forget the other pizza places that have stayed strong during tough times in Taft.

After looking at the pictures in that week’s issue I noticed Roberto’s Mexican Restaurant at Kern and 3rd Street has closed.

I never noticed it was gone. I liked that place several years ago when it was La Mina. With great places like Vicente’s and Mi Casita, I never thought about going there. Popeye’s is now open and it seems everyone has a love/hate relationship with their food and prices.

Taft has lost the best Cheeseburgers ever at The Frozen Mug, Best Subs at Royal Subs, Frozen Yogurt at Kays Frozen Yogurt, Best Salad Bar at White Elephant, and Taco Bell/KFC. On a happy note I always enjoy the Orange Chicken, Egg Rolls, and Pizza at Asian Experience. Seems like everyone in Taft is at AE or at OT’s on Friday nights. Black Gold has the best Egg Salad Sandwiches and has a huge beverage selection. Pizza Factory’s Lunch Buffet makes my mouth water just thinking about it.

If you have the time, go or watch the Taft City Council meetings on Channel 11. I watched the meeting the other night and agreed with pretty much everything they discussed. Taft is going in the right direction but our State is off course. It is crazy that the CCF is closed and the Taft Court is closing. The Taft Council is very pro-active and is doing a great job.

The new Motel was going to have a Ground-Breaking Ceremony on July 9th but was delayed for unknown reasons. The motel will be great for traveling Oil Workers, reunions, Dirt bike Races, Tournaments and Clinics at the Rec, Oildorado 2015, and much more. The motel is much needed and is in a great location to get people downtown.

The Taft Fox Theatre is one of the best places in Taft. They are in need of changing their movie equipment. I heard it will be over $200,000 to replace it. That is a lot of sodas and popcorn. Their June PG&E bill was over $2,000. Plus they have to give Hollywood a portion of their ticket sales. They also need to replace the A/C in the Big Theatre. They have the best Hot Dogs for $1.25. They sell slices of Domino’s Pizza for $1.00 on Friday and Saturday Nights. If you are hungry for their amazing Popcorn you can stop in and take it home.

A lot of people that have moved to Bakersfield said they moved because of the lack of housing or the Hospital closing. I hope that Fish and Game comes out in the evening and notices the Kit Foxes are everywhere. We need the houses off Hillard Street.

I loved that field and grew up playing in that field. It is sad to lose the field but it is trespassing to go out there anyway. The houses are important and I will have to take my daughter further out in the field if the houses come in.

You cannot beat going to a Wildcat Football Game under the Friday Night Lights, so I’m looking forward to the upcoming season. The Wildcats have six home games this season. I love getting popcorn, soda and watching a movie with my amazing wife and daughter at the Fox. I love hanging out with my daughter at the beautiful A Street Park. I love the people here, friends here, my church, the Rec, Center Street, the Fort, Taft schools, and Taft businesses. I love Taft. Please shop Taft and keep the great things we have. Stay positive Taft!

John Swearengin

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

July 19 - 25, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

West Side Recreation Report Check us out online!

Need more information on programs, classes or facilities?

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

by Stephanie House

HUNTERS SAFETY COURSE Monday, August 5 through Wednesday, August 7 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium 500 Cascade Place, Taft $5 per person (facility fee) With cooperation from the Taft Sportsmen’s Club and volunteer instructors Larry Heptinstall, Kenny Beard and Jay Thomas, materials and instruction for obtaining a California Hunting license are available approximately every three months (February, May, August and October). Registration begins the first night of class and a minimum of 10 paid students is required or the class will be postponed until October 7-9.

COMMUNITY THEATRE AUDITIONS Next Production: The Sound of Music Auditions: Monday, July 22 or Wednesday, July 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Center Activity Building, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Singers and actors of all ages are welcome to audition for fall production, The Sound of Music! You only need to show up for one night of auditions. If you are interested, but unable to attend, please contact Stephanie at steph@wsrpd.com or 763-4246. Rehearsals will begin soon, with shows taking place this fall.

Director is Krista Long.

COOKIE WORKSHOP Monday, July 22 2:00-3:15 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room 500 Cascade Place, Taft Ages 4+ $3 per person Come create a jumbo sugar cookie! While cookies are baking, we will draw and color. Younger kids will need to bring along an older helper.

WONDERFUL WAFFLES Wednesday, July 24 12:00-1:00 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Ages 6-12 $6 per person ** pre-registration is required by Tuesday, July 23 Come and learn how to make waffles from scratch! We will make classic waffles, cake batter waffles and cinnamon roll waffles. Space is limited.

CANDY BAR BINGO Tuesday, July 30 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Community Center Assembly Room 500 Cascade Place, Taft Grades 1-8 FREE! Join us for an hour of Bingo fun with candy bar prizes. Be sure to bring a friend!

KIDS NIGHT OUT Friday, August 2 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Community Center Auditorium 500 Cascade Place, Taft Grades K-6 $8 per person ** pre-registration required by Wednesday, July 31 Kids need a night away from home every once in a while, so join us for a fun evening of games, movies, crafts, snacks, and a pizza dinner courtesy of Taft Domino’s Pizza. The more the merrier, so be sure to signup with a friend. Space is limited; pre-registration is required.

TINY TOT SOCCER Who: Ages 2-4 When: Tuesday and Thursday Evenings Session: September 10 – October 10 Where: Wrecker Field, Recreation Center Registration deadline: Thursday, August 15 Fee: $25 per child

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

WSYSL – WEST SIDE YOUTH SOCCER LEAGUE Division 1: Ages 7-9 (advanced 6-year olds are eligible) Division 2: Ages 10-12 Division 3: Ages 13-15 Season: August 26 – November 16 When: Weekday practices and Saturday games Fee: $50 per player Registration Deadline: Thursday, August 1 The goal of the WSYSL is to create a soccer environment that is fun and conducive to learning for all ages and ability levels. Please note: shin guards are mandatory.

INSTRUCTIONAL SOCCER Who: Ages 4-6 Practices: Weekdays Games: Saturdays Session: September 9 – October 19 Where: TUHS Soccer Fields Registration deadline: Thursday, August 15 Fee: $35 per child Shin guards are mandatory. Advanced 6-year olds are eligible for WSYSL Division 1.

DANCE CLASSES Ages 3-5 (Preschool): Monday, 5:00-5:45 p.m.

Grades K-1: Monday, 6:00-6:45 p.m.

Grades 2-3: Monday, 7:00-7:45 p.m.

Ages 3-5 (Preschool): Wednesday, 5:00-5:45 p.m.

Grades 4-5: Wednesday, 6:00-6:45 p.m.

Grades 6-8: Wednesay, 7:00-7:45 p.m.

Season: Classes begin September 9 and continue through May 2014 Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $25 per month Registration Begins: Tuesday, July 30 in the District Office Instructor: Vicky Waugh Participants will learn the basics of tap, jazz and hip-hop. Class enrollment is limited and classes are subject to change due to demand. A Parent/Orientation meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 4 at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Center Assembly Room. The meeting is for those who have already enrolled in the program.

SUMMER YOUTH BOWLING Who: Ages 5-16 Days: Monday, Wednesday and Friday Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Session: June 10 – August 16 Where: West Side Lanes, Recreation Center Fees: $2.50 per game Monday & Wednesday, $3.00 per game Friday (Cosmic Bowl) Looking to have some fun indoors and beat the heat? Then this program is for you! Kids will learn the sport of bowling while having fun with friends. Every 3rd game is free and shoe rental is included.

BOWLING PARTY RENTALS Make your reservation now!

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

Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday. Rental fees start at $100 for 2-lane rentals.

Rental prices include shoes, balls and use of the party room. Call 763-4246 for more information or to make a reservation.

RECREATION CENTER: SIZZLING SUMMER MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL Monthly Memberships (new or renewal) are just $20 through August 31 Regular price is $30 – you save $10!

Recreation Center Memberships cover use of the gymnasium and weight room for drop-in activities. For more information, contact the Recreation Center at 765-6677.

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION UNDERWAY The West Side Recreation & Park District’s Preschool program is now enrolling students for the upcoming 2013/2014 school year. Classes begin the week of August 26. The program is for children ages 3-5. Fees vary per class. As of now, there are still spots available in all three of our classes, but they are filling quickly!

For more information, please phone 763-4246 or send an email to steph@wsrpd.com.

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

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

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

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! EAGLE MTN CASINO BUS TRIP Monday, August 5 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Bus leaves from the Community Center Ages 21 and older $3 per person Call 763-4246 to reserve your spot!

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

Community Center Assembly Room Ages 21 and older Buy-in varies, $10-15 average Cash pots! Pull-tabs also sold.

6 TAFT INDEPENDENT

Westside Feature

Finding Treasures in Taft

Taft’s Fastest Growing Facebook Page Connects Buyers and Sellers on the Internet

By Joan Raymond Independent Staff Writer

From tile coasters to toolboxes, Mudd shorts to missing Rottweilers, a person can find just about anything on Taft Treasures, a members-only Facebook site connecting the residents and surrounding communities of Taft.

A year ago, Taft residents used a similar site in Bakersfield to buy, sell, and swap, but DeAnna Amaral Rolin and her sister-inlaw Sheila wanted something closer to home. They brainstormed, came up with the name, and DeAnna created the group last July which quickly grew to over 4500 members, with 200 more being added each week.

Participants buy, sell, trade, or give away unwanted or unused items. Some list yard sales, others post about missing animals. On a recent search, I saw where Beka posted about a lost, pregnant cat.

Within ten minutes, the feline momma-to-be found a home with Charissa who later posted “She love loves it here! … She already comes to the name of Bootsie. I am keeping her.”

DeAnna, a nine-year resident of Taft, never realized the impact her group would have on the community. Originally from the Bay area, she is amazed how the random acts of kindness have

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touched everyone, including her. A single mother of four, she told me about the time she posted for “…help, guidance, prayer and advice…” because her son’s health had become a concern. The next day a member from the local biker club, “The Dirty Saints RC” knocked on her door suggesting a car wash fundraiser for the upcoming weekend. She was overwhelmed with the amount of money raised which is helping DeAnna purchase a vehicle for her family because they don’t have transportation.

Even though most people praise the site, DeAnna receives her share of complaints. Emails requesting her to add assistants are most frequent, but DeAnna remains firm as the only administrator. She said she wants to keep the integrity of the site totally unbiased. “I want to run it like a business. I don’t want to fix it if it’s not broken” she told me, adding that she tries to stay away from the drama and will delete messages if they don’t follow the group’s posting rules. Although sometimes it’s not easy for her to keep up with all the messages because DeAnna oversees Taft Treasures mostly from her cell phone, since she doesn’t own a personal computer. Once a week she visits a friend and uses her computer to accept new members. This allows her to take her time, making sure she doesn’t add spammers to the group.

Even with the occasional problem post DeAnna doesn’t feel the need to pre-approve each listing because others keep an eye on the postings. ‘Others’ include an undercover policeman who regularly monitors the site for items that might appear to be stolen or against the law to list such as prescription drugs or guns. Another member who works for Human Services watches for posts announcing Food Stamps or WIC vouchers for sale. She said postings such as those are removed immediately, plus the member is deleted from the group. Because of the watchful eyes, some posts from members even list robberies of their own property, calling the community to action to help in finding the stolen items.

Reading down the listings one can see how this site is fun to watch, even to the point of becoming addictive. New or almost new items, sold at deep discounts or even given away to the first one to respond; it’s hard to pass up a great deal. Cherokee jeans with tag 50% off. Sports equipment offered for a trade. I asked DeAnna about the strangest trade she’d ever seen listed. She said someone posted from the Pizza Factory “Almost eaten pizza to trade for a pitcher of beer”. Soon a person showed up and made the trade, scoring five pieces of pizza for their quick response.

Renee Hill, owner of Old’s Cool antique shop agreed about the site being addictive. She watches for deals on old furniture to purchase and bring back to her shop for refinishing. “The site is good for Taft,” she said. Hill confessed she really hadn’t utilized the site for her own business as much as she should, but planned on using it “much, much more” in the future. “Everyone’s talking about Taft Treasures,” she said. “The social media site could bring more people to downtown and really increase the business here in Taft.”

DeAnna believes the site has the potential to reach 10,000 members within the next year, allowing more people to reach out to each other. Friends helping friends, plus a small-town neighborhood watch bringing the community closer through Taft Treasures.

WEST SIDE URGENT CARE

July 19 - 25, 2013

Taft Sheriff ’s Search Yields Seven Firearms, Grenade Launcher, Large Cache of Ammunition, Cash and Drugs On 7-15-13, at approximately 4:30 P.M., Deputies assigned to the Taft Substation executed a search warrant at residence located at 406 Hillard Street, Taft Ca. The search warrant was related to a residential burglary investigation done earlier in the day where Joe Brian Barraza, 26 years, and Daniel Gilbert Valdez, 30 years, were arrested while burglarizing a home in the 300 block of E Street, Taft Ca. The warrant led to the discovery of 100 grams of Methamphetamine, $2,300.00 in U.S. currency and seven firearms.

Some of these firearms include an AK 47 rifle, Uzi machine pistol, Bushmaster AR-15 rifle equipped with an M-203 grenade launcher, along with high capacity magazines, and thousands of rounds of ammunition.

All the weapons were linked back to Joe Brian Barraza who is a convicted felon. Barraza was booked at the Taft Jail on the following charges. Residential Burglary, Possession Methamphetamine for Sale, Possession of Assault Weapon, Felon in Possession Firearm, Felon in Possession of Ammunition, Possession High Capacity Magazine, Conspiracy, and Possession of Paraphernalia.

Daniel Gilbert Valdez was also booked at the Taft Jail on the following charges.

Residential Burglary, Conspiracy, Possession of Stolen Property, and Possession of Methamphetamine.

Anyone having information on this incident is asked to contact the Kern County Sheriff ’s Office at (661) 861-3110 or contact Secret Witness at (661) 322-4040.

Anonymous “text” tips can be sent to TIP411 (847411). Just type the key word “KCSO” prior to the message.

Classified Ad Deadline.

Wednesday 2 p.m.

765-6550.

Let’s Go! Location Photos!

Family and Senior Portraits, Vacation Photo’s Limited Time 16 x 20 Prints $27.00 * w i t h a n y p o r t ra i t pa c k a g e .

Have Camera, Will Travel. Call today for more details and appointment 763-5429.

427 Center Street • Since June 1986

www.kcphotographyandframing.com

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 19 - 25, 2013

TAFT INDEPENDENT

Planning Commission Considers Recreational Vehicle Zoning Change, Previews Proposed 50 Space RV Park On Rails To Trails

Governor Signs Overhaul of Enterprise Zone Program

by Luke Dowling

by Michael Long, Publisher The Taft Planning Commission considered a proposal Wednesday evening to rezone commercial areas of the city as suitable for recreational vehicle parks, and previewed a plan for a 50 space RV park on Supply Row between 4th and 2nd Streets.

Rails to Trails Master Developer Geary Coats briefly discussed with the commission a conceptual plan for the 50 space RV park that would provide overnight stays for up to 30 days at the facility.

Currently, the city ordinance only allows RV parks in zones designated as agricultural.

Coats told the commission that he had spoken to several area oil companies who had indicated that they had a need for temporary employees who brought RV’s to Taft to work, but had no place to stay.

Coats said that average stay of the temporary employees is 180 days, and that the commission should consider allowing for a percentage of spaces in RV parks for longer stays.

RV park visitors, like motel visitors would pay a 10% transit occupancy tax to the city.

Before an RV park could be approved, the commission would have to approve the new ordinance and make the zoning change.

Mark Staples, interim city planner said during the presentation that the process for changing the ordinance could take several months to approve.

The commission is scheduled to hear a formal proposal for the RV zoning change at its next meeting in August.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

Manuz and Reich Graduate from Boot Camp

Taft residents Landon Reich and Dom Manuz recently graduated from Marine Corp Boot Camp. According to Ray Smith, owner of Acme Jewelry the pair were escorted by friends when they entered boot campa in Southern California few months ago. Congratulations to both Dom and Landon.

HAYDENS HOPE THRIFT STORE

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.

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

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

Governor Jerry Brown signed into law Thursday the “Governor’s Economic Development Initiative,” which radically overhauls California’s troubled Enterprise Zone program. The signing took place in San Diego at the headquarters of Takeda California, a pharmaceutical company. State legislature backers of the new program, which consists of Assembly Bill 93 and Senate Bill 90, say it will stimulate economic activity and create good jobs for Californians via a three-pronged approach.

The first prong is a sales tax exemption on research and development equipment purchases for biotechnology and manufacturing firms. The second is a series of credits given to businesses that hire in regions with high unemployment and poverty rates. Finally, the initiative allows for California business to gain tax credits based on the quality and quantity of jobs they create.

The governor said he has supported this legislation in order “to help grow our economy and create good manufacturing jobs,” with a focus on building “the strength of intellectual capacity.”

The new initiative will be funded with $750 million that had been allocated to the 25-year-old Enterprise Zone program. That program had also been brought about to create jobs and stimulate California’s economy, but was prone to a number of abuses. Some of these were unearthed by an investigative report by Frying Pan News reporter Gary Cohn and included cases in which businesses moved to new areas in the state simply to gain tax credits – while leaving old workers unemployed, since the program prohibited their transfer to the new locations.

Remarkably, the bill passed with only two concessions to state Republicans: The per-hour wage threshold for hiring credits was lowered from $12 to $10 an hour, and the sales tax exemption sunset was lengthened from five to eight years. Steve Smith, a spokesman for the California Labor Federation, referred to these concessions as “minor compromises that didn’t affect the integrity of the proposal.”

Not everyone is as optimistic about the new initiative. A statement issued by Craig Johnson, president of the California Association of Enterprise Zones, said that the new legislation was a “grave mistake” and that “signing these bills eliminates the program and greatly affects millions of Californians who live in these regions as well as minorities, veterans, displaced workers, recipients of government assistance and others in need of jobs.”

“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

Store Closing Sale

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

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

428 Center Street • TAFT

745-4963

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

8

Liberty Under Fire Take Down the Bird Feeder

By Dr. Harold Pease

I am disturbed by a news report this week that shows one out of every three persons in the United States is fed by the other two. This means that in the grocery line before I get to the checkout I pick up the bill of either the person in front of me or the one behind. Since I live in California where we are told a third of all welfare recipients reside, and assuming that the vast majority receive food stamps, it is more likely that I pay for the one in front and the one behind. The vast majority of whom look to be stronger than I. This news brings to mind a script “Take Down the Bird Feeder,” source unknown, that I read some time ago. Most have shared this same experience sometime in their life. It goes like this: “I bought a bird feeder. I hung it on my back porch and filled it with seed. What a beauty of a bird feeder it was, as I filled it, lovingly with seed. Within a week we had hundreds of birds taking advantage of the continuous flow of free and easily accessible food. But then the birds started building nests in the boards of the patio, above the table, and next to the barbecue. Then came the poop. It was everywhere: on the patio tile, the chairs, the table... Everywhere! Then some of the birds turned mean. They would dive bomb me and try to peck me even though I had fed them out of my own pocket. And others birds were boisterous and loud. They sat on the feeder and squawked and screamed at all hours of the day and night and demanded that I fill it when it got low on food. After a while, I couldn’t even sit on my own back porch anymore. So I took down the bird feeder and in three days the birds were gone.

I cleaned up their mess and took down the many nests they had built all over the patio. Soon, the back yard was like it used to be... quiet, serene.... And no one demands rights to a free meal.

Our free enterprise system, vastly stimulated by our Constitution which limited the government’s power over us so enterprise could blossom, has made it possible to eradicated poverty from this nation for anyone who really wanted to work. I know because I was once poor. I have 14 brothers and sisters and my father, the only breadwinner in the family had severe heart problems from which he died leaving most under 18. About not having enough, I experienced more than I wished; a snack was a raw potato. I watched those who had some measure of wealth (I knew no one wealthy) and I learned early that education and industry could save anyone who wished to use them. Others took the course that led to dependency.

Every person in America has the same choice. It has always been so. How, like the birds depicted above, have so many of our people become.

One of the poorest men I ever knew refused the dole and worked till the day he died. His legs were virtually worthless. Vastly overweight he could only get off the couch or a chair by first rocking until he had momentum to shift the weight to his legs. A fall drastically limited any meaningful use of his arms. He made no excuses for his situation. He found a job with a moving company answering the telephone where he scheduled help for the “real” disadvantaged, those broken down on the highway.

I tell my students of the folk tale of the old man who came to the Florida everglades to catch some wild hogs reputed to be uncatchable. No one took him seriously, only chuckled, when he inquired where they might be. You see no one had ever been successful in capturing these hogs and those would be catchers were much stronger and faster then he. “Never mind, just point

TAFT INDEPENDENT

me in the right direction,” he responded. They did. He placed in his old-battered pickup truck a few ears of corn, found a clearing, and left them before driving away.

Day after day he did the same thing. No hog ever came forth to partake. They were way too smart. Nor did the younger hogs for they revered the wisdom of the old sages who were quick to remind them that humans were to be avoided at all costs. Day after day the old man did the same thing.

Ultimately the younger hogs began to question the wasteful practice of not partaking of the free corn and in time began to nibble, ever so watchful. There were no negatives, no consequences, only fools would reject this heaven sent meal. The old hogs would still occasionally remind them that there is no free lunch. “If it is free to you someone else is always picking up the tab,” they said. But, obviously, the old hogs were wrong. The little nibbles turned in to feasts and the old man left even more corn. With time, and feeling foolish, the older hogs joined in one by one. The old man did not go so far away.

In fact, eventually he did not leave at all and enjoyed watching all feast without concern. After several months of this they, not even the wiser hogs, noticed the old man dig a hole and insert a single pole; eventually another, than another, and the chicken wire in between. Nor did they notice when he attached the only gate. He had captured them all.

So what happens to the “birds” and the “hogs?” If the practice goes on long enough they no longer know how to do things necessary to preserve themselves. They vote for the politicians that continue the practice and begin to believe that the freebies—food stamps, subsidized housing, socialized medicine, and etc., were actually owed them. They eventually lose their freedom—all of it.

When the economy collapses, because the freebies cannot be sustained, the new rulers end all welfare practices as happened in every communist county in the 1900’s and starvation followed. For those who are healthy enough to take care of themselves let’s take down the bird feeder before it comes down on its own.

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 19 - 25, 2013

Obituary

Eugenia Wilke November 2, 1923 - July 3, 2013

Eugenia was a volunter at the West Kern Oil Museum for over 32 years and also a member of the Eastern Star for many years.

A celebration of her life will be held on July 21, 2013 at the Taft Masonic Temple at 521 North Street at 2 pm.

VICTORIA “VICKI” BRUMMETT 1953 – 2013 A private family memorial service will be held for Taft resident Victoria “Vicki” Brummett, 59. Mrs. Brummett was born in Taft on September 15, 1953 and passed away in Bakersfield on July 16, 2013. She was raised and educated in both Maricopa and Taft.

Her interests included reading, caring for animals and enjoying the sun in the outdoors. And she loved spending time at the coast. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Kozloski and Shirley Kozloski Patterson and her brother, Richard Charles Kozloski. Mrs. Brummett is survived by her husband of 42 years, Richard Brummett of Taft; her daughters, Jennifer Gee and her husband, Keith of Taft and Jill Brummett of Bakersfield; her sisters and brothers, Gayle Roberts and her husband, Russell, Mary Miller, Jimmie Kozloski and Steven Patterson; and her grandchildren, Julie, Nicole and Ariel Gee. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To sign an online registry please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.

Visit Us Online taftindependent.com

July 19 - 25, 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

All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting.

Call for Appointment Today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Advertise In

Independent Call Today!

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. for security officers for Taft area. Guard card required. 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.

Garage Sale. 308 E> San Emidio (airport addition) Sat. July 20th in the alley. Toold, toys, stuff 6am till...

107 Madison 6 am - ?

Sat. July 20 (inside house) antiquestove, ladder, eagle lamp, tables, jewelry, sink, cabinet and more.

CHILD CARE SERVICES WANTED FOR SALE

ANNOUNCEMENTS HELP WANTED Midway Elementary School is hiring a first grade teacher for the 2013-14 school year. For more information please call 768-4344 or pick up an application at Midway School, 259 “F” Street, Fellows, CA 93224.

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

M & S Security Security Officers Accepting applications

305 “D” St. Charming house. New Kitchen, baths,floors. total remodel. payments cheaper then rent $119,000 Steve 805-570-8760

MOBILE HOMES

Blue electric lift chair.

Excellent cond. $100.

765-2517.

Huge 2 family yard sale 7/20 6:30am-? 300 Jackson St, Huge Variety of Items starting @ $0.25 Couches, clothing, toys, appliances etc

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

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 & #01333971

HOMES FOR RENT

West Valley Real Estate (661) 763-1500.

Lic # 01525550 www.BuySellManage. com FOR RENT 315 7th St 1/1 furnished! $750 623 San Emidio 2/1 $750 340 F 3/1 + Studio $1,200 517 Washington 3/2 $1,375

Westside Real Estate 765-5000

3bd 1 ba in Dustin Acres $800 mo + dep.

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

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

Carpet Vinyl Hardwood Laminate Ceramic Tile

Contractor’s Lic. #352844

Ken Shugarts

Air Conditioning & Heating

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

Rentals Real Estate Advertise

(661) 769-6469 On Taft Hwy in Dustin Acres 3/1 Fenced Yard – Not Acreage $800.00 $800.00 2 Bed + Office, 1 bth at 319 San Emidio, 800 mo + Dep. 3 Bed, 1 bth, fenced yard in Dustin Acres, 800 mo + Dep. 119 SouthSt. 4/2 Remodeled. Tile floors, 1 car garage $900.00 License 01914953 765-5000

flooring, covered deck, fully fenced, covered carport very cute. $550/m avail.Aug 1st. 805-6894122.

1 bed room 1 bath.$475 per month. Plus Sec. Dep. No Pets Allowed. Call (805) 375-1458 or (661) 7657678.

In

The Taft

661-398-3044

7000 District Blvd Bakersfield

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

Independent Call

APART. FOR RENT

Today!

Creekside Apartments.

1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.765-7674. 420 Finley Dr.

765-6550 Classified

MOVE IN SPECIAL. 108 Center Street Apartments.

1 bedroom house on quiet street. Ref, wsr/ dryer hook-ups, new

Ads Starting At $2.00

Help Wanted Alignment/Auto Service Technician Prefer 1-3 years Experience, ASE Certified a plus, Track Record of Personal Productivity, Own your own tools a plus, Lift +50lbs, Wrok Flex Hours including weekends, Clean driving record and must pass drug test. Fax resume to 661-745-4880 and apply in person at 217 CVenter Street, Taft. CA.

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.

July 19 - 25, 2013

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.

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

Miller Time Hi Everyone, Well the verdict has been given, and it seems no one is a winner. A young man, not a child, is dead, and the other victim of this tragic event has to go into hiding because of all the death threats he has received. Here we have an arrest, police interviews, FBI investigation, prosecutors presented their evidence for a trail, a charge is levied, defense prepares and 17 months later there is a trial. Six women were chosen after careful interrogation by all involved to make sure they can render a fair verdict. No one complains prior to the onset of the trial about their qualifications, and after all the testimony they come to the conclusion that Mr. Zimmerman is innocent of all charges. Period! Shouldn’t that be the end of this national tragedy ?? Justice has prevailed in a fair court of law. Oh, but you don’t like the verdict; so you march, make death threats, destroy private property, disrupt communities, and at one point several idiots burned an American flag. Why has this particular trial garnered so much attention, when on any given night, all across America murders, killings, carjacking’s, sex crimes against children, DUI drivers killing people, and other atrocities are happening all across this great nation. Why this particular killing and sensational trial ??

I don’t have all the answers of course, as I am just an observer, but America has changed since I was a kid. I don’t remember all this stuff going on back then. Sure we have had our racial issues in the past, but I believe there has been a real change in America’s attitude over race as it should be. Has everyone changed, no, will there be complete change by everyone, no, but it is sure a lot better now. But, there are those on both sides of the racial divide that won’t let go of the past and they continue to bring this to the now.

Some make money off the issue; just go to any talk show and see who’s on and what they are saying. Many are paid consultants, some belong to some obscure “ The Center for ****…****” (fill in the blanks), some get their credibility for spouting their views, and all seem to be tuned into the ‘sound bite’ and ‘face time’ in front of the cameras. With the advent of the video camera and smart phone, everyone now is a star. Just go look at YouTube and there is no subject not covered that someone is not starring in. Look at the crowd shots on any given event, and see how people react to a camera. Isn’t it interesting to see these crowd shots are always down low to make it look like a bigger crowd when it is not hundreds maybe only twenty’s.

The manipulation by the media is becoming a real danger for us all. We have always relied on the press to give us the straight scoop when they are reporting the news. Do you think that your getting the straight scoop ?? Pick any news source, is the reporting fair and impartial ?? Do you believe everything you find or see on the internet ?? Do you think our newscasters should be giving you their opinion or should they just report the news ??The use and choice of words is very powerful in our society right now. Remember those sound bites, people are very aware they have only have seconds to have face time for a TV report, so their sound bite comment has to be sensational to get their view across. Do you think the press is baiting people into saying things that are sensational so they can see more advertising dollars roll in to keep their jobs ??

I am just disturbed in what I’m seeing and reading in all sectors of our society. We have certainly lowered our expectations for our children and those that need a boost. Too many folks are becoming only aware of their box and don’t care what other people think.

Who dresses for church; go to the mall, do you feel safe; look at what teachers and students are wearing in school; everyone seems to have a tough guy attitude and they carry equalizers; too much violence in TV, movies, video games; too little parental control that allows exposure to the dark side of society. Some see the light and some never come back from the dark. Those are the ones we have to worry about because they are the ones who are out to harm, maim, steal, assault, and kill us because they don’t know any other way. There are so many other cases that need our national attention than this one. I hope that there will be the kind of leadership that will come our way that will take us out of this society we have created of selfish, self centered, me, me, leaders and take us to the greatness that we all know this country is capable of. Who, I have no idea, but they are out there waiting for their moment, just how patient we can be will be our test.

We are still the greatest nation on earth, we still are where people want to be, and Taft is where I want to be. Trust can be found in our local newspapers, read them. Love one another, pray for us all.

See you around town, Randy Miller Loving Taft

It’s Time We Learn What Green Energy Costs States and Cities

By Merrill Matthews In all the focus on federal green energy spending, what’s been overlooked is that states and cities are also neck-deep in renewable energy subsidies.

In Texas, which is hardly unusual here, Dallas has a green building program that expedites permits for more energyefficient building projects. And Plano provides a Smart Energy Loan Program “to provide energy-efficiency loans to homeowners.”

But we apparently have no idea how much taxpayers and consumers, through higher energy bills, are spending to subsidize all of those green energy projects.

At the federal level, a 2012 paper from the Washingtonbased Brookings Institution estimates that federal spending on “clean energy technology,” which includes nuclear, could hit $150 billion from 2009 through 2014.

And more is coming if President Barack Obama has his way.

His 2014 budget includes $2.8 billion for the Office for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy and $28.4 billion for the Department of Energy to be spent on various projects.

But there’s more, as state and local governments have created thousands of green and renewable energy programs.

The North Carolina Solar Center at North Carolina State University manages the Database for State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency and has been tracking state and local initiatives since 1995. That database is funded in part by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council and the U.S. Department of Energy.

The listed options for funding renewable energy projects are numerous: corporate tax incentives; green building initiatives; loan programs; performance-based incentives; rebate programs; personal, property and sales tax incentives, plus others.

According to the database, there are 1,124 state, territorial and local financial incentive programs for renewable energy (all numbers exclude a small number of listed federal programs).

By far, the most common practice is rebates, 557. The second most frequent approach is loans, 201.

The programs do not seem to follow the usual red stateblue state patterns.

While no one would be surprised that California is toward the top of the list for renewable rebate programs (56), Minnesota has the most (76). But red state Indiana has 34 and Texas 29, while blue state Vermont has only one and Connecticut four.

The North Carolina center also tracks similar categories for energy efficiency, some of which cover traditional energy sources like natural gas, but also things like home energy audits or refrigerator recycling. Some programs target individuals, others focus on business. And while many of these

efficiency programs may not be directly related to green energy, they are still part of a taxpayer-funded effort to promote specific types of energy consumption or conservation.

The database identifies 1,442 state, territorial and local financial programs to encourage energy efficiency, including 1,137 rebate programs and 222 grant programs.

However, no one seems to know how much state and local governments spend on these programs. Complicating the cost estimate is the fact that while many are funded with tax dollars, others are funded by overcharging consumers (i.e., ratepayers) on their utility bills.

For example, California’s Legislative Analyst’s Office released a paper in December entitled “Energy Efficiency and Alternative Energy Programs,” which claims, “Over the past 10 to 15 years, the state has spent a combined total of roughly $15 billion on such efforts [energy efficiency and alternative energy], the vast majority of which has been funded by utility ratepayers.”

Ironically, while taxpayers and utility ratepayers are being hammered coming and going to subsidize alternative energy and efficiency programs, the most reliable and cost-effective energy sources, fossil fuels, are the brunt of both political scorn and proposed tax increases.

While some of the green energy programs may be well worth the money, it’s hard to know because most taxpayers have no idea how much they’re spending. State legislators should press for those answers. We may be surprised at how much we spend for how little we receive.

Merrill Matthews is a resident scholar at the Dallas-based Institute for Policy Innovation. Follow him on Twitter at @ MerrillMatthews.

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