Document

April 2-8, 2010 • Volume 4 Issue 40www.Taftindependent.com

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

Oilworkers Monument Site Gets Ready!

Community Resource Center Feeds Families on Thanksgiving

[email protected]

City of Taft Honor’s Former Treasurer Art Carlton

The TaftIndependent

Taft Community Gardens Plant’s for the Future Join Over 500

Others and Become A

Fan Of The Taft

Independent on Facebook!

Happy Easter from the

Taft Independent!

Lincoln Student Competes in Nationals 2010 Bakersfield Pageant

Take the “Next Step” with your Health and Fitness at Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club

By Jessica Wallis

Taft City Council Majority Asks Thompson to Resign in Confidential Letter

Wendy Soto Inspires Others Through Exercise, Health and Nutrition.Your

Restaurant

Ad

Here!

(661) 766-26604414 Highway 33, Ventucopa, CA

• Monday: All you can eat Spaghetti and garlic bread. 5-7pm $5.00

• Tuesday: Hamburger. 5-7pm $3.50

• Wednesday: Breakfast served all day.

• Thursday: Carne Asada tacos with beans and rice. served all day $7.50

(single taco $2.50)

Salad, beans & bread • BBQ Starts 5:30 p.m.$1.00 Domestic Drafts 5 to 7 p.m.

April 10th • Top Sirlion

The PlaceWe are back to normal hours.

Open 7 Days a Week

$10 All-You-Can-Eat

• Friday: Rib eye steak BBQ’d over red oak coals served from 5pm-closing.

$13.95• Saturday: Steak and chicken with

soup or salad, baked potato, veggies and bread. Served from 5pm - Closing

$15.00

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 2-8, 2010

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY4 MILES EAST ON LOCKWOOD VALLEY RD.

AT CAMP SCHEIDECKOPEN AT 11:00AM WEEKDAYS AND

8:00AM WEEKENDS

OFF HIGHWAY 33 • (661)766-2521

REYES CREEK BAR AND GRILL

Passion For Nails

1014 6th Street • TaftIn the Save A Lot Shopping Center

(661)745-4913Monday to Friday10am-7pm and

Saturday 9am-6pm

Gift Certificates AvailableNail Services:

Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star

(we also treat ingrown nails)Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club

Open 24 Hours! 506 Center Street (661) 205-5579

Sign Up for Boot Camp Today!Guaranteed Results!

Join Us March 27th at 1pm for the Guns and Hoses Fundraiser

Admission $15! Step Aerobics Class Coming Soon!

What’s Your Style...

423 Center Street419 Center StreetTaft, Ca 93268(661)763-3527

We have Something for Everyone!New Spring Arrivals in stores NOW!

Clothing • Accessories • Jewelry • Purses Shoes • Sunglasses • Western Attire • Juniors

Skinny Jeans and Embellished TopsAnd Much More!Personal Style

Salon and Boutique&

Kids Stop

Located at:

The Historic Fort915 North Tenth St.

Suite 34623-1783

We Carry: Fox - Volcom Infamous - Vans SoCal - Hurley - Guess - Juicy

Couture - Ed Hardy - Roxy - Ugg Victoria’s Secret - Coach

Coldwater Creek - Betsey Johnson and Much More!

A Hint of Class

Pamela Dudley, Owner

R ‘N CRibbonz ‘N Curlz Bowtique

“From classy to sassy. We have Bowz and Clothez for

New Spring - SummerClothing has Arrived!

Have Your Next Party With US!Rockstar Parties and

Princess Parties!NEW STORE HOURSTuesday -Friday 10am-5pm

Saturday 10am-2pm401 Center Street • (661)765-2735

101 B. Street • Taft

(661)763-9890

El Jacalito Restaurant

Mexican Food & Seafood

SPECIALSMonday - Buy 1 Dinner and get the 2nd FREE*

*On dinner combos 1- 102nd dinner must be of equal or lesser value

From 4pm - Closing.

Wednesday - Kids Eat FREE**Kids under 10 years old eat free from Kids

Menu with paying Adult From 4pm - Closing.

Saturday - Noche MexicanaSteak or Chicken Fajitas $9.95

All Mexican Beer $2.50From 4pm - Closing.

All Specials Subject to Change

Special Effects Salon620 6th Street 661-496-9233

Certified Massage TherapistPaula D. Schweitzer

email: [email protected]

Spring Special60 Min. Massage $4590 Min. Massage $60

Offer is valid through the end of April 2010.

Available for evening appointments.

Miller’s

661-763-5445 510 Center Street • Taft

Beauty Supply

Call for an appointment Today

Glam Squad on Premises

Beauty Supply • Salon • Boutique

Barbara • Melissa • Laci • Christine • Carolyn

Hair & Skin Care Products • Salon Services Synthetic Hair Wigs & Human Hair Extentions

Hair Accessories • Jewelry • Pictures & Prints • Massages

April 2-8, 2010 TAFT INDEPENDENT 3

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

News Briefs......................3

Westside Watcher...........4

Next Step Cardio............6

Westside News.................7

It’s About Taft.................8

Westside Horoscopes.....9

Westside

News and Reviews.........9

Classified Ads................10

Inside Community Events

The Taft Independent

210 6th StreetP.O. Box 268

Taft, California 93268(661) 765-6550

Fax (661) 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

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 3,250 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 Indepen-dent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.

We welcome contributions and suggestions. Our purpose is to present news and issues of importance to our readers.

Subscriptions. Subscription home or mail deliv-ery of the Taft Independent is available for $8.00 per month or $97.00 per year. To subscribe to please call 765-6550.

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

ADVERTISING.Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representa-tive at (661) 765-6550.Classifieds: Call 765-6550 or fax us at (661) 765-6556. Phone order are taken. Visa and Master Card accepted.

Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long

[email protected]

Assistant Managing EditorAdvertising Sales Manager

Jessica Wallis

Layout & DesignIndependent Graphics

Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller

Jessy McCulloch

ColumnistsRandy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins

Staff PhotographerSara Bravo

Circulation ManagerJobe Edgar

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association

Printed in California

News Briefs

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGSTuesday April 6, 2010 – 7:00 p.m.

CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER209 EAST KERN STREET, TAFT, CA

(661) 763-1222AGENDA POSTED ON BULLETIN BOARD

OUTSIDE CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS ANDPOSTED AT THE CITY OF TAFT WEB SITE

www.cityoftaft.orgTELEVISED ON BRIGHT HOUSE CABLE CHANNEL 11:

Wednesday 8 p.m. Thursday 10 a.m. 8 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.

Used to be Paul’s

Bike Shop420 1/2 Center Street

Taft, CA 93268(661)745-4919

Adam’s Custom Upholstery

(661)623-4744 608 Center Street

Cars • Boats • FurnitureOilfield Equipment SeatsFree Pick-Up & Delivery

Taft California“Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

TUHS Future Farmers of America host 6th Annual Donkey Basketball April 6th

The Taft High Union High School Future Farmers of America will host the sixth annual donkey basketball game at Mullen Gym at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 6. The game pits staff vs. students and is usually a very close match. The hilarious game is played with five-member teams. Players must be atop a donkey to shoot or pass the ball. They may get off the donkey, but must lead it by the reins, for rebounds and loose balls. The humor comes when the humans try to get on the donkeys too fast and fall off and when the donkeys have their own ideas on what they want to do. The game is a fund-raiser for the FFA. Admission costs $5 in advance with tickets available at the TUHS business office or from any FFA member. Tickets purchased at the door will cost adults $7, children 6-11 $5 and those under 6 will be admitted free. For more information, call the FFA at 763-2300, ext. 481.

Westside Little League Opening Ceremonies April 10th

Westside Little League will be kicking off the 2010 season with Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, April 10th at 4pm. Ceremonies will be held at Blanco Fields field # 1 with the first minor and major league games being held after. Three new members will be inducted to the Westside Little League Hall of Fame for their contributions to Little League baseball on the Westside. Festivities to include; speeches from local and state dignitaries, awards presentations, introduction of teams, first pitch, and more.

Local Libraries Host Puppet Theater April 11th - 17th

Taft Branch Library and Taft College Library will celebrate National Library Week (April 11-17, 2010) with a performance of “The Three Little Pigs” by the Omnipresent Puppet Theater, Tuesday, April 6 at 6:30 p.m. The show will be held in the Cougar Room of the Taft College Library. Children and adults of all ages will enjoy this free, humorous program jointly sponsored by the Westside Friends of the Library and the Taft College Library. For more information, call 763-3294.

Taft Petroleum Club Holds Chamber of Commerce Mixer April 16th

The Taft Petroleun Club wil hold a Taft Chamber of Commerce Membership Mixer on Friday, April 16th at 5 p.m. The social hour begins at 5 p.m. and dinner is available at 6 p.m. The Club will serve rib eye steak with a potato, bread, salad and vegetable for $13.00. For more information contact the Chamber at 765-2166.

Rotary Health Fair and Peddlars Fair April 17th

Rotary will be holding their annual Peddlars Fair and Health Fair Saturday, April 17th at Buena Vista High School. Both begin at 8am, the health fair ends at 12pm and the peddlars fair ends at 3pm. Admission is free, but briing your money you will be sure to find something!

The Fort and TAPT Wine Tasting Night April 22nd

Tickets are available for the annual wine and microbrew tasting party for the Taft College Transition to Independent Living (TIL) program.The popular event will be held April 22 at the Historic Fort from 5-9 p.m.Besides a variety of wines and microbrews available for sampling there will be live and silent auctions, entertainment and a guest speaker.Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door on the night of the event.

Alpha House BBQ and Auction Saturday, April 24th

Alpha House will be holding their annual BBQ and auction Saturday, April 24th at the Westside Recreation and Park District at 5pm. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Taft United Methodist Church 100 Year Anniversary April 25th

Taft’s First Church, Methodist Episcopal Church, built in 1910. Save the date; April 25th. Taft United Methodist Church is celebrating 100 years of ministry. Help us with names and addresses. Come and help us celebrate! 630 North Street. [email protected].

Taft Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament Saturday, May 15th

The Taft Chamber of Commerce will be holding their annual golf tournamnet fundraiser Saturday, May 15th at Bueana Vista Golf Course. $100 per player or $400 per team. For more information contact the Chamber at 765-2165

423 Center Street419 Center StreetTaft, Ca 93268(661)763-3527

Local Choir Group FormingCalling all musicians, Singers, songwriters, choral directors… Taft Community is coming together for a Taft Community Choir. First meeting will be at Seventh Day Adventist Church on the corner of Date and Harrison. Next Monday night April 5th and 7 pm. We would like to see all who is interested come out to discuss music, rehearsal, and future dates for performances. For any questions please contact Heather at 661-805-9142


Editorial

Westside Watcher

Paik’sRanch House Restaurant“Where Everybody Meets”

Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Wed, Fri. 6 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday 6 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Asian ExperienceAsian Food and Pizza

Lunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

11 am - 2 pm 4 pm - 9 pmSaturday 4 pm - 9 pm

215 Center Street, Taft763- 1815

Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting

Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pmDinner by Reservation

4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319

Taft Crude Coffee HouseCoffee House and Deli

Monday – Friday 6:30 am to 5pm.

Saturday 7 am to 2 pmSundays 7:30 am to 1 pm

1010 6th Street, Taft763-5156

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

Asian Experience

215 Center Street 763-1815

Asian Food and PizzaLunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.Saturday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Live Music Saturday Nights

Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse

Steak, Seafood, Wild Game, Full Bar

Monday – Friday 6 am to 2 pmSaturday – Sunday 7 am – 2 pm

Dinner Hours Friday and Saturday 6 pm to 9 pm24870 Highway 33, Derby Acres

768-4655

Paik’s Ranch HouseWhere Everybody Meets

Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerOpen 7 Days

Mon. Tues. Thur. Sat. 6 am-9pmSun. Wed. Fri. 6 am - 10pm765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft

El Jacalito Authentic Mexican Dining

We do Catering for any Special Event!Orders to go.

Sunday - Thursday10:30 am - 8:00 pmFriday and Saturday10:30 am - 9:00 pm101 B. Street, Taft

763-9890763-9892 fax

Always Fresh!

Mon. - Fri. 10am - 2;30pmDine In or We Deliver

765-4143700 Kern Street Taft, CA

Westside Entertainment

FOXTHEATER

All shows before 6 p.m.- $7.00 -

Late ShowChild and Senior $7.00

Adults $9.00www.taftfoxtheaters.com

765-4802514 Center St

NOW SHOWING

-The Green Zone-How to Train Your Dragon-Cop Out

The Taft

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Independent

Taft Petroleum Club

450 Petroleum Club Road - 763-3268 Open Monday- Friday 3:30pm to Close

Every Friday is Ribeye Steak Dinner Night

Industries Night Wednesday April 7th

Sponsored by Hill Engineering

Sagebrush Annie’sWine Tasting

Dinner by Reservation

Award Winning Wines

766-23194211 Highway 33, Ventucopa

Chilled & GrilledEvery Wednesday Night

Bike Night!Drink and Appetizer Specials from 7-9pm.

$1 Drafts!!!

765-2000621 Center Street

Get Your Events in the Westside Entertainment Guide. Call 765-6550 or fax 765-6556

Wedding Receptions • Birthday PartiesAnniversaries • Company Dinners and

BBQ’s

Call Today 763-3268

428 Center Street(661) 332-5402

Taft's STORKCLUBChildren's Re-Sale Shop

* Consignments Accepted *

Thompson Asked to Resign from Taft City Council Letter From City Council Majority Reportedly Asks Thompson To Resign Taft City Councilman Cliff Thompson has been asked to resign from the Taft City Council in a letter signed by three councilmen, according to an undisclosed source. According to Taft Mayor Dave Noerr, the letter was handed to Thompson by Noerr at the Tuesday evening Taft City Council meeting. “I signed the letter and I handed it to him," said Noerr, who declined to disclosed the letter’s contents. Councilmen Randy Miller and Paul Linder both confirmed that they had also signed the letter. Thomspon has been under investigation by a law firm retained by the city council to investigate allegations Thompson had created a hostile work environment among Taft city employees. “I can not reveal what's in the letter, but much more is involved," said Councilman Miller. The city council held a special meeting on Tuesday evening to formally respond to a Grand Jury report that was critical of the council and the city manager, and said that Thomspon had violated the public trust by participating in evaluations of the city manager when he had a conflict of interest that prevented him from involvement in the evaluations. “The Grand Jury report has nothing to do with our asking Thompson to resign," said Miller. The council is scheduled to meet next week to consider a resolution of censure against Thompson, however Miller says the censure item will be pulled from th agenda pending further investigation and completion of the censure process that will allow Thompson to prepare for the censure hearing.

Council Reponds to Grand Jury Reprt

The Taft City met on Tuesday this week and spent nearly two hours hammering out a response to the Kern County Grand Jury Report hat was critical of the council and the city manager. The council responded to the 32 findings and 8 reccomendations, agreeing with about half of the findings unanimouly, but disagreeing on several findings that were critical of City Manager Bob Gorson. Councilmen Noerr, Linder and Miller voted together opposing Thompson and Noble on several findings that disagreed with the Grand Jury and generally supported City Manager Bob Gorson. “I feel vindicated,” said City Manager Bob Gorson on the council majority’s vote against Grand Jury criticism of the city manager. “I am pleased that we can put this behind us and get on with the work of the city.”

Your

Restaurant

Ad

Here!

(661) 766-26604414 Highway 33, Ventucopa, CA

• Monday: All you can eat Spaghetti and garlic bread. 5-7pm $5.00

• Tuesday: Hamburger. 5-7pm $3.50

• Wednesday: Breakfast served all day.

• Thursday: Carne Asada tacos with beans and rice. served all day $7.50

(single taco $2.50)

Salad, beans & bread • BBQ Starts 5:30 p.m.$1.00 Domestic Drafts 5 to 7 p.m.

April 10th • Top Sirlion

The PlaceWe are back to normal hours.

Open 7 Days a Week

$10 All-You-Can-Eat

• Friday: Rib eye steak BBQ’d over red oak coals served from 5pm-closing.

$13.95• Saturday: Steak and chicken with

soup or salad, baked potato, veggies and bread. Served from 5pm - Closing

$15.00

Your RestaurantListed Here.

Call765-6550.

Counciman Paul Linder said he also felt that the council majority’s repsonse was a vindication of Gorson. “It was a vindication of the city manager,” Linder said. Councilman Randy Miller said that he didn’t apprecite the Grand Jury condemning the entire body of the council’s work. “I’ve served for 7 years and we have done a lot of good work for Taft,” Miller said. “They picked on one issue and ignore our other work.” The completed report will be sent to the Grand Jury Friday.


COOKIE & CRAFT WORKSHOPWednesday, April 72:30 – 4:00 p.m.Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, TaftAges 4 and up. $3 per person Come create a jumbo sugar cookie and fun craft projects! Younger kids will need an older helper.

SURVIVOR SATURDAYSaturday, April 105:30 – 8:00 p.m.Franklin Field Recreation Complex. Ages 6-13$6 per person ** registration deadline – April 8Do you like team activities? Kids will draw for “tribes” and then come up with a tribe name and banner before working together on some games – a photo scavenger hunt, food taste testing and more! We will also have a barbecue hot dog dinner. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.

PIZZA PARADISEWednesday, April 143:00 – 4:30 p.m.Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, TaftAges 7-12$6 per person ** registration deadline – April 13Aspiring chefs ages 7-11 will learn to make (and eat!) different types of pizza goodies and even a pizza dessert! Activity maximum – 12.

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGESMake your reservation now!Need help planning a birthday party, bridal shower or baby shower? We can help! For one low fee, we will provide a room, plates, napkins, forks, cups, balloons and invitations – all to match your theme or colors. And for a little extra, we can help with activities, too! Package prices start at $110. For more information, or to make a reservation, please call the District Office at 763-4246.

by Stephanie House

West Side Recreation and Park Report

WEST SIDE RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT500 Cascade Place, Taft, CA 93268 (661) 763-4246

[email protected] www.wsrpd.com

The Green Machines tribe at Survivor Saturday 2009.

2010 WSRPD GEOCACHING EVENTSaturday, April 248:00 a.m. – registration 9:00 a.m. – start Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, TaftAll Ages. $10 per person (event & pizza lunch) ** $5 per person (event only – no lunch) The Caching Event will consist of 20 new, unpublished randomly placed caches in the Taft area. Participants will have a maximum of 3 hours to find as many caches as possible. A secret code word will be assigned to all caches. In addition to signing the cache log, you will need to record the code word for each cache on the provided tournament spreadsheet. The winner is the person/group who finds the most caches/code words in the shortest time. New cachers are encouraged to visit www.geocaching.com to become more familiar with Geocaching and how it works.

NATATORIUM POOL PARTIESMake your reservation now!Reservations are now being accepted for private party rentals at the Natatorium swimming pool. Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday between May 28 and August 29. Rental fees start at $165 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information.

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

BABE RUTH BASEBALLWho: Students in 6th-9th grades (must be 13-15 years old at time of sign-up)Season: Practices start April 20Fee: $40 per personRegistration deadline: April 15Practices will be held on Tuesday and Thursday, with games taking place on the weekends.

STAYING FIT AFTER FIFTYWhen: Monday, Wednesday and Friday morningsTime: 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.Fee: $20 per month (classes are ongoing, new students welcome at any time!)Instructor: Lola Knox

HORSESHOE LEAGUEWhen: Monday Evenings (April 21 – May 26)Location: TBAFee: $25 per player or teamFormat: Single or DoublesRegistration deadline: April 14

NEW LATE FEE POLICY (effective March 1, 2010)When registering/paying for a program, a $5 late fee will be assessed for:* Classes not paid by the 10th of each month* Any registrations, including scholarship applications, received after the program registration deadline.A more detailed copy of the Late Fee Policy is available on our website at www.wsrpd.com.

HUNTERS SAFETY COURSEMonday, May 3 – Wednesday, May 56:30 – 9:30 p.m. $5 per person.Community Center AuditoriumRegister the first night of class.(next class: August 2-4, 2010)

You can now pay for your favorite programs with

VISA, MASTERCARD OR DISCOVER!

Call the District Office at 763-4246 for more details.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

SCRAPBOOKING WORKSHOPSaturday, April 10, 201010:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Community Center Assembly RoomAges 15 and older$5 per person. Bring your own supplies!


CookhouseOT

& SaloonSpecializing in Steak & Seafood

Lunch DinnerTuesday - Friday11a.m. - 2p.m.

Tuesday - Thursday 4p.m. - 9p.m.Friday & Saturday 4p.m. - 10p.m.

CLOSEDSUNDAY/MONDAY

205 N. 10th St.(661)763-1819

OT Cookhouse Daily Specials (For the week of 4-6-10 thru 4-10-10)

Tues.4-6-10Lunch

Tues.4-6-10DinnerWed.4-7-10Lunch

Wed.4-7-10Dinner

Thurs.4-8-10Lunch

Thurs.4-8-10Dinner

Fri.4-9-10Dinner

Fri.4-9-10Lunch

Sat.4-10-10Dinner

Pork Chops

BBQ Beef Ribs

Cabbage Rolls

Prime Rib$14.95 Small/ $17.95 Large

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Veal Liver with Bacon & Onions

BBQ Chicken & Shrimp Combo

16oz. T Bone Steak

CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

Bone In Ribeye

$8.95

$9.95

$8.95

$16.95

$9.95

$9.95

$17.95

205 N. 10th Street . (661)763-1819

$14.95/ $17.95

$10.95

We are an Independent Agency WithMany Pre-Eminent Insurance Companies

To Best Suit Your NeedsWe Represent You To Give You The Best Service

Edward J. Herrera Insurance

420 Center StreetTaft, Ca 93268(661)745-4920Lic. # 0277365

www.edherrerainsurance.com

WE Offer You Low Discounted Rates

Auto - Home - Health - Business - Notary Public

Our Friendly Staff

Anderson Business ServicesWE COME TO YOU!

Greg AndersonMobile Notary Public

Certified Signing Agent

Sandy AndersonNotary Public

Certified Signing Agent

Schedule of ServicesAcknowledgments and Jurats

$10 per signatureMortgage Documents $150 per setMobile Notary Service $1 per mile

Office: 661-765-7665Greg’s Cell: 661-557-6032

Sandy’s Cell: 661-577-6790

You Hear it First!

Janet Armstrong- “I started a little over a year ago with kickboxing after I went through some rough personal issues. I love it, it has become my hobby and has made everything in my life so much better. I have lost 95lbs so far and I continue to come everyday. Wendy has been a great inspiration, she has taught me how to eat right, and the correct way to exercise and it feels great!”

Ian Miller- “I joined about a month ago to get in shape and measure out for the Navy, within a week I had already lost 8 lbs. The program has really helped me with cardio, running and just about everything. Because of the program I met my requirements and I will actually be shipping out for the Navy in about a month, I wouldn’t have been able to do this without Wendy’s help and the help of this program.”

Tiffany Barker- “ I started here at the gym in January with kickboxing and boot camp and now I have more stamina and endurance. It really helps a lot to be able to have access to Wendy when you need her, she has helped me out in every area, especially with nutrition.”

Heather Lema, 73- “I cant say enough good things about Wendy and how she has helped me. I’ve had memberships at other gyms and I feel very comfortable here and taken care of on a personal level.”

Betty Miller, 87- “I started exercising when I was 50 years old and it made a complete difference in my life, I was able to hike the Grand Canyon and do other hiking trips. I started personal training with Wendy, and when my sessions are over I hope to join other classes here. Wendy is very patient, kind, and loving, and knows what she is talking about.”

Want to Get in Shape? It’s Time to Take the “Next Step!” Testimonies from Members at Next Step Cardio.

Wendy Soto, owner of Next Step Cardio.

Want to get in shape? It’s time for you to take the “Next Step” at Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club. For over a year now, next Step Cardio has been educating the community of Taft of the importance of exercise, fitness, and nutrition for an overall healthy lifestyle. Wendy Soto and Veronica Sandoval, co-owners of Next Step, have taken their passions to promote a healthy lifestyle to the next level by encouraging and inspiring members to do the same. “It’s never too late to get in shape,” said Wendy, “I want to educate and help the members of this gym to reach their goals and to incorporate what they learn into a new lifestyle.”

Wendy goes beyond just signing up new members, she consults each new member to teach them what is right for their experience level, and what it will take them to get where they want to be. “I like to discuss their workout level, their overall goal, how they want to achieve it, and educating members about nutrition as well,” said Wendy, “It all goes hand in hand, I want to keep my members here and offer them new classes and programs so they continue to workout and not feel lost within the gym.” Wendy also sees the importance of educating our children and their parents about the rise of childhood obesity and diabetes. “We see these diseases on the rise in our country and in our community due to bad eating habits and lack of exercise and there are easy steps that we can take to get the entire family involved in living a healthy lifestyle,” said Wendy. Obesity is a serious health concern for children and adolescents. Results from the 2007-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), using measured heights and weights, indicate that an estimated 17 percent of children and adolescents ages 2-19 years are obese. Between 1976-1980 and 1999-2000, the prevalence of obesity increased. Between 1999-2000 and 2007-2008 there was no significant trend in obesity prevalence. Among pre-school age children 2-5 years of age, obesity increased from 5 to 10.4% between 1976-1980 and 2007-2008 and from 6.5 to 19.6% among 6-11 year olds. Among adolescents aged 12-19, obesity increased from 5 to 18.1% during the same period. With Wendy’s background in holistic nutrition, she has been able to guide and teach many members about making small changes to ensure their health. “If people wait to start exercising they can end up with complications and limit what they can do, it is better to start exercising before these problems begin and important to teach exercise at a young age,” said Wendy. From young children to active adults to people just discovering fitness and to senior citizens, Next Step Cardio has something for everyone at every level.

Next Step currently offers classes in Cardio Kickboxing, Kickboxing,

Chris Carpenter- “I started the boot camp program in January to get in shape, I love the program and look forward to coming to the class everyday. I’ve made new friends and I’m not ready for the class to be over. Wendy is very knowledgeable, she knows how to work every muscle, even if you are injured and you can call her anytime if you have any questions, she is really there for us.”

Cory Kitchens- “I started about 3 months ago with boot camp, and I have already lost 50 lbs. The program is fresh and new, Wendy changes it up every day to keep us interested and excited and to keep us coming back every day.”


The Guns and Hoses boxing tournament and fundraiser held last Saturday at Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club raised $750 for the Taft Boxing Club. About 80 people were in attendance to watch locals from Taft box and enjoyed hotdogs, pizza, nachos, and chips. Local fighter Daniel Ortiz took a strong victory against a member of the Delano boxing team. For more events stop by Next Step Cardio for a complete line up.

Close fight till the end and Daniel Ortiz take the victory!

Daniel Ortiz from Taft (yellow) against Johnathan from Delano.

Head-em-Up! Move-em-Out!Kindergarten Round-Up!!

At the

The Rotary Club Health FairBuena Vista School

900 N. 10th St.

April 17, 20109:00 am - 12:00 pm

Register for KindergartenFree Immunizations

Provided by: San Joaquin Immunization Van - First 5

Free Incoming Kindergarten Dental Exams!Provided by: Kern County Children’s Dental health Network

This is a REQUITEMENT to enter schoolDental exam is offered to entering kindergarteners’ only.

FREE Goodies for your kids!Call the West Side Community Resource Center: 765-7281

Have your child READY FOR SCHOOL!

Haylie Marie Terrell, 12, of Lincoln Jr. High School will be competeing in her first pageant at Taft Union High School April 10th at 4pm. Haylie received a letter in the mail that was sent out to other Kern County residents between the ages of 7 and 19 to compete in the Nationals 2010 Bakersfield Pageant, a personality based pageant that awards scholoarships. Haylie was selected to compete after the interview process and will be in the pre-teen category. The winners will go on to compete at the 2011 Cities of America National Pageant in Florida. “I thought it would be a good experience and something fun to try and to get involved in,” said Haylie, “Hopefully I make it in to the top 10, but im just excited to go through the whole process.”

Lincoln Student in Nationals Bakersfield Pageant

Guns and Hoses Boxing Tournamnet and Fundraiser

Police Chief, Ken McMinn keeping score as the official score keeper with the facilitator.

Grappling, Boxing, Boot Camp Program, Weight Training, Strong Man, MMA, Children’s Cardio Kickboxing, and personal training sessions for any age and experience level. “ Our kids instructor, Trent, is great at teaching the techniques to the kids and also about educating them on how exercising is important and to stick with it,” said Wendy. New classes have started forming, a Women’s Self Defense Class starts next week, and new kickboxing and step aerobics classes begin soon. “I would like to add a Yoga class and a Hip Hop class to the gym as well,” said Wendy, “I would like to offer more classes and fill the requests of our members and give them more options.” Next Step also offers nutritional consultations and has started carrying popular supplements. Next Step started a Boot Camp Program in January that has become one of their most popular classes. Boot Camp is a 16 week program, for an hour a day, 5 days a week. However, most of the members involved in the program continue to take the boot camp classes after they have finished their first 16 week session. Recently, Next Step has also started a strong man class lead by Aaron Heid that will lead into a strong man event at the end of May or beginning of June, It will be the first strong man challenge in Kern County. The sport of strongman consist of several tasks that must be done under specific circumstances. Typical events of a competition might be flipping a truck tire a certain distance for speed, pressing a log overhead for maximum reps, farmer’s carry of two heavy implements a certain distance for speed, or lifting a large, heavy stone to platforms of different heights for time. Points are awarded in each event based on placing and the one with the most points at the end is the winner. The fact that the

events are not standardized makes the sport unique and it requires well-rounded preparedness by its athletes.

Next Step boxing instructor Ron Valdez has started a boxing program for students in Jr. High and High School, and is recruiting students from low income areas to promote a positive outreach to students that maybe wouldn’t try boxing or get involved because of the costs. “This program would create more events for the students to get involved in and strive for,” said Wendy, “I would like to hold a boxing event at least every 3 months.” On Saturday, April 10th Next Step Jiu-Jitsu instructor, John Dodson, will be hosting a Jiu-Jitsu for MMA Seminar with UFC trainer David Camarillo. The seminar will be from 10:00am to 1:00pm and the cost is $40 per person. The seminar will consist of 3 hours of No Gi grappling, fighting and some of the most innovative techniques that Dave has created from his Judo and Jiu-Jitsu background. For more information on events and classes stop by Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club at 506 Center Street today!

Place Your Classified Ad in the Taft Independent Today!

$2 per line. The best Classified Ad price in Taft or the Westside. Call 765-6550

or email your classifed ad text to [email protected].


TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”Pastor Cindy Brettschneider

Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 AMAdult Bible Study and Sunday School 11 AM

Adult Bible Study Monday 6:00 PMWednesday Night Service 6:00 PM

Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

Trinity Southern Baptist Church

400 Finley DriveWe invite you to join us

each week as we worshi

Sunday Bible Study 9:45 amSunday Morning Worship 11:00 amSunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm

First Congregational Church of MaricopaSunday 10 a.m.

Bible StudyThursday Nights 7 p.m.

395 California Street, Pastor Maricopa, CA 93252Bill LeBarron (661) 619-5372

Lighthouse Foursquare Church210 Harrison Street 763-1518

Home Of The Good News BearsHugs On WheelsFood In The ParkCode Blue Youth

Sunday Service 10 AMPastors Mark and Kathy Fitzsimmons

For More Information on Service Times Go ToWWW.TAFTLIGHTHOUSE.ORG

New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”

308 Harrison Street765-4572

Sunday Morning Worship Service10 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship Service6 p.m

Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.

HOT MEALS & FREE CLOTHINGTuesdays & Thursdays 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m.

at The Spot - 201 Harrison Street

New Life CommuNity ChurCh

Pastor Floyd and Carol Jordan 1000 6th Street

765-7472 www.nlctaft.org

UTURN Youth GroupWednesdays 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.At The Spot, 201 Harrison Street

Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced

All Are Licensed Funeral Directors

The Trusted Name Since 1939

Sunday Service at 10:00AM

Taft CrudeCoffee House

Ice Blended Mocha

When its Hotor Not....

Espresso Yourself Today

Open 7 Days - 763-51561010 6th Street • Taft

Immaculate Conception Parish

Mass Saturday 7pmSunday 9am

Everyone WelcomeDeacon Ricardo Barragan

Tyler and Cyndy are Back!

Airbrush • Waxing • Pink and White Glitter Powder • Silk Wrap • U.V. Gel

We are Specialists!

Gift Certificates AvailableMon.- Fri. 9am-7pmSat. 9am-6pmLocated at 1080 West Kern Street

(661) 763-3111

Veterans Burial ServiceIncluding American Made Military Gray or Brown

SteelCasket, Burial with Honors, Bakersfield National Veterans Cemetery

$2,295.00West Side Memorial Services

Porteous Family763-1594 Taft, CA. FD 1220 EST: 1969

www.westsidememorialservices.com

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE209 Harrison Street • Taft

(661)765-2505 or (661)763-1887 fax

$39.75 *

for Smog Check ‘96 or Newer plus

certificate

Ask about $500.00

Free Smog RepairRestrictions Apply

* must present ad at time of service

1/2 offDiagnostics

VISIT TAFTINDEPENDENT.COM

Weddings - BaptismsQuinceañeras

4595 Highway 166 - New Cuyama(661) 766-2741Your Church

Ad Here!

Call 765-6550

Rev. Linda Huggard

by Randy [email protected]

It’s About Taft

Yates’ Detailing600 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.

Advertise with the

Taft Independent

Call Today!

765-6550 or fax

765-6556.

Hi Everyone,Just got back from a four-day date trip to Washington DC with some Valley Pollution Control District board members and staff, oil company reps, and environment reps for a fact-finding tour to meet with our elected representatives. We were there to see if the district could stabilize its federal funding stream to continue the process to help clean up the valley air. It will be awhile to find out if our efforts were successful or not. The problem is that even if it is good for the people they

represent, there is a real problem to get bipartisan support. Getting the good things that need to be done in Washington these days is at a real stalemate. There wasn’t any time to go visit all the sights, heck you’d need 2 weeks at minimum from 8:00 to 5:00 to get most of it in. I was able to go to the Lincoln Memorial at 9:00 one night and sit on the steps and look down across the reflecting pool to see the Washington Monument and the Capital Building lit up on a cool clear night. It reminded me of the time my brother Rich and I were bringing his car from the east coast to Taft, and we had part of a day to spend in Washington and we sat on those very steps 25 years ago and saw the same sights in the day light. But, my real goal was to visit the Vietnam Memorial and to see and the touch the name of my friend Larry Gotcher who was killed on March 22, 1968; ironically it was two days and 42 years later. There are 14 names inscribed on the Wall from the Westside, you can find the same names on the plaque down at the Veterans Park next to City Hall. Washington I found is a City full of police uniforms, everywhere. Most of them are a little uptight and tense and not very friendly. They seem to be on every corner; every building you go into you have to go through a scanner and search. Vice President Biden was over at the Capital and he had two limos, a police car, four black SUV’s and later an ambulance stood by. A military helicopter was buzzing around, secret service, police officers with automatic weapons were in plain sight, and uniformed police were in the upper outside reaches of the Capital Building. All that for one person; guess stopping at the local convenience store to pick up a six pack for himself on the way home is out of the question. If you are looking for a job, security seems to be the hot ticket in Washington. Inside the congressional office buildings we visited, there are different cafeterias you could stop, rest, and get a bite to eat. The cashiers were not too friendly either. In fact, most of the people who waited on me back there seemed to all be a bit lacking in customer service skills. Maybe it’s the mood or the politics or the weather or they live on the east coast and they wished they lived on the west coast. A smile sure would go a long way. I’m sure it wasn’t just me who encountered the same thing. It just didn’t seem like they were happy to have job in these tough economic times. Customer service was much better and friendlier once the plane set back down in Bakersfield, but sometimes west coast folks go to the extreme when waiting on me by calling me sweetie or darling or honey. That just seems a little too personal, but I guess it is a little better than the grumps I met back east. If you haven’t been by the Rails to Trails lately from 2nd to 10th street, we have some new larger mature trees for your dogs to check out. The City worked a deal with the Tree Foundation and the City of Bakersfield to save over 50 mature trees in a parkway that needed to be removed. We got about 32 of them delivered and planted in Taft. Win-win all the way around. Also keep your eyes peeled for the derrick on the Oil Workers Monument to be erected sometime in April. The derrick will be 32 feet tall from the derrick floor. You may have noticed with the recent warm spell that weeds have popped up everywhere. Don’t expect City crews to cut then down for you. Once the moisture gets sucked out of them, you’d wished you got to them sooner. Pulling out wet weeds is much easier than when they dry up. Do your part to keep our City looking good.See you around town.


Westside Horoscopesby Jessy McCulloch

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

370 CALIFORNIA 769-8580

Beginning Sewing Classes Starting May 1, 8 and 15. Call Now to Sign-Up. 769-8580.

tuES.-fRi. 10:00-5:30 Sat. 10:00-4:00 Fabric • NotioNs • GiFts

MARICOpA QUILT COMpANy

March 31st, April 1st & 2ndSewing Machine Service & Repair

Scissor Sharpening

G&S CARPET Service & Selection

Knowledgeable SalesExperienced Installation

Laminate

398-30447000 District Blvd BakersfieldContractor’s Lic. #352844

Hours:9-5 M-F10-2 SatEve By

Appt.

D.I.Y.starting at 1 .29

sq. ft.

Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 5 pm.

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

www.sagebrushannies.com

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

Now Celebrating Our 20th Year

426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

acme jewelry co.F i n e J e w e l r y

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

acme jewelry co.F i n e J e w e l r y

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries

426 Center Street (661)763-5451

WINNERIndependentThe Taft

Best Of2009READER’S POLL

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Watch Batteries

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUPFord CityTuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of TaftWednesday

• REFRIGERATORS • MATTRESSES • WATER HEATERS • STOVES • WASHERS & DRYERS • SOFAS

All green waste must be bagged. Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

ITEMS NOT ACCEPTEDConstruction/Demolition Waste/Used Oil/

Hazardous Waste/Tires

If Missed… Call Office at

763-5135

Westside Waste Management Co., Inc.

ROGER MILLER INSURANCEa division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich MillerLicense # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131

531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985 (661) 765-4798 FAX

Taft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell

E-Mail: [email protected] Hometown Insurance Store

Westside News and Reviews

Aries (March 21-April 19): You’ve made all the right apologies, now it’s time for you to let this incident go. If you don’t, then how can anyone else?

Taurus (April 20-May 20): You’re sticking to your guns on this one, and that’s fine, but don’t be surprised by the consequences of your decisions. You knew what you were getting into.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): There will be a great opportunity heading your way this week, and while it might not seem lucrative right now, the benefits in the long run will be huge.

Cancer ( June 21-July 22): It’s going to be very difficult to not let your jealousy get the better of you this week, but for your own sake try very, very hard.

Leo ( July 23-August 22): You know your friend much better than either of you realizes. They may be saying they’re fine, but you both know they need a little extra attention right now.

Virgo (August 23-September 22): If you can get this latest project done and on time, then you’ll be in a pretty position to get some significant accolades at work.

Libra (September 23-October 22): There comes a point, both in friendships and family, where you have to make some of the effort. These things don’t just sustain themselves you know.

Scorpio (October 23-November 22): Try to be a little understanding if a close friend is on edge this week. It’s just that they’d much rather be sitting in your position than they’re own.

Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): If you don’t mean what you’re saying, then don’t say it. In this situation, you could really do a lot of damage by “meaning well.”

Capricorn (December 22-January 19): If you know that a loved one is making a huge mistake, it’s probably worth it to speak up. They may not want to hear it, but you’ll have done your part.

Aquarius ( January 20-February 19): Being in the middle of a fight that has nothing to do with you is a treacherous place to be. Step carefully and avoid the hidden landmines.

Pisces (February 20-March 20): Stop worrying about what might happen or what you think might happen. Nothing has happened, so your judgments are very unfair.

If your birthday is this week: Holding on to past hurts and grudges does nothing but cause you extra (and entirely unnecessary) gray hairs. You’re clinging to the weights that keep pulling you under, so just let go and you’ll be amazed at how much better you instantly feel. Even if you’re right, is it really doing you any good?

Wildflower Hotline Ready to Bloom A wet winter is leading to high hopes for the 2010 Kern County wildflower season. With the anticipation of colorful growth comes the annual launch of the Kern County Board of Trade’s Wildflower Hotline. The hotline, a telephone number and web site offering updates on wildflower growth and locations, officially began operation today and will continue throughout the season. Wildflower information is available around-the-clock for callers to 661-322-WILD or Internet users visiting the Board of Trade’s tourism web site at www.VisitKern.com. New this year is the addition of the Kern Wildflower Blog, which will allow nature enthusiasts to post information on the best places to see wildflowers and to share experiences with other wildflower devotees. Each spring the Wildflower Hotline receives thousands of inquiries about local growth from around the state and across the nation. Kern is home to a number of major wildflower species including the California poppy, Indian paintbrush, desert calico and San Joaquin wooly thread. Coreopsis, lupine and other varieties are also common. Wildflower enthusiasts are regular visitors to the county, contributing heavily to Kern’s $1.2 billion-per-year tourism industry. “Visitors come from all over to see what Kern County has to offer,” noted Rick Davis, Executive Director of the Kern County Board of Trade. “Kern is County is home to dozens of different species, so it’s definitely a favorite of wildflower enthusiasts.” Persons wishing to contribute their own sightings (including location and common name of the bloom) to the hotline may contact the Board of Trade during regular business hours (M-F, 8a-5p) at 661-868-KERN or 800-500-KERN. Sightings may also be submitted by e-mail at [email protected].

Redevelopment: Building Better Communties This is the 2nd in a series about redevelopment. You will be able to find all the articles (and other information specific to the City of Taft) on the city’s website at HYPERLINK "http://www.cityoftaft.org" www.cityoftaft.org The first article described how redevelopment started and what redevelopment funds may be used for generally. This article will describe how redevelopment (if used properly) benefits communities and improves the lives of its community stakeholders. Redevelopment provides workforce housing funds for subsidized apartments and homeownership opportunities reduce crime and code enforcement costs, improve infrastructure that will accommodate new industry, create jobs and expand opportunities for existing businesses to thrive. Redevelopment funds are also often used to clean up environmentally-challenged property and/or blighted areas or attract new businesses. The core function of redevelopment agencies is to serve as the catalyst for community revitalization projects. When redevelopment agencies make improvements to deteriorated areas, property values within those areas rise, resulting in an increase in property tax revenues. State law allows redevelopment agencies to use a small portion of this increase to repay debt they must incur in order to rehabilitate an area. Redevelopment agencies use these funds to buy property, build public improvements and infrastructure, clean-up contaminated soil, and do other things necessary to improve conditions of the property. This in turn attracts private investment and creates a chain reaction where the ultimate economic output and benefits of the community are much larger than the original public investment. In short, every $1 of redevelopment agency spending creates about $13 in total economic activity! Redevelopment agencies are local government entities usually controlled by the city council, county board of supervisors, or a separate appointed board (all accountable to the public). Because they are locally-governed, redevelopment agencies are in the best position to identify and prioritize local community needs and to work with private investors on local projects to meet those needs. In the City of Taft, redevelopment funds have been or could be used for:Senior Affordable HousingWorkforce housing and homeownership opportunitiesImprovements to public infrastructurePolice Station and other public facilitiesCrime reduction and improved code enforcementRevitalize the Downtown Business DistrictNeighborhood beautification such as upgrading facades and sidewalks

Page PAGE 2 of NUMPAGES 1

Veterans Burial ServiceIncluding American Made Military Gray or Brown

SteelCasket, Burial with Honors, Bakersfield National Veterans Cemetery

$2,295.00West Side Memorial Services

Porteous Family763-1594 Taft, CA. FD 1220 EST: 1969

www.westsidememorialservices.com


ClassifiedsClassified Ads are $3.00 per issue for up to three lines, $5 per issue for up to 5 lines, and $7 per issue for up to 10 lines. Yard Sale ads are free. Phone, fax, mail or drop off your ad to the Taft Independent.

Boxed\outlined\bolded classified ads start at $12.00 for 8 lines, $16 for 12 lines, $20 for 15 lines, $25 for 20 lines.

Photo 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 of your home, car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest.

Classified ads deadline is now Wednesdays at 2 p.m.

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Taft Independent 210 6th St., Taft, CA 93268.

ClassifiedsClassified Ads are $2.00 per line. Phone, fax, mail or drop off your ad to the Taft Independent.

Ad your photograph for $5. Ad your company logo for $5. Boxed ads are $3 additional. E-mail us (or bring to our office) a photo of your home, car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest.

Yard Sale ads are free, up to 3 lines.

Classified ad deadline is Thursday at 2 p.m.

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

E-mail: [email protected]

Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Taft Independent 210 6th St., Taft, CA 93268, 765-6550.

[email protected] or call 661 765-6007.

Missing Classmates of 1960’s 50th Reunion

Richard Beebe, Judy Blakeney, Jerry Box, Deanna Brenneman, Fred Braun, Vonda Brents, Ernie Sue Brown, Nancy Collins, Clifford Cramer, Clark Culver, Ellen Fultz, Bob Hall, Jeanine Harrison, Mike Hazeltine, Pat Hendricks, Carolyn Johnson, Shelia Johnson, Kenneth Jones, Annette Kinser, Mark Knowles, Francis May, Beverly McDaris, Marvin Marks, Bill Morton, Betty Norris, David Pritchett, Jerry Ray, Gerry Robertson, Carolyn Ruff, Dennis Schroder, Linda Scott,Jennie Van Camp, Geraldine Villers, Robert Wheeler, Jeff Woods. If you have any information, please call Lodema Hatch 661 765-6007

Grief Support Group, offered as a community service by Optimal Hospice Care. Meetings held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. 1:30p.m. to 3:00 p.m. At Chevron Valley Credit Union, Community Room, 1092 W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. And 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at First Baptist Church. 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 220 N. First St. Free and open to the public. Info call 716-4000.

For problems with Alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous. 765-4016 or 763-3856.

A.A. Womens Meeting. Tuesdays 6:30-7:30. 703 5th Street. 889-8011.

COMPUTER SERVICES

Desktop and Laptop Repair. Upgrades. Home Theater Installation. See price list at TaftPCServices.com. 623-5188.

Business ServicesCleaning Services

My Fair LadiesCleaning ServicesComm. and ResidentialServing the Westside340-8611Lic. No. 007657

Rite Away Carpet CleaningCarpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General CleaningOwner OperatedVisa\Master Card 765-4191

YARD SALESAdvertise your FREE yard sale ad. Up to 3 lines free. Fax your ad to 765-6556 or call and leave message at 765-6550 by 2 p.m. Thursday.

Yard Sale. 507 5th St. 7am-4pm. 2 Families, bed, lots of stuff!

Maricopa VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 11012. 600 Hazelton St. Maricopa. Yard Sale & Raffle Drawing. Sat., Apr. 3rd 7am-3pm. Lots of good items and clothing and raffle prizes. Tickets may still be purchased at the door for $1.

Patio Sale. 123 N. 10th St. Sp # 115, household items, polaris scrambler 500 quad, riding lawnmower. Fri., and Sat. 8am-3pm

Yard Sale ! 102 Fourth st. on the corners of 4th and Main St. EVERYTHING MUST GO!! 7am-?

ANNOUNCEMENTS

fems2112 (on YouTube) says:

www.ratethisjudge.com and stay tuned.

TUHS Class of 1985. Seeking Alumni for 2010 Reunion. Sherry 332-2229. [email protected]

TUHS Class of 1990. Seeking alumni contact information for 20-Year Reunion (October 8-10, 2010). Contact Stephanie at 331-7094 or [email protected]

Class of 1960 50th Reunion will be held on Oct 23, 2010 at O.T.’s Cookhouse on the 2nd Saturday of Oildorado. This will also be during the Taft’s 100th birthday year. We have the following as missing classmates. If you know anyone of them, please contact Lodema Hatch

HELP WANTEDWest Side Recreation & Park District is now accepting applications for PT Office Assistant, 20 hrs/wk, $10.75-$12.10/hr depending upon experience. Working knowledge of MS Word/Excel a must. Quickbooks experience preferred. All applicants must complete a District application. For a complete job description and application forms access our website at www.wsprd.com or stop by the office at 500 Cascade Place, Taft. Deadline for filing: April 12 at 4pm. Fingerprinting, DMV check and physical exam requird upon offer of employment.

City of Taft Transit Dispatcher

(Coordinator) Starting Salary $3,140 mo. The City of Taft is

recruiting for a reliable individual to manage

the day-to-day operations of the fixed route and dial-a-ride programs and report

regularly to department management. Individual

must be dependable, motivated and able to work with minimal

supervision. Minimum Qualifications: High School diploma or

GED certificate; must possess or be able to obtain a State of California Class B

Driver’s license and a General Public

Paratransit Vehicle (GPPV) operator

certificate or School Bus driver’s license; individual must have

at least one (1) year of supervisory experience;

prior experience in public transit is

preferred; bilingual is desirable. Application

Process: A comple job description and application can be

picked up at Taft City Hall, 209 East Kern Street, Taft. Or call

763-1222 ext. 14. Final filing date: 6:00pm Thursday, April 15, 2010. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of applications.

Postmarked applications will not be

accepted. EOE

Apt. Manager Team needed for medium size building in Taft. Rent and utilities covered. (661)846-6403. Equal Housing Opporotunity.

Too Busy To Get Your House Just Right? Call Nikki! I do everything from floors, dishes, windows, you name it ! All for a low price of $10 per room! Call today and be worry free! Nikki 661-331-4345

week as of 1-29-10 CARPET AND FLOORING

CARPET/HARD FLOORING REPAIR

No job too small. Reasonable prices. Call Jeff 623-5421 or 765-

4676.

LIVESTOCK

WANTEDJunk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

FOR SALE3 lawnmowers, 2 gas, 1 electric. All 3 $100. 306 Polk St.

2002 Yamaha Raptor 660 Quad. After market modification. $2,500 obo. (661) 805-1206.

LOST PETSLost on March 2nd. near 100 E. warren. Small white Maltese. Goes by the name Camey. Please call 661-496-4943.

Lost dog. 7 yrs old black lab. answers to name Shadow. Lost near 925 2nd St. Call 706-7749.

PETSLab Puppies, Free to good home! Very cute and sweet! 4 boys, and 3 girls. Call 431-4084, or 578-7560

FOUND PETS

AffordableResidential HomesOwner Financing

Available

Taft Construction,Air Conditioning and

Heating

We Do All Phases of Construction

Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists

Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507

30 Plus Years in ConstructionLicense No. 927634

STOP FORECLOSUREFree Report

www.stopkernforclosure.com

Place YourClassified Ad in the

Taft Independent Today!

$2 per line. The best Classified Ad price in Taft

or the Westside.Call 765-6550 or email your classifed ad text to

[email protected].

AUTOMOBILES1988 Ford F-150 Auto., smogged and tagged. 765-2574. $2,100.

PERSONALS

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property Management

1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms now available in good

areas.CRIME FREE

HOUSING Brokers Licence

04417057

661-577-7136

OPEN HOUSE HOUSE FOR SALE

Amber Street HomesBrand New 3 bedroom and 2 bath homes(Front Street between 6th and 5th Streets)

For Private Showing Call 763-3517For More Information Please Call 763-3517

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunsay

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunday

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From $220,000

Brand New Homes in Taft. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, granite counters, Fully Landscaped, Covered Patios. Call (661)763-3517

HOMES FOR SALEwww.BuyKernCounty.comWe work for you NOT

the bank. HUD/ REO’s/ Short sales/Etc.

Specializing in the Taft Area

661-332-6597 Karri Christensen

Real Estate eBroker Inc #01522411 &

#01333971

House for Sale. 505 D. St. 3 bed, 2 bath. + Studio. $60,000. Call

615 Taylor. 2bd. 1 bath. Large back yard, fenced with detached garage. (661) 765-2875.

HOMES FOR RENTWest ValleyReal Estate

First time home buyer tax credit extended. Houses available from $13,000 to $370,000. Gorgeous 3/2 granite, pool, $217,000. Completely remodeled 3/2 with studio in back. $139,900. Residential commercial bank owned HUD and Investment.

(661) 763-1500. www.BuySellManage.com.

House for rent at 115 Kern St. 2 Bedroom plus office or small 3rd bedroom. One bedroom is big enough for two kids. Double lot right downtown. $695 plus deposit available now. Call Mark King at 805-689-4122. Apartment in duplex for rent at 405 San Emidio. 1/1 with laundry and huge shared back yard. $595 plus deposit. Call Mark King at 805-689-4122.

1 bd. downtown Taft. Off street parking. 319 1/2 North Street. Fenced Yard. $500 mo. plus dep. 661-623-5188.

Two BR/one bath for rent. $700 per mo./$700 security Call (661) 623-0453

2 bd. 1 ba. Very nice modern and private

garden apartment in duplex. Fenced front yard in quiet neighborhood with fenced back patio. Central a\c. Incls washer and dryer, stove, refrig. dishwasher, carport. Must have good ref. xlnxt credit. $600 Plus Dep. Renter pays all util. Michael 765-6550 or 623-4296.

3bd, 2ba, with garage, W&D hookups, fenced yard, and fresh paint. $1,100 mo + $1,000 dep. Avail. 4/1/10 763-8941

1st Month Free! $100 move in. 108 Center Street. 1 bd., 1 ba. apt. (661)846-6403. Equal Housing Opportunity.

2 BD, 1 BA, very clean, cute and spacious, built-ins in kitchen, lg fenced yard. $750/mo + $750 dep. 661-301-1291

2 bd 1 ba, $650 mo. + $600 dep. Apt. located at 424 Woodrow. Car port, laundry, dish hook-ups. Large front and back yard. 1 car garage. Hablo Espanol 805-746-5410. Avail 12/6.

FOR LEASE 2 bedroom 1 bath house in Taft heights washer and gas dryer hook ups $700 a

Preserving for the Future

GRANITE OVERLAYSKitchens • Bathrooms Showers • Fireplaces

No tear out required - Goes over any surfaceRLK Coatings

661-623-7039 661-366-5460

TAFT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT TO SELL OBSOLETE ITEMS at a silent auction, on Saturday, April 17, 2010. 8-10 a.m. at the TUHS Storage area, 900 N. 10th St. Items to be auctioned include athletic, janitorial, audiovisual, office equipment, furniture, machinery, and misc. items. Viewing of items is restricted to the time of the auction. Auction details and an itemized list are available at the TUHS Business Office, 701 7th Street, from 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. through April 16th, and at the auction.

PUBLIC AUCTION

month contact Rick at either (661)765-2328 or (661)342-5877 section 8 ok availeble now.

Beautiful, lrg, well maintained 2 bdr condo. Private yard, prof. landscaping, private carport and entrance. 555 Front St. Excellent ref req. $875 mo. 745-4650 (805)226-8463

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

Courtyard Terrace Apts. 1 and 2 bdrm’s. Pool, lndry rm.,1210 4th St. Apt. 1. Sec. 8 OK. (661) 763-1333.


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

western shop & PET SUPPLY

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

CANINE SPECTRA - 5 PUPPY SHOT $9.95 EachCANINE SPECTRA - 7 DOG SHOT $9.95 Each

FRESH SCENT - 256 CLEANSER

Visit our website for more informationwww.shawswesternshop.com

(661)765-4003 Tank & Vessel Cleaning • Specialty Vacuum Services- Guzzler • Pipe & Line Cleaning

• Steel Cutting with Water • Dry & Bulk Material Transfer • Heat Exchangers & Bundle Services • Refinery & Facility Shutdowns

• Steam Cleaning & Pressure Washing Services • Cleanout • Maintenance • New Construction • Dirt Services • Tank Erection • Tank Repairs

811 Supply Row • P.O. Box 398 • Taft, California 93268 (661)765-4001 Fax

www.accelerated-services.comContractor Lic. No. 890769 Contractor Lic. No. 890822

Advertise in the Taft IndependentCall Today! 765-6550

Somos una Agencia Independiente Con Varias Aseguradoras Prominentes Para Darle El Mejor Servicio

Lo Representamos A Usted Para Darle Un Excelente Servicio Como Usted Se Lo Merece

Edward J. Herrera Insurance

420 Center StreetTaft, Ca 93268(661)745-4920Lic. # 0277365

www.edherrerainsurance.com

Le Ofrecemos Los Mejores Precios

Auto - Casa - Salud - Negocio - Notario Publico

NuestroPersonalAmable

No Appointment Needed For Smog Check!

QIKSmog & Tune

500 S. 10th Street • Taft661-763-4445

• Certified Gold Shield

& C. A. P. Station

• General Automotive

Repair

Free Retest with our repairs!We Certify Test- Only Vehicals

DISINFECTANT, DETERGENT, & DEODORANTEFFECTIVE AGAINST VARIOUS FUNGI & VIRUSES INCLUDING

CANINE PARVOVIRUS & DISTEMPER

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Randy’s Trucking, Inc.Now Renting

U-Cart Away Concrete MixerStarting at $44

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street, Taft, CA 93268

• Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer

• Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping

• Mixes Concrete While Traveling

• Large Internal Blades

• Rear Operator Control PanelCement Available 7 Days A Week

(661) 763-4773

ANDERSON BUSINESS SERVICESBookkeeping and Income Tax Preparation

TAX TIME IS HERE!Make Your Appointment Early.

10% OFFWITH THIS AD

NEW CLIENTS ONLYVisit

ABSTAFT.com

Sandy Anderson

Call for Appointment: 765-7665 or 577-6790

RV STORAGE1124 4th Street, Taft (661) 765-4352

Open 7 Days a Week

BARRON PROPERTIESManagement/Sales

“Putting Management back into your Property”

Ethele M. Barron325 Kern Street

[email protected]

(661) 763-9000 • Fax: (661) 763-9001 DRE# 01812075

Advertise in the Taft Independent Call Today (661)765-6550

3 Bdrm, 2 Bath Home OnApprox. 1.9 acres, $140,000

Open House: 10:00 - 10:30 am

Stephen Wright’s Tour of HomesApril 10, 2010

503 6th St. Taft, CA • (661)765-5274 • www.TaftHomes.com

DRE# 01415460

3 Bdrm, 2 Bath, 3 CarGarage, $179,000

Open House: 11:00 - 11:30 am

27965 Tank Farm Rd. 216 E. Lucard St.