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Summer Kicks Off in Taft
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May 4 - 10, 2012 TAFT INDEPENDENT
May 4 - 10, 2012 • Volume 6 Issue 45www.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”
Over 50 Different Craft & Imported Beers
Pastas • Sandwiches • Salads • Espresso • Beer • WineThe Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!Black Gold
Cafe and Deli508 Center Street • 661-765-6556
First Thursday & Farmers Market Kick Off Summer Season In Taft
NOW OPEN AT 6AM!!
Former TUHS Graduates, Now CHP Teach Driver Safety
Taft Chamber of CommerceAnnual Cinco De MayoCelebration At 5th Street Plaza
By Nicole Frost
Meet Harley Pinson, 4th District Supervisor Candidate COFFEE • ICED COFFEE • ESPRESSO • ICE BLENDED
BIKE NIGHTThursday, May 10th
2 TAFT INDEPENDENT May 4 - 10, 2012
Fine Jewelry • Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair • Watch Batteries
Candies • Candles • And More!
Passion For Nails
Monday to Friday10am-7pm and
Saturday 9am-6pm
Nail Services:Gel Polish • Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic
Metalic Flakes • Rock Star Men & Seniors &
Diabetics Welcome1014 6th Street • Taft
In the Save A Lot Shopping Center
(661)745-4913 426 Center Street (661)763-5451
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
Store Hours:Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pmClosed Sunday and Monday
Shop Taft
1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899
Ten Percent Firearms
Personal Style
523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm
Tire & Automotive Service Center
Oil & Filter Special
2495*$Plus Tax
Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase
$3.50 Oil Disposal FeeExp. May 31, 2012
FREETire Rotation
& Brake CheckPlus
We will checkall fluids
& tire pressure
*Most Cars & Light Trucks
Up to 5 Qts.
Hand Made CardsBY DONNA$2.00 EachLike Us on Facebook
Geiger Construction & Plumbing
24 Hours/ 7 Days a WeekSe Habla Espanol 661-301-4660
Residential • Commercial
Fast • Friendly • Affordable661-765-4377
Cement & Asphalt Cutting Women • Contemporary • Junior • Toddler • Infant • Men
WE SHIP!
Lic # B-721903
WE HAVE MOVED!Now located at 210 6th Street
(661)763-4176
Electronics • Prepaid Phones Service • Accessories
A Hint of Class Name Brand ClothingShoes • Jewelry
Accessories & MoreInside The Historic Fort • 623-1783 • 763-1700
915 N. 10th Street Suite 34
For Mother’s DayGive the gift that keeps on giving!
421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527
New Styles Just In!Dresses • Jeans • Jewelry •Purses & More!Infant & Toddler Summer Outfits!
We are an Independent Agency WithMany Pre-Eminent Insurance Companies
To Best Suit Your NeedsWhy go to Bakersfield? We’re here!
We Represent You To Give You The Best Service
417 1/2 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
Edward J. Herrera Insurance
Preparing America’s Taxes Since 1955
Amanda EsdinosaAngie Rodriguez
Megan Hiler418 Center StreetTaft, CA 93268(661)765-5242 Fax (661)765-5476hrblock.com
Small town, family owned, low overhead.We can save you money on quality jewelry!April 23rd-28th
High School Prom Special10% OFF of any $15 or more service
661-745-4954610 Center St.
Hablamos Espanol
INTERNATIONAL CALLING
Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards
$5 Off Any Phone $99 or MoreSPRING SPECIALS
$1 of credit for new customersJim Shore
Mother’s Day AngelsYankee Candles
Bow Wow Bakery
420 Center Street(661) 979-7264
Open Tuesday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Saturday 9am to 1pm
Choice of Entrees- Tiki dog lomi salmon and chicken
- Tiki dog kauai laua chicken on brown rice with tiger prawn- Tiki dog luau succulent chicken on brown rice with crabTiki Cat Cuisine: Choice of Entree & Water - $3.95
Indoor Dining & Take Out for Dogs Bring your dog in for some good wholesome doggie dishes
Tiki Dog & Cat Natural FoodsIncludes entree, water and gourmet treat for $4.95
Check out our new Hide N Sole
Womens Flip FlopsSizes
Infant to 6TGirls & Boys
CANINE CUISINE
May 4 - 10, 2012 TAFT INDEPENDENT
Community Events.........3
News Briefs......................3
Westside Watcher............4
Westside News..................5
Westside News.................6
Westside News.................7
Liberty Under Fire.........8
CASA Corner....................8
Westside News..................9
Classified Ads.................10
Meet Harley Pinson......11
Westside News...............11
Inside
The Taft Independent
508 Center 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 3,500 issues and distribute to over 225 locations in the city of Taft and the neighboring communities of Cuyama Valley, McKittrick, Maricopa, Fellows and Western Kern County, California.
The Independent is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies are $1 each. The contents of the Taft Independent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.
We welcome contributions and suggestions. Our purpose is to present news and issues of importance to our readers.
SUBSCRIPTIONS. Subscription home or businessdelivery of the Taft Independent is available for $6.50 per month or $78.00 per year. To subscribe to please call 765-6550.
LETTERS-TO-THE-EDITOR.Send us your letter to Taft Independent at the above address. Limit it to 300 words and include your name, address, and phone number. Fax: (661) 765-6556. Email your letter to: [email protected].
ADVERTISING.Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representative at (661) 765-6550, or email to [email protected]: Call 765-6550 or fax us at (661) 765-6556. Phone orders are taken. Visa and Master Card accepted.
Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long
AdvertisingJessica Skidgel
Layout & DesignJessica Skidgel
Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris,
Nicole Frost
ColumnistsRandy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins,
Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease
Subscriptions\DeliveryTim Webb, Patrick Harget
Member California NewspaperPublishers Association
Printed in California
News BriefsTaft California
“Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”
Have a community event that you would like to include? Email it to us at [email protected]
Taft Chamber Cinco De Mayo Celebration Saturday, May 5th
Saturday, May 5, join the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau for the 2nd Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration. Taking place on 5th Street Plaza from 11am to 4pm, this event is sure to be a success. Mariachi Real de Jalisco will be performing, a talent show will occur, and Hercules Jump will have bounce houses for the kids. There will also be a beer garden and live music throughout the day. This event is free to attend! For more information contact the Chamber at 765-2165.
WKOM Pioneer Days Saturday, May 5th
The West Kern Oil Museum’s annual Pioneer Days celebration will be held May 5. The event will feature antique gas engines, a barbecue and plant sale. The Museum’s working blacksmith shop will also be up and running. Pioneer Days will begin at 9 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. The barbecue will be dished up beginning at 11:30 a.m. Ad-mission is free, but the cost for the barbecue is $10 for adults, $5 for children under the age of 10. For more information contact the Oil Museum at 765-6664.
Taft Relay For Life Saturday & Sunday, May 19th & 20th
Annual Taft Relay for Life is set for Saturday and Sunday, May 19th and 20th at TUHS. To get involved, contact La Nell Howell at 661-330-5606, [email protected] or visit online at: relayforlife.org/taftca
Community Events
Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com
Taft Chamber Plans Cinco De Mayo Celebration on 5th Street Plaza Saturday, May 5, join the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau for the 2nd Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration. Taking place on 5th Street Plaza from 11am to 4pm, this event is sure to be a success. Mariachi Real de Jalisco will be performing, a talent show will occur, and Hercules Jump will have bounce houses for the kids (wristbands are available for $5 at the event). Several Mexican food and craft vendors will be on hand as well as informational booths including the Mexican consulate offering information about their ser-vices and assisting the community with legal issues. There will be a beer garden and live music throughout the day. This event is free to attend! Event sponsored by Harley Pinson, Campos Tire Service, Next Step Gym, Edward J Herrera Insurance, and Las Brasas Grill. Find the Taft Chamber on Facebook at www.facebook.com/taft.chamber to stay up to date on all of the activities and events in Taft. Contact the Chamber at 765-2165 or 400 Kern Street for Vendor booths or more information.
MAY JUNE
JULY
3 Farmers Market Starts4 TUHS Evening of Jazz5 Chamber Cinco de MayoCelebration and West Kern OilMuseum Bailing Out Days & BBQ19-20 Fourth Annual Relay for Life24 Kaiser Permanente mobile office grand opening
1-2 West Kern Oil Museum Yard Sale9 Chamber Annual Car & Motorcycle Show and Kiwanis Breakfast at the Car Show
4 Westside Christian MinistersAssociation and Chamber 4th ofJuly Family Picnic28-29 Tumbleweed Festival
Save The Date Upcoming Event DatesOn The Westside
TUHS Seventh Street Players Will Play Willy Wonka The Taft Union High School Seventh Street Players, under the direction of drama teacher Kelly Morris, will present the play, “Willy Wonka” May 10 to 13. The play is based on the 1964 children’s book by British author Roald Dahl, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The story follows young Charlie Bucket inside the chocolate factory of the eccentric Willy Wonka. Matt Maxcy plays Willy Wonka and Whitney Graham plays Charlie Bucket. Other major characters are: Jordan Romero as Augustus Gloop, Kayla Schuler as Veruca Salt, Ryan Hardy as Mike Teavee, Sara Jewell as Violet Beauregarde, Matt Smith as Grandpa Joe, Courtney Carr as Mrs. Gloop, Val Richardson as Mr. Salt, Ellisha Yeley as Ms. Teavee and Jessica Rofkahr as Mrs. Beauregarde. The music and lyrics are by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley and the play was adapted for the stage by Bricusse and Timothy Allen McDonald. The play will be performed in the auditorium at 7 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 10-12, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 13, (Mother’s Day). Admission costs $7 for adults; $5 for children and seniors. Children under 3 will be admitted free. For the Sunday Mother’s Day matinee, moms will be admitted for $5.
Taft High Band Booster To Host “An Evening of Jazz” TUHS Band Boosters will be hosting “An Evening of Jazz.” The event will fea-ture live jazz music from the Taft High Jazz Band along with dinner and dancing. Dinner and dessert will be served by students of the Taft High Concert Band. Proceeds from this event will be used to provide graduating seniors with college scholarships. The event will be held on Friday, May 4 at the Taft Masonic Lodge, 521 North Street. Doors to the event will open at 5:30pm and dinner will be served at 6pm. The evening’s festivities are expected to last until 8pm. A limited number of tickets will be available. Individual tickets are available for a $25 donation. Reserved tables for six people are also available for a $150 donation. A special Gold Package is also being offered for a $250 donation. This package includes a reserved table for six and the opportunity for an individual from your table to conduct the jazz band for one song. The event is open to the public. Band alumni members are encouraged to attend. No alcoholic beverages will be served at the event. Tickets are available at the Taft Chamber of Commerce or from Amanda Posey at TUHS. Tickets may also be purchased by calling Robin Norton at (661)619-5771, Jane White at (661)623-1299, or Amanda Posey at (661)763-2351.
Museum Pioneer Days The West Kern Oil Museum’s annual Pioneer Days celebration will be held May 5. The event will feature antique gas engines, a barbecue and plant sale. The Early Day Gas Engine & Tractor Assoc., Inc. will display and run their unique gas engines. The Museum’s working blacksmith shop will also be up and running. Pioneer Days will begin at 9 a.m. and run until 3 p.m. The barbecue will be dished up beginning at 11:30 a.m. Admission is free, but the cost for the barbecue is $10 for adults, $5 for chil-dren under the age of 10. Yard sale June 1-2 It’s time to clean out your garage and storage areas. The Museum’s annual Yard Sale will be June 1 and 2 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Items for the sale will be accepted Thursday -Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sundays from 1-3 p.m. Sorting and pricing everything takes time, so the volunteers encourage every-one to bring donations to the Museum as soon as possible. If you can’t bring your donations, pick-up can be arranged by calling the Mu-seum at 765-6664. The Yard Sale is one of the Museum’s most successful fundraisers, and it is a great way to make space in your garage. Donated items may be tax deductible.
Maricopa VFW Annual Yard Sale and Biscuits & Gravy Breakfast This Saturday Maricopa VFW will be selling biscuits and gravy Saturday, May 5th starting at 7am for $5. The Ladies Auxilary will be having their annual yard sale starting at 7am and going til 3pm. There will be lots of good items for sale. Durring lunch time the men of the post will be selling hotdogs or hamburgers including chips and sodas for $6. Won’t you please come out and help us support our military men and women and our veterans.
4 TAFT INDEPENDENT May 4 - 10, 2012
NOW OPEN 514 Center Street • (661)765-7469
LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre TaftTAFTFOX.COM
Editorial
Westside Watcher
Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside
The Taft
Restaurant and Entertainment Guide
Independent
Taft Petroleum Club
450 Petroleum Club Road - 763-3268 Open Monday- Friday 4:30pm to Close
Ribeye Steak or Chicken Dinner from 6pm - 8pm
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
Taft Crude Coffee HouseCoffee House and Deli
Monday – Friday 7 am to 4pm.
Saturday 7 am to 2 pmSundays 7:30 am to 10 am
1010 6th Street, Taft763-5156
Black Gold Cafe & DeliPastas - Sandwiches
Espresso - Beer - WineOpen Monday to Saturday
Lunch served 9am-1pmDinner served 5pm - 8pm
508 Center Street765-6550
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. 6 am-8:30 pmSun. Wed. Fri. & Sat. 6 am - 9 pm
765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft
Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting
Wine Tasting and Lunch Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pm
4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319
Paik’sRanch House Restaurant
“Where Everybody Meets”
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days
Mon, Tues, Thurs - 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wed, Fri. Sat. and Sun. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.
Larger showroom and larger mechanic AreaNow offering a customer lounge with coffee and donuts
Come check out our new location!!!WWW.CYCLEKATZ.COM [email protected]
320 Harrison st. (661) 745- 4931
CYCLE KATZ INC. HAS MOVED TO
320 HARRISON ST.745-4931
PARTS • SALES • SERVICELocally owned and operated
We work on all makes and models
Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com
Industry Night Sponsored by Harley Pinson for Supervisor
Next Wednesday, May 2ndBar opens at 4:30pm and dinner served at 7:30pm
Come out for a great dinner and great drinks, door prizes and 50/50
Good Question? In Concert for Relay for LifeWho wants to see Taft’s own Good Question? They will be
playing at the Taft Petroleum Club May 12 at 6pm. There will be an auction for a date with band members and some of their
closest friends! All proceeds go to Relay for Life for cancer research. There will be lots of raffle prizes, free stuff and great music for just a $5 cover charge. So make sure you come and
help Good Question give to this wonderful cause.
Maricopa Tea RoomSpecials
Wednesday, May 9th: Fettuccini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken,
Salad and BreadThursday, May 10th:
Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in Marinara Sauce with Salad and Bread
Friday, May 11th: Meatball Sub with Salad and Bread
Telephone: 769-8231 Extension 5 323
Week of Friday, May 04, 2012 Through Thursday, May 10, 2012
Marvel’s The Avengers (PG-13) No Passes AllowedFri: (2:45), 6:00, 9:15
Sat & Sun: (11:30 AM), (2:45), 6:00, 9:15Mon - Thu: (5:30), 8:45
Act of Valor (R) No Passes AllowedFri: (4:40), 7:10, 9:45
Sat & Sun: (11:45 AM), (2:05), (4:40), 7:10, 9:45Mon - Thu: (5:10), 7:45
The Prairie Pirates (NR) Fri: (4:30), 6:45, 8:50
Sat & Sun: (12:00), (2:15), (4:30), 6:45, 8:50Mon - Thu: (5:45), 8:00
Cal State University Employees Authorize Strike If Talks Fail California State University employees have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a series of two-day strikes if a new contract can-not be reached. Lillian Taiz, president of the California Faculty Association, which represents 24,000 professors, librarians, coaches and coun-selors in the 23-campus system, said Wednesday nearly 95 percent of members voted in favor of the strike authorization. The union has proposed “rolling” strikes in which groups of campuses would go out on strike for two days each, one group following another. University spokesman Michael Uhlenkamp says talk of a strike is premature as bargaining is ongoing with talks scheduled for Thursday and Friday. The 400,000-student system is dealing with a $970 million loss in state funding since 2008, raising tuition and slashing staff as a result.
Taft City Council UpdateBy Kent Miller
Taft City Councilmembers faced an explosive issue at their Tuesday evening meeting, but managed to pull their way out of it.One-by-one, city staff and the four councilmembers in attendance drew slips out of a basket, determining who would operate four Safe and Sane Fireworks stands in the city limits this year. The winners, in the order in which they were drawn, are:* First Samoan Assembly of God Church;* Taft Lions Club;* Taft Sportsmen’s Club-IDPA;* Midway-Sunset Lions Foundation.Calvary Temple is the alternate and would operate a booth if one of the four withdrew.
Fox Theater A request from the Taft Fox Theater owners Kent Coke and David Mann for an emergency loan for installing air conditioning in the main theater and lobby was tabled. Coke had planned to attend the meeting, city staff said, but was unable to for health reasons and the council had questions Mann was unable to answer by phone during the meeting. City staff reported that the request was a stop-gap measure until the owners would know if they were going to receive a govern-ment loan to cover the cost of replacing the air condition unit that served the larger main theater and the lobby. The unit serving the two smaller theaters is operational, the council was told. But without air conditioning the larger theater would have to be closed during the summer and without all three theaters open, the Taft Fox wouldn’t qualify for first-run movies and would have to close. Councilmember Dave Noerr pointed out that the business plan presented to the council showed that a new unit would cost $17,000 and didn’t list any labor costs, while the owners were ask-ing for $34,500. The plan also stated that the type of refrigerant to be used with the new unit was not in compliance with standards and would void the warranty on the equipment, Noerr noted.“I don’t understand the non-complete business plan,” he said. “We have a duty to watch over the people’s money. I would have to deny the request based on the information we have now.” The owners offered projection equipment valued at $40,000 as collateral and were willing to accept a 26-month loan at 6 percent interest. Mann told the council that he didn’t have the information at hand Tuesday night to answer their questions. Councilmember Orchel Krier made a motion to table the mat-ter until questions could be answered and Councilmember Ron Waldrop seconded the motion. Noerr and Councilmember Paul Linder, acting as mayor in the absence of Randy Miller, concurred and the matter will be brought back to the council at its May 15 meeting. Mann said he understood the council’s concerns.
Other mattersIn other matters, the council approved:* A resolution determining that former Police Chief Burtus Pum-phrey has a work-related disability for the purpose of the Public Employees Retirement Law;* The boundaries of the Targeted Employment Area as related to the Taft Enterprise Zone and submission of an application to the California Housing and Community Development Department for a TEA designation;* A resolution confirming city ownership of the “Railroad” (Rails to Trails) property, as transferred by Taft Community Develop-ment Agency in 2011;* Waived the soft costs and minimum fee in connection with the Laborers of the Harvest’s acquisition of three properties at 315-317 Center St. to continue food bank activities.
May 4 - 10, 2012 TAFT INDEPENDENT
Westside News & Business Briefs
508 Center Street • TaftDIne In Or Pick Up • 661-765-6556
The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!
Black GoldCafe and Deli
Open Monday-Saturday 6am - 8pm
Shrimp Scampi • Spaghetti With Meatballs • Raviolis
Mozzarella & Baked Chicken Ravioli Spinach & Cheese
Raviolis
BLTA • Black Gold ClubRoast Beef • Ham • Turkey
Avocado • Tuna Salad • Egg Salad • Pastrami • Meatball Sandwich • Grilled Cheese Italian Garden Salad • Chef Salad • Polish Dog • Chili
Dog • Soup & Salad
Coffee • Iced Coffee Espresso • Latte • Cappuccino
Americano • Vanilla Latte Cafe Mocha • White Mocha Chai Latte • Hot Chocoloate Blended Drinks • Iced Drinks
Chocolate Freeze Vanilla Freeze • Iced Tea Fruit Smoothies • Protein
Drinks
Cheesecake • Chocolate Pie Key Lime Pie • Pastries
Pastas • SandwichesEspresso • Beer • Wine
Best IPA SelectionOver 50 Different Craft
& Imported Bottled Beers!
Sandwiches & Salads
Pastas
Espresso & Coffee
Desserts
Beer & Wine Available To GoOpen Monday-Saturday
6am - 8pm
Taft College STEM and Energy Technology Programs Receive $100,000 Chevron Donation
The Taft College Foundation is pleased to announce that on Monday, May 7, 2012, the STEM Outreach/Young Innova-tors and Energy Technology Programs will celebrate receiving a $100,000 check from Chevron to support outreach and cur-riculum development for the coming year. Chevron is one of the founding Corporate Sponsors of the STEM (Science- Technol-ogy-Engineering - Mathematics) Corporate Circle Partnership along with Oxy of Elk Hills, Synagro, Sempra Foundation and Wells Fargo. The West Kern k-12 STEM Outreach Program, which began three years ago, is a classroom program that started with approxi-mately sixty (60) students and now has over three hundred (300) students enrolled. The Young Innovators Program, which began two years ago, meets bi-weekly during the school year. Initially there were thirty (30) students enrolled and it now has over seven-ty-five (75) students. This comprehensive and innovative outreach is designed to build a pipeline of students for Kern County’s future Engineering and technical jobs. Some who might enter the Taft College Energy Technology program which is designed to address workforce development, community, and business/in-dustry needs, and allow Taft College to embark on a multi-phase initiative to strengthen its education and training offerings Congratulations to Taft College STEM Outreach and Energy Technology & Chevron for making these educational opportuni-ties available to our local students. Together we will build our future!
What does Bakersfield have in common with Los Angeles, Mex-ico City and Beijing, China? All are cities that have very bad air quality. The American Lung Association reports that the residents of Bakersfield and Kern County are breathing some of the worst air anywhere. They rate Bakersfield as #1 in the country for bad air.The reason is simple. The San Joaquin Valley is enormous stretch-ing all the way from Bakersfield north to Sacramento. It is one of the primary bread baskets of the country, supplying much of the country’s oranges, almonds, pistachios, carrots, and grapes. More oil is being drilled here than anywhere else in the country. And yet, besides being a cornucopia of fruits and vegetables and a source of much needed oil, its air accumulates a great number of pollut-ants—ozone and other fine particles— which are bad for our lungs and deadly for those suffering from breathing difficulties such as asthma and COPD. Think of the San Joaquin Valley as a huge basin that tips to the south. Bakersfield is at its southern tip. All the pollution created by the trucks barreling up and down Interstate 5 and industrial pollu-tion drifts south to Bakersfield. And there it sits because it cannot go over the mountains further south. It’s no wonder that some-times the hazy smog created is so thick we can’t see the mountains surrounding the valley. Mexico City and Beijing have the same problem. There is a lot of traffic with vehicles that use fossil fuel and emit gases into the atmosphere. They are basins where the polluted air settles and cannot escape. The last time I flew to Mexico City a cloud of dirty brown air cloaked the entire city. Los Angeles has a similar prob-lem when no air is moving inward from the ocean… Last winter was mild and dry, all of which increases worry about what kind of summer is ahead. We fear that it may be hotter than usual and water may be more scarce. Air pollution may be worse than ever. Air pollution is a major threat to human health. It sends people to emergency rooms, shapes how children’s lungs develop and kills through the development of serious respiratory illnesses. Polluted air contains particulate matter—lead, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide—all of which can cause problems in people with allergies or asthma. Even if pollu-tion is low, airborne pollen and mold can make a trip outdoors particularly daunting for people with respiratory conditions.Local weather stations often provide this information on their websites, and radio stations typically give ozone alerts. In addition, many websites can tell us if pollutants, ozone, or pollen counts are high in our area on any given day. There are no immediate solutions to the problem. People, par-ticularly those whose lungs are most compromised, can do a couple of things. It’s best for them to live in air conditioned houses but who can afford the cost of air conditioning? Don’t exercise outside when the air is really bad. Use air purifiers. Grow a lot of plants. Certain plants can help clean your indoor air day and night. Keep your windows closed at night… If you smoke, STOP SMOKING IMMEDIATELY! Teach your children to stay as far away as they can from cigarettes… I wish there was some upbeat way to conclude this dreary article but I can’t think of any.
Taft College Offers Summer Watercolor Class Have you ever wanted to try your hand at that elusive form of watercolor painting? This summer may be the time to do so. Art department chairman Sonja Swenson announces that for the first time ever a summer session water color class is being offered at the college. The class will be taught by Jane McCabe, a fine artist, teacher and previous owner of the End of Times Gallery. It will begin on June 4th, end on August 14th, and meet twice a week, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from 5:15 to 8:15 p.m. Some supplies will be provided by the college and some students will need to purchase for themselves. The cost of the class is $46. If you are interested in registering, please call Taft College Admissions: 763-7741
Taft Residents Have Reason to Worry over Our Bad AirBy Jane McCabe
Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com
Mother’s Day EventPamper yourself, your mother, your daughter,
and your friends with a free facial.
Enter to win a Gift BasketEstimated value $121 of Mary Kay products
Drawing to be held @ 6:30
Where: 500 Cascade Place (preschool room)When: Sunday, May 6th
Times: 10:30, 12:00, 1:30, 3:00, 4:30, 6:00
Hosted by:Carla Jones, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant 348-2554
Tisha Ryerson, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant 565-8142
6 TAFT INDEPENDENT May 4 - 10, 2012
Westside News & Business Briefs
Blue Jeans & BlingHats, Jewelry, Purses & More
Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA
Monday - Friday 11am to 6pmSaturday 10am to 5pm
Women’s Sizes 0-21 Women’s Plus Sizes
Children’s Jeans & Shirts
763-9100Host a partyVisit us on [email protected]
415 Center Street
Taft Crude Is Closing After 7 YearsJoin Us Now At Black Gold Cafe & Deli
508 Center StreetOpen 6am to 8pm • Monday to Saturday
Thank You Taft!For all your support, we look
forward to seeing you at Black Gold
508 Center Street • TaftDIne In Or Pick Up • 661-765-6556
Pastas • Sandwiches • Espresso • Beer • Wine
Black GoldCafe and Deli
The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!
Taft Crude
Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion
Childrens • Cookbooks and More!
810 Center Street • (661)805-9813
Ben’s Books
Shop Our Huge Selection of Half Priced Books!
The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft
Coffee House
Jessica Miller, Barbara Duggins, a Hero for Hope, and Shannon Jones
On April 29, cancer survivors and their guests attended the Sur-vivor Social at the Historic Fort. Forty-five survivors received their purple shirts and were inspired by guest speaker Barbara Duggins, a Hero for Hope. Her courageous battle with cancer and support from family and friends as many members of her family battled as well was an inspirational message of Hope and Fight. Thank you to our Midway-Sunset Lions for making the delicious lunch and to the Girl Scout Troup 2155 for decorating for the event. Taft Relay for Life is coming up on May 19-20 at TUHS. This is the 4th annual event for the Taft Relay for Life and we encourage everyone to come walk a lap or two, participate in the events, and help raise money for a great cause. The event kicks off with Open-ing Ceremonies and the Survivor Lap at 8:30am, followed by the Caregiver Lap, and the team laps, which continue for 24 hours. To register as a survivor, log on to www.relayforlife.org/taftca. Survivor Committee Co-Chairs Jessica and Shannon are looking for donations for the survivor area, an area reserved for survivors to relax, grab a bite to eat, and cool off from the heat. Monetary donations to cover the cost of items or donations of items such as muffins, bagels, fruits, yogurts, drinks, snacks, and more will be ac-cepted. To make a donation, please contact them at 765-2165. We look forward to seeing you at the event.
Relay For Life Survivors SocialKicks Off Relay Season In Taft
Taft Chamber of Commerce Annual Cinco De Mayo Celebration This Saturday
Summer is just around the corner and that means that the Farmer’s Market and “First Thursdays” are coming back to kick off the season. Also, Taft’s second annual Cinco de Mayo celebration is this Saturday in the 5th Street Plaza from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Farmer’s Market returned to the 5th Street Plaza on May 3 and will be returning every Thursday until September 27. The market takes place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and cherries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, mixed greens, onions, beets, oranges, and eggplant are just some of the items that will be sold. The Taft Chamber of Commerce is also accepting any vendors selling snow cones, jewelry, clothing, purses, and other non-farm items. If you have a backyard garden, it is very easy to become a certified produce vendor. Just contact the Chamber at 765-2165 for additional information or to participate. The market will be accepting EBT later in the season.
Also coming back are First Thursdays. On the “First Thursday” of the month, several downtown businesses and restaurants will stay open later for your shopping convenience. “Businesses that are Chamber members will stay open later and offer special deals on “first Thursdays,” commented Chamber direc-tor Kathy Orrin. On Saturday, the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Bureau will be hosting their 2nd annual Cinco de Mayo celebration. There will be a bounce house provided by Hercules Jump, a Talent Show and a performance by Mariachi Real de Jalisco. The event is free, but wrist bands for the bounce house will be on sale for $5. Also, there will be craft vendors on hand as well as informational booths including the Mexican consulate offering information about their services and assisting the community with legal issues. The event is sponsored by Harley Pinson, Campos Tire Service, Next Step Gym, Edward J Herrera Insurance, and Las Bra-sas Grill. Come to the 5th street plaza for food, music, and more!
Good Question Benefit Concert For Relay For Life Local band Good Question is host-ing a concert and dance party at the Petroleum Club on May 13th. All proceeds are going to the American Cancer Society on behalf of Relay for Life. Music and cock-tails start at 7 p.m. and the concert starts at 8 p.m. The cover charge is just $5 and the after party will be until 2 a.m. Want to win a date with one of the Good Question guys? They, along the band manager and a few other guests, will be auctioned off during the night and the highest bidders will be able to go on a date with them. Also, there will be a 50/50 raffle, drink specials, and prizes, including a trip for two to Pismo Beach with a hotel room and dinner. Come support Good Question and the fight against cancer by enjoying great food, drinks, music, and prizes.
By Nicole Frost
By Nicole Frost
May 4 - 10, 2012 TAFT INDEPENDENT
Westside News & Business Briefs
HAYDENS HOPE“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”
428 Center Street • TAFT
THRIFT STORE
God Bless!We Take Donations!Drop Off Or Call For A Pick Up!745-4963 745-4963
Shirts $.25Pants $.50
WE HAVE MOVED! NOW AT 428 CENTER ST.
Open Mon., Tues., Thurs9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 5pmSaturday 9am - 4pmClosed Wednesday &
Sunday
The Place4014 Highway 33
Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa(661)766-2660
Saturday, May 12thCountry Barn Dance
$12.00 ALL YOU CAN EATBBQ Pork Spare Ribs, Salad,
Beans & BreadFamily Fun Begins at 2pm
with Horseshoe TournamentDinner Served at 5pm
Live Music by Yesteryear at 7pmFull outdoor bar will be provided by the
Cuyama Valley Exchange ClubFeel free to spend the night!
Camp or bring your R.V.
THE PLACECHP Hold Pilot Driver Safety Program For TUHS Students Two brothers, Taft High graduates now working as CHP of-ficers, know too well what it is like to lose a loved one to a car crash and they brought that firsthand knowledge to Taft High students in a pilot driver safety program Wednesday, May 2. Officers Lonn and Tye Meeks recalled how their older brother,
Forrest, died in a two-car accident on Taft Highway east of the canal in March 1997 when he was 23. It was a freak accident. Both cars got too near the center divider and the opposing car sheared off Forrest’s side mirror and sent it crashing into his head, killing him instantly, Lonn said. Forrest was two years older than Lonn and they played sports together and shared a love of the outdoors. “One single mistake can become a tragedy,” he said. “I was there when my father told my mother. To see the devastation it causes families. It’s not something that goes away,” Lonn said. “It made me go into the traffic division and into traffic safety,” after graduating from Taft High in 1994.
The Meeks tried to impress upon hundreds of current Taft High students pulled from their PE classes for one day that one mistake while you are driving can led to catastrophic consequences. The program, the brainstorm of CHP division commander Dave Wymore, focused on big rig vs. car accidents and included a Frito-Lay delivery truck and a CHP car outside Mullen gym accompa-nied by a “Red Asphalt” clip inside the gym. The pilot program was well received by teachers and students and may be expanded to other high schools. Taft High Superintendent/Principal Mark Richardson said, “We are excited to work with our partners in the CHP and Frito-Lay to help promote student safety.” Officer Tye Meeks, TUHS class of 1996, gave some grim statis-tics, about crashes between semi tractor-trailer rigs and vehicles. “It’s the law of physics.” Semis are 20 and 30 times the weight of cars and pickups,” he said. “And, these trucks can haul 80,000 pounds. Your vehicles weigh absolutely nothing compared to these trucks. You are going to lose.” The drivers of the smaller vehicles cause 70 percent of the accidents between semis and smaller vehi-
Students read information about a fatal accident posted on the back of a Frito-Lay semi.
cles, he added. “In most cases, it was preventable.” Of the fatalities from the one-sided crashes, 86 percent are in the smaller vehicles. Seventy-two Kern County residents died in vehicular accidents in 2011. Forty-two thousand Americans die annu-ally. Crashes are the No. 1 cause of death among teens. In the past four years, the length of time a student is in high school, 67 Kern County 14- to 18-year-olds were killed in traffic accidents, about the same number of students that listened intently to each of the day’s seven presenta-tions. Taft High was chosen in part because highways 119 and 46 are “two of the deadliest highways in California,” Tye said. Students were allowed to climb up into the Frito-Lay cab to get a trucker’s-eye view. It was more what they didn’t see, than what they did see. The CHP cruiser parked 20 feet behind the semis was entirely blocked by view because of the truck’s sheer size. “Trucks need a space cushion to maneuver and brake,” Tye warned. Junior Rebecca Jackson said, “It made me see things from a different per-spective. When you see people passing trucks, (now I know) they can’t (always) see you.” The brothers concluded their presentation with a truck’s boom-ing air horn blast and the warning: “Don’t let that be the last thing you hear. Driving is a privilege. If you don’t respect it, you could end up in a (“Red Asphalt”) video. Don’t make me tell your parents, ‘Your son or daughter is dead.’ ”
is now available for your hair care needs by appointment at
Special Effects SalonPlease call me at
661-765-5555, ext. 202 or by visiting me at 620 6th Street.
Thank you to all my loyal clients.I hope to see you soon.
SARA FOSTER
Photos by Jim CarnalCHP officers Lonn and Tye Meeks pose by a cruiser behind a Frito-Lay tractor-trailer rig. The car cannot be seen from the truck’s cab
Senior Alexis Bierer gets a trucker’s-eye view of things.
8 TAFT INDEPENDENT May 4 - 10, 2012
Liberty Under FireIs the Constitution Relevant to Local Government? By Dr. Harold Pease Several years ago, at a public debate for county supervisor in a California community, the public was invited to offer questions in writing. I did so and watched the monitor of the debate, with a puzzled look on his face, sideline my question in preference to others. I presumed it was because it had something to do with the Constitution, which, unfortunately, is considered by many an irrelevant topic at the city, county, or even state level. You are supposed to ask what “goodies” from taxpayer funding can you give to me and, is it more than your opponent. The
other evening, at a similar debate, I experienced a more receptive response; at least my question was asked. So what does the Constitution have to do with local or state issues a friend later asked? Everything!! First, it is the only document that every single elected public servant swore to uphold. So the Founders must have thought it relevant at every level. Second, candidates at lower levels successfully rise to higher levels because of the name recognition obtained at lower levels and eventually become members of the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, often without ever having read the Constitution they are specifically under oath to protect. When I worked as a legislative assistant in the U.S. Senate some years ago, I was certain at least 50% had never read it. Today I would be surprised if those who had read it exceeded 10%. But no one asks candidates, even while campaigning at the highest levels, when they last read it. So tell me again why it matters? Historically, the two enemies of freedom have been, and always will be, 1) it is the nature of all governments to pull decision making power upward to the seat of government and 2) the more apathetic and indifferent the population becomes, the greater the tendency of the people to push decision making power upwards to the seat of government. When these two forces work together, it always leads to the central government eventually having all the power. The Constitution is full of “handcuffs” to keep decision-making power from getting to the top thus maxi-mizing it with the individual. The Founders overriding philosophy of government, if it could be penned into one sentence, was, “never elevate to a higher level that which can be resolved at a lesser level.” Even a casual look at the Constitution reveals the separation of powers on the federal level into three distinct branches the legislative, executive, and judicial—each with a specific list: for Congress it was a list of the four types of law they could make (Art. I, Sec. 8), for the president it was the types of executive functions he could execute (Art. II, Sec. 2-3), and for the Supreme Court the types of cases it could adjudicate (Art. III, Sec. 2). The lists exist so that they do not have all power in each area. The only type of federal government authorized by the Founders was decidedly a limited one. What is not emphasized, and should be, from the state, county and city perspective is that all other powers not specified belong to the states and the people as per Amendment 10. When these limitations are not understood, the federal government is constantly tempted to steal authority from the states or counties as per its confiscating environmental, health, and education issues, which are 100%, state issues. States should use the Tenth Amendment to tell the federal government to “butt out.” “You have no Constitutional authority.” When Congress passed, and the President signed into law, the National Defense Authorization Act, December 31, both states and counties should have written Congress. “You do not have the right to void Amendments 4, 5, 6, and 8, of The Bill of Rights and the Writ of Habeas Corpus for our citizens. The military shall not arrest any of our citizens.” When President Barack Obama issued an executive order March 16 authorizing himself to declare “martial law” without any authorization from any other government, states and counties should in unison have said “not in our areas of jurisdic-tion without our say so! Sir! The Constitution gives you no such authority.” City, county, and state leaders, you are our buffer from the federal government taking from you your areas of jurisdiction. They have done so for many years because you were complacent in it, or, ignorant of the Constitution. You have placed us in the position that your understanding of the document must be known before we place you in power. Our only hope now is to find leaders with Constitutional fire in their bellies to undo the precedents that you have created. All issues on the city and county level are directly or indirectly Constitutional issues. We expect you to know, and abide by, the docu-ment that you swore to uphold. 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 articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.
CASA Seeks VolunteersBy Jane McCabe
CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Ad-vocate. The people who become CASA’s volunteer to work with a court-appointed child within the Juvenile Justice System. Once appointed they have access to all information regarding the child. They visit the child once a week (as opposed to social workers, who only see them once a month.) They can take them on outings. They make an 18 month commitment to work with a particular child or until the case is dismissed. They become the extra eyes and ears for the judge and are often instrumental in determining the child’s fate. “The CASA volunteer is often the only stable person in the child’s life,” says Pamela Spitzer who recently visited with the Taft Chamber of Commerce to talk about CASA and recruit new volunteers. There is a high need for new CASA volunteers in Taft, as it’s hard to find people willing to undertake this responsibil-ity in the outlying areas. There is a desperate need for male volunteers. A CASA volunteer must be at least 21 years old, undergo 35 hours of training, a background check, and be fingerprinted. CASA was started in Seattle, Washington, during the 1970’s and has been part of the juvenile system in Kern County for 18 or 19 years. Colleen McGauley, Executive Director of the Kern County CASA program, says that a new training program will start on May 29th at 2000 24th Street in Bakersfield. The schedule of topics covered each night is below. She can be reached at [email protected]. Her telephone number is 661.631.2272. That CASAs volunteer is integral to the program: the children have been bounced around from relatives to foster homes, where people are paid to look after them. It leaves an impression on them that there are some who are willing to help without payment for their efforts. Being or having been a CASA looks good on one’s résuméMs. McGauley says this is the Child Abuse Hot Line for Kern County: 631-6011. Anyone can call and leave a detailed message, giving such information as loca-tions, addresses, car licenses and the like. If a situation seems really dire, please call 911.
Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com
U.S. Rate on 30 Year Mortgage Hits Record Low of 3.84 Percent Average U.S. rates for 30-year and 15-year fixed mortgages fell to fresh record lows this week, offering more incentive for Americans to buy or refinance homes. Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday that the rate on the 30-year loan fell to 3.84 percent, the lowest since long-term mortgages began in the 1950s. That’s below the previous record rate of 3.87 percent reached in February. The 15-year mortgage, a popular op-tion for refinancing, dropped to 3.07 percent, also a record. The previous record of 3.11 percent was hit three weeks ago.
Cheaper mortgage rates haven’t done much to boost home sales. Rates have been below 4 percent for all but one week since early December. Yet sales of both previously occupied homes and new homes fell in March. Analysts suspect some of that weak-ness reflected a warm winter, which pulled sales that would normally occur during the spring buying season into January and February. Still, many potential buyers can’t qualify for loans or afford higher down payments required by banks. Home prices in many cities continue to fall, making those that can afford to buy uneasy about entering the market. And many who can afford to buy or refinance have already taken advantage of lower rates. Mortgage rates are lower because they tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. Mixed news on the U.S. economy and Europe’s debt
crisis have led investors to buy more Treasurys, which are considered safe investments. As demand for Treasurys increases, the yield falls. To calculate the average rates, Fred-die Mac surveys lenders across the country on Monday through Wednes-day of each week. The average rage does not include extra fees, known as points, which most borrowers must pay to get the lowest rates. One point equals 1 per-cent of the loan amount. The average fee for 30-year loans was 0.8 last week, up from 0.7 the previous week. The fee on 15-year loans was 0.7, the same as last week. The average on one-year adjustable rate loans also dropped to a record low of 2.7 percent last week, down from 2.74 percent last week. The fee on one-year adjustable rate mortgages was 0.6, unchanged from last week.
May 4 - 10, 2012 TAFT INDEPENDENT
TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH
630 North St. 765-5557
“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”
Pastor Cindy BrettschneiderSunday Morning Worship 10:00 AM
Adult 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 Drive
We invite you to join us each week as we worship
Sunday Bible Study 9:45 amSunday Morning Worship 11:00 amSunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm
Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm
New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”
308 Harrison Street765-4572
Sunday Morning WorshipService 10 a.m.
Sunday Evening WorshipService 6 p.m
Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.
NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH
Gateway Temple CommunityChristian
Fellowship631 North Street
Sunday School 9:30 a.m.Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.
St. Andrew’sEpiscopal
ChurchSunday Service - 10 a.m.
Rev. Linda Huggard703 5th Street - Taft
(661) 765-2378
Peace Lutheran Church- LCMSTaft- 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
Sunday Services 10am1000 6th St.
Weekly Classes Mon - ThursPlease call 765-7472 for info
For a ride to church call 765-7472 before 9am on Sunday
Pastors Shannon N. and Shannon L. Kelley www.nlctaft.org or [email protected]
Sunday Morning Worship 9:45Sunday Evening Worship 5:00
Monday Evening Mens Prayer 7:00Wednesday Evening Worship 6:30
For a ride: Call Dorine Horn 427-9722Pastors Charle (Tommy) and
Mary A. McWhorter
604 Main Street • P.O. Box 578Maricopa, CA 93252 • (661)769-9599
The Only Mortuary On The West Side Where All Arrangements And
Funerals Are Personally Directed ByLicensed Funeral Directors
501 Lucard St., Taft • 765-4111FD756 FDR50 FDR595 FDR618
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.
Black GoldCafe & Deli
Ice Blended Mocha
Fat Free andSugar Free
Available in Most Flavors
Open 7 Days - 765-6556508 Center Street • Taft
St. Mary’s Church 110 E Woodrow Street • Taft
661 765-4292
Mass Schedule Tuesday-Friday 8:00 A.M. Sunday 9:00A.M. English
11:00A.M. Spanish
WED.-FRI. 10:00-5:30 SAT. 10:00-2:00 FABRIC • NOTIONS • GIFTS
MARICOPA QUILT COMPANY
370 CALIFORNIA • 769-8580
Check Out Our WebsiteMaricopaquiltcompany.com
And Facebook Page
Advertise
WIth
The Taft
Independent
Call Today!
765-6550
Wine Tasting and Lunch Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 5:00 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 23rd Year
ROGER MILLER INSURANCEadivisionofDiBuduo&DeFendisInsuranceGroup
License#0707137•(661)765-7131531KernStreet-P.O.Box985
(661)765-4798FAXTaft,CA93268•(661)203-6694Cell
E-Mail:[email protected] Hometown Insurance Store
Rich Miller • Jordan MillerKathy Devine • Shelly Hamilton
600 Center StreetTaft, 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.
Yates’ Detailing
10 TAFT INDEPENDENT May 4 - 10, 2012
COMPUTER SERVICES
Taft PC Services
Computer RepairGraphic ArtsWeb Design
Virus Removal661-623-5188
YARD SERVICES
COOLERSERVICES
Cooler Service: Motors,pumps, pads, cleaning,installations. New & OldScott 661-900-0917.
CLEANING SERVICES
BUSINESSSERVICES
EmploymentHELP WANTED
American Greetings Part Time Possition
vailable. Merchandising greeting card dept.,
http:/careeres.americangreetings.com Choose merchandiser application, Territory number 2786. EOE
Short order cook and bartender. Tumbleweed cafe. Must have experience. 809-4634.
TC Student wanted for part time waitress. Experience required. 765-6556.
Experienced writer wanted. 765-6550
CHILD CARESERVICES
WantedWANTED
Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552
Old Appliances, In ANY Condition. Car Batteries & Motorparts. Cash Paid $1 - $20 Call David 661-293-0359 or 661-765-6497. We will pick up!
For SaleFOR SALE
Items for sale. 211 Adams St.
Ice O Matic commercial ice machine, one year old $800 OBO. 623-4296.
AUTOMOBILES
Pets & Livestock
FOUND PETS
LOST PETS
Real EstatePROPERTY
MANAGEMENTTaft Property Management
1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms now available in good
areas.CRIME FREE
HOUSING Brokers Licence
01417057661-577-7136
BUSINESSFOR SALE
HOMES FOR SALEReal Estate eBroker Inc.
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 $2 for 3 lines, additional lines $2 each.
Classified ad deadline is Wednesday at 12 p.m. (noon)
Phone: 765-6550
Fax: 765-6556
E-mail: [email protected]
Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Taft Independent 508 Center St., Taft, CA 93268
Business ServicesRite Away Carpet CleaningCarpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General CleaningOwner OperatedVisa\Master Card 765-4191
YARD SALESAdvertise 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.
133 Lexington Ave. Saturday, May 5 7am-12pm
480 Terrace Drive. Sat and Sun. 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Storage auction contents. Household items and collectables.
Huge garage sale 7am-? 334 Pine Dr. Alley Entrance. Halltree, futon, table, tv, appliances, bedding, tons of children and adult clothes.
Rummage Sale Church of God 419 Polk St. Saturday, May 5th 7am to Noon, Clothing, all sizes & seasons, shoes, toys, household and more!
Huge Moving Sale! Cookbooks (large collection), fine glassware, refrigerators, gas range, furniture, TVs, tools, golf equip., and much more! Friday to Sunday, May 4-6 9am to 3pm 527 Grant Terrace, Taft.
Youth Fund Raiser Yard Sale 704 Vista Via Dr. from 7 to 11 on 5/5
Final estate sale. 334 Parkview Circle. 8a.m. to noon. Sat. New items. Appliances.
Saturday 612 Lincoln 8am to 4pm. Tools, toys, glassware & clothes.
3 FAMILY YARDSALE, FRI & SAT @ 8AM-2PM 202 E. SAN EMIDIO ST
Preserving for the Future
Real Estate eBroker Inc.325 Kern Street
Karri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 & #01333971
661-332-6597www.BuyTaft.com
Real Estate Sales & Purchase
Ken ShugartsAir Conditioning & Heating
Huge team yard sale realy for life. at qik smog 10th and A st. Saturday 5th 8am-3pm.
312 E Lucard alley entrance Sat., May 5th Furniture and much more. come see!
___________________
Hospital Yard Sale May 11th & 12th. 7am to 1pm at the Hospital in the East parking lot. Fixtures, cabinets, desks, chairs and more.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Grief Support Group, offered as a community service by Optimal Hospice Care. Meetings held Thursdays 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. At Chevron Valley Credit Union, Community Room, 1092 W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. Free and open to the public. Info call 716-4000.
Alzheimer’s Disease Association Of Kern County is offering Respite Care here in Taft. Call-Cathy Perkins at 760-379-0848 for RESPITE CARE info. Respite Care is available every Thursday At the First Baptist Church located at 220 North St. from 9:00am—3:00pm.
For problems with Alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous. 765-4016 or 763-3856.
Are you a widow? Do you wonder what on earth am I here for? Widows meet twice a month on Tuesday 10 a.m. at the Buena Vista Mobile Home Club House. If interested, call June Selby 763-4845.
BusinessServices
Community
30 Plus Years in ConstructionLicense No. 927634
We Do All Phases of ConstructionKitchen and Bathroom Specialists
Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507
Plumbing • Septic • RooterFraming • Electrical • Concrete
For Rent 426 Shattuck
2 bed 1 bath Cottage $550
Paul Joyce 805-218-1686
Joyce Properties 661-765-6300
Place Your Ad for $2 Per Line! Call Today
(661)765-6550
Get It
Rented!
OPENING SOONReal Estate Services and Property Management
Listings – Sales - Property ManagementLocal Service You Can Depend On
322 Kern Street Taft, CA 93268(661) 765-5000
West Side Real Estate And Property Management
600 Center StreetTaft, 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.
Yates’ Detailing
325 Kern StreetKarri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 &
#01333971661-332-6597
www.BuyTaft.comReal Estate Sales &
Purchase
Can’t make payments call me!! I can help direct you to a loan modification or assist you in your short
sale!
Wondering how buying a house works? Set an appointment with Karri to watch a FREE video
on the process.
Call 661-332-6597 for a current list or drop by the
office.
MOBILE HOMES
HOMES FOR RENT
West ValleyReal Estate
(661) 763-1500.Lic # 01525550
FOR RENT418 San Emidio 1/1
$500420 ½ San Emidio 2/1
$600203 W Ash #C 2/1.5
$700315 7th Street 1/1 Furnished! $850
302 Jefferson 2/1 $850111 Lexington 2+1 $875
304 Calvin 2/1 $900116 Franklin 3/1 $1,000
426 D St 3/1 $1,000535 B Street 3/1 $1,000
302 E San Emidio 3/1.75+ pool! $1,300
501 F St. Quality, smaller 2 bd. 1 ba. $625 + 625 dep. 1 car gar. Lrg shop w\fenced yd. w\RV parking. 763-4373.
402 Pierce St. 3bd/1ba 1 car garage + shop $889 mo. + dep. 661-343-0507
707 Filmore 3bd/1ba $780 mo. + dep. 661-343-0507
27595 Valley West Rd. 2bd/1 ba, w&d included avail 5/1. $700 mo + dep. 805-712-0354.
3bd/1ba 513 Fillmore St. $800 mo. + dep. Call for application 661-619-7641 or 765-9508.
Avail. 6/1 3bd/2ba 515 Filmore St. 2 car garage, covered carport, $850 mo. + dep. Call for
application 661-619-7614 or 765-9508
APART. FOR RENT
MCKITTRICK. 3/2 Apt. Newly furn.$650 mo. Taft Property Mgt. 661 745-4892. Brokers Licence 01417057
Imperial Gardens 424 Woodrow Street 2bd $625 mo. 1bd $550 mo. Stove fridge, dishwasher, pool, private car port. 661-623-3699 or 661-765-4299.
Creekside Apartments. 1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.765-7674. 420 Finley Dr.
May 4 - 10, 2012 TAFT INDEPENDENT
Westside News & Business Briefs
Plan de Celebracion del Cinco de Mayo de la Camara Comercial de la Ciudad de Taft La Camera de Comercial de Taft fue contactado por Claudia Delgado-Matus del consulado mexicano. Ella es el Cultural y el Oficial de Laision de asuntos comunitarios. Tendra una cabina en nuestro evento del Cinco de Mayo, Sabado a 11am haste 4pm de le Plaza de calle 5 para dar informacion sobre matriculas y otros documentos legales y transacciones, asi como infor-macion de sus servicios. Aqui podre escuchar musica de Mariachi Real de Jalisco, participar en nuestro programa de talento, y disfrutar unas platillos authenticos de Mexico. Los primeros patrocinadores son Harley Pinson, Campos Tire Service, Next Step Gym, Edward J Herrera Insurance y Las Brasas Grill. Llama la Camera de Comercial a 765-2165 o www.taftchamber.com
David Couch Proposes a Citizen Board of Supervisor Today David Couch endorsed the concept of a part-time Board of Supervisor like the part-time City Council that exists in every City in Kern County. This proposal dove tails with Assemblymember Shannon Grove’s Citizen Legislature Initiative which proposes a part-time State Legislature, among other things. This idea has never formally been proposed by a candi-date for supervisor in Kern County. The idea was floated by David Couch at an interview with the Bakersfield Californian editorial board. “For County Government to run more like a business it has to be structured more like a business with a CEO (Chief Ex-ecutive Officer). That is the council-manager form of government that most cities utilize. If the County were to move in the direction of a strong CAO (County Administrative Officer) it would only make sense for the Supervi-sor’s compensation to be reduced dramatically,” commented Couch. Kern County Supervisors have over a $2.5 million budget made up of salaries and office expenses. David Couch’s proposal would cut their budget by over 20% or $500,000. Supervisors now average $117,000 in salaries annually. This proposal would reduce current Supervisor salaries by at least 80%. David Couch said, “In these hard economic times when businesses have had to reduce their spending and families have had to cut back on their expenses it is only right that County Government look to do the same. I believe we have to lead by example and this is a good start.” David Couch has been a Bakersfield City Councilman for 14 years.For more information on David Couch’s Citizen Board of Supervisor visit David’s website at votecouch.com, Facebook @DavidCouchforSupervi-sor2012 or on Youtube@ VoteCouch. Voters are also urged to sign the Assemblymember Shannon Grove’s Citizen Legislature Initiative by visiting citizenlegislaturenow.com
Average retail gasoline prices in California have fallen 2.2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.14/g Monday, April 30th. This compares with the national average that has fallen 3.3 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.81/g, according to gasoline price website CaliforniaGasPrices.com. Including the change in gas prices in California during the past week, prices Monday, April 30th were 9.2 cents per gallon lower than the same day one year ago and are 15.6 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 8.6 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 10.4 cents per gallon lower than this day one year ago. “Unsurprisingly, the average price for a gallon of regular self-serve con-tinues to drop in a majority of communities across the United States,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “The national average now stands nearly 10-cents per gallon lower than the same date a year ago, but will we hear an end to complaining about gasoline prices at the pump? Perhaps the rhetoric will wind down, but with summer around the corner, any sudden increase in price of gasoline will have Americans virtually calling for the heads of politicians in November,” DeHaan said.
Weekly Gas Price Update & Outlook
I am running for 4th District Board of Supervisor here in Kern County. My wife Cindy and I have been married for 38 years and have raised both of our children in Kern County. Our family has resided in beautiful Kern County for 30 years. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Jurist Doctorate from McGeorge School of Law, University of the Pacific. I enthusiasti-cally support my wife Cindy who currently serves as the President of the Bakersfield Republican Women, Federated. We are members of St. Paul’s Anglican Parish in Bakersfield. My professional career has been primarily as a strategic and legal counsel, serving on management and project teams in the petroleum industry, for a total of 27 years with Getty Oil Company and Occidental Petroleum Corporation, including 8 ½ years as Occidental’s chief business lawyer at the Elk Hills oilfield southwest of Bakersfield. Since 2007 I have been associated with the Klein, Denatale, Goldner law firm in Bakersfield with a practice in oil and gas transactions and international business. If elected to the Board of Supervisors, I will cease to practice law and will devote 100% of my time to serving the great community of Kern County. As a steady advocate for business and jobs I am very involved and active in many of Kern County’s civic organizations, including: being a Charter Member of Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary, served as its President in 2002-2003, and am currently a member of Bakersfield West Rotary. I served on the board of Junior Achievement of Bakersfield and served as its Presi-dent. I am also the founding chair of the International Business and Trade committee of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce and served on the chamber’s Governmental Review Council. I am a member of the Kern County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Kern County Black Chamber of Commerce. I am a board member of the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra and have served on the board of the Bakersfield Sister City Project. I am a strong supporter of California State University, Bakersfield serving on the board of the CSUB Roadrunner Club; Cindy and I are members of the CSUB’s President’s Associates. I twice chaired the committee for the John Brock Award for Community Service dinner and served for two years as chair of the Executive Advisory Council of the School of Business and Public Administration. I am a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association. I am deeply committed to the western communities of Taft, Maricopa, and Frazier Park. I am a member of the Taft Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau. I am also a member of the American Petroleum Institute - San Joaquin Valley Chapter, Kern County Cattlemen’s Association and the Kern County Farm Bureau. As a member of these boards and associations, I am directly familiar with the issues facing these communities. I will devote my time and diligence in service to the people of the Fourth District and will honor my constituents daily in voting to improve the unique needs of the vast Fourth District. I’ll provide a steady drum beat from the top that will remain politically uninfluenced because I’m not a po-litical insider; I’m not a longtime officeholder. I will not bend to the power and influence of the public employee unions, nor am I a career politician with ambitions to serve higher office. I am a citizen statesman concerned about making good decisions about the issues at hand and not having to worry about the political consequences in making that tough decision. I will fight for real common sense solutions to the problems of Kern County. I’ve decided to seek election to the Kern County Board of Supervisors for two main reasons. Number one is jobs – our people need jobs, private sector, non-taxpayer-funded jobs. Number two priority is to re-establish accountability in government by increasing transparency in county govern-ment. That starts with increasing private sector job growth and significantly reducing the influence of public employee unions in Kern County. I am engaged in this community. Kern County is changing and is com-
plex. I am personally familiar with the issues that affect us. We have high unemployment, poor scoring schools, and a burdensome government. Balancing budgets, cutting cost of government, and gaining accountability will be my mission. Perhaps it’s time to elect a person who has seen the changes in Kern County from outside of government and is willing to work with commu-nity groups and leaders. How about a leader who possesses the expertise to deal with complex is-sues, compile information, analyze and interpret to make the best choices for Kern County, yet at the same time make it understandable for the everyday citizen. I bring a fresh approach and viewpoint to local government. If elected, I will insist that county government become more transparent and cost effective and stay closer to the residents of Kern County. As a seasoned attorney, dealing with complex matters pertaining to the law, I am well equipped to handle intricate and at times difficult issues that appear before the board. I will work diligently where possible to earn a consensus. I will not be one to grandstand, I will be able to work with the board, and if necessary stand on my own beliefs and principles; developing efficiency in govern-ment and a vision as to how county departments can better work together for effective account-ability. My vision for Kern County includes expanding
our business base beyond the staple industries of agriculture and oil and not at their expense. I believe that an educated workforce is good for all business owners and the community at large. It is extremely important for the residents of Kern County that private business thrives, thus building an economically secure community. My plan communicates to all stakeholders the value of thinking beyond the current budget cycle; I’ll work together with business owners and commu-nity partners to break new ground and find new solutions to ensure Kern County is diverse in its economic base. I believe that local government is established to empower the residents and not encumber them. One of my first priorities is getting a handle on the issue of unfunded pension liabilities. Our county must solve this because if too much of the finances continue to be allocated to pension costs that is money and resources that cannot be allocated to roads, streets, parks, education, animal control, and economic growth. Kern County employee retirement costs vaulted from $60 million in 2005, to $206 million for 2012. A union-backed candidate is surely not the best choice to get our pension mess under control. We are the “bread basket” for the world. The Central Valley of California produces more than $40 billion annually in agricultural products. It is important to make sure that burdensome regula-tion like Cap and Trade does not cripple our economy further. I will work tirelessly to achieve a greater water supply flow south to maximize production from all of our farmland. Water is the necessary ingredient in creating a produc-tive agricultural economy. Water will help us continue to provide food for the world, and jobs for Californians. I am not a career politician, I do not bow to special interests, and I will work very hard for you and your community. I sincerely ask for your vote on Tuesday, June 5.
Meet Harley Pinson, 4th District Supervisor Candidate
Harley Pinson, second from left with his wife CIndy and their two children.
Meet David Couch next week.
12 TAFT INDEPENDENT May 4 - 10, 2012
The Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant
24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations
Located in the Heart of Oil Country On the Petroleum Highway
Randy’s Trucking
(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street
Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer • Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping
• Mixes Concrete While Traveling • • Large Internal Blades •
• Rear Operator Control Panel •
Open 7 Days a Week
Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 9-3419 Harrison St. Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987
(661)763-4445No Appointment Needed for
Smog Check!
General Automotive Repairs
• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street
Used to be Paul’sBike Shop
Qik Smog & Tune
Devon’s Body Shop
408 Main Street • (661)765-4337608 Center St. 745-4919
Mother’s Day GiftsLeather Purses & Wallets
Starting At $25
western shop & PET Wash
HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE209 Harrison Street • Taft
(661)765-2505 or (661)763-1887 fax
Diagnostic SpecialistsService & Repairs • Smog Repairs
Air Conditioning • Tune Up • Front EndBrakes • Fuel Injection
$15.00 OFF with mention of this ad**1996 Vehicle or newer
Black GoldCafe and Deli
508 Center Street 765-6556
Montana Silver& Turquoise
Taft [email protected]
ANNOUNCEMENTS
SERVICES
We CaterYour Place or Ours Full Bar
AvailableFor Your Special
Event
Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner - Full Bar - Catering - RV Parking Available
FULLBAR
BMXBikes
Are Here!
Full Grooming Salon
SMALL DOGSCut To Breed Style
LARGE DOGS Summer Wash & Shed Or Full Coat
(hard to handle dogs always welcome)
We use flea control and clean grooming practices.
Some Saturday Appointments & Nail Spots Available!
NEW
www.shawswesternshop.com
NEW Wrangler JeansQ-Baby & Cash Jeans
Wrangler LadiesWall Crosses & Decor
