come play with me Taft

February 15 - 22, 2013 TAFT INDEPENDENT

February 15 - 22, 2013 • Volume 7 Issue 31www.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”

[email protected] TaftIndependent

Alan

QIK SMOG & TUNEYour Hometown Auto CareCenter (661) 763-4445

Westside

Recreation

District

Offers

New Play

and Grow

With Me

Children’s

Program

Passion For Nails

Monday to Friday10am-7pm and

Saturday 9am-6pm

Nail Services:HOLIDAY SPECIAL

10% OFF $20 SERVICE OR MORE.OFFER GOOD UNITL 12- 31-12.

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

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

(661)745-4913

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

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Ten Percent Firearms

REJUV 10 23 Healthy Face and Body Spa

Elaine Arnold, OwnerPedicures, Manicures @ Detoxing

Dee Morgan, EstheticianFacials Waxing and Microdermabrasion

Samantha HagstromMassage Therapist

European and Hot StonePrenatal Massage

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

Paik’sRanch House Restaurant

“Where Everybody Meets”

Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Wed., Thurs - 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Fri. Sat. and Sun. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Visit Us Online

taftindependent.com

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT February 15 - 22, 2013

Shop Taft

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899


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

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special

3995*$Plus Tax

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

$3.50 Oil Disposal FeeExp. January 30, 2013

FREETire Rotation

& Brake CheckPlus

We will checkall fluids

& tire pressure

*Most Cars & Light Trucks

Up to 5 Qts.

Passion For Nails

Monday to Friday10am-7pm and

Saturday 9am-6pm

Nail Services:HOLIDAY SPECIAL

10% OFF $20 SERVICE OR MORE.OFFER GOOD UNITL 12- 31-12.

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

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

(661)745-4913

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

A Hint of ClassInside The Historic Fort • 623-1783 • 763-1700

915 N. 10th Street Suite 34

REJUV 10 23 Healthy Face and Body Spa

Elaine Arnold, OwnerPedicures, Manicures @ Detoxing

Dee Morgan, EstheticianFacials Waxing and Microdermabrasion

Samantha HagstromMassage Therapist

European and Hot StonePrenatal Massage

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

Fine Jewelry • Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair • Watch Batteries

Candles • And More!

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

Small town, family owned, low overhead.We can save you money on quality jewelry!

Store Hours:Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm

Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pmClosed Sunday and Monday

Watch Batteries Replaced

Most $4.00Some $8.00

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527608 Center St.

Used to be Paul’sBike Shop

745-4919

The New 2013 bikes are here! Start your Christmas shopping

now with our lawaway plan.

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899


Gifts for Valentines or Any Occasion

Personal Style

423 Center Street • 763-3527

Geiger Construction & Plumbing

24 Hours/ 7 Days a WeekSe Habla Espanol 661-301-4660

Residential • Commercial

Fast • Friendly • Affordable661-765-4377

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

SALE!New Arrivals

Just In!LA Idol, Bermuda,

Capris and Jeans - Regu-lar and Plus Size

Spring Fashions Arriving Now!

610 Center Street • 661-745-4954Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

Gran Venta del 2013Sabado y Domingo Solamente

*Telefonos GRATIS**Telefonos Android desde $79.99*Planes de Llamadas Ilimitadas*

*desde $30 al mes**Planes de Internet Ilimitadas desde

$35 al mes*

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]

401 Center Street

Boutique


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

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

Recreation Report..........4

Westside News.................5

Westside News.................6

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

Movie Review...................8

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

Opinion and Feature....11

Shop Taft........................12

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

[email protected]

Advertising

Contributing Writers Kent Miller,

Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost

ColumnistsRandy Miller

Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease

Subscriptions\DeliveryTim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association

Printed in California

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGSTuesday February 19th, 2013 – 6:00 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.

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 us at [email protected]

Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com

Bike Shop

Calendar

Grandma’s Attic Resumes at Taft Libraray Grandma’s Attic Storytime resumes at the Taft Branch Library on Satur-day, January 19, 2013 and will continue every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. through April 20. Aimed at 5 to 8 year-olds, Grandma’s Attic offers an old trunk full of surprises and stories presented by a different volunteer reader each week. Children who participate will receive a form to return to their teacher for credit in their school reading program. Parents are always welcome to attend, or may enjoy some library or computer time while their child is occupied. Also starting on Thursday, January 17 at 11:45 a.m. is Preschool Storytime, for 3 to 5 year-olds. Join us for stories and fun for the younger set. For more information, call 763-3294 or visit the library at 27 Emmons Park Drive.

Ethics Training Class March 14th The City of Taft will be hosting an Ethics Training Class on Thursday, March 14, 2013, 6:00 p.m., in the Taft City Hall Council Chamber. Ethics Training is required for elected and appointed officials every 2 years. Mr. David Prentice of Cota Cole Law Firm will be the presenter. Any city or district wishing to join us for the training are welcome. Please RSVP prior to Wednesday, March 6, 2013, so that Mr. Prentice will have sufficient training materials and Certificates of Completion for everyone attending the class.

Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com

or find us onfacebook or

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

Small town, family owned, low overhead.We can save you money on quality jewelry!

Store Hours:Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm

Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pmClosed Sunday and Monday

New Inventory Hand Made

Greeting Cards by DonnaSterling Silver Knuckle Rings $5.00

What’s in your Heart for Valentines Day

New Arrival of different Clocks.

426 Center Street (661)763-5451

Hall Ambulance Service Celebrates 42 Years ServiceLocal Paramedic Provider Still Under Daily Leader-ship of Founder, Harvey L. Hall On February 10th, 1971, Hall Ambulance Service was founded, and has since grown to become one of the largest privately owned ambulance companies in California. Starting out of a station that doubled as the family home in Bakers-field, Hall Ambulance Service now provides paramedic ambulance service to 85% of Kern County residents, serving from multiple locations. Hall Ambu-lance began operations with family members responding to calls assisted by four employees, and the company now employs over 350 field and administrative personnel. During the 42 years that Hall Ambulance Service has been in business, their commitment to Kern’s residents has grown and continues to grow. Some of Hall’s accomplishments in the past 42 years include:

- Kern County’s First Mobile Intensive Care Paramedic Program- Kern County’s First Paramedic Field Supervisor Program- Kern County’s First EMT Academy- Kern County’s First Computer Aided Ambulance Dispatch Center- Kern County’s First Medical Explorer Program- Kern County’s First Critical Care Transport Unit- Kern County’s First Twelve-Lead ECG Transmission Program- Accredited - Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems- Accredited Center of Excellence - National/International Academy of Emergency Dispatch According to Founder and President, Harvey L. Hall, “Our 42 year history is about building relationships through dedication, innovation, and a commit-ment to excellence to our patients and the various communities that we serve”. Founded with a desire to ‘Provide the people of Kern County with a higher level of patient care’, Hall Ambulance Service continues that commitment today and into the future.

Date Night Challenge at Taft First Baptist ChurchThe First Baptist Church of Taft invites you to a Date Night Challenge next Friday evening, February 22, from 7-9 p.m. This is for all couples who want to make their marriages better. Studies show that those who date regularly enjoy their marriage more and that they last longer.We will be showing a DVD which filmed Focus on the Family’s event featuring comedian Michael Jr, award-winning musician Mark Schultz, pastor Ted Cun-ningham’s call for a marriage-centered family, and marriage tips from Dr. Greg Malley and his wife Erin.Childcare is available, but we ask for pre-registration of children so we know how many to plan for. We’re also asking for a $2 donation per child to help cover the cost of materials and snacks. There will also be some snacks for the adults as well as the opportunity to have your picture taken as a couple. We will e-mail the photo to you or have a copy made which you can pick up later. There will be some great door prizes you can win to help you plan your next date.There is no charge for this event—other than the childcare. For more informa-tion or to register for the childcare, please call the church office at 763-3138 during normal business hours. First Baptist is located at 220 North Street. We’ll see you there!

4 TAFT INDEPENDENT February 15 - 22, 2013Editorial

Westside Watcher

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

The Taft

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Independent

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

Black Gold Cafe & DeliPastas - Sandwiches

Espresso - Beer - WineCraft Beers

Open Monday to Friday6:30am to 8pm

Saturday7:30am to 8pm

Sunday10am to 2pm

508 Center Street765-6556

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. Wed., Thur. 6 am-8:30 pm

Sun. Fri. & Sat. 6 am - 9 pm765-6915 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

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft

TAFTFOX.COM

Week of Friday, February 15, 2013 through Thurs-day, February 21, 2013

A Good Day to Die Hard (R) No Passes AllowedFri & Sat: (5:00), 7:00, 9:00

Sun: (2:30), (5:00), 7:00Mon: (4:30), 7:15

Tue - Thu: 7:15 PM

Identity Thief (R) No Passes AllowedFri & Sat: (5:30), 7:45

Sun: (2:45), (5:30)Mon: (4:30), 7:15

Tue - Thu: 7:15 PM

Lincoln (PG-13) Fri & Sat: (5:15), 8:15

Sun: (2:15), 5:15Mon: (4:15), 7:00

Visit Us Online

taftindependent.com

Paik’sRanch House Restaurant

“Where Everybody Meets”

Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Wed., Thurs - 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Fri. Sat. and Sun. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

One of the newest classes that are being offered at the Westside Recreation a

West Kern Oil Museum Dinner Deadline Monday is the deadline to make reservations for the West Kern Oil Museum’s annual membership dinner. The event will be held Feb. 23 at the Community Center. Res-ervations can be made by calling the Museum at 765-6664 or by email at [email protected] Tickets are $20 each. The annual dinner meeting kicks off the Museum’s membership drive. The bulk of the Museum’s revenue comes from member-ships. “Memberships keep us going,” said Don Maxwell, director of volunteers. The Museum – Taft’s No. 1 tourist attraction – is run entirely by volunteers. The program will include election of board members, the trea-surer’s annual report, and reading of minutes of last year’s meeting. Guest speaker will be Michael Semas, a postcard collector, who will show postcards depicting early life in the oil patch.“I’ve been collecting postcards for about 15 years,” he said. “The current count is about 8,500 plus. I have about 1,000 cards of the western San Joaquin Valley, most of them of the oil industry. They date from 1905 through 1945.” Semas has written two books featuring his postcards: “Kings County – Vintage Postcard Series” and “Fresno – Vintage Post-card Series.” He’s also working on a third book of postcards from Hunting-ton, Shaver and Hume lakes. “My fourth book planned will be on the early oil industry of the San Joaquin Valley,” he said. Rick Woodson, chairman of the Museum Board of Directors, will emcee the program. The event begins at 6 p.m. with a dinner catered by Sonny Pol-lard and served by Taft Union High School Oil Academy students scheduled for 6:30.

Cougar CourtSuccess WayFuture AvenueCougar WayTaft College WayCougar Pride WayCougar Pride DriveCougar CornerCougar Park DriveCougar CircleThe High Road (El Camino Alto)Associate AvenueOpportunity WayBlack & Gold DriveScholastic DriveCougar CoveCougar Country CourtBlack Gold WayCollege Way

Don’t Let Obama Put Our Toddlers in Government SchoolsBy Cathy Ruse

In his State of the Union speech, President Obama called for taxpayer-funded universal preschool for “every child in America.” As a mom of a toddler, I reject that plan. Babies and toddlers have what experts call an “absorbent mind,” in which they learn primarily by absorbing their environment and the movement and speech of those around them. It is no surprise that they are very attached to home and family in these years. They are not “social” beings yet; their only relationship need is to feel cared for by, and be in close proximity to, the people who love them the most. The idea of taking these tender souls out of their homes and putting them in some government school makes me shudder.President Obama promises that these early-start schools would have a positive impact on a child’s later education. But that prom-ise appears empty, given the dreadful report just out on Head Start.Head Start is the federal preschool program for pre-kindergarten children from low-income families costing taxpayers $8 billion each year. Congress asked the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct a study of the program’s effectiveness, the results of which were available last October (but not released until after the election). The study tracked the progress of 5,000 children, half of whom had been through the Head Start program from as early as age 3 and half of whom had not. The results are bad news. Despite the vast sums of money spent to ready these children for school, the study found that Head Start had little to no positive impact on the cognitive abilities or emotional well-being of its participants, and even showed a negative impact in certain areas. After nearly 50 years running, the flagship federal preschool program Head Start does not give children any measurable head start at all. Something that does help children prepare for school and be-yond is stronger families, a subject the president also mentioned in his State of the Union address. According to respected sociologist Dr. Pat Fagan, over a million American children suffer the divorce of their parents each year. We cannot have secure, well-prepared, confident children if we continue to sustain a culture of no-fault divorce, cohabitation and “hook-ups” that produce kids but no families. And as far as the use of federal dollars goes, I’ve got a better idea for President Obama. Rather than taking our money and setting up government schools for babies, why not give that money back to moms and dads and let them decide what’s best for their families? Cathy Ruse, J.D., is senior legal fellow at the Family Research Council.

Cothrun driveCongruence WayWinners CircleCougar Country DriveFeliz Concolor Court (happy with color)Cougar LaneCougar DriveSuccess LaneCougar Den Lane29 Wisdom TrekTaft Community AvenueSaber es Poder (To know is Power)Cougar Terrace CourtDavid Cothrun WayScholar Place29 College DriveCougar PlaceCollege AvenueTC Way

Taft College Contest to Rename Emmons Park DriveTaft College is holding a contest to solicit names to propose the renaming of Emmons Park Drive. The names submitted so far are listed below. Once a name is chosen, the college would seek permission from the city to rename Emmons Park Drive.


MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

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

[email protected] www.wsrpd.com

West Side Recreation Report

by Stephanie House

Check us out online!Need more information on

programs, classes or facilities?Visit us on the web:

www.wsrpd.comwww.facebook.com/wsrpd

www.quickscores.com/wsrpdwww.twitter.com/wreckerwsrpd

[email protected]

MOTHER SON DANCESaturday, March 27:00-10:00 p.m.Community Center Auditorium, 500 Cascade Place, TaftBoys ages 4 and up$30 per couple ($10 each additional son) **Minimum ticket sales needed by February 14: 25 couplesDon’t miss out on the 3rd Annual Mother Son Dance – this year with a sports theme. Boys ages 4 and older may be accompanied by their mother, guardian or adult relative. The fun evening includes music, photos, snacks and more fun. If minimum ticket sales are not met by Thursday, February 14 the event will be cancelled.

GAMES GALOREWednesday, February 203:00-4:00 p.m.Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, TaftGrades 1-8FREE!Join us for some fun and games! We will have classic board games plus lots of fun games on the Nin-tendo Wii.

WONDERFUL WAFFLESWednesday, February 273:00-4:00 p.m.Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, TaftAges 6+$5 per person ** pre-registration is required by Tuesday, February 26Come and learn how to make waffles from scratch! We will make classic waffles, cake batter waffles and cinnamon roll waffles. Space is limited.

PLAY & GROW WITH ME** NEW DAYS & TIMES **Who: Ages 10-30 months (kids should be walking to participate)When: Tuesday & Thursday MorningsTime: 9:00-9:45 a.m.Where: Community Center Assembly RoomFee: $25 per month or $5 per dayInstructor: Adrienne CloudThis class is designed specifically for interaction between mothers (father, grandparent, guardian or other adult) and their babies in a fun activity-type atmosphere. We play on the mats and have a tun-nel, parachute, balls and other fun gadgets. Children should be walking to participate. Classes will be held on a monthly, ongoing basis. Register for a whole month or just pay by the day!

AEROBIC KICKBOXINGWho: Ages 14+When: Monday, Wednesday & Friday Time: 8:00-9:00 a.m.Where: Community Center Assembly RoomFee: $25 per monthInstructor: Amy SteersThis fun fast-paced class will include kicking, punching and the use of hand weights. The objectives are to increase cardiac health, improve muscle tone and learn some self defense. Classes will be held on a monthly basis and new students are welcome as space permits.

INSTRUCTIONAL T-BALLWho: Ages 4-6When: Tuesday EveningsTime: 5:15-6:00 p.m. or 6:15-7:00 p.m.Session: March 15 – April 5Where: Wrecker Field (Recreation Center)Fee: $35 per playerRegistration deadline: Thursday, March 7

YOGA & PILATESWho: Ages 14+Morning Flow Yoga – Monday, Wednesday & Friday, 5:15-5:45 a.m.Pilates – Tuesday & Thursday, 7:00-8:00 p.m.Yoga – Tuesday & Thursday, 8:00-8:45 p.m.Where: Community Center Assembly RoomFee: $25 per month ** register prior to attending classInstructor: Valerie Taylor, R-HYIPay one low monthly fee and have access to all three classes! Students should bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing. Class space is limited – registration is REQUIRED prior to attending class.

ZUMBA FITNESSWho: Ages 17 +When: Wednesday EveningsTime: 6:30-7:25 p.m.Where: Community Center AuditoriumFee: $20 per monthInstructor: Chelsea DickardThis fun fitness class focuses on Latin-inspired dance and dance exercise to Latin music: Salsa, Me-rengue, Cumbia, Raggaeton, Hip Hop and Mixed Music. Classes operate on an on-going basis. New students are welcome at any time. Fees must be paid prior to attending class.

YOUTH TRACKWho: Ages 6-15Season begins: March 4When: Weekday EveningsTime: 5:00-7:00 p.m.Where: Taft Union High School Track Fee: $45 per personRegistration deadline: Thursday, February 28

PONYTAIL LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALLWho: Girls Ages 7-15 (league age as of June 30, 2013)Tryouts/Evaluations: February 25-27Draft: February 28Practices begin: March 25Fee: $50 per personRegistration deadline: Thursday, February 21

TINY TOT WHIFFLEBALLWho: Ages 2-3When: Thursday EveningsTime: 5:15-5:45 p.m. or 6:00-6:30 p.m.Session: March 14 – April 11Where: Wrecker Field (Recreation Center)Fee: $25 per playerRegistration deadline: Thursday, March 7

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.

BOWLING PARTY RENTALSMake your reservation now!Reservations are now being accepted for party rentals at West Side Lanes in the Recreation Center. Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday. Rental fees start at $100 for 2-lane rentals. Rental prices include shoes, balls and use of the party room. Please phone 765-6677 or 763-4246 for more information or to make a reservation.

SUMMER LIFEGUARDS NEEDED! We are in search of some lifeguards to work part-time this summer at the Natatorium Swimming Pool. Applications are available in the District Office, 500 Cascade Place in Taft. Lifeguard candidates must be at least 16 years of age (as of June 1) and successfully pass a Lifeguard Training Course. Application deadline is Thursday, March 21. For more information, please contact Stephanie at 763-4246 or [email protected]

BINGOThursday AfternoonsGames start at 1:30 p.m.Community Center Assembly RoomAges 21 and olderBuy-in varies, $10-15 averageCash pots! Pull-tabs also sold.

EASTER EGG HUNTSaturday, March 23, 201310:00 a.m. SHARP‘A’ Street Park, TaftFREE!Ages 2-8 are welcome!


Westside News & Business Briefs

HAYDENS HOPE“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

428 Center Street • TAFT

THRIFT STORE

God Bless!

745-4963

New School HoursMon. & Tues.9am - 2pm

Closed WednesdayThur. & Fri. 9am - 5pmSaturday 10am - 2pmClosed Every 2nd Sat.

of the Month

Happy Valentine’s Day!All Valentine’s Day Stuff

1/2 Off

HOOKER’S AUTOMOTIVEComplete Automotive Service

218 HARRISON STREET (661) 765-2437

Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion

Childrens • Cookbooks and More!

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

Ben’s Books

Stop By For Some Great Company

and Good Books!

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft

By Adrienne Cloud

One of the newest classes that are being offered at the Westside Recreation and Park District is Play and Grow with Me for toddlers. The class was started because of the extreme need for activities for our toddlers. It’s a shame but true that if you are a stay at home mom, grandma, or caretaker of a child that is 10 to 36 months, there really isn’t much for them to do in our small lovely town. Gas is expensive, and so are other classes for toddlers that Bakersfield offers. So don’t waste your money to make the drive, just come to the recreation center and bring your toddler to have fun with you and socialize with other children their own ages. My name is Adrienne Cloud and I have lived in Taft for most of my life. I have studied Child Development for the last 7 years. I never thought that I would have been in the position to worry about whether my child was getting enough interaction form others because I have two other children at home, however due to the fact that my other children are significantly older than my 16 month old it puts my baby at a loss for appropriate interaction with peers his own age. All children need stimulus from others their own ages so they can learn to socially cope and learn how to communicate with each other.

OTCookhouse & Saloon

NEW Lunch Menu NEW Dinner Menu

Come in and check out our new items!!!

We are also proud to offer our“Chef ’s Personal Creations & Selections”

Five Specials Available Daily

OT Cookhouse can accomodatesmaller or larger Private Dining Events

Reserve your Banquet today!!!661.763.1819

Lunch Hours: Tues-Fri 11am-2pmDinner Hours: Tues-Sat 4-9pm

Closed: Sunday and Mondaywww.otcookhouse.com

find us on facebook205 N. 10th Street 661.763.1819

Skin Care by CortneyCourtney Madsen Esthetician

Facials - Waxing - Spray Tanning

www.facebook.com/SkinCareByCortney

Call or text for an appointment

Bangs & Tangles404 Center Street (661)623-4855

Closed Feb. 9th thru the 11th.

Jackson’s Automotive

Now Doing Smog Tests!

Front End RepairsTransmission Service

Brake Service Tune Ups and Fuel Injection Service

and Repairs

Call Today for an Appointment763-1055

Corner of 3rd and Center Street110 3rd Street - Taft, CA. (661) 763-1055

Recreation District Offers New Play and Grow With Me Program PLAY & GROW WITH ME

Who: Ages 10-30 months (kids should be walk-ing to participate)

When: Tuesday & Thursday Mornings

Time: 9:00-9:45 a.m.

Where: Community Center Assembly Room

Fee: $25 per month or $5 per day

Instructor: Adrienne Cloud

This class is designed specifically for interaction between mothers (father, grandparent, guardian or other adult) and their babies in a fun activity-type atmosphere. We play on the mats and have a tunnel, parachute, balls and other fun gadgets. Children should be walking to participate. Classes will be held on a monthly, ongoing basis. Register for a whole month or just pay by the day!

So hence the drive that pushed me to want something more for my son. I want him to be able to play with other children, and really know how to socially interact with them. This is why I brought the idea to the recreation center and they agreed that there is a need for a class like this one in Taft. Play and Grow with Me is designed for fun interaction between mommy and child while giving the children a chance to interact with one another. The music is repetitive and the toys are the same with little differences every week to change things up. I have planned the classes this way so the children have consistency and know what to expect every time they come to class. I am hoping that families see the importance of a class like this and how great it is for our community. I have big hopes and dreams for this class. I am hoping that eventu-ally we will get so many children that I have to add more classes. I am also hoping that if we get enough interest we can do craft days with our little ones too. Until then the class meets on every Tuesday from 9:00 to 9:45 A.M. and is 25 dollars for four weeks. The WSRPD has also set aside S.T.O.P. monies for families that need a little help. So there really is no reason to not bring your baby down to the recreation center for some fun with you! I also want to take the time to express my gratitude to The Westside Recreation and Park District for seeing the need and providing space for our toddlers to play and another special Thank you to Taft Midway Masonic Lodge # 426 for the donation to WSRPD that provided the funds for the wonderful toys that our children get to play on every week. On behalf of myself and all the toddlers in town I hope to see you soon.



Liberty Under Fire Obituary

OLLENE CODAY TURNER

OLLENE CODAY TURNER was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus on January 29, 2013. She passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home in Kettle Falls, WA at the age of 98.She was born August 31, 1914, in Mansfield, MO, to Sherman & Lula (Gann) Coday. At the age of three they moved to Califor-nia where she attended Taft schools and in 1932 graduated from Exeter High School. Ollene met her future husband, Joseph Franklin Turner at a church revival in Fellows and married in 1934. Together they raised three sons – Jack, Jerald & Joe in Taft. After the boys were grown they moved to Cuyama Valley where they lived for almost thirty years. Following a dream in December 1984 they moved to Rice, WA. One day after arriving at their new home, Joe passed away. Ollene was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Joe and brother, John Howard Coday. She is survived by her sons – Jack H. ( Jean) Turner of Taft; Jerald H. Turner of Taft; Joe A. (Max-ine) Turner of Rice, WA. Grandchildren – Mike Turner of Taft, Kevin Turner of Taft, Karen Turner Barrett of Bakersfield, Denise Turner Hess of Bakersfield, Cheryl Turner Robinson of Texas, Deanna Turner Maier of Enumclaw, WA and Jodi Turner Moe of Rice, WA; 19 Great Grandchildren and 11 Great-Great Grand-children; two sisters-in-law – Maxine Turner of Taft; Irene Coday of Exeter, CA and so very many special friends.Ollene loved creating wonderful masterpieces with her talent of crocheting and sewing. She also enjoyed spending time with her family, the outdoors, a love of all animals (horses), the beach, riding motorcycles well into her eighties, and taking long drives. With her strong will and determination she accomplished most anything she put her heart into. Ollene had a zest for living and a strong faith in her Lord that she passed on to her family who was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.A celebration of life was held February 4, 2013, at graveside at the I.O.O.F cemetery of Rice, WA where she was laid to rest beside her husband Joe. Danakas Funeral Chapel of Colville, WA was entrusted with the arrangements.

State of the Union Address lacks Constitutional authority for much of what is proposed By Dr. Harold Pease In President Barack Obama’s 5th State of the Union address he offered not a single cut but did ask Congress to do many things, most of which are very expensive. They include: raise the mini-mum wage to $9.00 per hour, finding a way to provided full-time employment for all who wish it, cutting red tap on new oil and gas permits, working with Congress on “research and technology” in the energy area. He wants to “cut in half the energy wasted by our homes and businesses.” He wants high-speed rail, high-tech schools and self-healing power grids. His “Fix-It-First program” puts people back to work on 70,000 structurally deficient bridges across the country.” We also need modern ports, modern pipe-lines, and modern schools. Most of these programs require vast funding from the taxpayer. His program would allow homeowners to refinance at today’s rates. He would help finance manufacturing, energy, infrastruc-ture, and housing. Make preschool program “available to every child in America.” He invites a federal governmental roll in “boosting graduation rates, reducing teen pregnancy, even reduc-ing violent crime.” The government should “reward schools that develop new partnerships with colleges and employers, and create classes that focus on science, technology, engineering, and math.” Colleges, he said, “must do their part to keep costs down, and it is our job to make sure they do.” This implies vast subsidies and vastly more controls. He would offer companies incentives to hire those who were difficult to hire. He spoke of “rebuilding vacant homes in run-down neighborhoods” and of partnering “with 20 of the hardest-hit towns in America,” presumably to rebuild them with tax-payer money. And he wanted more Internet control. To pay for these budget-busting programs he offered only closing tax loopholes and taxing the rich more. Most pundits will note how expensive the above would be, especially when we are $16.5 trillion in debt (approximately $6 trillion from Barack Obama alone) and adding to this $4 billion each day. Someone has to ask the question. Are we intentionally attempting to bankrupt this country? Or, they might write about the vast expansion of federal control over our lives, that will never be returned, and the resultant loss of liberty. Because few read the Constitution anymore, they may not notice that not a single one of these expensive power-grabbing and bankruptcy-leading measures meet the list requirement in Article I, Section 8. Nor have any of the power increases been presented to the states for the required 3/4th ratification to become federal powers, as required by Article V. All power areas not listed, nor

added by way of amendment, belong to the states as per Amend-ment 10, otherwise, in time, we will not need state government, as all power will emanate from our all-knowing and all-powerful federal government. But even more frightening is the extension of presidential power and Congress’ ineptitude with respect to defending themselves because of their worshipful allegiance to party rather than to the Constitution they swore to uphold. He announced the launch of three more “manufacturing hubs” to guarantee, “the next revoltion in manufacturing is Made in America.” And requested Congress to create an additional 15 such hubs. What these are, and more precisely what they do, was not given. Nor was it given that while he created the first three, why he now needed Congress to create another 15. And if Congress won’t will he then do so himself ? On climate change he “urged” movement from Congress than threatened them if it did not happen. “But if Congress won’t act soon… I will. I will direct my Cabinet to come up with executive actions we can take, now and in the future.” He then identified three areas where his, presumably executive orders, would follow: “to reduce pollution, prepare our communities for the consequenc-es of climate change, and speed the transition to more sustainable sources of energy.” His threats are real. Unhappy that Congress had not already moved on gun control last month, as he wished, he created and signed 23 executive orders enlarging his power in this area. The Constitution gives the federal government no authority in this area and the words used in the 2nd Amendment are “shall not be infringed.” Congress alone has all law making powers outside the veto. The President has zero power to make law. Last summer he nullified existing law on immigration by executive order which violation of the Constitution is even more serious. Internet control was also hinted at in the State of the Union Ad-dress. He said, “I signed a new executive order that will strengthen our cyber defenses by increasing information sharing, and developing standards to protect our national security, our jobs, and our privacy.” Three vastly enlarged areas of government control that has never been presented to the Congress or the States. How do executive orders differ from monarchical decrees? As with Congress the president’s powers are also listed, Article II, Sections 2-3, and not a single one of the powers that he is bestoing upon himself exists in the Constitution. All powers not listed, or added by way of amendment, belong to the states and the people as per Amendment 10. Obama is a great orator but is he good enough to talk us into bankruptcy and out of liberty? For many yes! In Star Wars III the people clapped when they lost their liberty.

Dr. Harold Pease is an expert on the United States Constitu-tion. 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 perspec-tive for over 25 years at Taft College. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.


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 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.

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 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 MochaFat 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 8:30A.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

In

The Taft

Independent

Call Today!

765-6550Visit Us Online

taftindependent.com

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 INSURANCEa division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

License # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985

(661) 765-4798 FAXTaft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell

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

First Baptist Church

Pastor Scott Pearson

Sunday School 9 a.m.Worship Celebration 10:30 a.m.

Evening Service 6 p.m.

Awana Childrens ProgramWednesday 6 p.m.

220 North Street - Taft661 763-3138

Your Church

Ad Here!765-6550


pre-employment drug screen, physical and thorough background

check. E.O.E.

CHILD CARESERVICES

WANTED

Junk Cars Wanted. Cash Paid. 805-0552.

FOR SALE

Upright like new GE freezer. 1 year old. $250. Also have a lot more household items for sale. Call 763-3586.2-30.

Firewood. $1 to $2 each. 313 Kern St.

AUTOMOBILESPETS

LOST PETS

$500 Reward. Lost Mini Aussie. Black\grey\white w/tan spot on face. Blue eyes, female. Rexxie. REWARD. 661-765-5862 or 623-0758.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property Management

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

areas.

CRIME FREE HOUSING

Brokers Licence 01417057

661-577-7136

ROOMS FOR RENTRooms for rent. Maricopa. Private home, furn. or unfurn. Call for info. 745-4211. 2-26

HOMES FOR SALEReal Estate eBroker Inc.

By AppointmentKarri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 &

#01333971661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.comReal Estate Sales &

PurchaseCan’t make payments call me!! I can help direct you to a loan modification or assist you in your short

sale!Wondering how buying a house works? Set an appointment with Karri to watch a FREE video

on the process.

Call 661-332-6597 for a current list.

MOBILE HOMES

HOMES FOR RENTWest ValleyReal Estate

(661) 763-1500.Lic # 01525550

FOR RENTWest ValleyReal Estate

(661) 763-1500Lic # 01525550

FOR RENT522 Center 1/1 $500

2/1 $825 3/1 $875400 Woodrow 1 & 2 Bed units available

$625/$725539 Front 2/1 $700104 North 2/1 $725561 Front 2/1 $800

205 W Ash 2/1.5 $700203 W Ash 2/1.5 $70023312 Derby Ave $700709 Kern St 3/1 $90027558 Hwy 119 3/1.75

$1,100340 F St 3/1.75 + 1/1

$1,200

Homes for Rent2bed. 1 ba.

411 Shattuck. $600.3bd. 1ba $750. 520 Shattuck.

3bd. 1 1/2 ba. $800.118 Crystal.

3bd. 1 ba. $800.220 Mont View

Call Paul Joyce (805) 218-1686

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 $5 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.

318 Easter Ave. in home. 8am - ?

25010 First St. Derby Acres. Sat. and Sun. Lot’s of tools. and Misch.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

New AA meeting just started in Taft at the Chevron Valley Credit Union Community Room. 7:30 am every Saturday morning. We read a topic from As Bill Sees It. 9-19.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. 3-27.

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

Real Estate eBroker Inc.By Appointment

Karri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597www.BuyTaft.com

Real Estate Sales & Purchase

Ken ShugartsAir Conditioning & Heating

First Baptist Church located at 220 North St. from 9:00am—3:00pm.

BUSINESSFOR SALE

Establshed electronics and shipping store. Includes equipment, inventory. Former Radio Shack. $19,500. (661) 805-8722. 3-10.

HELP WANTEDIMMEDIATE OPENING

FORATTENDANCE AND

SPECIAL EDUCATION SECRETARY

AT BUTTONWILLOW SCHOOL.

PLEASE GO TO WWW.BUTTONWIL-LOWSCHOOL.COM

FOR DETAILS.

Meter Reader($3,025 - $4,751 per

month)

If you are looking for a career, come and

check out what we have in store for you! West Kern Water District is seeking an energetic

and dependable individual to join our

team who has the ability to work independently and read water meters

with a high degree of accuracy. Apply

immediately at 800 Kern Street, P.O. Box 1105,

Taft, CA 93268.

Deadline for submitting application is 4:30

pm on Wednesday, February 27, 2013. Resume will not be accepted in lieu of

District application. The successful applicant will be subject to a

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

Real Estate Services and Property ManagementListings – Sales - Property Management

Local Service You Can Depend On

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

Visit Us Online atwww.taftindependent.com

Joyce Properties(661) 765-6300

FOR LEASE. 4\2 Big fenced yard. 2 car

garage. Avail 3-1. $1,100 mo. $1,100 dep. 500

Eastern Ave. (661) 765-4333. DO NOT DIS-TURB TENANTS. 2-30.

FOR LEASE. 3/1. Fenced yard. Big lot.

$750. mo. $1,000 dep. 109 South Street. (661) 765-4333. DO NOT DIS-TURB TENANTS. 2-30.

2bd. w/garage $700. mo 429 Rose.

2 Units 319 1/2 San Emido w/utilities. 1 bd $650. abnd 1 bd. plus office $750. plus dep.

765-5000. License 01914953

402 Pierce St. 3bd 1 ba. w/ gargae. $880. mo. plus dep. 765-5000.

House for rent. 2bd. 1 ba. 661-747-6968.

APART. FOR RENT1bd. 1ba. Upstairs. $450 Mo. plus $450 dep. 155 1/2 North Street. (661) 477-9636. 2-8.

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

Center Street Apartments. 1 bed room 1 bath. $99 move in special based on approved credit. No Pets Allowed. Call (805) 375-1458 or (661) 765-7678.

Large 1 bd. 1 ba. Upstairs Apt. Stove, Refir. no pets. $495. mo. plus $500 sec. dep. 661-428-3252. 3.8.

WANTED TO RENT

765-4191 or 549-1068

Be Seen!

Classified Ads

in the

Taft

Independent

$2 per line

Box your ad

for $5 more

call

765-6550

Writers Wanted

At the Taft Independent

Experience Required.

Please call 765-6550.B License 442018

Preserving for the Future

For Rent 520 Shattuck

$750 monthPaul Joyce

805-218-1686 Joyce Properties

661-765-6300

For Rent 220 Montview

$795 monthPaul Joyce

805-218-1686 Joyce Properties

661-765-6300

Wanted to Rent. We are a couple in our 50’s. Long term renters looking for a house with an in ground pool and garage. 2 or 3 bedroom 1ba. Will pay 3 months in advance plus sec. dep. 661-293-0116 or 293-0413. 2-16.

Your Ad

Here!765-6550

Opinion and FeaturesObama Needs To Focus Energy Policy On Change, Not Hope By Robert L. Bradley Jr. Just prior to the election, battery-maker A123 Systems filed for bankruptcy. As the recipient of $249 million in federal money, the Massachusetts-based company represents just the latest in a long line of troubled taxpayer-enabled green ventures - some 34 com-panies and $7.5 billion to date. How little different this is from Houston-based Enron’s forays into wind and solar in the 1990s, which even with federal subsidies were never profitable. Failed bets on politically correct, market-incorrect energies are part of the trillion-dollar federal deficits that shake America’s living rooms. Yet President Obama seems determined to continue throw-ing good money after bad, setting up companies and their workers for failure. Meanwhile, resources are taken from the private sector where consumer-supported jobs originate. Such is just part of the president’s grander, misdirected energy policy, one that is at odds with the Big Three Energies of oil, gas and coal. Consider, for example, the president’s take on the cause and cure for high gasoline prices. A CNN poll earlier this year found a three-fold increase in the number of Americans viewing high mo-tor fuel prices as the nation’s most significant economic issue. The national average has abated to $3.42 per gallon, and gasoline prices in California have recently dropped below $4 per gallon. Still, stag-nant oil production on federal lands compared to state and private lands is a missed opportunity for producers and consumers alike. So what does the president say? That renewable energy is “the only way we’ll break this cycle of high gas prices.” The truth is that the big forces pushing up gas prices can’t be solved with wind, solar and ethanol. Global demand for crude oil is high, and the supply is hampered by political instability in oil-rich places such as the Middle East and North Africa. And U.S. policymakers have weakened the dollar. Then there’s the president’s take on taxes. Obama constantly hammers “big oil” for supposedly not paying its fair share. And he claims these companies are benefiting from billions of dollars in taxpayer giveaways. But the fact is that the three biggest oil companies - Chevron, ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips - all pay tax rates above 40 percent. Compare that to other major American corporations. Apple only pays 9 percent. GE, thanks in part to its windpower unit, pays just 7 percent. Then there’s the claim from the White House that oil compa-nies are leasing thousands of acres of land but leaving them idle. To make its case against expanded drilling, the administration misleadingly defines “idle” to include such things as seismic testing on the land and preparing rigs to drill. True, at this stage companies aren’t physically pulling resources from the ground. But the land certainly isn’t idle. Oil and natural gas developers are just taking necessary first steps before actual drilling and, hopefully, production occurs. Compare this to genuine idleness when federal policies have un-necessarily delayed drilling permits. And don’t forget the Keystone XL pipeline, which remains one White House decision away from overcoming idleness. Obama’s effort to paint green-tech as the future of American energy is predictably backfiring. While heavily subsidized wind and solar companies continue to flail, the traditional energy sector is flourishing, while developing more environmentally friendly ways of doing business. Indeed, the U.S. Energy Information Administration projects that by 2035, oil and natural gas alone will supply about 55 percent of America’s energy needs, compared to less than 11 percent from government-dependent wind, solar and ethanol. And if federal budget reforms eliminate energy subsidies, expect this market-share differential to become much more pronounced. With his second term just around the corner, President Obama should rethink his failing energy policy for one premised on free markets, consumer sovereignty and deficit-reduction. One can hope for change, right? Robert L. Bradley is CEO and founder of the Institute for Energy Research and author of seven books on energy. He blogs at www.masterresource.org.

Visit Us Online atwww.taftindependent.com

Classified Ad Deadline.Wednesday 2 p.m.

765-6550.

Hunters and Anglers have $3.5 Billion Impact on California’s EconomyWashington, DC: The 1.8 million people that hunt or fish in Cali-fornia have a tremendous impact on the state’s economy. In 2011, these outdoorsmen and women spent $3.5 billion with a ripple effect of $6.75 billion, and supported 56,388 jobs in the state. New data released today by the Congressional Sportsmen’s Founda-tion (CSF) documents the importance of sportsmen and women’s activities in California and across the nation. The state fact sheets follow the release of CSF’s national report, America’s Sporting Heritage, Fueling the American Economy,that was released in mid-January. “Many people may not fully comprehend how important hunting and fishing are to the fabric of this country. Yet nationally there are more people who hunt or fish than go bowling, and their spending would land them at #24 on the Fortune 500 list,” commented Jeff Crane, President of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. “Sportsmen and women spent $3.5 billion on hunting and fishing in California in 2011, more than receipts from cattle and calves, one of the state’s top agricultural commodities that year ($3.5 bil-lion vs. $2.8 billion).” Intended to provide a series of “sound bites” that resonate within the outdoor community as well as the general public, the CSF data spotlights some of the most compelling information about hunt-ers and anglers in every state. For example, 1.82 million people (residents and non-residents) hunted or fished in California in 2011, more than the population of the city of San Diego (1.82 million vs. 1.31 million). In addition, people who hunted or fished in California outnumber the combined total home attendance for all three of the state’s NFL football teams in 2011 (1.82 million vs. 1.55 million). Perhaps most importantly, hunters and anglers sup-port 56,388 jobs in California - that is more than the 32nd Street Naval Base, the state’s largest employer (56,388 vs. 42,951). Nationwide, the impact is even more impressive. There are more than 37 million hunters and anglers age 16 and up in this country - about the same as the population of the entire state of California. These sportsmen and women spent $90 billion on hunting and fishing in the United States in 2011, which is comparable to the combined global sales of Apple’s iPad® and iPhone® that year. In dif-ficult economic times, it is important to note that both participa-tion and spending by people who hunt and fish went up in 2011. Beyond the impact to businesses and local economies, sportsmen and women are the leaders in conserving fish and wildlife and their habitats. When you combine license and stamp fees, motorboat fuels, excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment and member-ship contributions to conservation organizations, hunters and anglers directed $3 billion towards on-the-ground conservation and restoration efforts in 2011 - that is over $95 every second. This does not include their own habitat acquisition and restoration work for lands owned or leased for the purpose of hunting and fishing, which would add another $11 billion to the mix.

Assemblywoman Shannon Grove Introduces “No Pension Bailout” ResolutionAJR 10 would oppose a federal bailout of California’s pension system SACRAMENTO - Assemblywoman Shannon Grove (R-Bakers-field) has introduced Assembly Joint Resolution (AJR) 10, to oppose any attempt by the state of California to receive a federal bailout for our state debt. “I am proposing this preemptive measure because I firmly believe that each state is responsible for their own fiscal decisions. Califor-nia taxpayers should not be held accountable for the failed fiscal policies of other states, just as others should not be on the hook for ours,” said Grove. “The ‘balanced’ budget Governor Brown unveiled last month conveniently ignored billions of dollars in un-funded pension liability, and the changes made to public pensions in recent years will only save the state a fraction of what it spends on these obligations. We can’t just ignore these numbers, and we should not expect a federal bailout. I want to bring more attention to the fact that the California legislature alone needs to seriously and significantly address our billions in state debt.” The California State Teachers Retirement Fund (CalSTRS) released a report earlier this week revealing a $64 billion dollar pension deficit, while the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) puts its unfunded pension liability at $49 bil-lion dollars, plus billions more in state retiree health care benefits. The non-partisan Legislative Analyst’s Office has stated that the Governor’s budget does not adequately address California’s pen-sion liabilities. Principal co-author of the measure is Assemblyman Brian Dahle (R-Bieber), who served four terms as a Lassen County Supervisor before being elected to the state legislature. Lassen County was debt-free during his tenure and remains so today. “We shouldn’t saddle future generations with our poor financial decisions,” said Dahle of AJR 10. The “No Pension Bailout” measure is part of a nationwide cam-paign initiated by the Illinois Policy Institute, a leading free market think tank. The effort began last year after Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, a Democrat, proposed that the federal government guarantee Il-linois’ severely underfunded pension systems. According to a study by the Institute, federal bailouts would require taxpayers in states like Texas and North Dakota to subsidize the pensions of fiscally irresponsible states like Illinois and California. “Everybody thinks that California is too big to fail. But like Presi-dent Obama’s home state of Illinois, California is a model of the liberals’ plan to tax and spend us further into debt,” stated Grove. “By taking a stand against bailouts we’re saying that states need to fix their own fiscal problems and not pass the buck to taxpayers in the rest of the country.” Joint resolutions such as AJR 10 express an opinion about an issue pertaining to the federal government, and are sent to Congress once passed by both houses of the state legislature. They do not require approval from the Governor. Shannon Grove represents the Kern County communities of Ba-kersfield, Ridgecrest, Tehachapi, Taft and Frazier Park/Lebec.600 Center Street

Taft, California(661) 623-0827 (661) 765-1171

All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting. Call for Appointment Today!

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

Yates’ Detailing


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

Come and Join Us at The Tumbleweed The Tumbleweed Cafe

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

Qik Smog & Tune

Devon’s Body Shop

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

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

We CaterYour Place or Ours Full Bar

AvailableFor Your Special

Event

FULLBAR

Used to be Paul’sBike Shop

608 Center St. 745-4919

BMXBikes

Are Here!

Full Grooming Salon

www.shawswesternshop.com

Andy’s Septic Tank & SewerUNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

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

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 •

January Clearance

Jackets 30% OffDickies and FR Wrangler

Flannel Shirts 30% Off

Dickies InsulatedCoveralls $49.00 Overalls $42.00Hats - Boots - Jewelry - Purses - Jeans

Let us wash and Brush outthose wooley dogs

Nails 12.00 2nd Dog $9.00

Birds - nails and Wings $9.00 with beak $14.00

come play with me Taft

Documents

street taftin

street suite

off1277 kern street

shop taft1277 kern street

acme jewelry

quality jewelry

fine jewelry gifts

south taft