April 8 - 14, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 41 www.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] FREE Weekly e Taft Independent 508 Center Street • 765-6550 The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft! Black Gold Cafe and Deli Open Monday For Lunch and Dinner 9am - 1pm 5pm - 8pm Soroptimist Receives $5,000 For Critical Care Transportation Program Taft Relay for Life “Tip For A Cure” Brakes The Bank The Place 4014 Highway 33 Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa (661)766-2660 Pork Spare Ribs with beans, salad and bread NO TO GO’s 5:00pm until gone! $1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close Saturday, April 9th $10.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT Saturday, April 23rd $12.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT Fish Fry coleslaw, cornbread and rice pilaf $1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close NO TO GO’s 5:00pm until gone! State Of e City Taſt City Manager Bob Gorson and Mayor Randy Miller
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April 8 - 14, 2011 TAFT INDEPENDENT
April 8 - 14, 2011 • Volume 5 Issue 41www.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”
508 Center Street • 765-6550
The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!Black GoldCafe and Deli
Open MondayFor Lunch and Dinner
9am - 1pm 5pm - 8pm
Soroptimist Receives $5,000 For Critical Care Transportation Program
Taft Relay for Life “Tip For A Cure” Brakes The Bank
The Place4014 Highway 33
Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa(661)766-2660
Pork Spare Ribswith beans, salad and breadNO TO GO’s 5:00pm until gone!
$1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close
Saturday, April 9th$10.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT
Saturday, April 23rd$12.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT
Fish Frycoleslaw, cornbread
and rice pilaf
$1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close
NO TO GO’s 5:00pm until gone!
State Of The City
Taft City Manager Bob Gorson and Mayor Randy Miller
2 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 8 - 14, 2011
Passion For Nails
Monday to Friday10am-7pm and
Saturday 9am-6pm
Gift Certificates AvailableNail Services:
Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star
(we also treat ingrown nails)
Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome
Open 24 Hours! 506 Center Street (661) 205-5579
YOGACLASSESJOIN NOW!
Shop Taft
Anderson Business ServicesBookkeeping and Income Tax Preparation
Call For Appointment765-7665 or 577-6790
810 Center Street • (661)805-9813
1014 6th Street • TaftIn the Save A Lot Shopping Center
(661)745-4913
Ben’s BooksThe Largest, Cheapest and Only
Used Book Store in Taft
(661)763-3030
Miller’s
661-763-5445 510 Center Street • Taft
Beauty Supply
Call for an appointment Today
Glam Squad on PremisesBarbara Van Pelt • Melissa Thornsberry
Laci Rodart • Christine Dunning Carolyn Easley • Shop Manager - Jessica G. Miller
Beauty Supply • Salon • BoutiqueHair & Skin Care Products • Salon Services
Synthetic Hair Wigs & Human Hair ExtentionsHair Accessories • Jewelry • Pictures & Prints • Massages
We are an Independent Agency WithMany Pre-Eminent Insurance Companies
To Best Suit Your NeedsWe Represent You To Give You The Best Service
Edward J. Herrera Insurance
420 Center StreetTaft, Ca 93268(661)745-4920Lic. # 0277365
www.edherrerainsurance.com
WE Offer You Low Discounted Rates
Auto - Home - Health - Business - Notary Public
Our Friendly Staff
Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion
Childrens • Cookbooks and More!
423 & 421 Center Street • 763-3527
Yoga Classes $99 per month or $10 per class for non membersWed. & Thurs. 3:30pm
Friday 9:30amNo Contract Req.
TAX TIME IS HERE!Make Your Appointment Early
10% OFFWITH THIS AD
NEW CLIENTS ONLY
Get Your Refund on a Prepaid Mastercard!
426 Center Street (661)763-5451
Fine Jewelry • Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair • Watch Batteries
Candies • Candles • And More!
426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451
acme jewelry co.F i n e J e w e l r y
Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts
14K Gold • Sterling Silver
Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair
Watch Batteries
Small town, family owned, low overhead.We can save you money on quality jewelry!
Get 1 FREE PaperbackWhen you purchase 6 additional
paperbacks of equal value*Not applicable on credits or exchanges*
Acme Jewelry will be closed on Tuesdays when Ray is in L.A.
Please call first. 763-5451Thank You
Store Hours:Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pmClosed Sunday and Monday
523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm
Tire & Automotive Service Center
Oil & Filter Special
2995*$Plus Tax
Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase
$3.50 Oil Disposal FeeExp. April 30, 2011
FREETire Rotation
& Brake CheckPlus
We will checkall fluids
& tire pressure
*Most Cars & Light Trucks
Up to 5 Qts.
Personal Style
Your One Stop for the Entire Family
Family BoutiqueInfants • Toddlers • Juniors
Women & Men
Spring is Here!Keep us in mind for your
Easter Outfits and DressesNew Arrivals
with more on the way!
We have something for
everyone
Viognier - Chardonnay - Rose - Grenache - NegretteHomestead Red -Crianza - Tempranillo - Syrah -Petite SirahEstate Syrah -Carmenere - Zinfandel - Cabernet Sauvignon
9988 Chimney Rock Road • Paso Robles, CA [email protected] • (805)226-8463
Estate and locally sourced premium wines
Wine TastingFriday through Sunday 11am to 5pm at the Winery. Wines can also be tasted at Black Gold Cafe & Deli
508 Center Street • TaftMention this ad and receive a 10%
Taft Discount on all purchases
Kelly DeMoiseBoard Cetified Instructor
SAN JOAQUINAutomotive Center
SPRING SPECIAL
Valid through 4/30/2011
EVERYDAY OIL CHANGESGAS ENGINE $35.99 OR LESS
(Includes up tp 7 qts oil, filter, tax, haz waste fee)DIESEL ENGINE $71.99 OR LESS
(Includes up to 3.75 gal oil, filter, tax, haz waste fee)
531 Center Street • 763-1123
April 8 - 14, 2011 TAFT INDEPENDENT
Community Events.........3
News Briefs.......................3
Letters to the Editor.................................4
Westside News..................6
Westside News..................7
Westside News..................8
Westside Horoscopes......9
Classified Ads.................10
Westside News...............11
Negocios Hispanos.......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 Indepen-dent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.
We welcome contributions and suggestions. Our purpose is to present news and issues of importance to our readers.
Subscriptions. Subscription home or mail deliv-ery of the Taft Independent is available for $8.00 per month or $97.00 per year. To subscribe to please call 765-6550.
LETTERS-TO-THE-EDITOR.Send us your letter to Taft Independent at the above address. Limit it to 300 words and include your name, address, and phone number. Fax: (661) 765-6556. Email your letter to: [email protected].
ADVERTISING.Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representa-tive at (661) 765-6550.Classifieds: Call 765-6550 or fax us at (661) 765-6556. Phone order are taken. Visa and Master Card accepted.
Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long
Managing EditorAdvertising
Jessica Skidgel
Layout & DesignIndependent Graphics
Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris,
Jessy McCulloch, Nicole Frost
ColumnistsRandy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins,
Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease
Member California NewspaperPublishers Association
Printed in California
Community Events News BriefsTaft California
“Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”
Thursday Afternoon Watercolor Class from 1pm to 3pm
End of Times Gallery, 428 Center Street, is accepting students for their watercolor class on Thursday afternoons from 1pm to 3pm. Please bring a watercolor block approx. 12 by 14 inches, a good quality set of water colors, palette, brushes and water can. Also, please bring a board about 16 x 20 inches on which to work. All classes are $40 per month and students can pay weekly but will be charged for missed classes. For more information please call 765-4790.
Thursday Night Painting Class from 6pm to 8pm
End of Times Gallery, 428 Center Street, is accepting students for their painting class on Thursday nights from 6pm to 8pm. Please call 765-4790 for supply list. Acrylic paint is the preferred medium. All classes are $40 per month and students can pay weekly but will be charged for missed classes.
Children’s Art Classes at End of Times Gallery
End of Times Gallery, 428 Center Street, is now accepting children for private and group art lessons. Available times are Wednesday afternoons from 1:30pm to 3pm and Saturday mornings from 10am to 11:30am. The cost is $40 per month, $10 per child per lesson, plus a $5 materials fee. If interested, please stop by the gallery or call 765-4790.
New York Artist Photography Exhibit Reception Friday, April 8th
Susan Anderson presents Passages, A Celebration of Light and Life. Passages is a selec-tion of Susan’s color photographs shot on location in Greece and Puerto Rico. The exhibit of her photographs will be on display at the End of Times Gallery beginning April 5th to May 6th. The public is invited to an artist’s reception at the gallery to meet Susan Anderson and view her photographs on Friday, April 8th from 4pm to 7pm. All photographs are available for purchase and are original C-Print photographs printed on premium Agfa archival photogrpahic paper. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday 10am to 3pm. For more information please contact the End of Times Gallery, (661)765-4790, 428 Center Street.
Roll in the Good Times Taft ARC Annual Bunco Saturday, April 9th
The Taft ARC is holding their annual bunco night on Saturday, April 9th at 5pm at the Taft ARC, 204 Van Buren Street. Cost is $20 per person. Bunco ticket includes dinner. Pre-sale tickets only, deadline is April 1st, call 763-1532 ext 11.
Rotary Club of Taft Peddler’s Fair and Health Fair Saturday, April 16th
The Rotary Club of Taft is holding their annual Peddler’s Fair and Health Fair Satur-day, April 16th. The Peddler’s Fair is from 8am to 3pm at Bueana Vista HighSchool, 900 No. 10th Street, across from the Historic Fort. Admission is $2, 8 and under free. 50+ vendors! For more information call 979-8619. Free admission to the Health Fair from 8am to 12 noon. Free consultation by medical specialists. For more information call 765-4124.
CASA Orientation Wednesday, April 27th
Court Appointed Special Advocates is looking for you!!! Or someone you know to … “Stand up for children, so they’ll stand a chance.” Orientation for those interested in becoming CASA Volunteers Wednesday April 27, 2011 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at Taft Chamber of Commerce, 400 Kern Street. Plan to attend this one hour meeting to learn how you can make a difference in the life of a child in foster care. CASA volunteers make an 18 month commitment and donate an average of 10-15 hours per month in their role as an advocate. All volunteers must be screened and accepted to a 35 hour training program which begins in May. Call Kate Kenney at 631-2272 to RSVP and receive an application. Visit our website at www.kerncasa.org for more information. There is a great need for advocates in the Taft area, and we are especially in need of bilingual English/Spanish and male volunteers.
Soroptimist Garden Affair Saturday, April 30th
A Garden Affair presented by Soroptimist of Taft will be held Saturday, April 30th. Visit the beautiful and unique gardens of the Taft area and then enjoy a salad luncheon at The Fort. 9:00am starts at King’s Nursery 9:30am to 11:30am Garden tours 12pm noon salad luncheon. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at King’s Nursery, Jacks Flowers, All in the Sandwich or from any Soroptimist member. Proceeds from this fundraiser go to the Critical Care Transportation program and other Soroptimist projects.
Quail Springs Open House Saturday, May 7th
Saturday, May 7, 201110am-2pm. At long last we’ve scheduled our Spring Open House (previously called Farm Tour)! Please join us to learn about permaculture design and how sustainability touches the ground here at Quail Springs. And share a delicious ca-tered lunch at the farm. This is a daytime event, yet there are local options to dine and camp overnight in the Cuyama Valley - more info is available on the pre-registration page. Event Cost: $20/adult or teen, $5/child All ages are encouraged! Please pre-register a week or more in advance as these events tend to fill up.
Taft High & Lincoln Bands Biscuits & Gravy Breakfast Saturday, May 21st www.taftindependent.com
The Taft High and Lincoln bands will be holding a buscuits and gravy breakfast on Saturday, March 21st from 7am to 11am at the Taft High Cafeteria. $5 per person. All proceeds go to support the bands participation in the Pearl Harbor Anniversary Celebration in Washington D.C. November 7-10, 2011.
Go ‘CatsBy Nicole Frost
Taft Union High School is approaching the middle of the fourth quarter, which means STAR testing is taking place and progress reports are going out soon. It also means that Prom, Mock Rock and the spring musical are coming up! Last week was the beginning of STAR testing, which will continue until April 14. School still starts at 7:40am, but it will get out at 1:15pm and the English and Mathematics test will be administered. Prom is on April 9 at 9:00pm and it will be at The Fort. The theme is A Mid-summer’s Night’s Dream. Don’t forget your formal attire! Be safe and have fun. Taft Union High School seniors will receive nearly $190,000 in college schol-arships at Honors Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday. Businesses and foundations will hand deliver the scholarships to 94 students. The event will be held in the high school auditorium. It is free and open to the public. Boys’ tennis plays against Tehachapi High School on April 12 and Arvin High School on April 14. Both games are at home. Other home games include softball against Shafter High School on April 14, swimming and diving against Wasco on April 14, and baseball against Shafter High School on April 14. Come out and support the Wildcats. “Godspell,” the spring musical, will be shown on May 5-8 in the Taft High auditorium. Practices are still going on, and there are only a few weeks until the big performance. The 2011 Mockademy Awards is coming up soon. Mock Rock tickets are on sale in the quad for $5.00. They will be sold until April 8, so don’t procrastinate! The choir’s 4th annual Dinner Theater is on April 15 at 6:00 pm in the Taft High cafeteria. Tickets are $15 and there will be food and dancing. Entertain-ment will be provided by the TUHS choir and Jazz Band.
First Annual Petroleum Highway Poker Run Saturday, April 9thBy Jessica G. Miller
Saturday, April 9, will kick off the first annual Petroleum Highway Poker Run pre-sented by the Taft Petroleum Club. It’s an exceptional adventure that invites motor-cyclists and those who prefer the four wheeled experience alike to take a tour along the Petroleum Highway and on, concluding with dinner and a dance at the Petroleum Club. Sign ups for the ride start at 8:00AM at the Petroleum Club then they take off at 9:00AM. The cost for a motorcycle or car is $25 per vehicle and $5 for every extra passenger and that price includes admission to the dinner and dance. However, for those who aren’t interested in or can’t make the ride, they can still attend the dinner and dance for $15 per person. The route is an exciting and rather scenic one. Kicking off from the Petroleum Club, they will travel west on the Petroleum Highway and onto highway 46 to the Pozo Saloon near Santa Margarita. After lunch at the saloon, they will begin their return journey via highway 58 and coming home on the Petroleum High-way to make it just in time for the dinner and dance. Although the ride is the major draw for the event, they will also be having a Poker Run, a five card draw with prizes awarded to the best three hands. First place will receive $300, second will collect $150 and third place will win $75. All proceeds from the ride will be donated to a student scholarship for the Taft High Oil Academy. With the Spring weather just starting to get nice, it’s the perfect way to spend a Saturday with friends and family and a great way to spend your evening, eating fine fare and taking your dancing shoes out for a spin. It’s also a terrific way to support a scholarship for students in a program that educates them in the indus-try that supports our community. Be sure to take advantage of this unique opportunity brought to you by the Petroleum Club of Taft.
4 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 8 - 14, 2011
Editorial
Westside WatcherYour 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 3:30pm to Close
Every Friday is Ribeye Steak & Chicken Dinner Night
Asian ExperienceAsian Food and Pizza
Lunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday
11 am - 2 pm 4 pm - 9 pmSaturday 4 pm - 9 pm
215 Center Street, Taft763- 1815
Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting
Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pmDinner by Reservation
4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319
Taft Crude Coffee HouseCoffee House and Deli
Monday – Friday 6:30 am to 5pm.
Saturday 7 am to 2 pmSundays 7:30 am to 1 pm
1010 6th Street, Taft763-5156
Black Gold Cafe & DeliPastas - Sandwiches
Espresso - Beer - WineOpen Monday to SaturdayLunch served 11am-1pmDinner served 5pm - 8pm
Wine Tasting on First Thursdays508 Center Street
765-6550
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. Sat. 6 am-8:30 pmSun. Wed. Fri. 6 am - 10pm765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft
El Jacalito Authentic Mexican Dining
We do Catering for any Special Event!Orders to go.
Sunday - Thursday10:30 am - 8:00 pmFriday and Saturday10:30 am - 9:00 pm101 B. Street, Taft
763-9890763-9892 fax
Asian Experience
215 Center Street 763-1815
Asian Food and PizzaLunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.Saturday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Live Music Saturday Nights
Always Fresh!
Mon. - Fri. 10am - 2;30pmDine In or We Deliver
765-4143700 Kern Street Taft, CA
Westside Entertainment
Sagebrush Annie’sWine Tasting
Dinner by Reservation
Award Winning Wines766-2319
4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa
Chilled & GrilledBreakfast served
Saturday and Sunday 7am-11am
Brunch served Sunday 7am-2pm
Lunch served daily 11am-4pm
Dinner served daily 4pm-9pm765-2000
621 Center Street
Get Your Events in the Westside Entertainment Guide. Call 765-6550 or fax 765-6556
Your RestaurantListed Here.
Call765-6550.
Starting as low as $12 per
week!
Paik’sRanch House Restaurant
“Where Everybody Meets”
Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat. 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wed, Fri. 6 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.Sunday 6 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.
This Saturday, April 9th, 20111st ANNUAL PETROLEUM
HIGHWAY POKER RUN
Ride will start at the Taft Petroleum Club and go Hwy 33 to 46 to 41 to 229 to Pozo Saloon then Hwy 58 back to 33 to the Taft Petroleum Club for dinner and dance. $25 per
motorcycle $5 for passengr and includes dinner and dance. $15 per person for dinner and dance. Poker is 5 card and
best hand for 1st $300, 2nd $150 and 3rd $75.
Letters to the Editor
As of April 1st, 2011 West Side Urgent Care and West Side Health
Care District are no longer associated with Westside Lab Services or
Jason Bevin
All proceeds go to the Taft High Oil Academy for student scholarships
“ People are so right they are wrong and people are funny about money.” -Mayor Randy Miller
Quote of the Week
Dear Editor,
I lived in Taft during the 1950’s & 60’s era -- it was a great place grow up. I recall lots of freedom, hiking in the hills, riding bikes, cruising Cen-ter St. a la American Graffiti. I am now retired and living in Palm Desert, CA (near Palm Springs), but I think about Taft and sometimes read the Midway Driller and Taft Independent web sites. I look at the web sites to reminisce -- see what’s going on in the area and, at my age, to read the obit-uaries. Within the past couple of years, my husband and I stopped in Taft on our way to Northern CA to visit retired friends. We drove into town on a Monday -- the Oil Museum (of which I’m a member) was closed; so, we proceeded up Center Street looking for a place to have lunch. The city looked dead (close to noon) -- looked like a town from the old Twilight Zone programs which had survived Armageddon with one or two sur-vivors. After some searching, we found a pizza restaurant on Center St. and had a good lunch. Then we drove up to Taft Heights, where I grew up, and it was very sad for me to behold-- so many old homes with boards on the windows. Taft was never an elegant town in the 1950s but at that time, owners of homes without grass mowed or removed their weeds. We saw old junk & appliances sitting in front yards -- lack of pride. I’m sorry to report this observation. I recognize our state and USA have been in a serious recession. My parents lived in Taft during the Great Depression and WWII years -- but I think there was a sense of pride and patriotism. So, if Taft wishes to attract tourists (for other than for Oildorado or high school & college reunions), the town will need to upgrade its image -- take advantage of it’s uniqueness and history but clean up. Frankly, many blocks in Taft Heights looked blighted. Just as the old USSR used to have 5 year plans, I think Taft needs a 10 year revitalization plan with specific, realistic goals. No. 1 The Center Street downtown corridor needs to be improved -- find ways to attract more sm. businesses and eating establishments and better signs -- more trees. The essential character of the downtown should be maintained but there’s room for improving the image and making the town look welcoming and alive - not a ghost town. No. 2 I do not think you now have the accommodations, attractions, or size of city to support a Convention Center but perhaps a well designed, smaller Conference Center would make sense. However, the town would need to offer sufficient motel space or build additional accommodations as part of a Conference. Center. You would need a marketing specialist to effectively attract various church groups, clubs, businesses and other orga-nizations who want an outside meeting venue. A few community leaders, Chamber of Commerce, and City Council should visit other communities - even out of states - which currently have small to medium-size conference centers - as a first step for evaluation. No. 3. The town might investigate ways to offer “package” golf or boat-ing weekend vacations which would include, for a single price, motel, 2 rounds of golf at Buena Vista Golf Course, plus breakfast & dinner. Same thing with Buena Vista Lake (I’ve not seen the lake) - if there are water sports - boat races, Ski doo events, water skiing, etc. offer a package deal for special events. You would need to advertise in golf, or sports or boat-ing publications. No. 4 You need to have signs on the major highways to encourage travelers to make a short detour for meals and gas refill. You need some attractive looking restaurants -- and definitely need to try to attract a Denny’s, or Carrows, or Coco’s or other “brand name” coffee shop (besides McDonalds). No. 5 Here where I now live in the Coachella Valley -- there are tours of the San Andreas Fault (in jeeps & vans) The brochure says “you’ll travel the San Andreas -- the world’s largest geologic classroom”. Taft could offer a geologic-ecologic tour of the San Andreas and Carrizo Plain -- explain-ing the interesting geology and reason for the large oil deposits and the grassland ecosystem. This is something which might be offered, in con-junction with the Oil Museum, possibly an activity visitors at a conference center might like As you know tourist dollars multiply within a community. For Taft to attract tourists, a financial investment is necessary with realistic plan-ning in stages (a decade or more). In my opinion, the areas with a lot of boarded up, derelict-looking homes ought to be bulldozed -- a vacant lot without weeds is better looking than a boarded-up, falling down structure. No one wants to visit a town with a lot of “eye sores”. Sorry- to have to be so blunt. On our last trip thru Taft I left feeling depressed by what I’d observed; yet, I still have love for the town since it was where I spent the first 17 years of my life. Attracting tourists will be tough -- Taft doesn’t have the mountains or the ocean. Here where I live we have Indian Casinos and golf & tennis tourism & winter snowbirds which keep the economy humming. Taft is unique -- a town based on a single commodity: oil. To increase tourism, everyone will have to think creatively. I recall Florida -- driving the high-ways and seeing signs “Alligator Farm” “Open to the Public” “Watch us feed the gators”. Taft need to find it’s version of the Alligator Farm. Also, I wish to point out that your Congressman, Kevin McCarthy, is one of the more powerfull GOP figures, at this time, in Congress at this time. Once a viable plan is developed, I’d think it wise to consult your Congressperson for advice or help. My thoughts. Good luck. Bette Yee,Palm Desert, CA
Karaoke tonight at the club with Tammy from TMS Karaoke!
City Approves Contract with Master Planner, Downtown and Rails to Trails Gears up for Improvements, Redevelopment
At the Tuesday evening Taft city council meeting, the council, after spending more than $2.5 million on the purchase and planning of the 46 acre Rails to Trails project, approved the hiring of a Master Planner to plan, finance and build new commercial build-ings, parks and residential housing on the old railroad property. The meeting was an im-portant watershed event for the community and promises to bring new development projects that Taft residents can be proud of. The planner, Geary Coats of Pacific Anchor/Coats Consult-ing will act on behalf of the city as planner and developer of the property. The first phase of develop-ment on the Rails to Trails property would include a 50 room Best Western Hotel at the corner of 6th and Main Streets near the Taft Oilwork-ers Monument. In addition, a sit-down res-taurant, a deli in the old train depot, housing, open space, parks, and commercial mixed use properties would be part of the overall project.
The plan also provides for an amphitheater and a gazebo for public outdoor entertainment. The approval at the Tuesday night city council meeting was an important first step in the revitalization of the downtown, which promises to bring new jobs, new businesses and revi-talization to the once popular city center. The council and city staff should be commended for all the hard work and effort put into this project. City, residents and local merchants stand to benefit from the tax dollars generated by the new develop-ment, as well as new shopping opportunities that Taft resi-dents badly want and need. Moreover, the project will enhance the downtown and at-tract new business onto Center Street. Currently, 4 different inves-tors are looking at purchasing the old Fox Theater which recently closed. Now that the Rails to Trails project has been given the go ahead and a developer is in place, we are sure someone will realize the investment that Taft has made in the downtown and that the Fox will be an even more attrac-tive investment for a potential purchaser. If you see a city councilman or city staffer, let them know that you appreciate the work they have done to make Taft a better place to live and work.
April 8 - 14, 2011 TAFT INDEPENDENT
FREE Brake Inspection
Small Town USA is the BESTDon’t Ever Forget That
Support Your TownI love my home town and I’m not ashamed to say it
I live in Taft, my payroll stays on the WestsideKeep Taft the Best and Give Us A Try
Help Me Double the Business in 2011
most cars & light trucks
up to 5 qts. oil
FREEAlignment Check
Exp. 4-30-11
Oil & Filter Change
523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm
523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm
523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm
523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm
most cars & light trucksExp. 4-30-11 Exp. 4-30-11
Exp. 4-30-11
most cars & light trucks
$3.50 Oil Disposal Fee
2995$most cars
& light trucks
FREETire Rotation
Best Schools in USA
Best Teachers in USABest People in USABest Town in USA
Hugh FullerIs Proud of Taft
My Home Town, Safest in Kern CountyClass of 1957
USMC Semper Fi
6 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 8 - 14, 2011
Westside News & Business Briefs
CookhouseOT
& SaloonSpecializing in Steak & Seafood
Lunch DinnerTuesday - Friday11a.m. - 2p.m.
Tuesday - Thursday 4p.m. - 9p.m.Friday & Saturday 4p.m. - 10p.m.
CLOSEDSUNDAY/MONDAY
205 N. 10th St.(661)763-1819
OT Cookhouse Daily Specials (For the week of 4-12-11 thru 4-16-11)
Tues.4-12-11Lunch
Tues.4-12-11Dinner
Wed.4-13-11Lunch
Wed.4-13-11Dinner
Thurs.4-14-11Lunch
Thurs.4-14-11Dinner
Fri.4-15-11Dinner
Fri.4-15-11Lunch
Sat.4-16-11Dinner
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
BBQ Beef Ribs
Beef Tips with Noodles
Prime Rib$15.95 Small/ $18.95 Large
Chili Burger
CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY
Veal Liver with Bacon & Onions
$8.95
$10.95
$8.95
$9.95
205 N. 10th Street . (661)763-1819
$15.95/ $18.95
Pickled Tongue Sandwich
$8.95
$10.95
BBQ Pork Ribs$13.95 Half/ $15.95 Full
$13.95/ $15.95
Call for a free Consultation:415 Center Street • (661)374-3294 • [email protected]
Good Prices!Excellent Service!Business and personal Income Taxes
Full Payroll and BookkeepingNotary and Typing Services
Bankruptcy and Loan ModificationRetirement Plans and Life Insurance Legalization of Vehicles to Mexico
Monday - Friday10am - 6pm
Se Habla EspanolIntegrity Bookkeeping
Now Open In Taft!
Seafood Combo $15.95
Hi everyone and welcome, I come before you today as your proud but humble mayor of the City of Taft. Right off the bat let me state that the State of the City is good, not great but good for the times we are in. I was thinking back on my high school days at TUHS when I ran for a couple of class offices and was beaten soundly. Wow was that ever a blow to my ego. My biggest political claim to fame came when I was elected senior class treasurer and I never did anything because one of my class officers intimidated me so much I never knew what was in the coffers. I have learned a les-son from that experience. After High School, I was never involved in any other organizations until I came back to Taft in 1979. In all the other places I had lived I just resided there, I didn’t live there. I knew none of my elected officials, hardly knew any of my neighbors, and just plain didn’t care what was going on around me. By the summer of 79 in Taft, I was on the Oildorado board, joined Kiwanis, was on the Oilfield Community Chest Board, and joined the Petroleum Club and became a board member. Seems there was a lack of people willing to serve on boards so why not get the new guy, he doesn’t know any different anyway. So began my odyssey in Taft. I eventually became the President of Oildorado in 1995 and at the time I was volunteering with the Sherriff departments civilian service unit riding around on patrols with Gary Holton. I remarked at that years civic luncheon that here I am; thirty years later after I was in the Navy coming home for the 65 Oildorado, getting taken to jail for un-derage drinking with 4 of my friends by the Sheriff ’s department; now I was president of Oildorado and working for the Sheriff. I’d come along way from that geeky pimple faced kid in high school. The lesson learned there, ya never know how things will work out for you.Well, I won’t belabor all the issues that the council has faced in these past few years. It hasn’t been too much fun for anyone. We were bogged down in too many issues that involved personalities, conflict of interests, and greed. I give great credit to past Mayors Paul Linder and Dave Noeer whose leadership steered us through some tumultuous times. I am sure that you have tired of all the bad press and controversy that have swirled around the City, but we have been busy and have accomplished a great deal. This past Tuesday we passed a resolution selecting our master devel-oper of the railroad property. This has been after about 8 yrs of work, sweat, and money. We’ll be showing you a quick video presentation of what it could look like as it is being built out. Now we have a dream and a brighter future. Bob will fill you in on more of these accomplish-ments such as our industrial park, first time buyer grant program, our concerns over redevelopment caused by the state, and some annexa-tions we are pursuing. We have a historic work of art honoring our oil workers. We have begun work on the 5th street plaza to begin the re-vitalization of our downtown, bringing folks downtown for the second Friday events. We had the grandest of all Oildorado celebrations not forgetting our 100 years as a city. We, as a City, are in stable financial shape at the moment, but it is
City Council Approves Rails Master Planner, Best Western Hotel Planned for DowntownBy Kent Miller
“Alea iacta est (The die has been cast).”Julius Caesar on Jan. 10, 49 B.C., as he led his army acrossthe River Rubicon in northern Italy into Roman territory.
Tuesday night Taft councilmembers “cast the dice” as they crossed a River Rubicon into the economic future by approving a disposition and development agreement between the city and Sunset Rails, LLC. The agreement, which is subject to scrutiny and approval from City Attorney David A. Prentice, is the latest – and perhaps big-gest – step in turning an about 47-acre parcel of the former Union Pacific Sunset Railway site into the economic revival of Taft: Sunset Rails. The Sunset Rails property is adjacent to and south of downtown Taft. It was acquired in December 2008 by the Taft Community De-velopment Agency (TCDA) for $1.5 million, or $1.17 per square foot, and was recently transferred to the city because of Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposal to eliminate redevelopment areas.So far, part of the Rails to Trail project and the Oil Workers Monument are in the boundaries of Sunset Rails.The goal of the project is to “create an on-going revenue stream for the city so it can better serve the public,” said Paul Gorte, city redevelopment manager. Mayor Randy Miller sees Sunset Rails as an opportunity to “get away from the past ... Think of the future.”
“It will compliment the downtown area. It is not competing with downtown. “It will stop the ‘leakage’ (Taft residents’ money being spent elsewhere).”
50-room hotel The entire 47-acre project would be built out over a number of years. A restaurant and hotel would be built in the first of four phases. The hotel would be a 50-room Best Western, near 6th and Main streets in downtown Taft, said City manager Bob Gorson. Groundbreaking for the hotel could begin as soon as January 2012, with groundbreaking for the sit-down restaurant to begin one month later, Gorson said. Oildorado 2010, which attracted more than 30,000 visitors dur-ing a 10-day run, showed that Taft lacks sufficient hotel and motel rooms. As an example, David Couch, owner of Skydive Taft which attracts thousands of visitors to Taft annually, said that he has lost business because many large groups have been unable to find adequate hotel accommodations.
Master developer After acquiring the land, the city then sought a master developer for the site, with the nod going to Pacific Anchor/Coats Consult-ing. The disposition and development agreement defines the rela-tionship between the city, TCDA and the master developer for the development of the site. With the council granting its approval in a 5-to-0 vote Tuesday, Geary Coats of Pacific Anchor/Coats Consulting will act on behalf of the city as planner and developer of the property. The first phase of Sunset Rails would include the hotel, at least one sit-down restaurant, a deli in the old train depot, housing, open space, parks, and commercial and mixed use properties.
Answers questions Coats answered councilmembers’ questions Tuesday night and presented a timetable for the 4.8-acre phase one of the project that would provide that “revenue stream” the city so urgently needs. Coats had been working with the city, holding public hearings and preparing a draft plan for the Rails to Trails project. The agreement calls for the city to eventually receive at least $1.20 per square foot for the Sunset Rails property and possibly double that amount. But the economic benefit for the city and that “revenue stream” isn’t from the sale of the land, which would at minimum return the purchase price of the land, according to Coats.
Revenue and jobs Projected first-year revenue from phase one for the city is esti-mated at nearly $234,000 in the form of city permits/impact fees, sales tax, property tax gains, and transit occupancy tax, Coats said. Projected city revenue for the next four years is more than $723,000 for a five-year total of more than $957,000, he said. That is about four times the cost of the 4.8 acres of phase one. In addition, there is projected secondary income gain to the city from sales tax from businesses outside of Sunset Rails, support service income from suppliers outside of the redevelopment area and payment of in-lieu fees for the residential component.Phase one is expected to contribute 165 primary and 60 secondary jobs through the deli, retail service, restaurant, hotel and construc-tion, Coats said.
TAFT, CA
Mayor’s “State of the City” Message
Continued on Page 9
April 8 - 14, 2011 TAFT INDEPENDENT
Westside News & Business Briefs
J & D Recycling - 1277 Kern Street
We Offer Removal Of:Old Cars & Trucks
Junk & Farm Equip.
20 Ton Slide Bed Truck Available For Junk and Old
Equipment Removal
We Can Haul Away Most Large Items • Call Us Today • (661)765-6752 • Recycling is OUR Business
We Have Expanded Our Services To The Community!
Give us a call to set up an appt.(661)765-6752
Open 9am - 5pm
Soroptimist International of Taft was taken quite by surprise at Tuesday’s meeting. Sharon and Jerry Reich of Brown and Reich Petroleum Inc gifted a check for $5,000.00 to Soroptimist for their Critical Care Transportation Project. They have done this for the last 4 years and it has been a major assist in the continu-ing success of this project. This donation in conjunction with the Soroptimist major fundraisers of the Christmas Home Tours, the April 30, 2011 Garden Affair (tickets on sale now) and the Oildorado Biscuit and Gravy Breakfast help fund the Soroptimist projects this year. Soroptimist is in its 10th year of this particular Signature Project and gives out approximately $10,000 a year to eligible recipients. (l-r) Lodema Hatch on behalf of Brown and Reich presented the check to acting President Chelle Koerner and Treasurer, Cathy Edgecomb Thank You Brown and Reich Petroleum!
Please join us for a
Sunday, April 17thOpen House 2:00pm - 4:00pm102 James Ave. Taft, CA 93268
Hosted by her children Wanda, Beverly and Ray
Elsie Hall
90th Birthday PartyIn honor of
Please come wish her a happy birthdayRefreshments will be served
The Place4014 Highway 33
Beautiful Downtown Ventucopa(661)766-2660
Pork Spare Ribswith beans, salad and breadNO TO GO’s 5:00pm until gone!
$1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close
Saturday, April 9th$10.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT
Saturday, April 23rd$12.00 ALL YOU CAN EAT
Fish Frycoleslaw, cornbread
and rice pilaf
$1.50 Domestic Drafts 5:00pm to Close
NO TO GO’s 5:00pm until gone!
Lisa Brown, Captain of Pace for a Cure, a Relay for Life team, wanted to get the community involved with her team’s effort to raise funds for the annual Relay for Life event in Taft. Inspired by an idea discussed at a Relay for Life training session, she decided to implement “Tips for a Cure.” However, before she even got the chance to approach the Black Gold Cafe’s owner, Michael Long, he approached her. And so, Wednesday afternoon and evening brought about Pace for a Cure’s Tips for a Cure event at the cafe.From 4:00PM to 9:00PM, those who dropped in to Center Streets newest restaurant for supper were treated to bottomless spaghetti dinners for $8.95 as well as friendly and entertaining service from the Pace for a Cure team. “Our team had a blast,” Brown said. “We can’t wait to do it again next year.” It was a perfect afternoon for the event. The weather was great and made sitting outside a primo seat to have. The restaurant was decorated with balloons and the wait staff was more than accept-able with their service. They chatted with everyone and made sure no plate or glass was ever empty. People of all ages came out to support the effort of Pace for a Cure and thanks to advertising on Facebook and word of mouth, they had a full house all afternoon and evening. “It was very successful for a first time event,” Brown said. Along with the tips generated from the evening, a generous donation from the Black Gold Cafe and what Brown calls “bribe money,” collected to coerce her into singing an a capella version of “I Dreamed a Dream,” from Les Miserables, the team raised a total of $658. There is still some time left to get involved with Relay for Life. You can find a list of teams to join or even create your own at www.relayforlife.org/taftca. If you don’t want to join a team, you can still donate to this amazing cause through the website.
Relay for Life “Tip For A Cure”by Jessica G. Miller
Soroptimist Receives $5,000
The annual wine and food festival to benefit Taft College’s Transi-tion to Independent Living (TIL) program will be held next Thurs-day at the Historic Fort. The popular gets underway at 5 p.m. and will include wine and micro-brews along with lavish hors d’oeuvres prepared by TC chef Geoff Dunham. Several wineries will be represented, including the award-winning Sagebrush Annie’s in Ventucopa and the DuBost Winery of Paso Robles. Singer Roger Martin will provide the entertainment and there will be a guest speaker. Tickets are $25 in advance and can be purchased at the college and from TIL staff members. Tickets will be $30 the night of the event. Sponsorship levels are $125 (includes two tickets), $250 (in-cludes four tickets) and $500 for a reserved table of eight. There will be live and silent auctions with television weather-man Miles Muzio of Channel 29 serving as guest auctioneer. All proceeds will go to the TIL program, an internationally recognized program that takes young adults with mild intellectual disabilities and teaches them to live independently.
TIL Wine Tasting Next Thursday
8 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 8 - 14, 2011
News and Business Briefs
Watkins Independent Distributor #391228Janet Sandoval • 661-747-0638
www.watkinsonline.com/janetsandoval
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Imagine an activity which increases your flexibility, strengthens your muscles, relaxes and calms you. With focused concentration on stretch-ing and strengthening specific body parts, and utilizing breathing techniques, Yoga has made an amazingly positive difference in my approach to exercise and life. Prior to discovering Yoga just over two years ago, my workouts were strictly cardio, primarily running. I would run with good friends and we would celebrate our workouts with coffee. However, struggling with a lower back injury for years and getting older, I decided to search for another form of exercise which would be more beneficial and less impactful on my joints. When I took my first yoga class, I was nervous and uncertain about what to expect. As I entered a darkened room at the gym, I grabbed a workout mat on my way down to the floor. But I was pleasantly surprised as to how well the instructor lead the class as she calmly and soothingly described and demonstrated the various stretches and movements. After my first class, I had a wonder-ful sense of accomplishment even though I definitely felt awkward and lacked flexibility. My body moved in ways never before imagined. Fortu-nately, the instructor was extremely en-couraging and helpful. So I returned to Yoga for two to three times a week and quickly began seeing very positive results. I felt better, had more energy, and experienced less and less strain and discomfort in my lower back. That was over two years ago. Today, because I wanted to pass the benefits of yoga onto others, I studied and became a board certified Yoga instruc-tor! The benefits of yoga are surprising and numerous: such as increased flex-ibility, stronger muscles, better body tone, a relaxed and clear mind, more energy, reduced stress, natural weight loss, improved posture, strengthened immune system, sound sleep, increased endurance, better hand-eye coordina-tion and decreased physical effects of aging on the brain and body. Often I will get the question about what I do to be in such great shape and I love my reply, “YOGA!!!” So I encourage you to come and take a class and see for yourself that you will be on a journey to be a healthier and happier you!!!! Kelly will be teaching yoga classes Wednesday and Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings at Next Step Car-dio, located at 506 Center Street. Sign up today, no contract required.
TUES.-FRI. 10:00-5:30 SAT. 10:00-2:00 FABRIC • NOTIONS • GIFTS
MARICOPA QUILT COMPANY
Check Us Out Atmaricopaquiltcompany.com
and on Facebook!
370 CALIFORNIA 769-8580
Gourmet Spices • Extracts • Remedies • Personal Care •
Plant-Based Home Care & Supplements
ROGER MILLER INSURANCEadivisionofDiBuduo&DeFendisInsuranceGroup
Rich MillerLicense#0707137•(661)765-7131
531KernStreet-P.O.Box985(661)765-4798FAX
Taft,CA93268•(661)203-6694Cell
E-Mail:[email protected] Hometown Insurance Store
One Man Joe ShowBy Nicole Frost
Folk multi-musician Joe Craven performed at the First United Methodist Church in Taft on April 6. He showcased a wide variety of musical styles and genres with many different, and some unusual, instruments. Craven, a “self-appointed arts activist,” has toured around the country to perform his music and promote musical awareness and appreciation. His musical repertoire varies from blues to bluegrass to folk and Appalachia. “Music is something that exists from the inside out,” said Craven. “Everyone has it in them.” Craven’s performance at the First United Methodist Church was very interesting and exciting. Along with singing, he played instruments such as the mandolin, fiddle, and homemade instruments such as the “can-jo,” which is a three-stringed banjo replication made from an empty hominy can. He also used a few common household items, such as a plastic waste basket and a Bundt cake pan, for percussive effect. During some of the more familiar songs, such as “O Susanna” and “Ol’ Dan Tucker,” Craven encouraged the crowd to join in. Craven began the concert with a quick but fluid piece on the fiddle. It was a great opener and set the bar high for the rest of the performance. Shortly into the show, he brought out a Bundt pan and confused the audience. With one instrument, he sounded like he was playing four. He sang with power and depth and the sounds from the metal pan completed the piece. At one point in the concert, Craven brought out what looked like a modi-fied mandolin fused with a dobro. We shortly found out that it was actually an instrument that he constructed out of a mandolin neck, a fork, a stainless steel pot lid, a resonator and a hospital bedpan. He played a blues song with it and it gave off a twangy, swing-filled sound that was different than any instrument I’ve ever heard. The concert was a learning experience, just as Craven intended. It was com-pletely entertaining and diverse. I fully recommend his show to anyone who enjoys folk and bluegrass music.
ROP Students Given Career TrainingBy Jessica G. Miller
The West Side Regional Occupational Program students were given a special presentation last month during their regular school day. Mayor Randy Miller, Taft Col-lege Recruiter Sheri Black and special guest speaker Richard Van Mullen, who is a Job Developer for Kern County working at the Career Services Center, were on site edu-cating the students about the importance of properly presenting yourself in a job interview and on your resume. The Regional Occupation Program, or ROP, is a program designed to help students get experience in office skills, computer graphics and more. It is much like a trade school meant for high school students. On March 21, Miller and Black demonstrated the differences between a good job interview performance and a bad job interview performance with Black act-ing as the interviewee and Miller as the interviewer. A week later, Van Mullen gave a presentation over the course of three days to over 400 ROP students. He stressed the importance of representing yourself on your resume in a way that shows that you are capable and motivated.
Midway Student Receives 2nd Place in Kern County Science Fair Zachary Self, a 5th grade student, at Midway School in Fellows received a 2nd place award at the Kern County Regional Science Fair held in Bakers-field on Tuesday, March 29. Zachary’s project was in the Electricity category and was titled: “How to Make a Dimmer Switch and How it Works.” The other students participationg from Midway School were Dillon Hartness, Brittany Preston, and Julie Biagioni.
Zachary Self (right)
Taft College Recruiter Sheri Black with Mayor Randy Miller.
Next Step Cardio Now Offering Yoga Classes With Instructor Kelly DeMoes
Kelly DeMoes
April 8 - 14, 2011 TAFT INDEPENDENT
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.
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 AMAdult Bible Study Monday 6:00 PMWednesday Night Service 6:00 PM
Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM
Trinity Southern Baptist Church
400 Finley DriveWe invite you to join us
each week as we worship
Sunday Bible Study 9:45 amSunday Morning Worship 11:00 amSunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm
Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm
First Congregational Church of MaricopaSunday 10 a.m.
Bible StudyThursday Nights 7 p.m.
395 California Street, Pastor Maricopa, CA 93252Bill LeBarron (661) 619-5372
Lighthouse Foursquare Church210 Harrison Street 763-1518
Home Of The Good News BearsHugs On WheelsFood In The ParkCode Blue Youth
Sunday Service 10 AMPastors Mark and Kathy Fitzsimmons
For More Information on Service Times Go ToWWW.TAFTLIGHTHOUSE.ORG
New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”
308 Harrison Street765-4572
Sunday Morning WorshipService 10 a.m.
Sunday Evening WorshipService 6 p.m
Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.
Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced
All Are Licensed Funeral Directors
The Trusted Name Since 1939
NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH
Taft CrudeCoffee House
Ice Blended Mocha
Fat Free andSugar Free
Available in Most Flavors
Open 7 Days - 763-51561010 6th Street • Taft
Gateway Temple
CommunityChristian
Fellowship631 North Street
Sunday School 9:30 a.m.Morning Worship 10:30 a.m.
St. Andrew’sEpiscopal Church
Sunday Service - 10 a.m.Rev. Linda Huggard
703 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
Angel Food Program Tues. 9am - 12pm Thurs. 3pm - 6pm
Sunday Services 10amUTURN Youth Service
Sunday 6pm1000 6th St.
Weekly Classes Mon - ThursPlease call 765-7472 for info
For a ride to church call 765-7472 before 9am on SundayPastors Floyd and Carol Jordan
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 487-2416Pastors Charle (Tommy) and
Mary A. McWhorter
604 Main Street • P.O. Box 578Maricopa, CA 93252 • (661)769-9599
like a house of cards that can come tumbling down if we are not careful. Many cities are in far worse dire straights than we are and may become unhinged at what will be com-ing down from the state. We are prepared as best we can be. What lies ahead in the future for Taft ?? I wish I had a crystal ball. Much of what will happen for us will depend on those outside of Taft with some that will take the position that they only know what is best for us. We have the County and State to deal with, CalTrans, Department of Fish and Game, BLM, Federal regulatory agencies, various oil companies, environmental groups and all our little critter buddies like the Kit Fox, Bull Nosed Lizard, Kangaroo Rat, and San Joaquin Squirrel but to name a few. Then there are different studies that are required for anything we attempt to do, lawyers to deal with, engineers, consultants, and on and on. It is a lot to deal with but your city council is geared up to go to work. With our Rails to trails Railroad property, that we hope to develop into a first class shopping, living, walking, and community project that will compliment the downtown experience; we are working very hard to capture your dollars that you are spending out of town; to try and get you to “Try Taft First”. Once we can entice investors to come to realize, that they will have a great opportunity to help us make Taft the destination City that it has always been, but that has never realized the potential before, we will have very bright future. As we look to our future, I would like for each one of you, beginning today, to never utter or repeat just one word from our past, from now on to anyone. I believe it is a word so powerful that it is holding us back. This word comes back to haunt is periodi-cally and the folks that reside here just can’t seem to get it out their system. It is not a word for us to be proud of nor even to mention. It was coined by someone who didn’t even live here; who had no attachment to the community; and who could have just as easily come up with another word in its place. Have a guess what that word might be. ?? Moron. Get over it, get rid of it, expunge it from your vocabulary. We don’t need to be remind-ed of it anymore. It certainly does not represent who we are and where we want to go. We have too many other things to be proud of: The Fort, West Kern Oil Museum, Oil Workers Monument, Carisso Plains, Wind Wolves Preserve, Lake View Gusher, Tule Elk Preserve, our oil industry, Rails to Trails, Petroleum Highway, Taft High and Taft College, our open spaces for outdoor activities, our low crime rate, and our recreation district. The West Kern Water District is working very hard to secure our water needs for the future so that we can grow. We’ll work diligently to get our hospital and movie theater back, but time has a way of changing things, and what once was, may never be again. We have to move on with the flow and meet the needs for our future. I just ask all of you that love Taft, as I do, always be positive, think about what you say, think about what we have, think about why you live here. Be a part of the future, don’t be an anchor.We are currently working on updating our antiquated waste water treatment plant, re-locating our underused and downhill airport, and fighting to solve the issues surround-ing our beautiful flowing babbling flora and fauna of a brook: Sandy Creek. These all will take much time and many dollars, but the City is up to the task. This last Saturday was the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast, Little League opening cer-emonies, Relay for life Talent contest, people jumping out of perfectly good airplanes, motorcyclists in the hills, wild flowers seekers up on the Carizzo, barbeques all over town, hopefully you and your neighbors, out in the warmth, finally attacking all those not so lovely weeds, walking the trail, picnics in the various parks, enjoying the view of Mt Pinos and beyond, planting your veggies at the Community Garden. And someone has the gall to come to you and tell you there is nothing to do in Taft. I don’t think so. Just try getting around LA on a Saturday. No thanks. Will Taft ever be like it was back 30 – 40 – 50 years ago ?? My simple answer is no. Times are different, people’s expectations are different, the economy is different, I’m different, I don’t have pimples any more. But the sense of community is the same even though the makeup of the community is different. There are too many service clubs, churches, non-profit organizations, self help groups, volunteer organizations to men-tion that you can be a part of to keep you busy. Sports of all kinds have played a big role in the community and is on the upsurge again. Our new recreation center will be a wonderful addition to the community with bowling lanes and black and white shakes again. We just need to remain positive and upbeat and we need you to participate in our community. Money is fine but time and energy is more important. Cleaning up your property to set a tone is to be a good neighbor. Paint, fix, do. Live here, don’t just reside here. Unfortunately as your mayor I can only represent those that live in the City. Those that live in the outlying areas that use Taft as your zip code, we’d like to represent you some day. I’m always open to your comments and suggestions. To annex you in would take the will on your part and for the economics to add up on the City’s part. Until that happens, I’ll do my best to be positive and let everyone know that I meet, that I represent Taft and along with the Mayor of Maricopa, we will also represent all the Westside that I’m damn proud to be a part of. I would like to mention as I close, for your support to finish the Kern Veterans Memorial Wall of Valor that honors our fallen heroes from WWII to the present. Out of the 1,000 names to be inscribed on the walls are 110 names from the Westside. May 6th in Taft at the corner of 10th and Kern Street will be a media day and our goal of collecting up to 10,000 to donate to finish-ing the monument that honors all Kern County veterans. Please contact the City for further information. Any funds over 10,000 will go to updating our Veterans Park memorial.Let me leave you with a couple of my favor-ite points to ponder as I have lived in Taft over the years:People are so right they are wrong.People are funny about money.Thank you for having me and letting me have the honor of representing you.
Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 4:30 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 22nd Year
State of the City Continued from Page 6
10 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 8 - 14, 2011
Well-BeingBEAUTY
CHIROPRACTORS
MASSAGE THERAPY
EmploymentHELP WANTED
Southern Sierra General Engineering, Inc. is
accepting applications for the position of Truck
Driver/Pumping Unit Mechanic. Qualified
candidates must have 2-3 years oilfield
experience. A Class A license is required for
this position. Employment candidate
will be required to successfully complete a
pre-employment physical and drug
screen.
Southern Sierra offers a competitive salary and benefit package. Applications may be
picked up at our office or resumes may be
faxed or emailed to our business office at:
Southern Sierra Gen-eral Engineering, Inc.
P O Box 1113Taft, CA 93268
661-765-6182 Office661-765-6155 Fax
Taft Chamber of Commerce is currently
accepting applica-tions for the following
positions: 1) Executive Director and 2) Event Coordinator. For com-plete job descriptions and job applications you can access the
Chamber’s website at www.taftchamber.com.
Filing deadline is Friday, April 15, 2011 4:00 p.m.
EOE.
West Side Recreation and Park District cur-
rently has one opening for a full-time Business Services Coordinator.
Salary range is $34,237 to $45,881, plus an ex-cellent benefit package. Job description and ap-plications are available
in the District Office, 500 Cascade Place in Taft or online at www.wsrpd.com. All appli-
cants must complete a District application form and provide a current resume. Applications close at 4:00 p.m. on
Thursday, April 21, 2011 and may be submitted in person or via email
PurchaseCommercial: Restaurant in Maricopa “Turn Key”
300-340 California St., Maricopa.
Wondering how buying a house works? Set an appointment with Karri to watch a FREE video on the process.
Call 661-332-6597 for these and others!____________________4 bd. 2 bath. $1,200 mo. Dep. $1,200. 763-5332.
Special Place. 2 bd. 1 ba. Condo style apartment. Hidden from street. Quiet with private fenced yard. $675 mo Plus $675 dep. Renter pays all utilities. Ref. and Credit check. 623-4296.
Home for sale by owner. Negotiable. 2 bd/1ba garage and large yard, etc. at 103 Polk St. Contact 661-903-1594 or 661-763-3075
HOME for Sale $130,000 New roof. New A/C to be installed; 3 bdrm, 1.75 bath, Living Room w laminate flooring, family room w/fireplace. Nice backyard. Call for more information (661) 410-4444.
MOBILE HOMES
Moble Home For Sale. 3BD\2BA. 123 N. 10th St. Sp 68. $10,000 (661) 623-0460
HOMES FOR RENT
West ValleyReal Estate
(661) 763-1500.Lic # 01525550 www.BuySellManage.com.
FOR RENT302 E. San Emidio 3/2+ pool!420 B St. 3/2 + 1/1101 North St. 2/2 + 1/1307 Philippine 1/1
FOR SALEWhy rent when you can buy for almost half the cost?!2123 Brummett Way 3/2 on 5 acres!!430 Philippine 3/2.75 + HUGE Basement!Contact us for details and a complete list of homes for Sale!
124 Lierly. 3bd 1 ba. Lndry. large lot. $900 mo. + Dep. 661-623-5188.
to [email protected]. Fingerprint clearance is required upon offer of
employment.
EOEBUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
WANTEDJunk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552
For SaleFOR SALE
MOTORCYCLES06 Yamaha Starolinear 4,000 miles. $7,000. 661-623-2780.
AUTOMOBILES
Pets & Livestock
FOUND PETS
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
PROPERTY FOR RENT
230 center streetbusiness office space for rent 4000 sq. foot. retail or restaurant 661-343-0507
PROPERTY FOR SALE
HOMES FOR SALEReal Estate eBroker Inc.
325 Kern StreetKarri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 &
#01333971661-332-6597
www.BuyTaft.comReal Estate Sales &
ClassifiedsClassified Ads are $3.00 per issue for up to three lines, $5 per issue for up to 5 lines, and $7 per issue for up to 10 lines. Yard Sale ads are free. Phone, fax, mail or drop off your ad to the Taft Independent.
Boxed\outlined\bolded classified ads start at $12.00 for 8 lines, $16 for 12 lines, $20 for 15 lines, $25 for 20 lines.
Photo Ads. Car, truck or house for sale ads are $5 per week, or $10 with a photo. Email us (or bring to our office) a photo of your home, car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest.
Classified ads deadline is now Wednesdays at 2 p.m.
Phone: 765-6550
Fax: 765-6556
Email: [email protected]
Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Taft Independent 210 6th St., Taft, CA 93268.
ClassifiedsClassified Ads are $2.00 per line. Phone, fax, mail or drop off your ad to the Taft Independent.
Ad your photograph for $5. Ad your company logo for $5. Boxed ads are $3 additional. E-mail us (or bring to our office) a photo of your home, car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest.
Yard Sale ads are free, up to 3 lines.
Classified ad deadline is Thursday at 2 p.m.
Phone: 765-6550
Fax: 765-6556
E-mail: [email protected]
Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Taft Independent 508 Center St., Taft, CA 93268
Business ServicesCleaning Services
My Fair LadiesCleaning ServicesComm. and ResidentialServing the Westside661.477.3455Lic. No. 007657
Rite Away Carpet CleaningCarpet & Upholstery Cleaning\General CleaningOwner OperatedVisa\Master Card 765-4191
YARD SALESAdvertise your FREE yard sale ad. Up to 3 lines free. Fax your ad to 765-6556 or call and leave message at 765-6550 by 2 p.m. Thursday.
Yard Sale Saturday, April 9th. 8am-? 318 Eastern inside. Odds and ends.
334 Pine Drive. Sat. 7am - ? Collectables, child cloths and lots of Misc.
2 Family Yard Sale Saturday and Sunday 104 Eastern 7am-7pm. Camper, lumber, tools, furniture, misc.
Ladies Auxiliary VFW Annual Spring Yard Sale 600 Hazelton St. Maricopa. Sat., April 9th 7am-4pm. Lawnmower, tools, furniture, clothing, household items and lots of misc items.
Yard Sale Saturday 311 Wood Street in alley 8am-? no early birds!
Yard Sale 518 Naylor. Lots of things! Everything as is.
SEEKINGINFORMATION
Seeking info on James Nelson Ruth. DOB 2/26/1904 in TX; Died 11/25/61 in Ventura, CA. Worked & died from an injury received in the oil fields. (801)201-6771
ANNOUNCEMENTS COUNSELING &
SUPPORTTaft Widows.
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
Affordable Rents
We’ve Got em!
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
House. If interested, call June Selby 763-4845.
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.
BusinessServices
COMPUTER SERVICES
Taft PC Services
Spring Cleaning PC Tuneup Special
$27 until March 31st.
623-5188.COOLERSERVICES
Cooler Service: Motors, pumps, pads, cleaning, installations. New & Old
Scott 661-900-0917.
ALTERATIONSMens and Womens Alterations. Over 30
years experience. You deliver or I pick up.
623-1101 or 765-5377.
EVENT SERVICESPassion Parties by
Holly. Summer booking filling up fast so call
today to book your party. Earn free hostess gifts.
661-293-0300.
For lease. 526 Grant Terrace. 1700 sq. ft. 3 bd. 2 ba. brick firpl., 2 car garage, low maint. $1,500 mo. plus Dep. Incl. water and trash. 763-3043 or 805-4849 for application. Avail. on or before Apr. 15th.
3bd 1 ba. Dn Rm, ldry rm, Garage, $750 mo. + dep. $700 402 Pierce. 623-5188.
FOR LEASE 2 bedroom 1 bath house in Taft heights washer and gas dryer hook ups $700 a month contact Rick at either (661)765-2328 or (661)342-5877 section 8 ok available now.-
APART. FOR RENT
Studio one person 305 North Street. $400 including utilities (866)367-8171 [email protected]
1bd 1 ba. Upstairs. 155 1/2 2nd St. No kids, no pets. $475 mo. $475 dep. 661 477-9636.
Studio Apt. $500 mo. $400 dep. 661-623-4792. Taft. All Utilties and cable included.
2 bed 1 ba. Apt. in duplex. newer and very nice. central heat and a/c. fence yard w/privacy $675. mo. plus dep. u pay utilities. washer\dryer. non-smoker only. ref. credit check. Avail now. Call 623-4296 for appt.
Creekside Apartments. 1 BD and 2 BD. Pool, AC & Appl. 661.765-7674. 420 Finley Dr.
Courtyard Terrace Apts. 1 and 2 bdrm’s Pool,lndry rm.,1210 4th St. Apt. 1. Sec. 8 OK. (661) 763-1333.
Yates’ Detailing600 Center Street
Taft, California(661) 623-0827 (661) 765-1171
All your detailing needs!
Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting. Call for Appointment Today!
Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Community
Miller’sBeauty Supply
510 Center Street(661)763-5445
Beauty SupplySalon
Boutique
Oriental Foot Spa
10am-10pm 7 days a week201 Kern Street(661)745-4891
Traditional Chinese Foot & Body Massage
30 Plus Years in ConstructionLicense No. 927634
We Do All Phases of ConstructionKitchen and Bathroom Specialists
Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507
Plumbing • Septic • Roto-RooterFraming • Electrical • Concrete
Passion For Nails
(661)745-4913
Mon. to Fri.10am-7pm
Sat. 9am-6pm
1014 6th Street
Get A Lot For
A Little!Ads
Starting As Low As $10
per week!Call
765-6550
April 8 - 14, 2011 TAFT INDEPENDENT
News & Business Briefs
Somos una Agencia Independiente Con Varias Aseguradoras Prominentes Para Darle El Mejor Servicio
Lo Representamos A Usted Para Darle Un Excelente Servicio Como Usted Se Lo Merece
420 Center StreetTaft, Ca 93268(661)745-4920Lic. # 0277365
www.edherrerainsurance.com
Le Ofrecemos Los Mejores Precios
Auto - Casa - Salud - Negocio - Notary Public
NuestroPersonalAmable
Edward J. Herrera Insurance
Rosy’s ClosetHombres y Mujeres
Ropa y Zapatos401 Center Street
Mar. - Sáb. 10am-8pmDom. 11am-8pm
Cerrado los Lunes
The Cell Fone StoreMóviles y Accesorios y
alimentos y más510 Finley Drive661-765-2500
Negocios Hispanos
ServiciosNegocios de venta
Sponsored by Edward J. Herrera Insurance
La Feria De Salud De Taft 2011Sabado, 16 Abril de 2011
8:00am a las 12:00 MediodiaBuena Vista High School • 900 No. Calle 10
G and FFootwear
Athletic and Tennis ShoesVans - Nike - Levis
Adio and More!T-Shirts and Pants405 Finley StreetIn the Pilot Plaza
Phone 340-8609
Consulta Gratis por Especialistas Medicos
Alergista • Reumatologia • CardiologiaNeurologia • Gastroenterologia • Endocrinologia
Dermatologia • Oncologia • ParteraGinecologia • Oftalmologia • Pulmonologista
Higiene Dental • OdontologiaQuiropractica • Podiatria • Audiologia
Salud en Casa • Hospicio • RehabilitacionBajo Costo ($55.00) Para Los Analisis
Panel Comprensivo De La Quimica De Sangre(Rinon • Higado • Tiroides • Colesterol • Azucar, Etc)
(PSA $35.00 - Para El Cancer Prostrado)(Debe de Ayunar 1 noche antes)
Exhibicion de FarmaceuticoFirst 5 Kern
Kern County Health DepartmentPatrocinado Por: Rotary Club of Taft y Taft College
Su anuncio aquí!
Las bajas tasas!
Llame hoy mismo!
765-6550
Obtenga
MuchoPor Menos
Anuncios empezando a$10 a la
semana508 Center Street765-6550
www.taftindependent.com
Law Enforcement Focuses On Eliminating Distracted Driving CHP joins forces with traffic safety partners in a monthlong, life-saving effort. Driver distraction is a significant and growing problem in California.Inattention while behind the wheel proved to be especially deadly in 2009 as 116 people lost their lives as the result of a collision in which at least one driver was distracted. More than 17,000 others were injured under similar circumstances. To address this growing concern, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and more than 200 law enforcement agencies throughout the state are conducting a series of enforcement efforts during April - National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The crackdown begins today with the first, two-day statewide enforcement effort. “When you’re behind the wheel of a vehicle, any distraction can be serious, even life-threatening. Texting, especially, while driving is not only illegal, it is just not a good idea,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Most of these crashes can be prevented if the drivers change their behavior and focus on driving.” Not only do drivers put themselves at risk while multi-tasking, drivers increase the risk of injuring or killing their passengers, bicyclists, pedestrians or innocent victims traveling in another vehicle. It is the responsibility of all drivers to keep the roads safe. To help address the deadly problem, the CHP received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In addition, local police and sheriffs’ depart-ments will be adding several ‘zero tolerance’ enforcement days throughout the month. “OTS is proud to both help provide the CHP with the additional resources they need to combat this problem and to sign up over 275 local law enforcement agencies to join in this kickoff campaign,” said OTS Direc-tor Christopher J. Murphy. “This is a problem that threatens to grow even larger and faster if California’s drivers are not convinced that mobile device use is dangerous.” While the number one source of driver inattention is the use of cell phones, distracted driving is more than just using technology when driv-ing. It represents a range of activities that impact a driver’s visual, auditory, physical or cognitive abilities when driving. Hoping to drive the message home and convince motorists to discon-nect from this distracting, often deadly behavior while behind the wheel, the CHP will, in addition to the enforcement effort, launch a grant-funded public service campaign, conduct educational presentations and staff booths at community events at which educational materials can be distrib-uted. “Through the combined efforts of California’s law enforcement agencies, our traffic safety partners like OTS, the California Department of Trans-portation (Caltrans) and the Department of Motor Vehicles our goal is to enlighten drivers statewide about the dangers of distracted driving,” said Commissioner Farrow. “Too many lives are destroyed every year because ofdistracted driving; it’s not worth it.” To view the distracted driving public service announcements, go to the CHP’s website: www.chp.ca.gov or http://www.chp.ca.gov/depts_divs_offs/omr_texting.html
Taft All Star Band To Sponsor Cinco De Mayo Carnival andCraft Fair The Taft All Star Band will be sponsoring a Cinco de Mayo Carnival/Craft Fair Saturday, May 7, 2011, on the Roosevelt School play-ground. The Taft All Star Band is composed of band students from Lincoln Jr. High and Taft Union High School, grades 7-12 who have been invited to perform in Washington, D.C. in November, 2011, as part of the year-long 70th Anniversary Commemorative of the bombing of Pearl Harbor.1. The carnival will be a major fundraiser for the group in its quest to raise $68,000 for the trip. We are sending these students not on a field trip but rather to serve our community and country in this musical tribute. We are developing good musicians as well as good citizens.2. The entire community is invited to join in the festivities while supporting thee students in their endeavor.3. There will be game booths, food booths, and two live bands for entertainment. Crafters are also invited to participate.4. The hours for the event will be 4:00 – 8:00. Admission will be $2 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under. Tickets for the activities will be on sale.5. Crafters/vendors may contact Jane White at (661)623-1299 for more entry information and guidelines.
Kern Wall of Valor Memorial Fundraiser May 6thBy Nicole Frost
The Westside Committee for the Kern Wall of Valor Memorial is holding a drive-through fundraising event on May 6th for a memorial plaque to be made to honor over 100 fallen heroes from local Westside communi-ties. The goal is to raise $10,000 and all additional money collected will be donated to the Taft Veterans Memorial Park. The event will be held on the corners of 10th and Kern Street from 6am-5pm; volunteers with buckets will be collecting money from passing vehicles. In the Albertson’s shopping center there will be live music, food, and a Tri-Tip BBQ that will go from 11am-1pm. For more information on how to participate or donate, call 763-1222 ext. 12.
Alpha House Prepares For Their Annual BBQ and Bunco Night Alpha House, the Taft domestic violence shelter, has hit a financial road-block and is facing closure, a spokesperson for the home reported.The shelter that serves western Kern County not only cares for the victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, but homeless women and children, said Karen Dewitt, director. It is the only shelter in western Kern County that is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Dewitt said. Alpha House offers more than shelter. It has clothing and household items available through the Thrift Store free of charge, with a referral from Alpha House. There is also a support group for domestic violence victims, she said.To raise funds to continue operation of the shelter, Alpha House will hold a barbecue and auction at 5 p.m. April 30 at the Recreation Center. There will be a raffle for such items as tickets to Disneyland, Bakersfield Condors hockey games, Bakersfield Blaze baseball games and other items.
Advertise with The Taft IndependentCall Today! 765-6550
www.taftindependent.com
12 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 8 - 14, 2011
The Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant
24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations
(661)763-4445No Appointment Needed for
Smog Check!Certified C.A.P. Station
General Automotive Repairs
• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street
Open 7 Days a WeekBreakfast - Lunch - Dinner - Full Bar - Catering - RV Parking Available
We CaterYour Place or Ours Full Bar
AvailableFor You Special
Event
Daily Lunch Specials
American and Mexican FoodExotic Cusine
Located in the Heart of Oil Country On the Petroleum Highway
Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 9-3419 Harrison St. Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987
www.shawswesternshop.com
For Your Puppy• Spectra 5 Puppy Vac.
• Puppy Milk• Worming
Shaw’s Pet Washwestern shop & PET SUPPLY
Summer Cuts, Shaves,Washing & Deshedding
Dogs and Cats
Nails clipped and filed $12
New ReptilesTaranchula
Scorpion & Frogs
Large dogs always welcome!The bigger the better!
Each additional dog $9
Randy’s Trucking
(661) 763-47731050 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 •
745-4919
Used to be Paul’sBike Shop
See Us Online At www.taftindependent.com
Busy Bee Income Tax
Buzz on by and let us do your taxes!
HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE209 Harrison Street • Taft
(661)765-2505 or (661)763-1887 fax
$39.75 *
for Smog Check ‘96 or Newer
plus certificate
Ask about $500.00 Free Smog Repair
Restrictions Apply
* must present ad at time of service
1/2 Off Diagnostics
MOTORCYCLE CUSTOMIZINGSERVICE AND REPAIR
(661)745-4931
518 KERN STREETWWW.CYCLEKATZ.COM
Qik Smog & Tune 325 Center Street
Taft, CA 93268
Phone: (661)745-4900Fax: (661)745-4925
420 1/2 Center StreetTaft, CA 93268
Devon’s Body Shop
408 Main Street • (661)765-4337
Jason AndersonDonnie Schwerdetfager
Chicks Are Here!Americana, Red Sex Link & pullets