Document

Feburary 12-18, 2010 • Volume 4 Issue 33www.Taftindependent.com

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

Oilworkers Monument Site Gets Ready!

Community Resource Center Feeds Families on Thanksgiving

[email protected]

City of Taft Honor’s Former Treasurer Art Carlton

The TaftIndependent

Taft Community Gardens Plant’s for the Future

Taft Society: Taft Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership and Installation Dinner

OT Cookhouse Chef Kevin Payne Wins Award for “Blue Abalone” Recipe, Honored by Food Supplier

Ed Herrera Insurance Agency Opens on Center Street

Open Valentine’s DaySunday, February 14th

10:00am-8:00pm

El Jacalito RestaurantMexican Food & Seafood

101 B. Street • Taft(661)763-9890

Make Your

Reservations

Now!

Kern County Grand Jury Slams Taft City Hall,Residents Urged To Be More Involved in City Government and Hold City Council Accountable

What’s Wrong With Our City Government?

By Michael Long

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT February 12-18, 2010

Shop Taft!

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY4 MILES EAST ON LOCKWOOD VALLEY RD.

AT CAMP SCHEIDECKOPEN AT 11:00AM WEEKDAYS AND

8:00AM WEEKENDS

OFF HIGHWAY 33 • (661)766-2521

REYES CREEK BAR AND GRILL

Passion For Nails

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

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

Saturday 9am-6pm

Gift Certificates AvailableNail Services:

Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star

(we also treat ingrown nails)

Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club

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

Sign Up for Boot Camp Today!Guaranteed Results!

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

Gift Certificates Available!

Pet Wash at shaw’s western shop

$4.00 Off All Dog and Cat Wash and BrushValentine’s SpecialSpecial Includes: Blueberry Facial, Wash, Dry, Brush and Nails.

Special Excludes: Mat Removal, Clipping or Full Groom Offer expires: 2/28/10

Crystal Lee’s Clothing

More than just Clothes...

New Arrivals! New Mens Shirts! New Sale Items! New Teen Items!Clothing • Accessories • Shoes • Purses • and More!

522 Center StreetTaft • Ca 93268

Open Tuesday - Friday 12pm-5pm Saturday 11am-2pm

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

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

Jacks

FlowerShop

430 Center Street 661-765-2442

Teleflora’sHeart of Hearts Bouquet

FREE Delivery On all orders placed by February 6th!

Valentine’s Day is Sunday, February 14th

Bring Your

Sweetie

TumbleweedBar and Cafe

Valentine’sDinner

Feb. 13 & 146:00 pm

Menu for Two$59.99

Rib Eye Steak and Tiger PrawnsWith AsparagusDessert for Two

Glass of Wine or ChampagneReservations Recommended

786-4655

Open 7 Days a WeekRV and Trailer Parking

Reservations Recommended24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres

(6610 768-4655“Where Good Food and Good People Meet”

R ‘N CRibbonz ‘N Curlz Bowtique

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

NEW STORE HOURSTuesday -Friday 10am-5pm • Saturday 10am-2pm

401 Center Street • (661)765-2735

Have Your Next Party With US!

Winter Sale!10% - 25% OFF!

Don't Miss Your Chance to Save Big!

Sale dates: 2/16/10 - 2/20/10

Loni Pirtle has lost 6.8lbs since she started Boot

Camp 5 1/2 weeks ago. She’s also losing inches and feels great about herself !

February 12-18, 2010 TAFT INDEPENDENT 3

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

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

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

Taft Society......................5

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

Grand Jury Report.........7

Web Wise

Mimi Collins.....................8

Westside Horoscopes.....9

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

Inside Community Events

The Taft Independent

210 6th StreetP.O. Box 268

Taft, California 93268(661) 765-6550

Fax (661) 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.TaftIndependent.com

Locally and Independently owned since 2006

The Taft Independent is a locally owned community newspaper published weekly on Fridays for your enjoyment and reading pleasure. We publish 3,250 issues and distribute to over 225 locations in the city of Taft and the neighboring communities of Cuyama Valley, McKittrick, Maricopa, Fellows and Western Kern County, California.

The Independent is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies are $1 each. The contents of the Taft Indepen-dent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.

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

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

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long

[email protected]

Layout & DesignIndependent Graphics

Printing Castle Print and Publication

Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Justina Washington Wesley Morris, Jessy McCulloch

ColumnistsRandy Miller

Advertising Sales ManagerJessica Wallis

Circulation ManagerJobe Edgar

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association

Printed in California

Editorial

CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGSTuesday February 16th, 2010 – 7:00 p.m.

CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER209 EAST KERN STREET, TAFT, CA

(661) 763-1222AGENDA POSTED ON BULLETIN BOARD

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

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

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

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.

Used to be Paul’s

Taft California“Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

St. Andrews Episcopal Church Annual Pancake Supper February 16th

St. Andrews Episcopal Church invites the community to join in their annual Pancake Supper on Shrove Tuesday, February 16 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. For a donation of $4.00 for adults (children under 12 are free), participants will share a meal of pancakes, bacon, and juice.

Shrove Tuesday is the last day of the Epiphany season. This, the day before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, was traditionally the last day for eating luxurious foods before the austerities of the Lenten fast, when most such things were forbidden. Pancakes were a way to use up rich foodstuffs such as eggs, milk, and sugar before the fast began. It is also called Fat Tuesday in English, Mardi Gras in French, or Carnival (from the Latin carne vale, farewell to meat) in many of the Mediterranean languages. The literal meaning of the English word shrove comes from “shrive,” to confess. It was originally a day for going to church and confessing one’s sins before Lent.St. Andrews is located at the corner of 5th and Woodrow. For further information call 765-2378.

Alpha House Chili Supper February 18th

Alpha House is having a chili supper on February 18th from 5pm-7pm at CCF Hall. Chili, cornbread, and coleslaw for $5.

Taft ARC Annual Bunco Night Saturday, February 20th

Roll in the Good Times! The Taft Arc Annual Bunco Night Saturday, February 20th from 5:30pm to 8:30pm at the Westside Recreation Center, 500 Cascade Place. Cost is $25 per person and includes dinner. Dinner served from 5:30pm to 6:00pm. Cash prizes will be awarded. For tickets call 763-1532 ext 11. Deadline for tickets is February 12th.

Houchin Blood Bank February 23rd

Houchin Blood Bank will be at the Chamber on February 23rd from 1pm-6pm. 400 Kern Street. Stop by and donate Life!

WCMA BBQ Sunday, March 7th

WCMA BBQ, Sunday, March 7 at the City Park on Kern St. Tri-Tip or chicken sandwiches, drink, chips, dessert for $10. Hot dogs with all the same sides for $3. Proceeds to benefit Oildorado kick-off concert. If raining the event will be at the First Baptist Church on North St. Tickets may be purchased at Taft Chamber of Commerce, Midway Driller, Westside Resource Center, Taft Crude, Taft Independent, Ribbonz ‘N Curlz Boutique and several local churches. Call 765-7472 for more details.

Luck of the Irish Dinner at The Fort March 17th

The Historic Fort is having their annual St. Patrick’s Dinner on March 17th. Social hour at 5pm, dinner at 6pm. For more information and tickets contact the Fort at 765-7371.

VITA - at Taft Branch Library through March 31st

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) to begin at Taft Branch Library. Free income tax help will be available at the Taft Branch Library starting now. Volunteers from the VITA program will be available on Wednesdays from 11;30 am to 6:00pm through March 31st. No appointment is necessary. Taxpayers wanting help should bring any tax forms they receive in the mail; records of income and deductions; a copy of last year’s return and their social security card. For more info call 763-3294.

The Fort and TAPT Wine Tasting Night April 22nd

The Fort will be holding their annual wine tasting evening with TAPT. Wine, hors d’oeuvers and Jazz music start at 5pm. For tickets please contact the Fort at 765-7371

Taft United Methodist Church 100 Year Anniversary April 25th

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

Broken Window Syndrome

If you are a city hall observer, and unfortunately very few in Taft are, you would be disgusted with what is happening in the name of good government, the public trust and transparency. The Kern County Grand Jury this week issued a report (which you can read in its entirety in this issue of the Taft Independent) that says, among other things that: “There is a distinct rift between two factions of the Taft City Council. The rift seems to be severely hampering the Council’s ability to effectively govern the City of Taft.” “The former Mayor, (Cliff Thompson) ....“violated public trust”. “The City Manager has been in the position for over three years and during this time has failed to become fully knowledgeable of all regulations to effectively perform the duties of the office in a legal manner. The City Manager has been in violation of Government and City codes repeatedly during the time in office.” “The City Council has demonstrated little knowledge of Government Codes and Taft City Codes that govern the operation of the City”. And most importantly, “The Citizens of Taft should become more involved in holding the City Council members accountable for their actions and/or inactions.” The report is an interesting read. It blames the council for failure to deliver good government, for not paying attention to festering problems at City Hall and for lack of understanding of their roles as city councilmen. The report is just the tip of the iceberg of problems at City Hall, and a loud wake-up call for the citizens of Taft. Next Tuesday, the Taft City Council will meet at 7 p.m. and the Grand Jury report is on the agenda. It will be a very interesting meeting and you should be there to observe.

Center Street Code Enforcement Failure: A Symptom of Taft City Government Woes?


Editorial

Westside Watcher

Paik’sRanch House Restaurant“Where Everybody Meets”

Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days

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

765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Asian ExperienceAsian Food and Pizza

Lunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

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

215 Center Street, Taft763- 1815

Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting

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

4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319

Taft Crude Coffee HouseCoffee House and Deli

Monday – Friday 6:30 am to 5pm.

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

1010 6th Street, Taft763-5156

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

Asian Experience

215 Center Street 763-1815

Asian Food and PizzaLunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

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

Live Music Saturday Nights

Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse

Steak, Seafood, Wild Game, Full Bar

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

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

768-4655

Paik’s Ranch HouseWhere Everybody Meets

Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerOpen 7 Days

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

Always Fresh!

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

765-4143700 Kern Street Taft, CA

Westside EntertainmentChilled & GrilledEvery Wednesday Night

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

$1 Drafts!!!

765-2000621 Center Street

Sagebrush Annie’sWine Tasting

Dinner by Reservation

Award Winning Wines

766-23194211 Highway 33, Ventucopa

Your Ad Here!

Call

765-6550

FOXTHEATER

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

Late ShowChild and Senior $7.00

Adults $9.00www.taftfoxtheaters.com

765-4802514 Center St

NOW SHOWING

-The Lovely Bones-The Wolfman-When in Rome

The Taft

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Independent

Reyes Creek Bar and Grill at Camp Scheideck

4 Miles East of Lockwood Valley Rd. Off Highway 33 661-766-2521

Come in and check out our

specials!

Taft Petroleum Club

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

Every Friday is Ribeye Steak Dinner Night

Call and set up your next event at The Club.

Wedding Receptions • Birthday PartiesAnniversaries • Company Dinners and

BBQ’s

Friday, February 26thDJ Lotus Returns to the Club

COme get your Dance on!DJ Lotus starts at 9pm

TRUSTEE VACANCY

The West Kern Community College District/Taft College invites interested community members to submit letters of interest to fill a recently vacated trustee position. The term of this interim appointment will expire December 2010. Eligibility requirements: 18 years of age, residency in the District, registered voter and otherwise not disqualified by the Constitution or the state from holding a civil office (Education Code 72103). Letters of interest may be mailed to:

Mr. William DuncanSuperintendent/PresidentWKCCD/Taft College29 Emmons Park Dr.Taft CA 93268

The deadline for letters of interest is February 19, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. Qualified applicants will be interviewed. Questions may be directed to: Mr. William Duncan (661) 763-7710 or [email protected].

McCarthy Urges Governor to Oppose Any Bill with a Job-Killing Oil Severance Tax (OST)Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Kevin McCarthy led an effort among his California colleagues in sending a letter to Governor Schwarzenegger and the Republican Leaders in the State Legislature urging them to oppose any bill that would impose an oil severance tax (OST) on California’s energy production. Such a tax would result in job losses around California, especially in Kern County communities with heavy energy production. The letter cites a study that such a tax could result in almost 10,000 job losses at a time when California is facing an unemployment rate above 12 percent, which is the fifth highest among the fifty states.

Full Text of Letter:

Dear Governor Schwarzenegger, Leader Hollingsworth, and Leader Garrick: We write today to express our continued opposition to imposing an oil severance tax (OST) on the California oil industry in yet another effort to close the state’s revenue shortfall, and request that you oppose any bill that would create this onerous and arbitrary tax. As you know, California is the third leading state, behind Alaska and Texas, in the U.S. when it comes to domestic oil production. According to an American Petroleum Institute report, the oil and gas industry created over 620,000 jobs, with an associated labor income (i.e. wages, salaries, and benefits) in excess of $37.8 billion, in California in 2004. These jobs accounted for 3.1%

Your Ad Here!

Call

765-6550

of our state’s employment, as well as approximately 4.5% of California’s gross domestic product, at that time. While we understand the challenges you face with closing the state budget shortfall, we believe such a new tax will add to California’s current myriad fees and taxes thereby driving oil production out of our State, as well as having a chilling effect on new business investment and expansion of current businesses in California. The result of this could be the loss of thousands of good-paying jobs our constituents depend on—up to almost 10,000 according to one study. At a time when California faces a staggering 12.3% unemployment rate (up approximately 4% from this time last year), imposing an OST on California oil producers will only exacerbate unemployment, make doing business in our State less attractive, and add to our State’s fiscal woes. In addition, Californians have already rejected imposing an OST on state-based oil production. In 2006, a majority of voters in the State rejected Proposition 87, which would have imposed up to a 6% oil severance tax on oil produced in California. We believe this tax was rejected by Californians because they understood that imposing such a tax on the California oil industry would result in higher energy prices—either by the cost of this tax being directly passed on to them or

indirectly as result of making the U.S. more dependent on foreign oil, of which prices are manipulated by OPEC in the world market. We would also note that the imposition of an oil severance tax on oil produced in California would catapult the level of taxes on the oil industry in our State well beyond the tax burden imposed by the nine other largest oil-producing states in the U.S. Again, we believe that raising taxes on this job-creating industry would discourage investment in our state and potentially force many small, independent oil producers out of businesses. The adverse impact this would have on jobs in our State is of great concern to us. As California faces record unemployment, we believe the focus needs to be on creating jobs and reinvigorating the economy. Imposing new state taxes on the California oil industry, or any sector of the economy for that matter, will drive businesses out of the State and contribute to an already shockingly high unemployment rate. That said, we look forward to working with you with a renewed commitment to lower taxes and reduce regulation in order to ensure California remains a prime location where entrepreneurs continue to want to start and do businesses, as well create jobs and grow California’s economy.

Congressman Kevin McCarthy

Grand Jury Duty

Well, I told you so. Things are not looking all that great down at City Hall. Not after the Kern County Grand Jury issued its “blazing condemnation” (The Bakersfield Californian) of the Taft City Council, City Manager Bob Gorson for ignoring the City Attorney’s advice, and yes, Councilman Cliff Thompson who “violated public trust”, and even ribbed Taft’s residents urging them to look at what’s going on at City Hall and hold the council accountable for their actions and inactions. But the report is only a partial picture of the serious issues plaguing City Hall, and who can blame the Grand Jury for only seeing some of the issues that are causing all the problems. The report really hits City Manager Bob Gorson hard, but leaves the city attorney virtually unscathed - why even the Not- the-Daily-Midway-Driller pointed out, gratuitously, that the city attorney was the only one not criticized in the report. This is quite telling for those who are watching the bare knuckled fist fight that is going on behind the scenes at City Hall. You see, a lot of what’s going on here is directly related to a power struggle between the City Attorney and the City Manager, with various city council members arrayed on one side of the fight or the other. On the City Attorney’s side, you have Cliffy and the Driller which has ignored most negative stores about Cliffy in an effort to protect him from himself, and on the other side is the city manager and other city council members who so far, have supported Gorson against the Cliffmeister’s obsession to get Gorson fired. The City Attorney has differed with Gorson on pay raises and other stuff - taking the side of Mr. Thompson in the power struggle between the two camps. Rumor is the City Attorney has a lot of juice with the Grand Jury and that may be why the Grand Jury saw the City Attorney’s version of events at City Hall, disagreeing with Gorson and an attorney the council hired that disagreed with the City Attorney (and the Grand Jury later) on the pay raise issue. Well, it ain’t over yet. Especially since the council will formally respond to the Grand Jury report within the next 60 days. It will be interesting to see who and how the council responds to the Grand Jury

report. The WSW thinks it will be the law firm that the city retained to get a second opinion on the pay raise issue and sided with Gorson on the pay raise argument, and disagreed with the City Attorney, and whose legal opinions the Grand Jury disssed in its report. It’s gonna be a great 2010!


Taft Society

Erin Baldock, Dave and Launa Morton, Joe and Monee Burke, Kevin and Liz Henry, and John Neumann.

Taft District Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership and Instalation DinnerCelebrating The 100th Birthday of the Taft Chamber

Taft College guests Val Garcia, Sheri Horn-Bunk and Brock McMurray, with Bill Jefferies of Rabobank, Monica Jefferies from County of Kern , Jordan Fielders of Hydrogen Energy Corp , Jerry Legg-Rabobank of Rabobank and Pete Kefalas-Hydrogen Energy Corp.Bob Leikam, Josh Bryant, and Tina Leikam.

Don Gilespie and Dr. Harold Pease.Businesswoman of the Year Vickie Gregory and Fred Schell.

Gary Joyce and Dennis Schertz.

George Sullivan and Ray Hatch.

Susie Geiger and Jan Ashley.

George Martin was the event speaker.

Gene Tackett, Les Clark and Randy Miller.

Jessica and Rich Miller.

Vic Killingsworth, Dennis Schertz and Fred Schell.

Businessman of the Year awardee Bob Colston with Chamber Director Fred Schell.

Outgoing Chamber President Orchel Krier.

Dinner organizer Dennis Schertz salutes the crowd with a champagne toast and entertained everyone by signing Happy Birthday Taft!

Neil Sawyer and Fred Schell of Chevron Valley Credit Union which was awarded Business of the Year, with Dennis Schertz and Fred Schell.

The Taft District Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Membership and Installation Dinner on Thursday, February 4th celebrating its 100th Birthday. Founded in 1910, the Chamber was Taft’s first form of local government. The Taft Chamber petitioned Kern County to incorporate the City of Taft which the voters did on November 7, 1910. The guest speaker was George Martin, organizer of the Bakersfield Economic Conference held his October.


Westside News

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 2-16-10 thru 2-20-10)

Tues.2-16-10Lunch

Tues.2-16-10DinnerWed.

2-17-10Lunch

Wed.2-17-10Dinner

Thurs.2-18-10Lunch

Thurs.2-18-10Dinner

Fri.2-19-10Dinner

Fri.2-19-10Lunch

Sat.2-20-10Dinner

Deluxe Chicken Sandwich

BBQ Beef Ribs

Fried Fish Melt

Prime Rib$14.95 Small/ $17.95 Large

Stuffed Bell Peppers

BBQ Combo Pork, Chicken & Shrimp

Slow Roasted Pork Sandwich

Roast Chicken

CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

Pasta Combo Lasagna & Spaghetti

$8.95

$9.95

$8.95

$9.95

$8.95

$8.95

$11.95

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

$14.95/ $17.95

$14.95

MASSAGEFebruary Special$25

Half Hour Massage*With this coupon

* First time clients only

(661) 745-4896Located in Kmart Shopping Plaza

Soleil Tanning Studio303 Gardner Field Rd. St. B.

$35Rose Petal Foot BathRaspberry Foot Scrub

Hand & Foot Reflexology

By: Tonya White

Maricopa Honor Roll/1st Semester

12th GradeKristina Caluag 4.00 *Gavin Leavitt 4.00 *Jessica Hampton 3.86Stephanie Machuca 3.57Samuel Robles 3.57Toni Geer 3.43Danielle Carlile 3.29Jeffrey Carlton 3.29Travis Lay 3.29Shane New 3.29Megan Aguirre 3.14Tony Ibarra 3.00

11th GradeSheri Frazier 4.00*Maribel Gonzales 4.00*Heidi Wise 4.00*David Flores 3.86Aleida Ibarra 3.86Lizandro Estrada 3.43Jordan Cruz 3.29D.J. Pomisino 3.29Crystal Dolley 3.14Rebecca Hampton 3.00Dylan Kumar 3.00

Elk Hills School Holds Science Fair The entire student body, kindergarden through eight grade, participated in the Science Fair January 21st. The kindergarden class, along with students from grades one through four, did class experiments. The older students each did a separate project. Judges were Rick Garcia and B. Joe Ashley from Occidental of Elk Hills, Inc. There were six 1st place winners who will go on to represent Elk Hills School District at the Kern County Science Fair in March. Winners were Alex Dominguez, Murray Sinden, Jacob McCutcheon, Kaytlynn Cash, Hunter Thomas, and Alejandra Cota.

Maricopa High School Academic Decathalon Team Left to Right: Travis Lay, Daniel Arteaga, Dylan Kumar, Lizandro Estrada, Heidi Wise, Carlos Gonzalez, Gavin Leavitt, D.J. Pomisino, Stephanie Machuca, and Coach: Joshua Huddleston.

Ed Herrera of Herrera Insurance cuts the Taft Chamber of Commerce Ribbon at the Grand Opening of the new insurance Agency on Center Street. Seen here are Dennis Schertz, Fred Schell, Bob Leikam, Monica Contreras, Veronica Montes, Les Clark, Christine Thompson, Ed Herrera, Jan Ashley, Polly Skinner, Jessica Wallis, and Sue Jensen.

Happy Valentine’s Day from

Kathy Herm’s Office

Matthew Wiseman of OceaNZ hands Kevin Payne, Chef and Co-Owner of OT Cookhouse a check for finishing in 3rd place in the New Zealand Blue Abalone Receipe Contest held in Southern California recently. O.T. Cookhouse features the special Abalone treat on their menu, which is described as a Blue Abalone Pasta Comnbo featuring Abalone Lasazna and Abalanoe Fetticini with grilled squash and tomatoes, served with Garlic bread. It comes very highly recommended by the chef!

OT’s Chef Wins Abalone Recipe Contest

Herrera Insurance Opens on Center Street

Maricopa High School Annouce Academic Decathalon and Honor Roll Students

The 2010 Central Valley Sportsmen’s Boat & RV Show will be held at the Bakersfield Fairgrounds on February 12, 13, & 14, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Some special features of this show are the Kid’s Trout Pond where the Taft Sportsmen’s Club will be working are Field Dog training, Super Cruise Car Show, Sand Drags, Arena Cross, and Women in the Outdoors plus hundreds of RVs, boats, SUVs, and ATVs - just to name a few. The Taft Sportsmen’s Club has again been invited back by promoters, Mike Hatcher and Bob Morrison who head up this big event, and they asked the Taft group to work at the large trout pond set up specifically for the kids. Fish will be supplied in order to fill this huge pond. Many children have never had an opportunity to catch a fish, and this trout pond will provide them with that experience. Some of the fish in the portable pond range from ½ lb. to 10 lbs. Each year the pond gets larger, and we’ve been told that the pond is even bigger and better this year. Helping kids out in order to catch that “big fish” or even that “first fish” is the goal of the club. This pond is designed to give kids the real feeling of fishing. Poles will be provided to the young fishermen by the Taft Sportsmen Club, and they will also be providing a portable fish cleaning station so that they can get their fish cleaned. This event is a lot of fun for the kids, and it introduces

10th GradeEscarleth Herrera 3.57Rachel Campos 3.43Shania Caples 3.29Josh Saltsman 3.29Claudia Devora 3.14Christina Moore 3.14Josh Dickason 3.00

9th GradeCortney Downey 4.00* Emily Philips 4.00*Tony Salazar 3.86Elizabeth Anderson 3.43Bertha Machuca 3.43Melissa Moore 3.43Brandon Cannaday 3.14

*4.00 GPA

them to the sport of fishing. There will be a photographer on hand to take pictures, and club members will be on hand to help the kids and also to sign up anyone interested in joining the club. If you have any questions, call Taft Sportsmen’s Club President, Tom Brown at 765-2704. Come out and support your local sportsmen at the show. It’s going to be one of the best!

Taft Sportsmen’s Club to Work With Kids at 2010 Boat and RV Show


Taft City Hall News

Paik’s Ranch House“Where Everybody Meets!”

200 Kern Street 765-6915

Breakfastserved 8am-10am $3.95

Lunchserved 11am-1pm $5.50

Includes: Omelet, hash browns, toast with coffee or tea.*

Includes: Full Sandwich, soup, salad and drink.*

Breakfast and Lunch Specials Start 1/18/10* Specials subject to change daily.


Julie Franks Office

Happy Valentine’s Day fromQik Smog


Reyes CreekBar and Grill

by Michael Long

In a blistering report sure to turn the City of Taft on its head, the Kern County Grand Jury issued a 9 page report Tuesday critical of the City Manager and the City Council, and urged Taft residents to be more involved in local government and hold city council members accountable for their actions or inactions. The report addressed several issues including a real estate investment between City Manager Bob Gorson and Councilman Cliff Thompson, retroactive pay raises issued by Gorson to city employees and employee contracts without council authorization, and the council’s failure to oversee the city manager. In the report summary, the Grand Jury found that a rift exists between two factions at City Hall which appears to severely hamper the City Council’s ability to govern the city. The summary said that City Manager Bob Gorson, who has been with the city for 3 years, had “been in violation of Government and City Codes repeatedly during the time in office” and has shown a lack of respect for the City Attorney’s legal opinions. But the report did not spare Councilman Cliff Thompson who has been at odds with Gorson since the public disclosure of a $200,000 business deal between the two saying that the then Mayor of Taft had “violated the public trust” by not recusing himself from performance evaluations of Gorson once the business deal took place. The report, entitled City of Taft Employee Contracts issued 5 significant findings out of a total of 32. The significant findings cited City Manager Bob Gorson for failure to follow Government and Taft City Codes, and failure to follow advice from the City Attorney. The findings also cited a financial relationship between Gorson and City Councilman Cliff Thompson in which both failed to filed an Economic statement required by law disclosing the $200,000 real estate deal. In a surprising finding, the report was critical of the Taft City Council for failing in its fiduciary responsibility of overseeing the City Manager, and for demonstrating little knowledge of Government and Taft City Codes that govern the operations of the City. In a reference to the citizens of Taft, the report also admonished Taft residents to become more involved in city government and hold the City Council accountable for their actions and inactions. While listing 32 total findings as a result of its investigation of Taft City Government, the report concluded that the City Council should hold the City Manager responsible for his conduct, that the City Attorney investigate retroactive pay raises issued by the City manager as a gift of public funds, and that the City Council become more familiar with its duties and responsibilities and create a procedures manual to outline the responsibilities of a council person.

Provided here is the complete Grand Jury Report:

CITY OF TAFTEMPLOYEE CONTRACTSSYNOPSIS OF REPORT

The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2009-2010 Kern County Grand Juryconducted an investigation of the City of Taft revealing the following significant findings:

1. The City Manager has failed to adhere to all Government Codes and Taft City Codes in the performance of his duties and has demonstrated little knowledge of the codes.

2. The City Manager has failed to follow the legal counsel of the City Attorney.

3. In 2007, the City Manager and former City Mayor now City Council Member each should have filed a Form 700 Statement of Economic Interest after entering into the financial relationship as per Fair Political Practice Commission Regulations.

4. The City Council failed in its fiduciary responsibilities of overseeing the City Manager.

5. The City Council has demonstrated little knowledge of Government Codes and Taft City Codes that govern the operation of the City.

As a result of the Committees findings the Committee offers the following significant recommendations:

1. The City Manager be held accountable for inappropriate conduct as the City Manager.

2. The City Council should direct the City Attorney to investigate the retroactive pay raises and determine if a gift of public funds has occurred.

3. The Citizens of Taft should become more involved in holding the City Council members accountable for their actions and/or inactions.

CITY OF TAFTEMPLOYEE CONTRACTSPURPOSE OF INQUIRY:

The Cities and Joint Powers Committee (Committee), of the 2009-2010 Kern County Grand Jury conducted an inquiry into alleged improper actions regarding employee contracts negotiated by the City Manager. The inquiry was conducted pursuant to California Penal Code ?919(c) and ?925(a).

SUMMARY OF INVESTIGATION:

During the course of this investigation the Committee spent hundreds of hours going over documents received, conducted 12 interviews, met with District Attorney Investigators and met with County Counsel.

The Committee noted there is a distinct rift between two factions of the Taft City Council. The rift seems to be severely hampering the Council?s ability to effectively govern the City of Taft. The City Manager has been in the position for over three years and during this time has failed to become fully knowledgeable of all regulations to effectively perform the duties of the office in a legal manner. The City Manager has been in violation of Government and City codes repeatedly during the time in office. The City Manager has shown a lack of respect for the City Attorney’s legal opinions.

A monetary transaction between the City Manager and the former Mayor was of poor judgment by both parties. Both should have timely disclosed the transaction to the Fair Political Practice Commission on Form 700 (Statement of Economic Interests). The former Mayor, now City Council member, violated public trust by not recusing himself from the performance evaluations of the City Manager once the monetary transactiontook place.

PROCESS:

The Committee met with investigators from the District Attorney?s Office on several occasions to discuss the investigation. Subpoenas were issued to obtain documents from the City, and for the City Manager and all members of the City Council to testify before the Grand Jury Committee. The Committee also received and/or researched copies of Government Codes; City Ordinances; e-mails between the City Attorney, City Council members and the City Manager; legal opinions by the City Attorney; a second opinion by a law firm contracted by the City Manager at the direction of the City Council and case law used by both law firms to support the opinions rendered. The City of Taft web-site was used extensively for research. During the investigation the Committee consulted on several occasions with County Counsel to discuss the issues raised in the investigation. FINDINGS:

1. On August 27, 2009, the Committee initiated the investigation of potential violations of California Government Code ?36506 and Taft City Code ?1-7-4.

2. Taft is a General Law City with a City Manager form of Government.

3. California Government Code ?36506 states, ?By resolution or ordinance, the city council shall fix the compensation of all appointive officers and employees. Such officers and employees hold office during the pleasure ofthe city council.?

4. Taft City Code ?1-7-4: Salaries: states, ?City council and City Treasurer $300.00 monthly, City clerk Fixed by resolution, City Attorney Fixed by resolution. All other city employees shall be paid such compensation as may hereafter be fixed by resolution of council.?

5. The current City Manager was hired in September 2006.

6. The City Manager has the authority to negotiate and sign designated management contracts; however, the contracts must be submitted by agenda at a Taft City Council open meeting for ratification by resolution as required by Taft City Code ?1-7-4.

7. Six contracts or amendments with five members of the City management staff were negotiated and completed by the City

Kern County Grand Jury Report Excoriates Taft City Manager, City CouncilReport: Councilman Thompson “Violated the Public Trust”, Citizens of Taft Should Hold City Council Members Accountable for Their Actions, Inactions,

Continued on Page 11


TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

630 North St. 765-5557

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

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

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

Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

Trinity Southern Baptist Church

400 Finley DriveWe invite you to join us

each week as we worshi

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

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm

First Congregational Church of MaricopaSunday 10 a.m.

Bible StudyThursday Nights 7 p.m.

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

Lighthouse Foursquare Church210 Harrison Street 763-1518

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

Sunday Service 10 AMPastors Mark and Kathy Fitzsimmons

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

New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”

308 Harrison Street765-4572

Sunday Morning Worship Service10 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship Service6 p.m

Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.

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

at The Spot - 201 Harrison Street

New Life CommuNity ChurCh

Pastor Floyd and Carol Jordan 1000 6th Street

765-7472 www.nlctaft.org

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

Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced

All Are Licensed Funeral Directors

The Trusted Name Since 1939

Sunday Service at 10:00AM

Taft CrudeCoffee House

Ice Blended Mocha

When its Hotor Not....

Espresso Yourself Today

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

Immaculate Conception Parish

Mass Saturday 7pmSunday 9am

Everyone WelcomeDeacon Ricardo Barragan

No Appointment Needed For Smog Check!

QIKSmog & Tune

500 S. 10th Street • Taft661-763-4445

• Certified Gold Shield

& C. A. P. Station

• General Automotive

Repair

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

Tyler and Cyndy are Back!

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

We are Specialists!

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

(661) 763-3111

Veterans Burial ServiceIncluding American Made Military Gray or Brown

SteelCasket, Burial with Honors, Bakersfield National Veterans Cemetery

$2,295.00West Side Memorial Services

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

www.westsidememorialservices.com

VISIT TAFTINDEPENDENT.COM

Weddings - BaptismsQuinceañeras

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

ROGER MILLER INSURANCEa division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Jordan MillerLicense # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131

531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985 • (661) 765-4798 FAXTaft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell

E-Mail: [email protected] Hometown Insurance Store

Your Church Ad Here!

Call 765-6550

Rev. Linda Huggard

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE209 Harrison Street • Taft

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

$39.75 *

for Smog Check ‘96 or Newer plus

certificate

Ask about $500.00

Free Smog RepairRestrictions Apply

* must present ad at time of service

1/2 offDiagnostics

426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

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

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

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

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries

426 Center Street (661)763-5451

WINNERIndependentThe Taft

Best Of2009READER’S POLL

Fine Jewelry • Candles Gifts • 14K Gold

Sterling SilverBlack Hills Gold Jewelry Repair Watch Batteries

It’s Time to Start Thinking of Your Sweetheart!Valentine’s Day is Sunday, February 14th.

by Mimi CollinsFacing Facebook

The Facebook phenomenon has hit Taft! Within the last few weeks, a slew of groups posted Facebook pages. You can get their latest updates just by checking your own Facebook page. More will be revealed on getting your very own page, in case you don’t already have one. So, who’s on Facebook? Here are the Taft pages I’m aware of as of this writing: Carrizo Plain Visitor Guide, Friends of Taft College Library (FOTCL), Jacks Flower Shop Fan

Club, Skydive Taft, Taft California, Taft Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau, Taft College Alumni and Friends, Taft Community Gardens, Taft Crude Coffee House, Taft Fort, Taft Independent Newspaper, Taft Midway Driller, Taft Oildorado Days, The Taft Oilworker Monument, West Kern Oil Museum, West Side Recreation, and Westside Watcher. There are others, including Bakersfield and Kern County pages, but my fingers are tired of typing them. Whether at home or on the road, all I need to do to get the latest and greatest Taft news is log onto my personal Facebook page and see everyone’s updates in one fell swoop. I can also connect regularly with a gaggle of widely scattered relatives and friends, and keep up with my diverse personal interests. If I come across something in The Old Farmers Almanac that begs to be shared, I can post it to my unsuspecting relatives and friends, who may or may not choose to read it. In just a few minutes, I know who sold the farm and what the political pundits are positing without hopping from one Web site to another. Facebook is like a personalized version of Headline News that you read rather than listen to, and it includes pictures of growing nieces and nephews you might otherwise miss. As mentioned in an earlier Web Wise column, I am a blogger, but I had long resisted the Facebook level of social networking until a couple of nephews finally shamed me into signing on. Now I know that, like so many things, Facebook is what you make of it and can be convenient and useful as well as fun. Privacy settings allow customization, and a lot of control features are built in. Facebook is easy to get started on: just go to www.facebook.com and sign up for a free account. Play with it for awhile. If you don’t like it, just go to your account settings and deactivate your account. I set up the Friends of Taft College Library (FOTCL) page as part of my self-imposed homework while writing this column. I’m still on the learning curve, but it was easy to get started and Facebook provides another means for promoting our fledgling group (“fan” us!). If you have a business or organization to promote, think about joining those listed above by putting your group of Facebook. Shop Taft—and sell Taft! Mimi Collins recently retired as Taft College Library and Learning Resources Director.

Web Wise


Westside Horoscopesby Jessy McCulloch

370 CALIFORNIA 769-8580

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

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

MARICOpA QUILT COMpANy

Come and see the New Burnette sewing machine from Bernina.

Great for beginning sewers or to take to classes.

G&S CARPET Service & Selection

Knowledgeable SalesExperienced Installation

Laminate

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

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

Appt.

D.I.Y.starting at 1 .29

sq. ft.

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.

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

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

www.sagebrushannies.com

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

Now Celebrating Our 20th Year

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

Aries (March 21-April 19): You may not realize it, but that little thing you did for a close family member has turned into a very big deal – and I mean that in the best possible way.

Taurus (April 20-May 20): You should feel very honored by a group show of support coming up this week. It’s not everybody that has this many people who love them so much.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): You may feel a little overwhelmed this week, but as long as you take things one problem and one person at a time you can definitely get through it.

Cancer ( June 21-July 22): Admitting you were wrong was a big first step, but you’re still far from being absolved. Now you have to start taking action to redeem yourself.

Leo ( July 23-August 22): It may seem trite to you, but writing a simple thank-you note for recent hospitalities would make a very large impact.

Virgo (August 23-September 22): In any capacity you can, starting this week, you need to save save save your money. The smallest of purchases will add up to be significant eventually.

Libra (September 23-October 22): The “project” you’re about to start this week will take up a significant amount of your year. If you’re not all in, I wouldn’t bother starting.

Scorpio (October 23-November 22): You may feel like you’re doing all the work right now, but there’s more going on under the surface with a co-worker than you realize.

Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): If you continue to think the rules apply to everyone but you, you’re not going to come out of this with very many friends to speak of.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19): Take every spare minute you can this week to get things done, because as busy as you are it’s only going to get worse next week. Pace yourself.

Aquarius ( January 20-February 19): Exercise-wise, you’ve fallen off the wagon a little bit. Take a running start and get right back on it and you’ll be surprised how much better you feel.

Pisces (February 20-March 20: There are fewer true problems going on than the ones you’re creating in your imagination. Stop worrying so much about others and focus on yourself.

If your birthday is this week: I would wait another week or more before making any key decisions or explaining your plans to anyone. Once the wheels are in motion on this they can’t be stopped, so it’s worth it to play it by ear and with a dollop of extra caution. And though you feel like you’re running out of time, you most definitely are not and there’s really no hurry.


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

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

Photo Ads. Car, truck or house for sale ads are $5 per week, or $10 with a photo. Email us (or bring to our office) a photo of your home, car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest.

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

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

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

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

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

Yard Sale ads are free, up to 3 lines.

Classified ad deadline is Thursday at 2 p.m.

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

E-mail: [email protected]

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

open to the public. Info call 716-4000.

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

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

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

HELP WANTED

Bank Teller

United Security Bank has an immediate opening available for a PT 36 hour Teller in our Taft branch. Excellent customer service skills required, must be detail oriented, prior banking, cash handling experience desired. Excellent oral & written communication skills. Competitive salary and benefits. Background check and drug screen required. No phone calls please. Please apply at: 523 Cascade Place, Taft

Earn $300 weekly working from home as a Secrete/Mystery shopper, This is a flexible job offer, does not disturb your present Job if you have one. Here’s your chance to get paid for shopping and dining out.Your job will be to evaluate and comment on customer service in a wide Variety of shops, Stores, restaurant and services in your area. Mystery shoppers are Needed.You’ll be paid to shop and dine out-plus,you can also get free meals, Free merchandise,Free services, free Entertainment, Free travel and more.

Business ServicesCleaning Services

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

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

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

615 Taylor St. Saturday, Feb 13th. 7am-? Mens stuff and tools.

236 General Petroluem. Sat. Feb 13 8am -1p.m. 805-6761. Hugh, furn. tools, exer. equip., refrig.

Moving Sale. Inside and outside. Feb. 11 - Feb. 14 or until sold. Call for info 765-6064 or 615-0965

Yard Sale/Moving Sale. 419 Warren St. Sat. 8am-2pm. In alley.

Garage Sale! 230 Phillippine St. Saturday, February 13th 7am-noon. Clean baby items, Men & Women’s clothes, and Misc. household goods.

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

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

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

Great Pay. Fun Work.Flexible Schedules. No experience required.If you can shopyou are qualified! If interested kindly:[email protected]

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

Too Busy To Get Your House Just Right? Call Nikki! I do everything from floors, dishes, windows, you name it ! All for a low price of $10 per room! Call today and be worry free! Nikki 661-331-4345 week as of 1-29-10 CARPET AND

FLOORINGCARPET/HARD

FLOORING REPAIR

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

4676.

LIVESTOCKEmu eggs and spotted lambs.661-763-1329 or 661-203-3276.

BUSINESSOPPORTUNITY

FOR SALE

Moving sale. Sofa and love seat 1 y. old $300. Dining Rm set and Buffet $400. Queen bedrm set. $1200. 661.623-4879.

For Sale Pottery Wheel. $125. 769-8785

Drum set for sale. Rebecca. 858-8410.

LOST PETS

REWARD!!!Lost male yorkie. Wasn’t wearing his collar 763-3730 or 293-0582 301 Pierce St. We miss him terribly!

Lost snowshoe siamese cat. He has blue eyes, a medium length, beige-

colored coat, a distinct mask on his face, four white paws, and a very fluffy tail. Please call 623-1278 to return him to his loving home.

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

PETS

German shorthaired pointer puppies. From good family and hunting stock. All shots completed,tails docked, and dew claws removed. $400. Contact: Eleanor @ 760 793 1592 free to a good home scottish fold cats located at 214 adams st in taft if interested you can call 6616230977 Doberman pincher puppies. 2 red, 3 blk, docked, declawed, wormed, 1st shots, ready Jan 15th. Parent on site. $300. 745-4090.

Chihuahau puppies. Pure bred. Small toys. 1st shots, papers. $150 to $250. Will deliver. 903-0724.

FOUND PETSBlack lab mix found on the 600 block of Taylor st on Friday the 29th. Please contact Ashley at 342-7939 to describe.

Male Husky. Found in downtwon Taft. 330-5040.

Found small black male dog on Gardnerfield Road on 1/31. He needs to go home. call (805)239-3144

Found in downtown Taft, blonde male cocker spaniel. Call 330-5040.

AUTOMOBILES1999 Buick Le Sabre Limited All Power $3,500 765-4200

1988 Ford F-150 Auto., smogged and tagged. 765-2574. $2,100.

RV’S

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property Management

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

areas.CRIME FREE

Commercial Space Available Up to 5,000 sq. ft.Will Divide

Run Your

Home or

Busines

Services ad

in the Taft

Independent!

Call 765-

Advertise in the Taft Independent.

We Get it Ready. We Get it Right.Call 765-6550 Today.

Taft Construction,Air Conditioning and

Heating

We Do All Phases of Construction

Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists

Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507

30 Plus Years in ConstructionLicense No. 927634

STOP FORECLOSUREFree Report

www.stopkernforclosure.com

“STOP FORECLOSURE IN 48 HOURS!”

Free Report reveals how you can “Stop Foreclosure in its Tracks in 48 Hours or

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stopping foreclosure!!!

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Place YourClassified Ad

in the Taft

Independent Today!

$2 per line. The best Classified Ad

price in Taft or the Westside.

Call 765-6550 or email your

classifed ad text to

Publisher@taftindependent.

com.

HOUSING Brokers Licence

04417057

661-577-7136

ROOM FOR RENT

2 Furn. rooms with pr. bath. 765-7958.

OPEN HOUSE HOUSE FOR SALE

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

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

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunsay

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunday

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From $220,000

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

HOMES FOR SALE

In Maricopa, For Sale by Owner. Priced reduced to $155,000 “completely renovated” 4 bedrm, 2 ba., 2 story exterior loft, garage, gazebo, 9 station auto spklr, vynal fencing, fruit trees, fire plc, cen. air\heat, great kitche. (626) 485-7852. Possible owner financing with 1/3 down.

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

HOMES FOR RENTWest ValleyReal Estate

First time home buyer tax credit extended. Houses available from $13,000 to $370,000. Gorgeous 3/2 granite, pool, $217,000. Completely remodeled 3/2 with studio in back. $139,900. Residential commercial bank owned HUD and Investment. (661) 763-1500. www.BuySellManage.com.

4 bd. 2 ba. Home on Parkview Circle. Fenced back yard, dushwasher, central heat a\c., garage. Very nice in great famly neighborhood. $1,350

mo + $1,350 dep. Ref. and Credit Check. Avail. 3-17-10. (661) 765-6550 Michael.

2 bd. 1 ba. Very nice modern and private garden apartment in duplex. Fenced private front yard in quiet neighborhood with sm. fenced back patio. Central a\c. Incl wash and dryer, stove, refrig. dishwasher, carport. Must have good ref. xlnxt credit. $650 Plus Dep. Renter pays all util. Michael 765-6550 or 623-4296.

Avail Mar. 5. 505 Church St. 3 bd, 2ba with pool. $1,575 mo. 330-8661

2bd, 1ba, with garage on 3/4 acre in Valley Acres. Horses OK. New paint inside and out, and new yard. $750 mo. 577-6759

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

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

3bd, 1ba,Newly redone. fresh paint, new carpet. 324 Eastern Ave. $800/mo + $1000 dep. 765-4333.

For rent. 3 bd, 1 ba. Lndry rm, dining rm, large fenced yard, garage, covered patio. $800 mo. plus dep. (661) 623-5188.

2bd. 1 1/2 ba. newly remdl. $550. + dep. (661) 577-7756.

Maricopa. Large 2 bd, 2ba. Fam room, indoor W&D. $800 mo + dep. 661-769-8176.

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

4bd 1 ba. 2 car garage. Lg yard. 109 Harrison St. New renovated. No

Sec. 8, no pets. Credit check, job verification. ref. req. $850 mo. + $900 dep. By appt. only.765-9145 or 549-2065.

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Manager between February 6, 2007 and February 1, 2008 without approval by resolution of the Taft CityCouncil.

8. The Committee requested and received copies of several e-mails and City Attorney Memorandums addressing the proper handling of employee contracts.

9. Some of the employee contracts executed by the City Manager included retroactive pay raises which could result in a determination as a gift of public funds.

10. On multiple occasions beginning in January 2008 the City Manager was advised by the City Attorney to conform to Government Code ?36506 and Taft City Code ?1-7-4.

11. Seven contracts or amendments with six members of the City management staff were negotiated and completed by the City Manager between July 15, 2008 and April 22, 2009 without Taft City Council resolution and against advice of the City Attorney as outlined in the February 14, 2008 memorandum.

12. The City Council asked for a second opinion from another attorney in August 2009 on the issues of whether or not the City Manager is in compliance with Government and City Codes when executing employee contracts.

13. The second opinion was presented to the City Council in open session of a City Council meeting on September 29, 2009.

14. The second opinion included references to Government Codes ?34851 which provides that municipalities in California may establish by ordinance a City Manager form of government; ?34852 which provides that the ordinance shall define the powers and duties of the City Manager; and ?34856 which provides that the City Manager may ?appoint and dismiss? the Chief of Police and other subordinate appointive officers and employees except the City Attorney.

15. The second opinion also referenced Taft City Codes ?1-6-6 (C) and (P) and?1-10-2. ?1-6-6 (C) confers authority on the City Manager to appoint employees. Paragraph (P) authorizes the City Manager to sign employment agreements with new employees. ?1-10-2 expressly confers on the City Manager the authority to sign contracts with unclassified department heads.

The second opinion concludes:

“Viewed as a whole, it seems clear that the effect of these provisions is to allow the City Manager to select unclassified employees and negotiate and execute employment contracts with them. Further, the power to sign a contract includes the power to amend that contract.”16. The second opinion referenced Government Code ?36506 and Taft City Code ?1-7-4 and a City Council study session:

“These provisions constrain the City Manager to negotiate and enter into employment contracts with department heads at salaries that comport with the compensation limits established by the Council. As long as the contracted for compensation is within those limits, execution of the contracts is within the City Manger?s authority and those contracts are not required to be separately approved by the Council.”

At the August 5, 2008 study session, two Councilmembers (namesomitted) were quoted in the minutes as commenting that there would be no employee raises in the coming year aside from step increases. Nothing in the minutes, however, suggests that the Council took a formal action to amend the budget to set salaries for unclassified employees at their thencurrent amounts. The City Manager would not be legally precluded from increasing those salaries, as long as the raises were within the budgeted amounts for employee compensation in the Council-approved budget for the fiscal year.?

17. Using the theory of the second opinion, the City Manager has unaccountable financial powers to redistribute budgeted salary funds within a fiscal year.

18. Case law (Carlson, Collins, Gordon & Bold v. Banducci (1967) 257 Cal.App.2d 212,223; see also American Building Maintenance Co. v Indemnity Ins. Co. (1932) 214 Cal. 608,615.) used to support the second opinion was reviewed by the Committee and found to have no relevance to the issues under review.

19. According to the second opinion the City Manager has the authority to ignore the word shall as written in Government Code ?36506 and Taft City Code ?1-7-4.

20. The Committee subpoenaed each City Council member and the City Manager individually for interviews between October 27, 2009 and November 3, 2009.

21. The City Manager?s interview date was changed from October 27, 2009 to November 3, 2009 during a phone conversation with members of the Grand Jury. The subpoena states, “You are further commanded, pursuant to Government Code ?7475, not to disclose the record of the Subpoena.” The day following the phone call the information of a change in the City Manager?s scheduled appearance was reported in a local City newspaper.

22. The City Manager?s numerous referrals to past practice might excuse actions prior to January of 2008; but chose to ignore advice of council and executed seven additional contracts noted in finding number 11.

23. The Committee?s review of Taft City Codes revealed ?1-10-2 and ?1-10-5 were amended by ordinance number 649-96 adding certain powers to the City Manager?s responsibilities. The review revealed the City Manager has misinterpreted the change to ?1-10-2 by completing contracts for two positions not listed in section 2 (G). The City Manager has opted to pick and chose only the portions of City Codes that will be convenient to meet his needs. Of note, the change to Taft City Code ?1-10-5 by ordinance number 649-96 states, “The City Council shall adopt rules and regulations for the administration of the personnel system. Such rules and regulations shall be adopted by resolution of the City Council”, reinforcing what is stated in section ?1-7-4 noted in finding number 4.

24. On November 3, 2009 the City Manager issued a statement in open forum of the Taft City Council; the statement included the following excerpt, “To the best of my knowledge, the issue regarding Employment Contracts began on August 12, 2009 at 1:58 am when (name omitted) sent an Email to (name omitted) and copied me.”

25. It appears the City Manager lacks knowledge of Government Codes directing how a General Law City in the State of California should be operated.

26. The City Council has spent too much time trying to circumvent the City Attorney?s opinions.

27. The City Council has failed in Council fiduciary responsibilities of ensuring the City Manager is compliant with all applicable Government and City Codes.

28. During the Committee?s investigation, the issue of an alleged personal loan of $200,000 between the former Mayor of Taft and the City Manager was addressed. While it was determined the exchange of money between the two individuals was not a personal loan, neither individual included any reference to the transaction on their 2007, 2008 or 2009 California Form 700(STATEMENT OF ECONOMIC INTERESTS). At the bottom right of the

cover page of Form 700 is a block for verification. Both have since submitted amendments. Below is a copy of the verification part of the form.

5. Verification I have used all reasonable diligence in preparing this statement. I have reviewed this statement and to the best of my knowledge the information contained herein and in any attached schedules is true and complete. I certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct. Date signed Signature

29. From the moment of the monetary transaction between the former Mayor and the City Manager a perceived conflict of interest (as defined in Government Code ?87302) existed. During that time the former Mayor (now City Council Member) failed to recuse himself from all discussions concerning the performance of the City Manager. The City Manager, having knowledge of the potential conflict of interest failed to inform the City Council.

30. The Taft City Council does not have a procedures manual to use as a guide for the responsibilities and duties of a City Council member.

31. The Committee received a copy of the December 15, 2009, City Council agenda. On the agenda is a proposed resolution which as written could result in violations of the Brown Act if approved. Government Code ?54952.2 (b)

(1) states “A majority of the members of a legislative body shall not, outside a meeting authorized by this chapter, use a series of communications of any kind, directly or through intermediaries, to discuss, deliberate, or take action on any item of business that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the legislative body.”

32. During the City Council meeting on December 15, 2009, the City Council refused to receive and file the City Attorney?s Memorandum of November 3, 2009, which was a comprehensive rebuttal to the second attorney?s opinion.

COMMENTS: California Government Code ?36506 cannot be circumvented by local City Codes.

The City Council has shown little knowledge of Government Codes (including the Brown Act) and Taft City Codes and has failed for many years to exercise fiduciary control of the City Manager?s use of taxpayer monies and his failure to adhere to Government Codes and Taft City Codes. Past practices, while ordinarily a useful guide, should not be used blindly.

The citizens of Taft should become more involved in holding the City Council members accountable for their actions and/or inactions.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. The City Council should take immediate action to hold the City Manager accountable for his conduct as the City Manager.

2. The Taft City Council should direct the City Manager to become more familiar with and compliant with Government Codes and Taft City Codes.3. The Taft City Council should require all future City Managers to be familiar with all regulations pertaining to the management of the City prior to completing a probationary period.

4. The City Council should direct the City Attorney to investigate the retroactive pay raises and determine if a gift of public funds has occurred.

5. Members of the Taft City Council must become familiar with the duties and responsibilities of the position of Council member.

6. The City Council should develop a procedures manual to outline responsibilities of the office of Council member.

7. The City Council members should visit the website WWW.leginfo.ca.gov/calaw and review Government Codes ?54950-54963 (Brown Act). This should have been required reading when elected. Training on the Brown Act is available through the County of Kern, County Counsel.

8. The City of Taft should post a copy of this report where it will be available for public review.

Garnd Jury, Continued from Page 7

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