Document

April 9-15, 2010 • Volume 4 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”

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

Eyewitness NewsRoosevelt Students Broadcast Weekly School News Report on Channel 11

Serenity Salon Now Open on 6th Street

By Justina Washington and Don GillaspiePhoto by Sara Bravo

Pink Flamingos:Taft College Dental Hygiene Program “Flocks” to a Neighborhood Near You For Relay for Life

Your

Restaurant

Ad

Here!

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

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

• Tuesday: Hamburger. 5-7pm $3.50

• Wednesday: Breakfast served all day.

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

(single taco $2.50)

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

April 10th • Top Sirlion

The PlaceWe are back to normal hours.

Open 7 Days a Week

$10 All-You-Can-Eat

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

$13.95• Saturday: Steak and chicken with

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

$15.00

Taft Oildorado 2010 Theme Song “25 Hill” Published By Local Song Writer

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT April 9-15, 2010

Passion For Nails

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

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

Saturday 9am-6pm

Gift Certificates AvailableNail Services:

Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star

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

Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club

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

Sign Up for Boot Camp Today!Guaranteed Results!

Step Aerobics Class Coming Soon!

What’s Your Style...

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

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

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

Skinny Jeans and Embellished TopsAnd Much More!Personal Style

Salon and Boutique&

Kids Stop

101 B. Street • Taft

(661)763-9890

El Jacalito Restaurant

Mexican Food & Seafood

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

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

From 4pm - Closing.

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

Menu with paying Adult From 4pm - Closing.

Saturday - Noche MexicanaSteak or Chicken Fajitas $9.95

All Mexican Beer $2.50From 4pm - Closing.

All Specials Subject to Change

Miller’s

661-763-5445 510 Center Street • Taft

Beauty Supply

Call for an appointment Today

Glam Squad on Premises

Beauty Supply • Salon • Boutique

Barbara • Melissa • Laci • Christine • Carolyn

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

Hair Accessories • Jewelry • Pictures & Prints • Massages

Special Effects Salon620 6th Street 661-496-9233

Certified Massage TherapistPaula D. Schweitzer

email: [email protected]

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

Offer is valid through the end of April 2010.

Available for evening appointments.

Located at:

The Historic Fort915 North Tenth St.

Suite 34623-1783

A Hint of Class will be closed April 10th to April 18th.

Come back and see us on April 19th!

A Hint of Class

Pamela Dudley, Owner

Saturday, April 10thJiu-Jitsu for MMA Seminar with UFC

trainer David Camarillo10am-1pm. $40 per person

Shop Taft

(661)763-3030

$25Half Hour Massage*

With this coupon* First time clients only

Soleil Tanning Studio303 Gardner Field Rd. St. B.

By: Tonya White

745-4896

Planning for Taft’s second Relay for Life to battle cancer is moving along. There are 35 teams registered for the May 15-16 event at Taft High’s Patterson-O’Brien Field. “I am amazed and humbled by our progress,” said event chair LaNell Howell, “and Relay is still about seven weeks away. “Even in tough economic times, people just come through because we all know someone who has been affected by cancer. Taft is a small town with a huge heart, and I am proud to be a part of Taft’s second Relay for Life.” The teams are adding members and raising money, she said.A benefit softball tournament has been held to raise money for Relay. More than 400 people have signed up with 35 teams.Team members will take turns walking around the high school track during the 24-hour Relay fund-raiser. This year’s goal is 38 teams, Howell said. Jeremy Lalonde is the team chair. He can be contacted at [email protected]. Information, including a list of the teams, can be found on relayforlife.org/taftca.Opening ceremonies for the local event will be held at 9 a.m. on May 15 followed a half hour later by the cancer survivor’s lap. The “Fight Back” closing ceremonies will be held May 16 at 9 a.m. A cancer survivors ice cream social will be held April 25 from 2-4 p.m. at the Historic Fort. “We want as many survivors as possible to sign up for Relay,” Howell said. A Paint the Town Purple event will be held April 1, with Relay volunteers decorating the town with purple ribbons.Taft Relay planners are hoping to exceed last year’s impressive inaugural event. Thirty-four teams with more than 500 participants raised just over $75,000. The goal was $25,000.A hundred and 25 cancer survivors took part.Relay began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon from Tacoma, Wash., ran and walked around a track for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

Relay for Life Update

Over 10 Years Experience

Pregnancy MassageDeep Tissue

Pain ManagementSports Therapy

Specializing In:

MASSAGE

April 9-15, 2010 TAFT INDEPENDENT 3

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

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

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

Lincoln School................6

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

Westside Horoscopes.....9

Westside

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

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

Inside Community Events

The Taft Independent

210 6th StreetP.O. Box 268

Taft, California 93268(661) 765-6550

Fax (661) 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.TaftIndependent.com

Locally and Independently owned since 2006

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

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

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

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

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long

[email protected]

Assistant Managing EditorAdvertising Sales Manager

Jessica Wallis

Layout & DesignIndependent Graphics

Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller

Jessy McCulloch

ColumnistsRandy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins

Staff PhotographerSara Bravo

Circulation ManagerJobe Edgar

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association

Printed in California

News BriefsTaft California

“Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

Westside Little League Opening Ceremonies April 10th

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

Local Libraries Host Puppet Theater April 11th - 17th

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

Rotary Health Fair and Peddlars Fair April 17th

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

The Fort and TAPT Wine Tasting Night April 22nd

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

Alpha House BBQ and Auction Saturday, April 24th

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

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

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

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

Rotary Presents the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra Sunday, May 16th

Rotary Club of Taft will be bringing back the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra Sunday, May 16th from 4pm - 6pm at the Taft Union High School Auditorium. Admission is FREE!

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

It’s time to clean out that garage or storage room. The Museum’s annual Yard Sale is fast approaching. Since everyone will be getting ready for Oildorado in the Fall, we are having our annual yard sale in the Spring, April 30 and May 1. Items are now being collected until April 28. Cataloging and pricing everything takes time, so the staff encourages everyone to bring their yard sale donations to the Museum as soon as possible. If you can deliver your items, it would be appreciated. If not, they can be picked up by giving the Museum a call at 765-6664. The yard sale is one of the Museum’s most successful fundraisers, especially in these tough economic times. And it’s a great way to get rid of all that stuff that you’ve accumulated that you no longer use or need. It helps you and it helps us.

Taft Manna 4 U is a Public Benefit Non Profit group located at 201 Harrison Street. This is the same group that provides Free Hot Meals and Free Gently used clothing for the hurting and less fortunate people of Taft, who just need a hand. Taft Manna 4 U is preparing for their annual fundraiser. “The Manna Mania Yard and Bake Sale” to be held May 8th at 201 Harrison Street in Taft. This is your chance to clean out those closets and help the citizens of Taft who are hurting. Last year Taft Manna 4 U fed over 5,000 people and gave out over 20,000 items of clothing. Taft Manna 4 U is not supported by a church or any other organized group. Taft Manna 4 U offers a tax deductible receipt for donated items. Taft Manna 4 U accepts all items: furniture, appliances, clothing, glassware, and they will pick it up from your home or your completed yard sale. Please help Taft Manna 4 U continue helping others through your generous donations. Please call 599-1298 for assistance and pick-ups.

Taft Manna 4 U Prepares for Annual Manna Mania Yard and Bake Sale

West Kern Oil Museum Yard Sale Approaching; Items Sought

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

Friends of Taft College Library Host An Evening with the Arts You are invited to share an evening of arts and entertainment and be a part of the program. The expected venue includes print art, photography, readings, monologues, and musical interpretations. This event is presented by the Friends of Taft College Library and will be held Monday night, April 12th from 5;00pm to 7:00pm at the H2O Club, located at 509 Center Street , the old Bank of America building. There is no cost to attend this event but donations are accepted at the door. If you are interested in displaying art or photography, or want to perform and share your talents please contact David Layne at Taft College for an entry form, 29 Emmons Park Drive or fax a request to (661)763-7816, there is no charge to sign up!

McCarthy Announces Mobile Office Hours In April, a Field Representative for Congressman Kevin McCarthy will hold office hours in Taft. “Mobile office hours are a great opportunity for residents to speak with a representative from my office, receive answers to their questions, and access constituent services,” said McCarthy. “I strongly encourage residents to utilize these office hours to receive the help and assistance we can provide.”Office hours will be held:Wednesday, April 14, 2010Taft College Library – 29 Emmons Park Drive, Taft, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.Vince Fong, District Director for Congressman McCarthy(661) 327-3611, Congressman McCarthy’s Website, www.kevinmccarthy.house.gov.

CASA Volunteers Needed 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 will be held Tuesday April 13, 2010 from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the Taft Chamber of Commerce, located at 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.


Editorial

Westside WatcherAsian Experience

Asian Food and PizzaLunch and Dinner

Tuesday - Friday 11 am - 2 pm 4 pm - 9 pm

Saturday 4 pm - 9 pm 215 Center Street, Taft

763- 1815

Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting

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

4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319

Taft Crude Coffee HouseCoffee House and Deli

Monday – Friday 6:30 am to 5pm.

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

1010 6th Street, Taft763-5156

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

Asian Experience

215 Center Street 763-1815

Asian Food and PizzaLunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

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

Live Music Saturday Nights

Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse

Steak, Seafood, Wild Game, Full Bar

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

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

768-4655

Paik’s Ranch HouseWhere Everybody Meets

Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerOpen 7 Days

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

El Jacalito Authentic Mexican Dining

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

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

763-9890763-9892 fax

Always Fresh!

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

765-4143700 Kern Street Taft, CA

Westside Entertainment

FOXTHEATER

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

Late ShowChild and Senior $7.00

Adults $9.00www.taftfoxtheaters.com

765-4802514 Center St

NOW SHOWING

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

The Taft

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Independent

Taft Petroleum Club

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

Every Friday is Ribeye Steak Dinner Night

Industries Night Wednesday April 7th

Sponsored by Hill Engineering

Sagebrush Annie’sWine Tasting

Dinner by Reservation

Award Winning Wines

766-23194211 Highway 33, Ventucopa

Chilled & GrilledEvery Wednesday Night

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

$1 Drafts!!!

765-2000621 Center Street

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

Wedding Receptions • Birthday PartiesAnniversaries • Company Dinners and

BBQ’s

Call Today 763-3268

428 Center Street(661) 332-5402

Taft's STORKCLUBChildren's Re-Sale Shop

* Consignments Accepted *

Your RestaurantListed Here.

Call765-6550.

The Laughing Madman or Gallows Humor

So Cliffy has been asked by three city councilmembers to resign. What took them so long? Last Tuesday night, during a Taft City Council Special Meeting (aren't they all special?) Mayor Dave handed the Spinman his walking papers signed by hissoner and Councilmembers Linder and Miller. ...The special council meeting was actually held to respond to the Grand Jury report that went after the council, the city manager and Clifford for violating public trust - sounds like the Cliff we know. But, low and behold, Cliff got the surprise letter - signed by councilmembers Noerr, Miller and Linder - handed to him by the Mayor asking him to resign, and we sure wish we could have seen his face when he opened the envelope. The irony here, or course, is that Mayor Dave used to be one of Cliffy's council buds - always voting with the Cliffman on one thing or another. But then Dave slowly began to learn what everyone else on the planet knew - except Cliff 's attorney and a few deluded faithful followers - that the Cliffman is unhinged and prone to bouts of "I am right and everyone else is wrong" paranoia. We're guessing that the letter idea was hatched during one of those special closed session meetings the council is always having, and that a clever attorney drafted a letter for the Big 3 that asked the Spifmeister to resign or else. We're sure sure that the letter doesn't just ask him to resign, but includes a litany of offenses against mankind and the citizens of Taft.....a letter Cliffy surely does not want anyone to see...... No one has seen the actually letter except Cliffy and his attorney - and we're really surprised that the Spinman has not released the letter so everyone on the planet could read it....we'll not really surprised.... Cliffy is usually the first one out of a council meeting to release some privileged or closed session document to one media or another to make himself look good - but not this time. (The most dangerous place at city hall is standing somewhere between Cliffy and a TV camera). This letter must be REALLY bad for the Cliffman and must get pretty specific about his antics down at city hall... And the old WSW is sure this is the reason that the Cliffman is not releasing the letter anytime soon....why even the Clifford-

friendly Not-the-Daily Midway-Driller didn't get a copy...In defense of not releasing the letter, Cliffy told the Driller that he couldn't comment on the letter because it could end up in litigation...Hello?....Doesn't everything down at city hall end up in litigation...... Anyway, Spif sez his attorney has the letter and is writing a response to the Big 3...will that letter be available? Please send us your copy... Meanwhile, Cliffy sent the Driller a "statement" - (no, he didn't send a copy to the the WSW) that said "I have done more good for this community..than the three of them have done collectively." Right. Oh, he also said No to the Big 3 request to resign. And by the way, don't forget, on an unrelated issue, the council will soon be talking to the Spifman about a little issue of censure......which has been on several council agendas, but keeps getting taken off the because the council and the special attorney keeps finding out more bad things about Cliffy that has to be be added to the censure language before they present the final indictment.... No, the censure will not be on the April 6th council agenda...probable another two weeks before they finished writing the final document. Anyway, in his statement to the NTDMD Clifford goes on to rant that the Big 3 have looked for ways to undermine his hard work and accomplishments....and here's the important kicker that's tells us what the whole letter thing is about...Cliffy said that the Big 3 has turned a blind eye to the actions of a small group of employees at City Hall and caused a controversey.... Cliffy must be talking about all those hard working female city employees down at city hall who are filing complaints of harassment against the Spifman for creating a hostile work environment....Cliff doesn't generally bother the men... So, the Cliffman is in trouble and now he is talking about suing the city ...sounds like a retirement plan for the Spifman since he doesn't have a job, he's bankrupt and people are finally starting to stand up to Taft's petty tyrant who has insulted, attacked and threatened a few too many people and now they are fighting back against the Badman of Taft politics. Finally, Cliff told the Driller..."If they choose to censure me, I'm going to laugh at them and then keep on doing what I have been doing." Ha, Ha.

Oildorado 2010 Gets A Theme Song

by Jessica G. Miller

Next Wednesday, April 14, at the Taft City School District meeting, the board will be discussing the decision to cut the music program from Lincoln Jr. High. It’s understandable that some cuts need to be made but eliminating the band and choir will have a deep effect on not only the students but on the Taft Union High band as well. “The program at Lincoln includes a beginning and advanced band and a choir class,” TUHS band director, Amanda Posey explained. “Although these classes have merit in and of themselves, they are also integral to the high school programs.” Since the junior high serves as just about the only feeder school into the high school band, this means that in a short matter of time the music program will die at the high school. Posey is concerned about this grave issue. “Numerous studies have been conducted over the years to support the importance of music in our schools,” she said. “It is invaluable to students for a well rounded education as well as keeping students motivated and in school.” And she is right. According to a study in 2006 conducted by Harris Interactive, schools with music programs have a substantially higher graduation and attendance rate. Additionally, The College Board found that students involved with school music programs scored higher on the verbal and math portions of the SAT. Posey, the TUHS Choir director, Amanda Locke and the junior high band and choir director, Marlene Mudge, are urging the community to come to the board meeting at the TCSD office, 820 N. 6th street, next Wednesday at 7:30PM. “[We] would like to encourage the community to come out for this meeting and let the board know how important this program is to the people and especially the students of this town.”

School District To Discuss Cuts To Lincoln Music Program

Editorial

Lyrics writer, Nick Comstock, made good on his promise to write a song for the 100th Anniversary of Oildorado. The song, entitled “25 Hill,” brings back memories of the 50’s and 60’s and even captures the old sounds of the era. Comstock, who is now 63, started playing professionally in the 60’s with a group in Taft called “The Rhythm Kings” that later changed their names to “The Alladins.” He began writing and recoding lyrics in the 80’s doing jingles. One, some may remember, was the jingle for Don’s Western Wear in Taft. Comstock attended junior high and high school here in Taft and has always stayed in touch with family and friends. Comstock said he is a lyrics writer but does sing all of his own songs for promotional reasons, hoping other singers will pick up on them.He currently has a CD out, that can be purchased online at www.ComstockSongs.biz. It is called, “The Electric Sounds Album.” The CD will also be available in some of the local stores in Taft and at the “Oildorado” celebration along with the single, “25 Hill.” The single also includes an interview with Nick Comstock 7 the song, “Set My Sails” from the “Electric Album.” Comstock says he is really excited about the upcoming anniversary of Oildorado and looks forward to reminiscing with some of his old friends!


200 Kern Street • Taft(661)765-6915

Letters to the Editor

By Justina Washington and Don Gillaspie

Who says nine year olds can’t host a television broadcast? Every week permission slips are handed out to fourth graders at Roosevelt elementary school to permit them to take part in a weekly news report that airs every Friday at 8pm on channel eleven. Last year, teacher Steven Neil thought of all the kids who struggled with writing when he proposed to create a program that would inspire and assist children to obtain better writing skills. Mr. Neil comments, “there are Just some students you can’t get motivated to write , but if they have a reason they’ll write.” Being on television is a great motivation to get students to write. They find themselves trying to fix errors in speech, reading, and writing therefore improving their literary skills altogether. Neil notes, “There are some students who hated writing and suddenly they love writing” once they’ve become involved with this weekly television report. Student Blexing Dias comments, “ I think it’s fun for kids and it helps me in writing.” Fellow broadcast host and student of Mr. Neil Abcde Faamausili also gets excited when it comes to writing stories for the weekly news report, “it’s fun because you can sometimes interview people and you can do jobs they tell you to do, it helps me in writing.” Not only are children getting the opportunity to be seen on TV and improve educational skills, they are also getting a hands on experience in leadership roles. “They have jobs to do,” comments Neil, “ We assign a production manager and they get an assistant who tells the staff Quiet! Or Action! Whenever necessary.” The stories for the weekly broadcast come from the children themselves, they report weather, sports, and news about Roosevelt elementary, everything else is individually created. “Personal essays are written on a topic that interests them, it’s entirely their choice and just because it’s not a good news story it’s the best they can do so it’s the best news story,” says Neil. “Unfortunately the weekly news report is not part of Roosevelt’s’ school curriculum, it’s

Dear Editor:

It is about time that they get hip to ol’ Spiffy Cliff ! I do believe that is what he calls himself. He was bad when he was mayor and I doubt anything has changed as of today...It’s 1....2.....3....strikes your OUTTTTTTTTT CLIFF THOMPSON!!!

[email protected]

Dear Editor:

I am writing this response to Councilman Cliff Thompson’s statements in the Midway Driller. Quote from Cliff Thompson as published on the Midway Driller website:

“To the three members of the council that requested my resignation the answer is ‘No’. I have done more good for this community during my time on the council than the three of them have done collectively.” “For to long certain members of this council have worked diligently to find ways to undermined my hard work and accomplishments as a member of the city council when they could have worked with me to create and implement a vision to restore Taft to the community we all loved and respected in years past.” “I believe I have held true to that vision. I cannot say the same of a majority of this council who have turned a blind eye to (the actions of ) a small group of employees at City Hall and caused a controversy.” - Cliff Thompson

The resignation letter that Mr. Thompson has received, was not a 1 page document, but a 10 page outline of the various stages of his behavior leading up to the final question for him to resign from his Council seat for the betterment of the City of Taft. If Mr. Thompson is proud of his accomplishments and his hard work on behalf of City, then he should not be harmed by his releasing the contents of the document to the public. If he refuses to resign, then I will continue to, with the concurrence as before of Councilman Linder, to put on the agenda a censure resolution for April 20th with the same issues outline in the letter asking for his resignation. It will be a much more detailed and comprehensive resolution than the one I originally proposed. I do not wish to engage in a war of words with Mr. Thompson, as I’m not politically savvy enough to compete with

him. All anyone need to do is review the past history of the current City Council members, and whose name consistently has been brought up time and time again at the center of controversy and embarrassment to this community because of his behavior, comments, and deeds. This resignation request has nothing to do with his taking issues to the Grand Jury. It is solely based on a pattern of behavior for the past seven years, that I have been on the Council, which can no longer be ignored. Certain new allegations and information that has recently come to light precipitated the action by a majority of the council to ask him to resign. Mr. Thompson at times is a brilliant politician and has taken the time and effort to immerse himself in the detail of the issues that come before him. I have always admired him for that and in fact I was one of his many enablers. I believe

his desire to redeem himself from destructive behavior in his past has overwhelmed him so much that his huge ego has gotten completely in his way as to destroy all the good and hard work that he has put in since then. I apologize to this community for having to put you through this trying time but as only one council member, I can no longer stand on the sidelines and let Mr. Thompson continue to drag this City down his destructive path. I take this matter very seriously and do not find this a laughable matter as Mr. Thompson has stated. Randy Miller

Lincoln School Students Samantha Verdugo, Reece Hamilton, Kayla Monarrez, Abcde Faamaasili, Timothy Curry, Kaylee Neher, Andreya Krier, Andrew Moore, Aeriah Gibson and Jasmine Robey.

Taft Eyewitness NewsLincoln School Students Broadcast Weekly News Report on Channel 11

considered an after school program and can either be viewed on the Taft Independent or Taft California face book or local Channel 11. Thanks to Don Gillaspie and Steven Neil these fourth grade students are able to participate in an outstanding program that enhances their ability to read, write and function as leaders. Neil adds, “ Don Gillaspie is really the heart and soul of this program, he provides the studio, camera, and editing, I just provide the students.” Everything is entirely voluntary, “The satisfaction of seeing my students get better at writing and gain self confidence is what I get out of it.” The weekly news report at Roosevelt elementary has been recording since last year and plans to stick around “as long as Channel 11 and Don Gillaspie are willing to donate their time, effort and resources. I’m willing to donate mine,” comments Steven Neil. Mr. Neal lives in Bakersfield with his wife and 17 year old daughter. His wife is retiring at

the end of this month as the chief of police from the sub station at Cal State University in Bakersfield. Mr. Neal has been teaching since 2006. He earned his teaching credential at Cal State University in Bakersfield. Before becoming a schoolteacher, Mr. Neal worked as a scriptwriter for Syndicated Radio Reporting in New York. He alsodid some TV editing while in New York. In 1980, Mr. Neal got tired of the rat race in New York and moved to Denver Colorado where he worked in the printing business until he retired. Retirement gave Mr. Neal the opportunity to do what he really wanted to do, and that was to go back to collage and become a school teacher.


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Planning for Taft’s 100th birthday bash next fall is moving along.Twenty-nine members of the planning group met last week at the Community Center for updates on the city’s Diamond Jubilee celebration during Oildorado Days Oct. 14-24.“Everything seems to be going very well,” said Oildorado President Eric

Cooper. “I think people are beginning to get excited about Oildorado.”The once-every-five-year event is planned and executed by an all-volunteer army that includes an executive board, a board of directors and community liaison people who all serve on committees that oversee various segments of the operation.Oildorado Inc. sponsors some events, such as the oilfield skills contest and expo, parade, carnival, queen pageant, civic luncheon, vintage aircraft display and flyover, art and craft shows, melodrama, street party, entertainment, and the whiskerino, costume, and ponytail/hair bun contests.The West Kern Oil Museum and community organizations also present events and activities, such as a dinner theater, Christian music concert, class reunions, dances and barbecues. “Anything of this magnitude takes a lot of involvement by the community,” Cooper said. “A lot of people have been generous with their time and commitment.”The planning committee is working on a variety of fronts, he said, from fund-raising to RV parking, to security, to the myriad of events that will take place during the celebration.Oildorado Sheriff Billy White and his posse have been active, taking first place in the Maricopa Gusher Days parade.The posse helps promote Oildorado by appearing at events throughout the county.Taft City Police Chief Ken McMinn said his department is getting in the spirit too.“One of our members has designed a 100th anniversary badge that officers will be wearing soon,” he said. “We’ll also have decals on our patrol cars.”He said the department will get some help from other jurisdictions to provide additional officers for security during the event, which is expected to attract thousands of people to Taft.The city, he said, participates in a countywide officer exchange program that sends Taft officers to other cities for things like gang interdiction.“In five years the program has been operating we’ve never had to use them here, so they owe us,” he told the Oildorado board. “I’ve been keeping track and figure there are 90-100 man days they owe us. We’ll have 7-10 officers a day from other cities and the county available to us.”The Oildorado board will be meeting monthly on the fourth Wednesday from now until the event, Cooper said.

Oildorado

by Michael Long

In a leaked confidential memorandum to the Taft City Council that is sure to raise already high tensions at City Hall, the City Attorney accused City Manager Bob Gorson of lying to the council and buying employee loyalty with illegal pay raises. The memo comes on the heels of a response to a Grand Jury report issued by the City Council last week that disagreed with the City Attorney’s opinion and the Grand Jury findings that employee pay raises awarded by City Manager Bob Gorson were illegal and a possible gift of public funds. The memorandum also comes two weeks before the City Council is scheduled to hear a censure motion against Taft City Councilman Cliff Thompson for allegations of creating a hostile work environment at City Hall. The Kern County Grand Jury issued a report on February 9th critical of the City Council, Gorson’s handling of the pay raises, and Thompson for violating public trust. The Independent obtained a copy of the confidential memorandum on Thursday morning after news accounts appeared in Bakersfield media. The memo, which addressed the issue of gifting public funds by Gorson when he gave raises to city employees, was written by the law firm of Gibson and Gibson which acts as the city’s legal counsel. The memo was requested by the Taft City Council and recommended by the Kern County Grand Jury in their February 2010 report to the council. In describing its purpose, the memo explained that the City Attorney had a duty to raise issues in order to protect the city’s interests, and should not be taken as advocacy or support for any side.

Taft City Attorney Memo Accuses City Manager of Gifting Public Funds, Mayor Noerr says Memo Accusations “Grossly Irresponsible”Memo Calls City Manager Liar, Accused of Buying Employee Loyalty

Taft Mayor Dave Noerr, who was displeased that the confidential memorandum was released to the media said in a news conference on Thursday said that issues and accusation raised in the memorandum were unfounded and unprovable. “The accusations that were made that some believe to be provable are not,” said Noerr. “The city staff does not deserve what was said.”“They (accusations in the memo) are irresponsible, they’re unfounded and they cannot be proved.” said Noerr. City Finance Director Theresa Stadler, who was given a raise by Gorson, was not at work Thursday, and city employees said she was very upset by the allegations made in the memo. Mayor Noerr said that the memo was prepared for behind closed door discussion by the council, and the memo was to be presented by the City Attorney as a “devils advocate” for the council benefit. It was not for public release. The memo accused Gorson of deliberately lying when he told the council in public session “as to when he had been told to stop negotiating employee contracts without City Council approval.” During the news conference Gorson said that he is not a liar and that he has an impeccable reputation. Gorson also said he was livid about the accusations made in the memo. The memo also raised the issue that Gorson was late, as long as six months, in paying rent for a home he was buying from the city. It suggested that Stadler did not report the late rent payments and that the pay raise may have been payment for her silence. The memo cited lost interest on the rent payments as constituting a gift of public funds. Noerr said that all back rent payments had been paid by Gorson and had already addressed by the council. Asked about the memos accusations, Mayor Noerr said “the city attorney was doing what she was asked to do,” Noerr said. “But this goes way beyond the responsible legal opinion. When it became public, it became grossly irresponsible.” “There are certain statements made in here that went well beyond the advice you would expect from and attorney,” Noerr said. A video Mayor Noerr’s news conference can be viewed on the Taft Independent’s Facebook page.


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Serenity Salon Now Open“Flock” with Taft College’s Dental Hygiene Program for Relay for Life

Taft College’s Dental Hygiene Program is raising money for their Relay for Life group the “Plaque Attackers.” The group has started a program called the Flamingos that will “flock” to a different house each day. “Flocking” is a way to bring awareness about Relay for Life to the community and to your neighbors. The cost is $20 per “flock,” you sign up a family member, friend, or victim if you will and provide their house address, the Flamingos then fly in at 5am and they will stick flamingos and a sign, with your personal message, in your yard until 9pm and then the flamingos fly out to hit the next house. “We hope that this brings a smile to someone’s face and can brighten their day,” said Julie Ortlieb, group leader. The $20 goes to the Taft College Dental Hygiene Relay for Life Team, The Plaque Attackers. The Plaque Attackers are one of the top 3 teams that has raised the most money so far for Relay for Life. If you are interested in being “flocked” or having someone else “flocked” please contact Julie at (661)599-7401 or the Taft College Dental Hygiene Program at (661)763-7706.

Serenity Salon is now open at 212 6th Street after 4 months of remodeling the location. The location has been a home to different salons for the past 60 years. Owner, Sara Foster, has always wanted to open up a salon of her own. “It has always been a dream of mine,” said Sara, “We have been blessed with the right timing and we are so excited to back downtown.” Sara, long time Taft resident, has worked with Leslie and Alison before at Miller’s and Magic Touch. Serenity offers all hair services, manicures and pedicures, waxing and more all in a calm, serene atmosphere. Stations are still available at Serenity, for more information contact Sara at Serenity at (661)765-1007. Stop by Serenity to see what else they can offer you today!

Left to Right: Alison Morgan, manicurist, Janie De Revere, Mom/Manager, Sara Foster, owner/cosmetologist, and Leslie Arnold, cosmetologist.

The Taft Chapter of the Bikers for Christ Motorcycle Ministry, in conjunction with various other ministries and individuals, announces our first annual “Downed Biker Rally”, a special fund raiser to be held on May 22, 2110 to benefit those bikers who have been involved in a motorcycle accident and need financial assistance. The goal is to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to the motorcycle community. We award a $ 250. 00 check to the downed biker to assist with the immediate needs associated with an accident. Counselors, ministers and other resources are also available to assist in this time of need. This assistance will be offered to any and all Westside motorcycle riders, regardless of race, religion or club affiliation, who are involved in a motorcycle

accident that results in hospitalization. This assistance will be limited to a one time cash disbursement of $ 250.00 at the time of hospitalization, and as long as funds are available. The goal is to raise funds with volunteers and donated items. We do not utilize any paid employees. In this manner, the funds should go directly to the bikers in need and not for expenses. This event is intended to be repeated annually to generate additional funds as needed. Any additional inquiries should be directed to: Dwayne Johnson, Taft Elder, Bikers for Christ M/M, 1000 6th St.Taft, California 93268. 661-765-7472,Cell 661-577-6872 or mail to: [email protected].

Bikers for Christ, Taft Chapter

Westside NewsTUHS FFA Donkey Basketball

TUHS FFA held their annual Donkey Basketball game on Tuesday, April 6th. Burrel Maier with Buckshot Burrios out of Exeter provided the donkey’s for the high school game. The “students” took the victory over the “teachers” with a 26 to 24 lead. Patrick WIlkie (top photo) scored the winning point. Gracie Simmons was awarded with her first FFA Pig for winning the Pre K coloring contest. (middle) On the “teachers” team Gary Rennie boosts team mate Tami Salazar on to her donkey. (bottom)

Photos by: Sara Bravo

A recent “flocked” house.


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Congressman Kevin McCarthy Delivers Weekly GOP MessageWASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Kevin McCarthy, the House Chief Deputy Republican Whip and a Member of the Financial Services Committee, delivered the weekly GOP message. The address highlights that the Administration is continuing to not listen to the American people by pushing a new job-killing bill that would guarantee permanent bailouts for Wall Street, which makes it harder for Americans to save, invest, and hire. He also highlights an alternative plan that protects taxpayers, ends the permanent bailout, and gets rid of TARP. “Hi, I’m Congressman Kevin McCarthy. I have the great honor of representing California’s 22nd Congressional District. I also serve as the House Republican Chief Deputy Whip. I’d like to start by wishing all those families celebrating Easter and Passover a year of peace and prosperity in this holiday season. “I need not remind you that this is a time of great economic anxiety for almost everyone. Americans are rightfully asking ‘where are the jobs?’ ‘Why is Washington raising taxes in times of recession?’ ‘Doesn’t anyone care about us?’ ‘Is anyone actually listening?’ “I know what you’re thinking. Enough is enough. Stop the spending. Stop the waste. Stop the broken promises. “Republicans agree. “Major employers are already being squeezed because of the tax increases and cost hikes thanks to the new health care law signed by President Obama. The new law is just the latest in a series of anti-taxpayer policies coming out of Washington that is making it harder for Americans to save, invest, and hire, but it is by no means the last. “As a former small business owner – a deli here in Bakersfield – I know that there is risk involved in turning a new idea into a successful business. There is no reward without some risk. My small business – like many small businesses – was started on credit. At this time of high unemployment, when we need to focus on jobs, we should not be expanding government spending, government commitments, and government promises that crowd out the small businessman and businesswoman. That’s not good for jobs. That’s not good for anyone. “From TARP and permanent bailouts, to the cap-and-trade national energy tax, the government takeover of healthcare, and huge increases in the national debt – and now still more demands for more spending to change the financial regulations, we have run out of money. And yet this Administration and Congressional Democrats want to spend even more. “So on behalf of the hardworking taxpayers of my district, I have one question for Washington: who is going to pay for all your new spending? “Last fall, when the controversial TARP program was on track to expire, Republicans voted to terminate the program and ensure that any unused funds were used to pay down our crushing national debt. Democrats instead forced through an extension so that they could use it as a ‘slush fund’ for more wasteful Washington spending. “Now, President Obama wants Congress to pass job-killing legislation that would guarantee permanent bailouts for Wall Street. Under his plan, unelected Washington bureaucrats would be granted virtually unlimited power to pick winners and losers – and hardworking American taxpayers would pick up the tab for the reckless decisions made by irresponsible bankers. “What’s worse, this legislation fails to address the root causes of the economic crisis and housing meltdown – the lack of accountability in Washington and on Wall Street. “Republicans have proposed a plan to protect taxpayers, end the permanent bailout and get rid of TARP. Our plan would address the causes of the financial crisis and institute accountability while adopting a new approach to the markets that will no longer include using the taxpayer as Wall Street’s financial lifeline. “Because more Washington bureaucrats, more federal agencies and more blue-ribbon commissions are not the answer. And putting taxpayers on the hook for more bailouts will not revive our struggling economy – it will only compound the pain for struggling small businesses and for families who played by the rules, lived within their means and acted responsibly. “Earlier I asked whether anyone was listening. I’m Kevin McCarthy, a member of the House Republican Conference, and we’re listening. And if you want to put an end to these big government bailouts, the reckless wasteful spending and the mountain of debt, we hope you’re listening, too.”


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Westside News and Reviews

Aries (March 21-April 19): This latest move is an emotional one, but it will ultimately be a very good thing for you – even if that’s hard to see right now, just believe it.

Taurus (April 20-May 20): This month you may be spending time with someone you have rather strong feelings for. Since it’s a friend’s significant other, there’s not much you can do though.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): You’ve learned a very important lesson, but a lot of damage has been done to get to this point. You’ll have to work to pick up the pieces now.

Cancer ( June 21-July 22): A road trip with some close friends is a great opportunity to kick back and just relax. Try to let go of any and all stress and just enjoy yourself.

Leo ( July 23-August 22): While the extra work you’re taking on is impressive, if you physically don’t have the time and capability to get it done, you may need to speak up about it.

Virgo (August 23-September 22): Stop worrying so much about what a co-worker is doing. Keep your eyes on the road and do what you need to do. Leave the rest up to karma.

Libra (September 23-October 22): If you insist on noticing all of the negatives in everything, then that’s all you’ll ever see. Stop bringing everyone – yourself included – down.

Scorpio (October 23-November 22): This is a perfect week to get a lot done around the house. You’ll be surprised how much clearer your head feels with a clean living space.

Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): You may feel that a family member doesn’t call you enough, but when was the last time you called them? Communication is a two-way street.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19): Your diplomatic skills are going to be needed at this upcoming family function. Long-forgotten spats haven’t been forgotten at all it seems..

Aquarius ( January 20-February 19): You have a right to be upset, and bottling it up inside like you’re doing won’t lead to anything good. Be honest now or you’ll be much sorrier later

Pisces (February 20-March 20: If you’re sincerely worried about your ability to get the job done, speak up now. If you wait too long, you could really do a lot of damage.

If your birthday is this week: Don’t keep yourself in denial about how a loved one is feeling. You’re not fooling anyone and neither are they. Pretending you don’t know they’re upset will only lead to the both of you being far more than upset later on. They’re dropping clues like anvils, so take the hint.

Highway 119 Safety Corridor Credited With Saving LivesBUTTONWILLOW, Calif. – The culmination of a year-long enforcement effort by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) along State Route 119 between the city of Taft and Interstate 5 has resulted in news. Statistics indicate fewer lives were lost in collisions along the designated Safety Corridor; positive results which can be attributed to a federal grant the CHP received last year.

“This grant enabled us to meet the CHP’s goal of ensuring safe and efficient transportation,” said Lt. Doyle Green, commander of the CHP’s Buttonwillow Area office.

Funding for the “Arrive Alive on 119” Safety Corridor Grant project was provided by a grant awarded by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The grant’s goal was to address the high number of fatalities SR-119 experienced in 2007, which consisted of six fatal crashes that killed eight people.

The grant enabled the CHP to establish a task force and deploy officers to enforce traffic laws, conduct community presentations and distribute educational material.

The task force consisted of members from the CHP, Caltrans, Taft City Council, Taft Police Department, Kern Council of Governments, Kern County Roads, Occidental Petroleum, Kern County Supervisor Ray Watson, Kern County Assemblywoman Jean Fuller, State Senator Roy Ashburn and U.S. Representative Kevin McCarthy.

Statistics indicated over the 12-month period there was an 83% percent reduction in the number of fatal collisions and a 54% percent reduction in the number of injury crashes. CHP officers issued 811 citations for various violations including speed, seatbelts, DUI, unsafe passing, disobeying signs/signals, following too close and numerous mechanical violations. In addition, there were more than 20 driver safety presentations conducted by the CHP which were attended by more than 5,000 people.

Despite the conclusion of the grant, corridor signs and a strong CHP presence will remain on SR-119 reminding drivers to “Arrive Alive on 119.”

“Always remember to buckle up and drive safely while avoiding distractions which are the leading cause of accidents,” added Lt. Green.

The People Ignored on Red SundayBy Harold Pease

Near midnight March 21, now known as “Red Sunday” the House of Representatives voted to pass the Senate version of a national health care bill following many late night, behind closed-door deals made to buy or threaten holdouts and organizations amidst uncommon legislative trickery. Shame had no limits. I join the millions across the country disappointed—even angered—with our Imperial Congress, which has voted to clear the way for the end of freedom as we know it in healthcare—government takeover of 1/6 of the economy. They have done so with full knowledge that this intrusion is not supported by the people and is not constitutional. Following a year filled with tea parties and town hall meetings where Americans voiced their anger and distrust of this bill, Congress has continued to be flooded with emails, phone calls, letters, and faxes, as never before. Millions of formerly silent and trusting Americans from both parties became vigilant activists as they saw liberty threatened and their voices simply ignored. Yet members of both houses marched forward, hell-bent to give us what recent surveys say a vast majority of Americans did not want. The demand of the people was as clear as it possibly could be: We do not want socialism, more debt unfairly passed to our posterity, or laws that only lawyers can read and that are hundreds, sometimes thousands of pages in length! (Sunday morning the Bill was approximately 2400 pages in length but by evening it was near 2700 pages.) There has not been such disregard for the people since the American Revolution when Parliament did similarly. If an Imperial Congress can do it on one measure opposed by the people, they can do it on any measure. At least half of Congress no longer represents the people or defends the Constitution they vowed to honor. Everyone in the House or Senate voting to take away our health care liberty should be removed from office at the earliest possible moment regardless of party. Those running for Congress in 2010 should not be supported unless they pledge to repeal this legislation at the earliest possible moment. The California State legislature immediately must join the 14 sister states bringing suit to the Federal Government for abuse of power on the basis of this most serious violation of the 10th Amendment. Health care is not one of the enumerated powers in Article I, Section 8 and thus is an individual or state prerogative at best, as noted in the much-ignored 10th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Nor can it be justified as an extension of the commerce clause as some ignorantly suppose. We must take back our health care from the government that cannot even run the post office. If we do not persist in this fight, then our government will continue to hijack our economy and run it into the ground just like they have done with everything else they have power over.


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.

W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. And 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at First Baptist Church. 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 220 N. First St. Free and open to the public. Info call 716-4000.

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

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

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

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

TAFT COLLEGEChildren’s Center ReceptionistChildren’s Center Teacher. For complete job descriptions and application forms you can access the college’s website at www.taftcollege.edu. DEADLINE FOR FILING: Friday, April 23, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. EOE

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.

Shop at Ben’s Books on Center Street in Taft! Beginning next Wednesday, April 14, 2-4 p.m. Ben’s will be offering complimentary tea and scones!

HUGE YARD SALE all proceeds to go to American Cancer Society Taft Relay 4 Life April 10, 2010 7-11 a.m. 123 N. 10th Street Buena Vista Mobile Home Park Clubhouse

Yard Sale EVERY thing must GO!! 7-? 410 N.Lincoln

Huge Yard Sale in Dustin Acres! Mens clothing, baby items, horse saddle, movies, and more! 27950 Dustin Acres Rd. Sat & Sun.

Yard Sale Mastermen, next to the Free Will Baptist Church. 506 Harrison St. 9am-4pm. Complete computer systems and many electronics. Tools and lots of good useable items to choose from!

Yard Sale, 400 Irene St. in alley. Sat., 7am-10am. Lots of misc, furniture, appliances, etc.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

fems2112 (on YouTube) says:

www.ratethisjudge.com and stay tuned.

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

week as of 1-29-10 CARPET AND FLOORING

CARPET/HARD FLOORING REPAIR

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

4676.

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

WANTEDJunk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

FOR SALEOak claw ft. table, 4 chairs, 2 capt. and leaf. $275 obo 765-5237

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

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

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

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

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

FOUND PETS

AUTOMOBILES

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

PERSONALS

Magic Touch. New Vacancies Available. Email to [email protected].

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property

Management

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

areas.CRIME FREE

HOUSING Brokers Licence

04417057

661-577-7136

OPEN HOUSE HOUSE FOR SALE

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

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

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunsay

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunday

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From $220,000

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

HOMES FOR SALEwww.BuyKernCounty.comWe work for you NOT

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

Specializing in the Taft Area

661-332-6597 Karri Christensen

Real Estate eBroker Inc #01522411 &

#01333971

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

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

HOMES FOR RENTWest ValleyReal Estate

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

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

AffordableResidential HomesOwner Financing

Available

Open House ?House for Sale ?

House For Rent ?

Place Your Classif ied Ad

in the Taf t Independent

for $2 per l ine (18- 20 characters per l ine)

Box your ad for $3and\or

Ad a photo or company logofor $5 more

Your Ad appears on Our Website FREE !

3,000 Visits per WeekThe Taf t Independent is a FREE

publication3,300 printed issues

available at 150 locations

Your Best Classif ied Value on the Westside

Call 765-6550

[email protected]

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

Place YourClassified Ad in the

Taft Independent Today!

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

Call 765-6550 or email your classifed ad text to [email protected].

huge shared back yard. $595 plus deposit. Call Mark King at 805-689-4122.

2bd, 1ba. 27595 Valley West Rd. Valley Acres. Avail. now. $650 mo + dep. 805-712-03541 bd. downtown Taft. Off street parking. 319 1/2 North Street. Fenced Yard. $500 mo. plus dep. 661-623-5188.

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

2 bd. 1 ba. Very nice modern and private garden apartment in duplex. Fenced front yard in quiet neighborhood with fenced back patio. Central a\c. Incls washer and dryer, stove, refrig. dishwasher, carport. Must have good ref. xlnxt credit. $600 Plus Dep. Renter pays all util. Michael 765-6550 or 623-4296.

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

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

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

FOR LEASE 2 bedroom 1 bath house in Taft heights washer and gas dryer hook ups $700 a month contact Rick at either (661)765-2328 or (661)342-5877 section 8 ok available now.

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

2bd, 1ba, condo 533 Front St. W&D hookups + yard. $850 mo + dep. 661-577-7020

Room for rent $500 mow/ bath & utilities. Horsestale for rent $100 mo.You feed and clean.Dustin Acres. 661-342-7893

406 1/2 N. Lincoln 1/1 cottage, private yard, fully fenced, pet OK, covered parking &/or BBQ area, new cooler, very cute. Available now. $475/m + $750 security deposit. Looking for long term tenant, single or couple. Call Mark King 805-689-4122.

315 Pierce 3/1 priced as a Short Sale subject to lender approval. $24,900. Call Mark King 805-689-4122.

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

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

Preserving for the Future

GRANITE OVERLAYSKitchens • Bathrooms Showers • Fireplaces

No tear out required - Goes over any surfaceRLK Coatings

661-623-7039 661-366-5460

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

PUBLIC AUCTION


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

western shop & PET SUPPLY

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

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

FRESH SCENT - 256 CLEANSER

Visit our website for more informationwww.shawswesternshop.com

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

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

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

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

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

Advertise in the Taft IndependentCall Today! 765-6550

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

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

Edward J. Herrera Insurance

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

www.edherrerainsurance.com

Le Ofrecemos Los Mejores Precios

Auto - Casa - Salud - Negocio - Notario Publico

NuestroPersonalAmable

No Appointment Needed For Smog Check!

QIKSmog & Tune

500 S. 10th Street • Taft661-763-4445

• Certified Gold Shield

& C. A. P. Station

• General Automotive

Repair

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

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

CANINE PARVOVIRUS & DISTEMPER

Ad

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ise

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aft

Ind

epen

den

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od

ay!

76

5-65

50

4 Bedroom 2.5 bath home on a large cul-de-sac lot w/a court-yard entry, game room, 3 car shop w/cooler, pool, covered patio w/wet-bar and RV parking! Newer tile roof, paint, A/C, dual-

pane vinyl windows, granite in kitchen, custom oak cabinetry, banquet breakfast nook, formal dining room, indoor laundry, ceiling fans, sola-tubes, recessed lighting, tankless water heater & hardwood floors. A 1000 sq. ft. detached garage! Lots of storage including a 10x20 shed, pool

storage structure and enclosed exterior storage!

Contact: (661) 809-1782

$270,000 • 4 Bed/2.5 Bath • 208 Robin Way • Taft


Randy’s Trucking, Inc.Now Renting

U-Cart Away Concrete MixerStarting at $44

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

• Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer

• Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping

• Mixes Concrete While Traveling

• Large Internal Blades

• Rear Operator Control PanelCement Available 7 Days A Week

(661) 763-4773

ANDERSON BUSINESS SERVICESBookkeeping and Income Tax Preparation

TAX TIME IS HERE!Make Your Appointment Early.

10% OFFWITH THIS AD

NEW CLIENTS ONLYVisit

ABSTAFT.com

Sandy Anderson

Call for Appointment: 765-7665 or 577-6790

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

Open 7 Days a Week

BARRON PROPERTIESManagement/Sales

“Putting Management back into your Property”

Ethele M. Barron325 Kern Street

[email protected]

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

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

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

Open House: 10:00 - 10:30 am

Stephen Wright’s Tour of HomesApril 10, 2010

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

DRE# 01415460

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

Open House: 11:00 - 11:30 am

27965 Tank Farm Rd. 216 E. Lucard St.

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