Document

May 21-27, 2010 • Volume 4 Issue 47www.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!

[email protected] TaftIndependent

2nd Annual Taft Relay

for Life Hugh Success

Hall Ambulance MedEvac Crew and Paramedics Save The Life Of A Local Man

Taft Community Garden Growing, Red Bricks Still Needed For Walkway

Find Us On Facebook!And Become a Friend

Taft City Schools District New Superintendent Ron Bryant Talks Educationby Kent Miller

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May 21-27, 2010 TAFT INDEPENDENT 3

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

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

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

Taft Relay for Life.........5

Ron Bryant.......................6

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

Westside News.................9

Westside Horoscopes......9

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

Inside Community Events

The Taft Independent

508 Center StreetP.O. Box 268

Taft, California 93268(661) 765-6550

Fax (661) 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.TaftIndependent.com

Locally and Independently owned since 2006

The Taft Independent is a locally owned community newspaper published weekly on Fridays for your enjoyment and reading pleasure. We publish 3,250 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”

Optimal Hospice 1st Annual Walk and Remember Event Saturday, May 22nd

Optimal Hospice Foundation presents the 1st Annual WALK AND REMEMBER memorial event. Saturday, May 22, 2010 from 8:00am to 12:00pm Beach Park*Bakersfield, Corner of Oak Street and Highway 178. Walk the self-guided 1-mile. The lives will be honored by a butterfly release at 11:30am. For more information or to obtain registration forms, please contact Ann Smart, Foundation Director, 661-716-8000.

Bikers For Christ First Annual Down Biker Run Saturday, May 22nd

Bikers for Christ will be holding their first annual Down Biker Run to assist Westside riders who go down and need assistance. The event will be Saturday, May 22nd at Veterans Memorial Park on Kern Street and Hwy. 119. Registration begins at 8am KSU 9:30am. There will be a poker run, raffle prizes, BBQ and great music. $20 per rider/$10 for passenger, includes meal, 1 poker hand and 5 raffle tickets. Any question contact Dwayne Johnson (661)577-6872, [email protected] or Brandon Dillingham (661)330-7198. All donations are tax deductible.

Jump for the Red Cross and Blood Drive Saturday, May 22nd

Jump for the Red Cross and Houchin Community Blood Bank Blood Drive will be held Saturday, May 22nd at Skydive Taft from 10am to 4pm at 500 Airport Road in Taft. Enjoy Tandem Skydiving, BBQ and Raffle. Proceeds from Skydiving and BBQ support the Red Crosss. Contact Amy Sherrill to sign up to give blood at 765-5867

West Kern Oil Museum Pioneer Days Saturday, May 22nd

The West Kern Oil Museum will hold its annual Pioneer Days commemoration on Saturday. The event will feature a barbecue, gas engine show, working blacksmith shop, raffle and plant sale. All museum exhibits will be open. There is no admission charge. The cost of the barbecue is $10, and serving begins at 11:30 a.m. The meal includes drinks and homemade desserts. Gates open at 10 a.m. The museum – the Westside’s top tourist attraction – is located at Wood Street and Highway 33. Just look for the big wooden derrick.

Soroptimist Annual Garden Tours Saturday, May 22nd

Soroptimist Annual Fundraiser Start at the Beautiful Kings Nursery and then you will be given directions to visit various Gardens of the Area and return to the Fort for lunch. Special Speaker from King’s Nursery will be Charlottte Verdini . Table center pieces are raffled off ! Great Fun/ Don’t miss out this year! Always a treat! Tickets are $25

FREE Community Carnival Saturday, May 22nd

There will be a FREE Community Carnival at the West Hills Church of t he Nazarene 300 Lassen Ave., across the street from the rec. center, on Saturday, May 22nd from 10am to 2pm. There will be water games so plan to get wet! There will also be waterslides, games, food, prizes and more!

Taft Chamber of Commerce 2nd Annual Rails to Trails Car Show Saturday, June 12th

The 2nd Annual Chamber of Commerce Rails to Trails Car, Truck and Bike Show will be held on Saturday, June 12th on the Rails to Trails. Pre-registration is $25 and includes event t-shirt. There will be live bands, 50/50 Drawing, Beer Garden, Food and Vendor booths, raffle, poker walk, participant judging, dash plaques and awards for more information contact the Taft Chamber of Commerce at 765-2165

Taft Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament Saturday, June 26th

The Taft Chamber of Commerce will be holding their annual golf tournament 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 VISIT TAFTINDEPENDENT.COM

Untitled Ainsworth Project Filming in Taft – Audition Schedule Auditions will be held all day on Saturday, May 22nd at Chroma Teleproduction’s studio located at 407 ½ Center Street. All ages, types and performers are invited to audition. Please prepare a 30 second monologue, song, or dance that best showcases your ability and has something to say about you as an artist. If your talent is musically related, please be prepared to perform/play the entire song, though initially only a 30 second selection will be viewed.

Audition schedule for the Untitled Ainsworth Project will be held according to age range:

Age Time 6-9 9:30-10:00 10-13 10:00-11:00 14-18 11:00-12:00 19-25 12:00-1:00 Lunch Break 1:00-2:00 26-35 2:00-3:00 36-45 3:00-4:00 45-55 4:00-5:00 56 and above 5:00-6:00

If you cannot make your time slot due to other commitments, feel free to come at another time, preferably close to your playable age range. Depending on the number of people auditioning, time slots may likely shift forward or backward by half an hour, as necessitated by the process. We have created a schedule to best accommodate everyone, though please remain flexible.

Filming is slated to begin in June, with anticipated shoot dates TBD. Production will run on Saturdays

Pioneer Days The West Kern Oil Museum will hold its annual Pioneer Days commemoration on Saturday. The event will feature a barbecue, gas engine show, working blacksmith shop, raffle and plant sale. All museum exhibits will be open. There is no admission charge. The cost of the barbecue is $10, and serving begins at 11:30 a.m. The meal includes drinks and homemade desserts. Gates open at 10 a.m. The museum – the Westside’s top tourist attraction – is located at Wood Street and Highway 33. Just look for the big wooden derrick.

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Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

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The Taft

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Letters to the Editor

Every Friday is Ribeye Steak Dinner Night

Westside Watcher Looked At

Editor, I just read your recent WW and noticed that you commented on a lot of the issues that has befallen the city lately. These are rough times for Taft Government and since my children and grandchildren still live in Taft, I have concerns for the city and the direction it has taken since Cliff Thompson was re-elected in 2002. As I have lived in and been around Taft my entire life, the element that Mr. Thompson was going to bring to the council was well known by all of us who were around Taft in the 1970’s and 1980’s. But still the people of Taft continued to elect him (three times in all with his recall). It is a shame what the Taft Government has come to and what is happeneing to the City’s budget (which was fairly robust when the previous City Manager was terminated). One issue you always fail to mention in your comments is the people who elected Mr. Thompson should have as much blame layed on them in this debacle as anyboby at or invovled with City Hall. A wise man who used to be the City Manager in Taft told my wife once “A city gets the government it deserves”. Welcome to YOUR city government Taft voters...

Steven Napier

Two Taft Sisters Need Help

Korina Rawls & Meghan Hall have two younger sisters, native Taftians, who have been stricken with health problems.

Meet Our Independent Staff Photographer Sara BravoSara Bravo caught our attention when she won 1st Place in the Oilpatch catagory in the Taft Camera Club Photo contest last Fall, and won 6 other awards. A graduate of Taft High, Sara has been a professional photographer for 6 years where she started her business in Bakersfield. She has sinced moved back to the Westside where she will soon open her own photography studio at the Historic Fort. The Grand opening is scheduled for Thursday, May 27th at 11 a.m. Sara’s photos have already been featured on our front cover, and in several of our stories. Sara got married at The Historic Fort four years ago and enjoys being involved with the community. Sara’s husband is employed by MTC. When Sara and her husband, Oscar, are not working they enjoy spending the day at the park with their two year old daughter.

Rachael Sagaser and her youngest sister, Amy are currently being treated for cancer and for kidney failure, respectively. Both sisters were born here in Taft to Grant and Peggy Sagaser and are the grandchildren of long-time residents, Jim and Betty Sagaser of Valley Acres. On May 20 both girls will be undergoing further diagnostic studies for their illnesses. Rachael, age 27, will be at Oregon Health Sciences Univ. for follow-up scans and tests for her thyroid cancer. She was diagnosed in Dec 2008, had surgery in 2009 and her 2nd full body scan 2 weeks ago. She has a second neck tumor that cannot be ignored. All has been going well for her after her Iodine 131 radiation treatment until this past week, when her tumor markers came back high. Also on May 20, and across the state from her, resides her sister, Amy, age 23, who will undergo a kidney biopsy in Bend, Ore. She has also been stricken with thyroid problems but her biopsy for cancer came back last July as “inconclusive”. Amy was diagnosed with both problems during the first trimester of her 2nd pregnancy. She first became ill with bilateral pneumonia and flown out of her small eastern Oregon town to Bend. While there she became compromised with her 2nd bout of kidney failure. Her kidney problems have to be resolved before they can move forward with the thyroidectomy. Both girls have medical expenses not covered by their insurance. Amy’s husband is a CNA/EMT at their local hospital and Rachael is an Emergency Room Registration Clerk. The account is being setup at Chevron Valley Credit Union under their sister Korina’s name.

Peggy Nealon

The Westside Christian Ministers’ Association is sponsoring a Kickoff Concert for the Oildorado celebration this fall. It will be on the opening night, Friday, October 15 at the Taft Union High School football stadium. The headlining band is Tenth Avenue North, who won a Dove Award as the best new group of 2008, and they also received an award for the 2009 song of the year, “In Your Arms” just last month. Joining them will be Addison Road and also another special guest. Their music will appeal to all ages and will minister to your soul.

Tickets to the concert are $25 for V.I.P. seating on the field and $15 for General Admission in the bleachers. Children’s General Admission tickets for those ages 9 and under are $10. Tickets will be available at the Oildorado store starting next month and at the WCMA website, www.oildoradoconcert.com. Gates will open at 5:30; the concert will begin at 6:30. The snack stands will be open, Carl’s Jr. will also be providing opportunities for food, and there will be tri tip sandwiches available as well. Seventeen different churches are coming together to present this quality event for Taft’s 100th Anniversary celebration. It will be a wonderful night of music and inspiration.

Ministers’ Association Sponsoring Oildorado Kickoff Concert

Pastor Scott Pearson receives a check from Charles and Jennifer Landwehr of Erickson & Brown Funeral Home who are helping sponsor the Oildorado Kickoff Concert October 15 at the high school football stadium with Tenth Avenue North, Addison Road and another special guest.

School Crossing Guards

Because I need the exercise and I only live a few minutes from campus, I walk to work Monday through Friday and cross the street at Emmons Park Dr. and 6th. I’ve been doing this for several years now and have noticed a couple of things. First of all, you couldn’t pay me enough to be a crossing guard. We’re talking about rush hour traffic, noisy kids in constant motion, a broken crossing warning device, and a sprinkling of surly drivers. The second thing I noticed is that the crossing guards seem to always be in a good mood. How come? I’ve seen them working in freezing temperatures, pouring rain, and blistering heat. I endure my daily walks because I know I will be sitting on a padded swivel chair in my air conditioned office in a few minutes. In the meantime, crossing guards are cheerfully risking their lives, greeting kids, and enduring the elements for 3 1/2 hours daily. How come? Could it be that they are dedicated to the safety of a bunch of total strangers’ kids? I watch as packs of children crowd down the sidewalks and bounce across the street under the watchful eyes of some very skillful crossing guards. Because I admire these people, I have made a few acquaintances among them and have written about them from time to time. One nice lady even crocheted some slippers for me. (What a doll!)So here is the biggest HOW COME of all: How come the Taft City School District is eliminating the position of school crossing guards? The down-sizing, according to the powers that be, is an economic necessity. Let’s face it, the economy stinks and a lot of good people are taking it on the chin.The big plan is to have teachers rotating through to fill in the void. Huh? Let’s work on this one. A teacher gets paid somewhere around $27 to $60 an hour and a crossing guard earns approximately $10 to $11 an hour. When children are changing classes and crossing 6th during school hours, this works well. However, for the 2 hours before school and 1 ½ hours after school, the Taft City Schools are going to lose money. Does the school district expect the teachers to volunteer to cross kids before and after school? This would be the perfect solution IF teachers could be in two places at once: preparing for their soon-to-arrive 35 students and watching kids cross the street. And then again, there’s the experience factor. I’ve seen the guards carefully wait for a break in the traffic, bravely enter the street, stand there until the

children are safely across, and then dodge oblivious drivers. I even saw one driver run through the intersection while children were present and express the sentiment, “No harm, no foul!”What is the school board thinking? You cannot buy experience or dedication. You cannot put a price tag child safety. Isn’t that why California mandates safety seats for babies and small children? As Whitney Houston put it, “I believe that children are our future.” What is this decision saying about our most precious resource? What does this say about our future? The school board seems to have plenty of time on their hands; maybe they should volunteer to cross kids.

Leslie Bauer


The stories flashed across the large screen at the back of a stage that anchored a ring of cramped campsites at Taft Union High School’s Patterson/O’Brien Field. There was the image of the handsome young James David Lewis resplendent in a light blue tux, and Chief Hacker, and “Baby Diesel” Noah Alexander. Running alongside their pictures were the words noting the forms of cancer that took their lives.The stories were told in more than a thousand little white glowing paper bags that ringed the track.They bore the names of still more victims – some deceased and others who are survivors. That’s what Taft’s second annual Relay for Life 24-hour walkathon was all about – honoring the victims of cancer and celebrating the survivors. And, it was an enormous success. The 49 teams and individuals that made up Relay raised more than $108,000 for the American Cancer Society’s fight against the disease that touches so many lives. “Our goal was $75,000, and look what we just did,” beamed event chair LaNell Howell moments after the grand total was announced. “This is just incredible.” Friends and family joined nearly 800 participants on the 49 teams camping out overnight and orchestrating one of the Westside’s most successful fund-raising events – if not the biggest.The teams raised nearly $80,000 before the weekend event and continued bringing in the cash with a variety of activities. Megaswope’s Supercrew hawked superhero capes and masks, Little Red Wagon Pullin’ for a Cure offered a minicupcake if you bought a raffle ticket, Kern Street Pharmacy sold carne sada and tacos, Walk Stars sold “Cancer Sucks” T-shirts, West Kern Water District raffled off $500 in cash, God Glam and Girlfriends offered up an impressive array of jewelry, and the bright yellow clad E-Lemon-Ate Cancer team baked and sold pastries. Teams held fund-raising events leading up to the big weekend – raffles, car washes, a softball tournament. Channel 17 television anchors Jim Scott and Robin Mangrin helped kick off the event Saturday morning on a bright note. A parade of hundreds of cancer survivors made the first lap around the track followed by caregivers. While the participants walked and teams continued to generate cash for the cause, people got soaked in the dunk booth, danced and played games. Music blared and Taft’s Got Talent contest winner Baeleigh Bevin entertained with a concert. Three local bands performed, and there were demonstrations of kick boxing and the new exercise craze Zumba. When the sun went down, the volume went down as well and a quiet settled over the venue and the mood became somber with the luminaria ceremony that paid tribute to the victims.The festive atmosphere returned with a dance party on the field, a crazy pajama contest, pizza delivered to each campsite at midnight and movies running all night long. It all culminated with the “Fight Back” ceremony Sunday morning and reached a crescendo with the announcement of total amount of money raised.

Taft Relay for Life


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Ron Bryant - Taft City Schools District

By Kent Miller It has been a tough first year on the job for Ron Bryant, who took over in October as superintendent of Taft City School District. A shrinking budget and the resulting need to cut expenses – mainly through cutting jobs – has meant that the new superintendent has had to make some hard decisions. They are decisions that are costing some people their livelihood. “The economy is what is bad,” said Bryant, who joined TCSD on Oct. 1 from Wasco Union School District where he was an assistant superintendent. “It’s no fault of any one individual or organization. Sacramento has put all of us in a bad situation.” The troubled economic situation brings challenges. “We are looking at ways to work smarter, not harder, do more with less,” he said. “There is an

opportunity to make the organization better as a whole.” But painful steps must be taken. “We have noticed (sent layoff notices to) people,” Bryant said. “We are looking at reducing 16 certified (teaching) positions. We offered retirement incentives, allowing us to bring back most of the 16. We are working through that.”Nine teachers, two principals and one psychologist are retiring. “It is looking good for the folks whom have been noticed,” he said. “The biggest highlight (of the year) was having so many retirees that has allowed us to bring back teachers that would be laid off.”But on the classified side, the situation is much more severe. “We have notified several positions, about 36 positions,” Bryant said. “Some of the 36 positions are vacant now. “There have been two-three years of bad budgets. We are probably going to have another one a year from now … Some more cuts next spring (are likely).”

Contention “I think that we started off on a very good note with Mr. Bryant,” said Mike Wooley, president of the TCSD chapter of the California School Employees Association. “I was very positive that we would have a good relationship. But it has only been recently – that we have had to deal with layoffs – that I have become disappointed. “And I think some of the steps taken, we could have mitigated those if we could have sat down and talked rather than laying off people.“The classified employees for the most part live in

Administration has also been reduced by attrition, Wooley said. He noted that the district has decided for now not to fill the maintenance, operations and transportation post. That will save $60,000 to $90,000 – even with raises to others to take over the work, Wooley said. “Thirty-six classified positions were eliminated – two were vacant but should have been filled,” he said. “There were no retirement options given to the 34 position holders. “Over 500 years of experience (with the 34 classified employees) will be laid off to save $450,000 for the 36 positions.” Communicating Trish Carino, president of the Taft Elementary Teachers Association and the Migrant Education Program lead teacher for the district, has a different opinion. “I have really enjoyed working with him (Bryant),” Carino said. “He is off to a really good start in the district. He is great at communicating with the association. “I believe that is what the school board wants – working together for what is best for the students. They really want us all to work together. “We have had issues – the budget. There are no easy solutions. No matter what the board decides, it is going to hurt. The board and Mr. Bryant have taken a more balanced approach to the budget. They are making every effort (to solve the problem).“It has been great working with Mr. Bryant. I really think he has shown that he is sincere about wanting to work together with all of the groups. “In the past it hasn’t always been that way. That is a change from past years when it was an adversarial relationship.”

The challenge “The budget is the first and foremost challenge,” Bryant said. “We must make sure we are running an effective program and that the students are meeting the levels of academic achievement.”Bryant praised his staff. “We have a great staff; lots of committed employees,” he said. “That is what makes Taft and the TCSD unique. There is a lot of community pride in everybody. “The people have some connection with the area even if they don’t live here now. Taft is a great place with a bunch of great people.” As far as school offerings go:In the elementary schools, “just the student-teacher

ratio is trickling up,” he said.At the junior high level, “we are looking at different types of classes,” Bryant said. “But few electives are left. There are only six periods a day, so electives have already been cut.”Classes needed to help some students pass state tests are required. “There are strict requirements on

academics with No Child Left Behind legislation,” he said. “There are not a lot of things that can be cut.” Enrollment is expected to remain about the same over the next several years, the superintendent said.“I don’t see any great changes in enrollment for next year,” he said. Enrollment this school year is 2,134.“It is pretty consistent here (but) does fluctuate 25 to 50 students,” Bryant said. “It is up 25 from one year ago at this time.” For the last 15 to 20 years the district enrollment has been 2,000 to 2,200 students. The district includes Taft, Dustin Acres, Ford City, and Valley Acres, “with some students going here or elsewhere because of where their parents work,” Bryant said. “It happens everywhere.”

Feeder schools “Every school district in the state of California has to deal with budget issues,” said Mark Richardson, superintendent of the Taft Union High School District and principal of Taft Union High School. “Every school district in the state of California has to deal with budget issues. Every district has to look at ways they can adjust the budget to meet the shrinking dollar.” Richardson spent one year as TUHS principal then took the dual post of superintendent and principal two years ago. Bryant is the fourth TCSD superintendent that Richardson has worked with in those three years. One TCSD superintendent retired, one served for one year then took a similar post in Salinas, and the third served as interim superintendent for two months until Bryant came onboard. “I have a good working relationship (with Bryant),” Richardson said. “We meet periodically with the feeder schools (to TUHS). It is a good working relationship with us and the feeder schools. “We work with the feeder schools to articulate with those schools (on what TUHS would like to see stressed for various classes). “The better job we do (with the feeder schools), the better job our kids can do when they come in (to TUHS).”

A look at the district TCSD consists of: Lincoln Junior High, with 6th, 7th, and 8th grades; Roosevelt Elementary, with 4th and 5th grades; and Conley, Jefferson, Parkview and Taft Primary, with kindergarten through 3rd-grade. The district is seeking two grants through Proposition 84 from the 2006 statewide election.“We are hoping to get just under $5 million each,” Bryant said. “There is a good chance to get it.”The grants are for: * The Lincoln Junior High gymnasium, locker room, outside basketball courts and athletic fields. The gym would be at the corner of Warner and 4th streets, next to the auditorium, he said.

this community and understand that there are hard times facing all of us. We want to be part of the solution – but not the part that is sacrificed to balance the budget. “We do know that there have been some teachers who have received some (layoff ) notices. But for the most part, most of them will be negated because of retirements – 16 teachers were noticed, about 12 of them to come back (because of retirements).”


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* Conley School multipurpose room, beatification of the playground, athletic equipment, outside basketball courts and athletic fields. “It’s not definite yet,” Bryant said. “We should hear the first week of September” The grants will bring facilities up to date, he said. They will modernize the original facilities at Lincoln. “The school still uses swamp coolers,” Bryant said. “We will upgrade the air conditioning, install dual-pane windows, remodel and bring it up to date.” Other schools in the district have had their air conditioning and other items updated, he said.Lincoln dates to the 1920s and its auditorium to 1938. Conley is the oldest school in the district, dating to the early 1900s.

Jefferson was built in the 1980s and the other three schools in the 1950s.Bakersfield native Bryant, 38, was born and raised in Bakersfield. He graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1990, then went to Bakersfield College and California State University, Bakersfield.After graduating from CSUB, he served as an instructional aide with Kern High School District, taught in the Bakersfield City School District and Lamont School District, then entered the school administration field with Delano Union School District and Wasco Union School District.Bryant and his wife, Kim, have two sons. Cole is finishing his junior year in high school and Blake is finishing sixth-grade.Bryant transferred his Bakersfield Rotary Club membership to the Taft club upon taking the TCSD position.

Taft City Council Criticized Again by Grand Jury for Violation of Brown Act By Michael Long

The Kern County Grand Jury has released a new report critical of the City Council majority for violation of the Brown Act. The report entitled, City of Taft Brown Act Violation, was posted on the Kern County Grand Jury website today and said in its findings that the council majority had violated the open meeting law by signing a letter which was directed to an unnamed 4th city councilman “demanding silence on certain matters...” Last month, the council majority of Mayor Dave Noerr, and Councilmen Paul Linder and Randy Miller had consulted in closed session with the city attorney and outside legal council on employee harassment accusations against two councilmen and sent a letter to Councilman Craig Noble asking him to not publicly comment on the ongoing investigation because it could bring possible litigation against the City of Taft. The letter was disclosed by Noble in an interview in a Bakersfield television news report. Councilman Paul Linder, who said he was not contacted by the Grand Jury on the letter or interviewed on the issue, was surprised to learn about the new report. “Frankly, I am surprised that the Grand Jury did not ask us about the letter or look into the legal process we took to conform with the law,” Linder said. “We noticed the meeting on the council agenda, placed it on the closed session agenda and did everything according to the law.” Linder said that the council majority had consulted with outside legal council and the city attorney, both present in the closed session

Taft Community Garden Gets New Sign, Red Brick Donations Still Needed

Taft Community Gardens got a new sign last week (photo courtesy of Lodema Hatch). The Garden has been expanding with two new storage sheds built by the TUHS ROP Program, and 12 new raised garden beds. Inmates from MTC have been laying the brick walkway, but more red bricks are still needed. If you have any you wish to donate, please drop them by. The Garden is located on 9th Street across from Coopers True Value Hardware.meeting when the letter was drafted. Linder said that the council was addressing serious personnel issues that could not be addressed in public and sought legal advise before taking any steps. The letter was intended to caution a council member against speaking about personnel matters that were closed session items, which could bring a law suit against the city. Linder said he was disappointed that the

Grand Jury was not asking the council about the process. “It’s a runaway Grand Jury,” Linder said. “They are being used politically by some members of the Taft City Council. If they looked into what’s happening here, they would discover how they are being used.” The report, on the other hand seemed to be blaming the council majority for losing sight of their role as council members. “The three members being investigated in the present report seem to be pursuing a vendetta against the other two members and have lost sight of the true role of a Council member (i.e., representing the citizens and the interests of the City of Taft),” the report read. “All members of the City Council must lay aside personal differences and return solely to the business of representing the citizens and governing the City of Taft in accordance with all laws and regulations.” The report further criticized the council majority on the letters’ language and attempt to silence a council member. “An attempt to silence an elected official has the effect of disenfranchising the people. The apparent actions of the three Councilpersons have violated the Brown Act and the interest of the people of Taft,” the report read. The report concluded with two recommendations. 1. That the three Council members should conform to all sections of the Brown Act and cease all illegal acts. Additionally, the three should attend a retraining class on the Brown Act immediately, and 2., within 30 days of release, the City Council should put on the agenda of a regular scheduled meeting the contents of the present report for the sole purpose of soliciting comments from the citizens of Taft on what actions to take to resolve the issues raised in the present report. Linder said that the council majority has been working in the best interests of the city to confront two members of the council on their conduct. “It’s totally unfair,” said Linder. “Our problems are being caused by the minority, and we are the ones being criticized.”


TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”

Pastor Cindy BrettschneiderSunday Morning Worship 10:00 AM

Adult Bible Study and Sunday School 11 AMAdult Bible Study Monday 6:00 PMWednesday Night Service 6:00 PM

Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

Trinity Southern Baptist Church

400 Finley DriveWe invite you to join us

each week as we worship

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

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm

First Congregational Church of MaricopaSunday 10 a.m.

Bible StudyThursday Nights 7 p.m.

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

Lighthouse Foursquare Church210 Harrison Street 763-1518

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

Sunday Service 10 AMPastors Mark and Kathy Fitzsimmons

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

New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”

308 Harrison Street765-4572

Sunday Morning Worship Service 10 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship Service 6 p.m

Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.

Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced

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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

Sunday Service at 10:00AM

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Immaculate Conception Parish

Mass Saturday 7pmSunday 9am

Everyone WelcomeDeacon Ricardo Barragan

Weddings - BaptismsQuinceañeras

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

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

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Bikers for Christ Motorcycle MinistryTaft Chapter

Downed Biker Ministry

Mission Statement

The Taft Chapter of the Bikers for Christ Motorcycle Ministry, in conjunction with various other ministries and individuals, announces our Downed Biker Ministry, a special ministry to benefit those bikers who have been involved in a motorcycle accident and need assistance. Our 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 salaries or expenses. This event is intended to be repeated as necessary 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 or 661-577-6872 [email protected]


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WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUPFord CityTuesday

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• 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/

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Aries (March 21-April 19): Things are frustrating I know, but try to keep things in perspective. You’re certainly not the only one who’s been affected and things could be infinitely worse.

Taurus (April 20-May 20): While people are willing to sympathize with you to a certain extent, you’re coming dangerously close to whining. So start focusing on the positive instead.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): You’re stepping into dangerous territory here, so just proceed with extreme caution. Only you can know if this is worth the risks.

Cancer ( June 21-July 22): While you have every right to be upset, it will do you a lot more good to not show it. Just try to grin and bear it and you’ll be surprised how it helps.

Leo ( July 23-August 22): You may not realize it, but your words have made quite an impression on a new acquaintance, and not in a good way. Try to use the filter between brain and mouth.

Virgo (August 23-September 22): You’re so close to being where you want to be and getting what you want, so just try to be patient a little bit longer. Everything’s within reach.

Libra (September 23-October 22): No one but you knows the pain you’re in right now. You need to be willing to talk to someone if you want anyone to help you.

Scorpio (October 23-November 22): If you’re wondering why a certain family member is always happy and never seems bothered, it’s because they put on a remarkable show.

Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): The next few weeks will be a little crazy, but then you move onto a new phase of your life, and can take some time to breathe in the process.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19): I wish I could tell you this was going to be an easy week, but that’s just not likely to be the case. Do what’s necessary to get through it.

Aquarius ( January 20-February 19): It’s totally understandable for you to feel a bit betrayed right now, but try to see the other side. There truly is no malicious intent there as far as I can see.

Pisces (February 20-March 20): Keeping your temper under control this week will be no easy task, but an extremely necessary one. Do what you must to avoid any outbursts.

If your birthday is this week: While you are definitely entitled to your own opinion, you need to start thinking about whether it’s always necessary to make it known. If it makes you feel better to do so than by all means, go ahead. Just don’t be surprised if people start keeping their distance from you as a result.

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Hall Ambulance Dispatch and MedEvac Saves the Life of Local Man

On Wednesday, May 12th a press conference was given by Hall Ambulance to discuss the positive outcome of the 911 System and Hall Ambulance dispatch during a recent event that occurred on Thursday, April 1st. On Thursday, April 1st the Kern County Fire Station 21 in Taft and Hall Ambulance Taft Station were dispatched at 7:32pm to a call of a 53 year old man, Michael McKnight, who was complaining of chest pressure radiating into his left arm with numbness. Hall Ambulance Paramedic unit 358 with Paramedic Jennifer Hilon and EMT David Wallace requested for the Hall Ambulance Air MedEvac at 7:47pm. Paramedics then proceeded to the Taft Airport with Mr. McKnight to meet the MedEvac. MedEvac landed at the Taft Airport at 8:09pm where Flight Medic, Shawn Perryman, Flight Nurse, Tim Hattier, and Pilot, Tim Anderson met with the paramedic unit. At 8:19pm the MedEvac lifted off for San Joaquin Community Hospital Chest Pain Center in Bakersfield. At 8:20pm prior to clearing Taft airspace, Mr. McKnight suffered sudden cardiac arrest. The decision was made to land to attend to Mr. McKnight and for the safety of the crew. Mr. McKnight was then defibrillated and CPR was initiated. Mr. McKnight regained a spontaneous heartbeat and began to breath which made it possible for the MedEvac to start transportation back to San Joaquin Hospital at 8:23pm. The MedEvac arrived at the San Joaquin Community Hospital Chest Pain Center at 8:32 pm. “What took the MedEvac less than 10 minutes for transportation would have taken a drive time of about 40 to 45 minutes,” said Mr. McKnight, “I didn’t have those extra 30 minutes.”

Michael McKnight thanking everyone involved in saving his life.

Upon arrival to San Joaquin Hospital, care was handed over to Dr. Ziomek and Dr. Bezdek and the Cardiac Care Team. Two days later, on Saturday, April 3rd Michael McKnight was discharged from San Joaquin Hospital and on his way back home to Taft.

Michael McKnight standing with the MedEvac Flight Crew, Hall Ambulance Paramedic Crew, San Joaquin Community Hospital Chest Pain Center Staff and E.R. Staff that were all involved on Thursday, April 1st.

Michael McKnight sitting with his wife and two of his three triplet daughters while Bakersfield Mayor and Hall Ambulance Founder and President Harvey Hall recognized the men in women involved in the positive outcome of the 911 system and Hall Ambulance dispatch.


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.

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.

COMPUTER SERVICES

Desktop and Laptop Repair. Virus removal. Moble & Inhouse. TaftPCServices.com. 623-5188.

HELP WANTED

TAFT COLLEGEADJUNCT LECTURERS

SUMMER 2010 INTERSESSION

Learning SkillsStudent Success

FALL 2010 SEMESTER

ArtBusiness/Natural Resources Pool

Computer ScienceEnglish

ESLInformation Competency

Learning Skills

For more information about these positions, minimum qualifications

and how to apply you can access the college’s website at www.taftcollege.edu.

DEADLINE FOR FILING is Monday, May 17,

2010 at 4:00 p.m. EOE

Position: Administrative Secretary

PART TIMEThis position is assisting the Executive Director

of the Taft District Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau in the daily work of the

Chamber. All work will be handled in the most

confidential terms.

Business ServicesCleaning Services

My Fair LadiesCleaning ServicesComm. and ResidentialServing the Westside661.477.3455Lic. No. 007657

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

New Designer Nail Fashion.

Now in Taft by Jackie King.Studio 111

991.765.5758

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.

Estate Sale. 27549 Cypress St. Valley Acres. 8 a.m Sat. 22nd.

Yard Sale. 27950 Dustin Acres Rd. Dustin Acres. Sat. & Sun. Baby stuff, western shirts, boots, saddle, poker table, 2 car carport.

Yard Sale. 301 Tyler Street. Saturday 7am-? Furniture, appliances, house wares, parts, old stuff.

Giant Moving Sale- Lots of furniture, appliances, T.V.’s, glassware, knicknacks, travel trailer, new lawnmower and more. Sat. & Sun. 9am-5pm. 324 Adeline St., Maricopa.

Foreclosure. Everything must go. Furniture, baby stuff, kitchen, clothes, pool, motorcycle, table saw and more! 805 Hazelton ST. Maricopa. Saturday 8am-5pm

ANNOUNCEMENTSThanks for the

signatures. Proponents also needed for other [County Supervisor &

Judge] Notices of Intent to Petition for Recall. http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=108531169171123&v=a

pp_2392950137

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.

Must possess excellent computer and word processing skills.

Knowledge in the use of Windows-based

software required. Must have experience with PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, QuickBooks

and the Internet as well as customer service

experience DMV printout and background check will be required.

Email Resume and Salary History to:

[email protected].

No phone or walk-in applications accepted.

Help wanted. Bar Tender, no experience ness. Prep cook. 765-6909.

VACANCYINSTRUCTIONAL

ASSISTANCE - BILINGUAL

Taft Union High School is accepting applications for an Instructional Assistant - Bilingual. This is an In--School day position, 8-hours per day, Pay Range $15, $14.73 p/hr. E.O.E. Employment process includes: Application and resume, Written Exam, Interview, DOJ Clearance, Pre-employment Physical and Drug Screen, and background check.

Applications, Job Descriptions, and Salary Schedules are available at the TUHS Business Office, 701 7th Street, 7:00 a.m. & 3:30 p.m. M-F. Applications must be received in the Business no later than 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 26th. Written exam will be on Thurday, May 27th at 7:00 p.m. in the TUHS IRC Lecture Hall.

week as of 1-29-10 CARPET AND FLOORING

CARPET/HARD FLOORING REPAIR

No job too small. Call Jeff 623-5421 or

765-4676.

For Sale: Carpet Equip. Carpet stretchers, knee knockers, edger, trimer, cuter, hot iron, seamers. $350 obo(661)769-8887

SERVICESBabysitting: Reliable family daycare. Several openings available. Lori 342-6351

Remodels, additions, home repair, tile, cement, plumbing, no job or repair too small. 661-342-3460 #564843

WANTEDJunk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

LOST & FOUNDFound ipod on walking trail. Call 343-4971 to identify.

FOR SALEAcer PC computer and moniter for sale. 1 year old. $225 obo 765-6550

Dinette, dryer, antique lamp & bird cage. $75 each. 765-7958.

LOST PETS

Female Black, brn paws and brn eye browns. Small fat dog. Purple collar. Daisy. 100 Bock North Street. 577-6309.

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

FREE KITTENS 6 weeks old, feel free to call 6616232188

FOUND PETSFound. Desert Turtle. Call to claim. (661)858-9649

AUTOMOBILES1988 Ford F-150 Auto., smogged and tagged. 765-2574. $2,100.

AffordableResidential HomesOwner Financing

Available

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].

1996 Dodge Ram 2500, V-10, 8 Liter, 3/4 Ton, 4WD, 5th wheel hitch,$6,000.00 OBO, Ask for Louie 661.766-2397 or 805-448-5836

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

04417057661-577-7136

OPEN HOUSE HOUSE FOR SALE

HOMES FOR SALENOW OPEN

Real Estate eBroker Inc.325 Kern Street

Karri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 &

#01333971661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.comReal Estate Sales &

Purchase

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

SEARCHING: WANTING TO BUY in parkview village. 4bd, 2ba, 2 car garage w/ covered patio 1800 sq. ft. Call Dusti 623-4959

HOMES FOR RENT

West 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.

420 McKinley

4bd, 2.5 ba. New cabinets, granite counters, carpet and paint. Approx. 2,200 sq. ft. $1,500 mo. 763-3517

Preserving for the Future

Taft Manna 4 U

Free Hot Lunches and ClothingTuesday and Thursdays11:30 - 1:30

201 Harrison Street(661)205-3376

210 Naylor St. 3 bd. 1 ba. Remodeled house. $700 mo. plus dep. 909-239-8337.or 661-717-9056.

2 bd, 1 bth, 429 Rose. Laundry rm, garage. $660 mo. 343-0507

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

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

2 bd,1 bth. 429 Rose. Laundry rm, garage. $660 monthly. 343-0507

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

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

House for Rent - Clean 2 bedroom/1 bath $650 per month plus $500 deposit call (909)851-4228.

For rent 2 bdrm, 1 bath, $600+500 cleaning/security deposit. No inside pets. 118 Lincoln, Taft. 661-589-9130

Cozy, 2 bed/1 bath plus office/dinning room, large fenced yard, new paint and new tile floors. 144 North St. $750/Mo. & $750/Dep. 623-1378

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

Courtyard Terrace Apts.

NoticeRequests for proposals are being distributed by the City of Taft (City) to perform a feasibility study and design for the City of Taft Municipal Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) Expansion/ Upgrade.

Copies of the Request for Proposals may be obtained without charge from the City of Taft located at 209 E. Kern Street, Taft, CA 93268, 661-763-1222

Interested parties are invited to submit proposals to the City of Taft, 201 E. Kern Street, Taft, and Ca 93268. All proposals must be received no later than 2:00 pm June 4, 2010Contact City of Taft City Engineer, Helt Engineering, Inc @ 661 323-6045 or Craig Jones, Public Works Manager, City of Taft at 763-1222 for more information

NOW OPENReal Estate eBroker Inc.

325 Kern StreetKarri Christensen

LIC# 01522411 & #01333971661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.comReal Estate Sales & Purchase

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

For rent studio with bath $350 ready 6/4/10 email [email protected] or CALL 866 367 8171

1bd, 1ba, newly remodled. $550 + dep. Call Leora 302-1333. Se habla espanol Armondo (805)889-4003


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].

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

western shop & PET SUPPLY

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

ADAMSFlea & Tick

Visit our website for more informationwww.shawswesternshop.com

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 - Notary Public

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

Biospot for CatsSpot ons: FRONTLINE Plus

Advantage TRI Force

Ad

vert

ise

in t

he T

aft

Ind

epen

den

tC

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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

RLK Coatings Oil production tank owners & operators get ready for the

November 10th 2010 deadline that requires secondary contaiment be lined. Fines are $5000.00/day for the first time & $10,000.00/day for repeat violations.

• Our spray applied systems that are seamless & in event of a spill offers 100% recovery with easy cleanup.

• Membranes are long lived,tough & resilient • Withstands thermal cycling & UV exposure

• No VOC’s • Nontoxic • Non-Flammable • Instant Set • Quick Return to Service• Spray Liners Can Be Used as Waterproofing • Eliminate Roof Replacement-Leaks

• Breath New Life Into Old Rusted Out Tanks • Line Sumps • Mud Pits • Whatever Needs Contained

For more information on services & the new law please visit our website

Sales 661-623-7039 Office 661-366-5460www.rlkcoatings.com

No • BiteFlea & Tick

ZODIACFleatrol

New Products Just in Time for Flea Season!


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

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

Stephen Wright

503 6th St. Taft, CA • (661)765-5274 • South Valley Realty

DRE# 01415460

Open House Friday, May 21st.3:30pm-5:30pm

216 E. Lucard Street 3 Bdrm, 2 Bath, 3 Car

Garage, $179,900

216 E. Lucard Street • Taft

FREE WI-FI AT THE TAFT INDEPENDENT

Open House Friday, May 21st

MARK YOUR CALENDARThe Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant

Open 7 Days a WeekBreakfast - Lunch - Dinner

Full Bar - Restaurant - Catering - RV Parking Available

24870 Highway 33 in Derby Acres • (661) 768-4655Owner Orchel Krier Welcomes You and Your Family - Dinner Reservations

Located in the Heart of Oil Country On the Petroleum HighwayDaily Lunch

SpecialsAmerican and Mexican FoodExotic Crusine

We CaterYour Place or OursFull Bar AvailableFor You Special

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