Document

December 10-16, 2010 • Volume 5 Issue 24www.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”

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1018 West Kern StreetTaft, CA 93268

Bus: 661-763-4300

Oriental Foot Spa Now Open in Taft

Community Christmas Tree Up In 5th St. Plaza

Meet Taft’s New MayorRandy Miller

It’s Miller Time...

Black GoldCoffee House and Deli

508 Center Street • 765-6550

The Best Beer Selection on Tap in Taft!Starting Wednesday, December 15th

Meat Ball Sandwiches!

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT December 10-16, 2010

Passion For Nails

Monday to Friday10am-7pm and

Saturday 9am-6pm

Gift Certificates AvailableNail Services:

Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star

(we also treat ingrown nails)

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

426 Center Street (661)763-5451

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts 14K Gold Sterling Silver • Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Watch Batteries • Candies • Candles • And More!Open 24 Hours!

506 Center Street (661) 205-5579

Special Offer from

Next Step!Join Today!

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Miller’s

661-763-5445 510 Center Street • Taft

Beauty Supply

Call for an appointment Today

Glam Squad on PremisesBarbara Van Pelt • Melissa Thornsberry

Laci Rodart • Christine Dunning Carolyn Easley • Shop Manager - Jessica G. Miller

Anderson Business ServicesWE COME TO YOU!

Greg AndersonMobile Notary Public

Certified Signing Agent

Sandy AndersonNotary Public

Certified Signing Agent

Schedule of ServicesAcknowledgments and

Jurats$10 per signature

Mortgage Documents $150 per set

Mobile Notary Service $1 per mile

Office: 661-765-7665Greg’s Cell: 661-557-6032

Sandy’s Cell: 661-577-6790

Save yourself a trip to Bakersfield, come in and browse at your leisure!

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

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

(661)745-4913

Sign Up for 1 Year

Ben’s BooksThe Largest, Cheapest and Only

Used Book Store in Taft

And Sign Up Anyone In Your Family for Only $15 a Month!

Sign Up Online! www.taftnextstep.com

Beauty Supply • Salon • Boutique

(661)763-3030

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

Hair Accessories • Jewelry • Pictures & Prints • Massages

426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

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

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

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To Best Suit Your NeedsWe Represent You To Give You The Best Service

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

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GET YOUR HOLIDAY AD IN

THE TAFT INDEPENDENT

CALL TODAY765-6550

Please RSVP for Dinner at 765-7371 by December 1st, 2010

614 CENTER ST. 765-5311

Voted Best Pizza4 Years in a Row!

“We Toss’em,They’re Awesome”

FREEHoliday

CouponBookletCome in and

pick up your Personal Style

423 & 421 Center Street • 763-3527Your One Stop Shop for the Entire Family

Infants • Toddlers • Juniors • Women & Men

Family BoutiqueChristmas

Open HouseThursday

December 16th5pm - 8pm

OPEN SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19th 12pm-4pm!!Avoid the Fog and Traffic and

Take Advantage of the Always FREE Parking!

Over 6,000Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback

Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion Childrens • Cookbooks and More!

Store Wide Savings!Come See Mr. & Mrs. Claus! SHOP TAFT!

December 10-16, 2010 TAFT INDEPENDENT 3

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

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

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

Westside Rec. Report.......................5.Westside News.................6

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

News Briefs.......................8

Westside Horoscopes......9

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

Westside News...............11

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 3,500 issues and distribute to over 225 locations in the city of Taft and the neighboring communities of Cuyama Valley, McKittrick, Maricopa, Fellows and Western Kern County, California.

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

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

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

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long

[email protected]

Managing EditorAdvertising

Jessica Wallis

Layout & DesignIndependent Graphics

Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller, Wesley Morris,

Jessy McCulloch

ColumnistsRandy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins

Staff PhotographerSara Bravo

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association

Printed in California

News BriefsTaft California

“Home of the Taft Oilworkers Monument” “Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

Painting Class Every Thursday Night til December 23rd

Painting Class beginning November 11th until December 23rd from 6pm to 9pm at The End of Times Gallery located at 428 Center Street. $10 per class. Acrylic paint is the suggested media. Students are responsible for their supplies. Please call for supply list. (Supplies available at Michaels or Aaron Brothers in Bakersfield.) Demonstrations and work time from 6pm to 8:15pm, class criticism from 8:15pm to 9pm. Class limited to 13 students. No class on Thanksgiving, November 25th.

Patient Appreciation Day & Toys for Tots Fundraiser Saturday, December 11th

Join Sparks Chiropractic for their annual Patient Appreciation Day and Toys for Tots Fundraiser on Saturday, December 11th from 10am to 2pm at Sparks Chiropractic located at 1107 Kern Street Suite 7 (in the parking lot) There will be free chiropractic adjustments and free consultation exams with the donatioin of a new unwrapped toy. There will be live music, free food and an appearance by the U.S. Marine Corps and pictures with Santa. Please call 765-2225 for more information and to set up your adjustment or consultation appointment.

Christmas Poetry and Carol Singing Sunday, December 12th

The Poetry Club will meet this Sunday, December 12th at 2pm at the End of Times Gallery located at 428 Center Street for Christmas Poetry & Carol Singing. If you have a favorite holiday poem or two that you would like to read or if you would like to listen, please join us. Join us too if you love to sing Christmas carols. We may go over to the Christmas tree at 5th Street Plaza for carol singing. Dress appropriate for the weather. Refreshments served.

Midway Elementary Christmas Musical Thursday, December 16th

The children of Midway Elementary School are pleased to invite you to a their merry mini Christmas musical this year! Their performance of “Dear Santa” will be held at Midway School, 259 F Street in Fellows, on Thursday, December 16th at 6:00 PM. The whole family is welcome to join us in celebrating the holiday season!

Personal Style’s Christmas Night Thursday, December 16th

Personal Style Family Boutique will be hosting their annual Christmas Shop Taft Night on Thursday, December 16th from 5pm to 8pm at Personal Style, located at 423 and 421 Center Street. Stop by for some great Holiday savings and to see Mr. and Mrs. Claus!

3rd Annual Chilled and Grilled Toys for Taft Run Saturday, December 18th

The Chilled and Grilled is hosting their 3rd annual Toys for Taft Run Saturday, December 18th. Pre-register $30 per bike or car, $5 for additional rider or passenger. Day of event $35 per bike or car, $10 for additional rider or passenger. Sign ups begin at 7am on the day of the event at Chilled and Grilled, located at 621 Center Street. The ride will start at 9am at Chilled and Grilled and end at the Fifth Street Plaza, between Center and Main Street. There will be a BBQ with hot dogs, chips and soda after the ride with a bounce house for the kids and a special guest...Santa Claus will be there! 50/50 raffle, drawing for prizes $1 or 6 for $5. Poker cards will be handed out, lowest and highest wins, and a shoe boz auction. Food donations are also welcome and remember all donations stay in the Taft area. For more information call Chilled and Grilled at 765-2000.

Taft Resident Painting Show for January or February

Call for Taft artists to participate in a Taft resident painting in January or February at the End of Times Gallery located at 428 Center Street.Each participating artist will be given 6 to 8 feet of wall space. Each artist can invite friends and family to the opening where refreshments will be served. The work will be displayed for 1 1/2 months. If you are interested in showing your work pleasecall Jane at 765-4790. Musicians who would like to perform at the gallery please contact Jane also.

SEE US ONLINE VISIT

WWW.TAFTINDEPENDENT.COM

Ask About Our

Interest Free Layaway for Christmas!

Family Boutique

“Agony” Competes In ValleyEnd-Of-Year Contest Taft Camera Club’s Tyrone Maddox’s “Agony” image of an injured motor-cycle rider recently received the only high score in the Photo-Journalism category at a monthly competition of the San Joaquin Valley Camera Club Council. The SJVCCC consists of six camera clubs and holds six photo competitions each year culminating with the best-of-the-best entering an annual End-of-Year competition. “Agony” is expected to be one of the top contenders in the E-O-Y Photo-Journalism category. “Agony” also received a 5th place award at this year’s Kern County Fair.Photo-Journalism scoring rules require that emphasis be given to the story-telling nature of the photo with less emphasis on background or other technical issues. In assigning the top score to “Agony” the judge’s critical com-ment was that “One did not have to see the subject’s face to see the agony of the moment,” Other Taft Camera Club members have also entered images in different cat-egories of the SJVCCC competition to be held in Fresno on December 12th on the basis of also having received high scores in both digital and print competi-tions during the course of the year. Winning Taft images will be shown at its December 14th meeting held at 7:00 pm at the Chevron Valley Community Room on West Kern St.

Toys For Taft Toys and Donations Still Needed.

Toys for Taft Sign Up’sIf you are not able at this time to afford gifts for Christmas please fill out this form with the following information and return to Cycle Katz, 518 Kern Street.

Parents Name_____________________Address__________________________City_____________________________Boy______________________Age____Girl______________________Age____

AERA Energy to Present Grant Checks to Taft City School District Representatives from AERA Energy LLC will be presenting checks from “The Partnership AERA Mini Grant Program” to teachers at Taft City School Dis-trict on Wednesday, December 15th at 3:15 p.m. in the Board Room. Jeff Dit-tman, Vice President of Operations for AERA, and supporting staff members Bryan Sellman, Erika McKamie and Lyle Barnes will be on hand to award grant money to Susan Magee representing Parkview School, Julie Miller representing Roosevelt School and Chandra Fickle, Candy Knost, Julie London and Melissa Taylor representing Lincoln Junior High School.

This year Toys for Taft is still seeking toy and cash donations to make Christ-mas brighter for local children in need. Already more than 600 children have signed up for the toy distribution, which happens on Saturday, December 18th from noon to 2 p.m. at the downtown 5th Street Plaza community Christmas tree. This year, more than ever, families are needing that extra support, and its time for the community to step up. If you want to help out, please take a toy or check made payable to Taft Rotary and drop it off at Cycle Katz located at 518 Kern Street in Taft or call 745-4931 for more infomation and to see how you can help.


Editorial

Westside Watcher

Paik’sRanch House Restaurant“Where Everybody Meets”

Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days

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

765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Asian ExperienceAsian Food and Pizza

Lunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

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

215 Center Street, Taft763- 1815

Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting

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

4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319

Taft Crude Coffee HouseCoffee House and Deli

Monday – Friday 6:30 am to 5pm.

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

1010 6th Street, Taft763-5156

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

Asian Experience

215 Center Street 763-1815

Asian Food and PizzaLunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

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

Live Music Saturday Nights

Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse

Steak, Seafood, Wild Game, Full Bar

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

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

768-4655

Paik’s Ranch HouseWhere Everybody Meets

Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerOpen 7 Days

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

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

-Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1-Unstoppable-Tangled

The Taft

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Independent

Taft Petroleum Club

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

Sagebrush Annie’sWine Tasting

Dinner by Reservation

Award Winning Wines766-2319

4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa

Chilled & GrilledBreakfast served

Saturday and Sunday 7am-11am

Brunch served Sunday 7am-2pm

Lunch served daily 11am-4pm

Dinner served daily 4pm-9pm765-2000

621 Center Street

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

Your RestaurantListed Here.

Call765-6550.

Starting as low as $12 per

week!

Every Friday is Ribeye Steak & Chicken Dinner Night

Residential • Commerical • Senior DiscountsInterior and Exterior • Specialty Coatings • Floors

Wrought Iron • Power Washing

(661)203-6677CA License # 784342P.O. Box 612 • Taft,CA 93268

FREE ESTIMATES - NO OBLIGATIONS

ADVERTISE in theTaftIndependent

765-6550

New Years Eve PartyFriday, December 31st

With special guest DJ Chuy rocking the club!

Drink Specials and Party Favors

Open 7 Days a Week

The Club is having a gun raffle for $20 per ticket for a chance to win two guns.

Smith & Wesson AR 15 and a Benelli Autofield 12 Gauge Shotgun.

This tree need decorating! The Taft Chamber of Commerce has donate this large 20 tall Christmas Tree located at 5th Street Plaza, and your donated or-namnt is need to decorate this beautiful tree. The public is invited to come down to the 5th Street Plaza and place an ornament n the tree. Lighting has already been placed on the tree thanks to South-ern Sierra Engineering and the city of Taft has provided electricity for the lights, so join in on a new community tradition. And, this year Toys for Taft is still seeking toy and cash dona-tions to make Christmas brighter for local children in need. Al-ready more than 600 children have signed up for the toy distribu-tion, which happens on Saturday, December 18th from noon to 2 p.m. at the downtown 5th Street Plaza community Christmas tree. This year, more than ever, families are needing that extra support, and its time for the community to step up. If you want to help out a child in need this Christmas, please take a toy or check made payable to Taft Rotary and drop it off at Cycle Katz located at 518 Kern Street in Taft or call 745-4931 for more infomation and to see how you can help.

Taft Community Christmas Tree at 5th Street PlazaBring a donated Tree Ornament today!

Landscaping the Old Hospital Helicopter Landing Area

Workmen were out this week installing new sprinkler landscaping in the triangle grass area where the old hospital helicopter landing pad is located. The Independent has been asking West Side Health Care District people and Hall Ambulance representatives when they might recertify the helicopter landing pad which would allow for emergency helicopter service back on the Westside. While no answer has been forthcoming, we hope that both agencies will consider bringing back the helicopters so residents might have a better chance for quick medical treatment in an emergency over in Bakersfield. It would also be reassuring to residents know that that kind of emergency transportation service is available. We’ll keep you posted and let you know if any progress is made on restoring the air ambulance service back to Taft. Let us know what you think.

Taft Petroleum Club

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

Every Friday is Ribeye Steak & Chicken Dinner Night

New Years Eve PartyFriday, December 31st

With special guest DJ Chuy rocking the club!

Drink Specials and Party FavorsThe Club is having a gun raffle for $20

per ticket for a chance to win two guns. Smith & Wesson AR 15 and a Benelli

Autofield 12 Gauge Shotgun.


P.O. Box 612 • Taft,CA 93268

Lost your youth brochure?Need more information onprograms, facilities or activities?Then don’t forget to visit usonline at www.wsrpd.com.In addition to program information,you can also download registrationforms, sports schedules and more!

West Side Recreation Report

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

[email protected] www.wsrpd.com

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

by Stephanie House

Eagle Mtn. Casino Bus TripMonday, January 10, 20117:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Bus leaves from the Community CenterAges 21 and older$3 per personCall 763-4246 to reserve your spot!

Jr. High DanceSaturday, January 22, 20117:30-10:00 p.m.Community Center AuditoriumGrades 6-8$3 per personMusic by Nick’s Mobile DJ

LETTERS TO SANTAChildren ages 8 and younger can write letters to Santa Claus in care of his helpers at the Recreation District. We will make sure that he gets your letters and writes back. Please write to Santa before December 15. (Groups and schools – please be sure that Santa gets your letters no later than December 3.) Don’t forget to include your address! Send letters to:Santa Clausc/o WSRPDP.O. Box 1406Taft, CA 93268

LITTLE ELF’S BAKERYWednesday, December 153:00-4:15 p.mCommunity Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, TaftAges 4 and up$3 per personIn this cookie workshop, we will make jumbo sugar cookies and then decorate them. While the cookies are baking, we will watch holiday cartoons and drink hot chocolate. Little elves will need an older helper.

KIDS NIGHT OUTFriday, December 176:30-10:00 p.m.Community Center Auditorium, 500 Cascade Place, TaftGrades K-6$8 per person ** pre-registration required by December 16Join us for a fun evening of games, movies, crafts, pizza, snacks and more! The more the merrier, so be sure to sigh-up with a friend. This is the perfect time for parents to get some time to themselves during the busy holiday season. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required.

NOON YEAR’S EVEFriday, December 3110:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.Community Center Audito-rium, 500 Cascade Place, TaftGrades K-6$6 per person ** pre-registration required by December 22Celebrate the start of 2011 at the strike of 12… noon! Share the magic of New Year’s Eve with your friends much earlier in the day. Join us for crafts, games, munchies and more. The excitement will also include a Noon Year’s Eve countdown with party favors and a sparkling cider toast. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required.

PONYTAIL SOFTBALL – EARLY REGISTRATION$40: November 1 – December 24$45: December 27 – February 10$50: after February 10 (dependent on program availability)NO SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE AFTER FEBRUARY 10.Sign-up early for Ponytail Softball and save 10%! Early bird registration fee is only $40. The softball program is for girls ages 5-15. Practices begin the week of February 22, 2011 and the season begins April 12, 2011.

TODDLER TIME & PRESCHOOL FUN ACTIVITY CLASSESWednesday AfternoonsToddlers: 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Preschoolers: 1:00-2:00 p.m.$25 per session Toddler Time: Designed for children ages 2 years and up, accompanied by an adult/caregiver. You will spend some fun time with your toddler participating in a variety of activities. Preschool Fun: For ages 3-5 who are ready for some fun interaction and activities on their own (adults do not stay). Registration is separate for each session of Toddler Time and Preschool Fun. Sign-up for as many as you wish! For more information, contact us at 763-4246 or [email protected]. A minimum of 5 paid children is required for each session.Session 3: January 5 – February 9 COOKING – TOT CHEFSession 4: February 16 – March 23 ART EXPLOSIONSession 5: March 30 – May 11 THINGS THAT GO

FATHER/DAUGHTER DANCESaturday, February 57:00-9:30 p.m.Community Center Auditorium500 Cascade Place, TaftGirls ages 4 and up$30 per couple ($10 each additional daughter) Join us for our 3rd Annual Father/Daughter Dance – this year with a western theme. Girls ages 4 and older may be accompanied by their father, guardian or adult relative. The special evening includes music, photographs, snacks and more fun surprises. Tickets are limited and may be purchased December 1 through February 3. No tickets will be available the night of the event, so buy yours now – don’t miss out!

INSTRUCTIONAL BASKETBALLInstructional I: Ages 3-5, $25 per childInstructional II: Ages 6-8, $35 per childPractice: Begins the week of January 10, 2011Games: Saturdays beginning January 22, 2011Place: Taft Union High SchoolRegistration deadline: January 6Instructional I is a 5-week program that covers the basic fundamentals of basketball. Participants will have one practice during the week and will play games on Saturdays in between the Jr. NBA games. Instructional II is a 6-week program that will have practices during the week and play games on Saturdays.

BASEBALL ACADEMYInterested in your child learning the skills that it takes to be a professional baseball player? Chicago White Sox prospect Chase Blackwood is available to teach those fundamentals to local athletes. For more information, please contact the District Office at 763-4246.

S.T.O.P. PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIPS(Strive To Optimize Participation)Did you know that the District has a youth scholarship program? Children in low income, single parent or multiple participant households are eligible! For more information, or to find out how your child can take advantage of reduced program fees, give us a call in the District Office at 763-4246.

BINGOThursday AfternoonsGames start at 1:30 p.m.Community Center Assembly Room, 500 Cascade Place, TaftAges 18 and olderThe District holds Bingo games every week for adults. Average buy-in is $15 per person. Cash pots are awarded and we also sell pull-tabs. Stop by and check it out!

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGESMake your reservation now!Need help planning a birthday party, bridal shower or baby shower? We can help! For one low fee, we will provide a room, plates, napkins, forks, cups, balloons and invitations – all to match your theme or colors. And for a little extra, we can help with activities, too! Package prices start at $130. For more information, or to make a reservation, please call the District Office at 763-4246.

WSRPD DISTRICT OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED DECEMBER 23-31 FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The West Side Recreation & Park District office will be closed December 23-31 for the holidays. Please be sure to keep this in mind when planning your registrations, reservations and other

District related business. We will see you when we return to normal operating hours on Monday, January 3, 2011. Happy Holidays!


Westside News and Business Briefs

CookhouseOT

& SaloonSpecializing in Steak & Seafood

Lunch DinnerTuesday - Friday11a.m. - 2p.m.

Tuesday - Thursday 4p.m. - 9p.m.Friday & Saturday 4p.m. - 10p.m.

CLOSEDSUNDAY/MONDAY

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

OT Cookhouse Daily Specials (For the week of 12-14-10 thru 12-18-10)

Tues.12-14-10

Lunch

Tues.12-14-10Dinner

Wed.12-15-10

Lunch

Wed.12-15-10Dinner

Thurs.12-16-10

Lunch

Thurs.12-16-10Dinner

Fri.12-17-10Dinner

Fri.12-17-10

Lunch

Sat.12-18-10Dinner

Surf & Turf Burger

BBQ Beef Ribs

OT Beef Sandwich

Prime Rib$15.95 Small/ $18.95 Large

Tri Tip Sandwich

Chicken Philly

CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

$10.95

$9.95

$8.95

$8.95

$9.95

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

$15.95/ $18.95

BBQ Pork Ribs$13.95 Half/ $15.95 Full

$13.95/ $15.95

BBQ Combo

$8.95

Gary Goss & Tracy Streeter

661-428-4557Licensed Insured

“G” ST.’sMECHANICAL BULL

Competitions • Parties • WeddingsBirthdays • Special Events

Just For Fun

$14.95

New Mayor Appointed, 3 Councilmembers Sworn InBy Kent Miller

Taft City Council at its Tuesday night meeting welcomed back two members for their third straight four-year terms and one new/old member who corralled the third seat in November’s general election. Councilmembers Paul Linder and Randy Miller finished one-two in the election, to retain their seats. Ron Waldrop came in third in the voting, to replace incumbent Cliff Thompson, a veteran of two terms as a councilmember. Waldrop previously served on the Taft City Council, from 1998 to 2002, then decided not to seek reelection in 2002. He will vacate his position on the city’s Planning Commission.

After Linder, Miller and Waldrop were sworn-in, the council turned to selecting a new mayor and mayor pro tem.With City Clerk Louise Hudgens wielding the gavel, outgoing Mayor Dave Noerr nominated Miller for the post and Council-member Craig Noble nominated Waldrop. All five members voted for Miller. As his first official duty, Mayor Miller conducted the selection of mayor pro tem. Noerr nominated Linder and he collected all five votes. Later in the meeting, the council continued until the Dec. 21 meeting the naming of councilmembers to various city commit-tees, appointing a delegate to the League of California Cities, and selecting a member and alternate to Kern Council of Govern-ments.

Some discussion The council discussed a proposal by Jane McCabe, owner of the End of Times Gallery on Center Street for a 12-foot by 25-foot mural on the west side of the Angel Flooring Co. building at Center and Fifth streets. The mural, based on a 1920s’ photo, would show the Taft of about 1925 next to the real Taft of 2010. McCabe put a price tag of about $10,000 on the project but budget concerns squelched any council support at this time.Also drawing discussion was a chamber request to waive fees for permits and licensing, and to utilize city properties for special events. Since he is in the final days of being a member of the chamber’s board of directors, Mayor Miller left the room during the discussion and voting on this item.The council approved two resolutions concerning use of city properties and the waiving of fees for the usage – but for public events only.

Quick workThe council quickly:

* Granted approval of a street closure to allow for the filming of a Dr Pepper commercial;* Concurred with the Finance Committee’s recommendation to adopt the city investment policy with no changes;* Okayed submission of the 2011 Arts Council of Kern “Arts in the Community” grant application;* Approved the Taft Chamber of Commerce’s portion of the tran-sient occupancy tax for the July-September quarter;* Supported continuing to fund the part-time position of planning information systems analyst into 2011, not to exceed 1,000 hours;* Concurred with the staff recommendation to continue with the ClimateSmart program.ClimateSmart is a voluntary option from Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Allowing governments and residents to take action against climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions from energy use, said Teresa Binkley, city finance director.Since joining the program on July 15, 2008, the city has paid just over $6,300 toward the program and has received grants of $4,500 and $1,000 from PG&E.

Oriental Foot Spa Now Open

661.745.4891201 Kern Street • Taft

10am-10pm 7 Days a Week

Traditional Chinese Foot & Body Massage

$25 Grand Opening Special!

1 Hour Foot MassageIncludes Neck, Shoulder, Arm

and Hand MassageBuy 10, Get One FREE!

MassageSpecial

$5Present this ad and

receive!

Full Body MassageAd must be present.

OFFRegular Priced

Oriental Foot SpaSoothing Your Mind! Healing Your Body!

Oriental Foot Spa is now open in Taft offering Chinese reflexology Foot and Body Massages. Diana Li, Owner of Oriental Foot Spa has been in the business for over two years and also has locations in Bakersfield, Morro Bay, Tulare and Poterville. “We saw the opportunity to open up another location in Taft and we have been getting a great response from the community,” said Diana. The art of reflexology has been practiced since the ancient times and is essential to Chinese Culture. Oriental foot massage combines herbs and a reflexology session which helps blood circulation, improves the immune system and releases stress. It can also heal the

internal ailments in order to improve your general health. Oriental Foot Spa provides a team of professional mas-sage therapists to serve you with the traditional oriental herbs. Stop by Oriental Foot Spa and start relaxing today! Gift Cer-tificates are also available and make great Christmas presents. Oriental Foot Spa is located at 201 Kern St. next door to Little Caesars Pizza. Call today 745-4891.

Jeanie Jia, Diana Li and William Zhang

City Clerk, Louise Hudgens, gives oath of office to newly elected council-member, Ron Waldrop.


Westside News and Business Briefs

Randy’s Trucking, Inc.

(661) 763-4773 • 1050 Wood Street • Taft

Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer • Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping • Mixes Concrete While Traveling • Large Internal Blades

Rear Operator Control Panel

Jason AndersonDonnie Schwerdetfager

MON-FRI 10AM - 5PM • SAT-SUN 9AM - 5PM

$42.95

Get Your Holiday Ad in the Taft Independent!

Call Today 765-6550

Assemblywoman Shannon Grove Sworn in to State Assembly

SACRAMENTO, CA - Shannon Grove, R-Bakersfield, was sworn in today as the state representative of California’s 32nd Assembly District. “I am honored to serve the people of Kern County and California in the State Capitol. My priorities are to bring jobs to the valley and reduce excessive state spending and oppressive government regulations.” Grove is a veteran of the United States Army, co-founder and CEO of Continental Labor and Staffing Resources and is involved in a number of Kern County civic and charitable orga-nizations. She and her husband Rick share five grown children and reside in Bakersfield. Grove succeeds outgoing Assembly member Jean Fuller, who was elected to serve in the State Senate. The 32nd Assembly District covers most of Kern County, including Ridgecrest, Tehachapi, Lake Isabella, Kernville, Taft, Frazier Park and most of Bakersfield. For more information, please contact Grove’s Capitol office at (916) 319-2032.

This Nativity Scene was erected in a church yard. During the night folks came across this scene. An abandoned dog was looking for a comfortable, protected place to sleep. He picked the baby Jesus as his comfort. No one had the heart to send him away so he was there all night. We should all have the good sense of this dog and curl up in Jesus’ lap from time to time. This is too sweet not to share. No one mentioned that the dog breed is a “shepherd!”

Candace Huskey, PresidentShelter on the Hill: A Humane SocietyTel (661)245-1215Fax (661)245-2334P O Box 275Frazier Park, CA [email protected]

This Nativity Scene

Janet SandovalIndependent Watkins Distributor

ID# 391228 (661)747-0638www.watkinsonline.com/janetsandoval

Serenity Hair SalonCome and See Watkins Quality Products At

Thursday, December 16th from 4:00pm - 7:00pm212 6th Street • Taft

Enter the Raffle for a Prize!

Wanted: Head Coach for Taft TigersharksBy Jessica G. Miller

The Taft Tigersharks Swim Club is hiring. The infamous aquatic team for Westside youngsters is looking for a Head Coach for the 2011 swimming season. “We would rather hire someone with experience from the area,” said Adrienne Cloud, Secretary for the Tigersharks. “We want to keep it local.” The swim club is looking for a coach who has the ability to train children from different age groups and has knowledge in up to date practices in swimming coaching, stroke mechanics and techniques as well as an AA/AS or equivalent in a related field, two years of experi-ence or training in aquatic sports or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The conditioning part of the season will begin on January 17 and they hope to find a coach by then. “We want to give our team what they deserve,” Cloud said. “We want someone who is knowledge-able to train our children. If we don’t find one by [ January 17] we’ll handle it but once the competing season start, it will be imperative that we find a coach. We’d rather find one now, though.” The Winter Swim or conditioning season as it’s called is for kids who have been on a swim team before or have swimming experience. The cost for the season per child will be $100, however, they are offering two incentives for parents. Those who pay the full price up front get a $20 discount. They are also offering the option to make two $50 payments. For those interested in the head coaching position or know some-one who would be, resumes can be sent to [email protected].

Black Gold Coffee House and Dubost Vineyards Donate to Toys for Taft

Stephanie Layon of Trends Salon presents a check for $100 to Donnie Schwerdetfager and Cathy Sullivan on behalf of Black Gold Coffee House for the Toys for Taft Christmas program. The check was from the proceeds of a wine tasting feature Curt Dubost Wines last Thursday evening at the new Center Street coffee house and deli. Toys for Taft will give Christmas gifts to needy children on Saturday, December 18th at the 5th Street Plaza.


TUES.-FRI. 10:00-5:30 SAT. 10:00-4:00 FABRIC • NOTIONS • GIFTS

MARICOPA QUILT COMPANY

Check us out at www.maricopaquiltcompany.com

and on Facebook

370 CALIFORNIA 769-8580

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUPFord CityTuesday

South Taft & Taft Heights Friday

City of TaftWednesday

• REFRIGERATORS • MATTRESSES • WATER HEATERS • STOVES • WASHERS & DRYERS • SOFAS

All green waste must be bagged. Tree Limbs cut in 6’ length, and bundled.

ITEMS NOT ACCEPTEDConstruction/Demolition Waste/Used Oil/

Hazardous Waste/Tires

If Missed… Call Office at

763-5135

Westside Waste Management Co., Inc.

ROGER MILLER INSURANCEadivisionofDiBuduo&DeFendisInsuranceGroup

Rich MillerLicense#0707137•(661)765-7131

531KernStreet-P.O.Box985(661)765-4798FAX

Taft,CA93268•(661)203-6694Cell

E-Mail:[email protected] Hometown Insurance Store

News & Business Briefs

Hours:9-5 M-F10-2 Sat

Eve By Appt.

Obituary

FOR SALE FOR SALE

Special EffectsSalon & Day Spa

FOR SALEFOR SALE

Location, location, location 4 lots on busy corner Just three blocks from 4 schools:

Taft High, Lincoln Jr. High, Roosevelt Elementary & Taft College

11 styling stations5 manicure stations2 tanning roomsFacial roomMassage roomSpray-tanning room

3,485 sq ft.Zone C-2*

Concrete parking lot$348,500**

*All this can be done at this location: R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 P-1 & C-1!!! Think of the possibilities!!

Let’s Talk! 623-0532620 6th St.

**Owner willing to carry paper. Priced almost 40% below replacement costs! Why would you pay a monthly lease when you can own and have LOWER monthly paymens and eventually zero payments!

State League President To Speak At December General Meeting The League of Women Voters of Kern County is proud to host President of the League of Women Voters of California Janis Hirohama at the December 15th dinner meeting. The meetings are open to the public. Hirohama will talk about the future of the League and discuss issues currently on the state’s agenda. Hirohama was elected President of the League in 2007. Born in Japan on a U.S. Army base as a third genera-tion Sansei, she is the first woman of color to head the state League. She is a member of the LWV Beach Cities and has been a League member since 1994. Hirohama has held leadership positions on the local, state and national levels of the organization. From 2000 to 2004 she served on the Board of Directors of the LWV United States—two years as a board member and two years as First Vice President. She served on the LWVC board as Secretary from 1998-2000. An attorney, Hirohama has a B.A. in history from Washington Univer-sity in St. Louis and a J.D. from the New York University School of Law. She is admitted to the bar in California and New York. Her areas of professional expertise include voting rights, criminal law and fairness education. She lives in Manhattan Beach with her husband Jim Pollard who is also a League member. Dinner is $22 and begins at 5:45 pm at the Petroleum Club, 5060 California Avenue, 12th Floor. Please call the League-Line for reservations at (661) 634-3773 for dinner or to attend the meeting only at 6:30 pm at no charge. You may also email Patti Jepsen to reserve your seat at [email protected]. The League of Women Voters of Kern County is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging the informed and active participation of citizens in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy. We never support or oppose any political party or candidate.

Season for Sharing in Fire Safety The winter season brings the highest number of home fires than any other time of year. Winter residential building fires result in an estimated average of approximately 945 deaths, 3,825 injuries, and $1,708,000,000 in property loss each year .According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA), there are simple life-saving steps you can take to ensure a safe and happy holiday. By following some of the outlined precautionary tips, individuals can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty. Preventing Christmas Tree Fires • Christmas Tree Fire Hazards Movie segments demonstrating how fast a live Christmas tree can become fully engulfed in flames. Special fire safety precautions need to be taken when keeping a live tree in the house. A burning tree can rapidly fill a room with fire and deadly gases. • Selecting a Tree for the Holiday Needles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull back from the branches, and the needle should not break if the tree has been freshly cut. The trunk should be sticky to the touch. Old trees can be identified by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long, has probably dried out, and is a fire hazard. • Caring for Your Tree Do not place your tree close to a heat source, including a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree. Do not put your live tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. • Disposing of Your Tree Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood burning stove. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by taking it to a recycling center or having it hauled away by a community pick-up service. Holiday Lights • Maintain Your Holiday Lights Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up. Use only lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory. • Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch. • Do Not Leave Holiday Lights on Unattended Holiday Decorations • Use Only Nonflammable Decorations All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant and placed away from heat vents. • Never Put Wrapping Paper in a Fireplace It can result in a very large fire, throwing off dangerous sparks and embers and may result in a chimney fire. • Artificial Christmas Trees If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant. Candle Care • Avoid Using Lit Candles If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning. • Never Put Lit Candles on a Tree Do not go near a Christmas tree with an open flame - candles, lighters or matches. Finally, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly, keep them clean and change the batteries every 6 months. In an emergency call 911. And remember to practice your home escape plan with the whole family. For further information visit www.kerncountyfire.org

Oilworker Monument Bricks Still Available

Oilworker Monument Bricks are still available to honor those special people in our lives. Order forms are available for pick up at the

Taft District Chamber of Commerce400 Kern Street

Please feel free to call the Chamber Office at 765-2165 to make arrangements to have a form mailed, faxed or emailed to you or a loved one.

They Make Great Christmas Gifts!


TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

630 North St. 765-5557

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors”

Pastor Cindy BrettschneiderSunday Morning Worship 10:00 AM

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

Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

Trinity Southern Baptist Church

400 Finley DriveWe invite you to join us

each week as we worship

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

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm

First Congregational Church of MaricopaSunday 10 a.m.

Bible StudyThursday Nights 7 p.m.

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

Lighthouse Foursquare Church210 Harrison Street 763-1518

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

Sunday Service 10 AMPastors Mark and Kathy Fitzsimmons

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

New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”

308 Harrison Street765-4572

Sunday Morning WorshipService 10 a.m.

Sunday Evening WorshipService 6 p.m

Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.

Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced

All Are Licensed Funeral Directors

The Trusted Name Since 1939

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY CHURCH

Taft CrudeCoffee House

Ice Blended Mocha

Fat Free andSugar Free

Available in Most Flavors

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

Immaculate Conception Parish

Mass Saturday 7pmSunday 9am

Everyone WelcomeDeacon Ricardo Barragan

Weddings - BaptismsQuinceañeras

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

CommunityChristian

Fellowship631 North Street

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

St. Andrew’sEpiscopal Church

Sunday Service - 10 a.m.Rev. Linda Huggard

703 5th Street - Taft(661) 765-2378

PLASMADONORS

Earn extra cash and save lives...

Become part of our life-saving team and

start enjoying the benefits of extra cash.

What MattersMost...People!

For information call661-863-0621

(Central Bakersfield)Increased fees for

return clients

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMSTaft- A caring community under Christ

We welcome you to worship with us at peace lutheran church, 26 Emmons Park Drive (across from the College). Worship service begins at 10:00 a.m.

Communion will be offered 1st and 3rd Sundays

Sunday School for all ages at 9:00 a.m.

The Pregnancy crisis center is now open and available for support and assistance. For information, call 763-4791

If you have a prayer request please call (661)765-2488. Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available

Angel Food Program Tues. 9am - 12pm Thurs. 3pm - 6pm

Westside Horoscopesby Jessy McCulloch

Tasting Sat. & Sun. 11:30 to 4:30 pm.

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

www.sagebrushannies.com

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

Now Celebrating Our 20th Year

Sunday Services 10amUTURN Youth Service

Sunday 6pm1000 6th St.

Weekly Classes Mon - ThursPlease call 765-7472 for info

For a ride to church call 765-7472 before 9am on SundayPastors Floyd and Carol Jordan

www.nlctaft.org or [email protected]

G&S CARPET COService & Selection

Knowledgeable SalesExperienced Installation

Laminate398-3044

7000 District Blvd Bakersfield

Contractor’s Lic. #352844

Hours:9-5 M-F10-2 Sat

Eve By Appt.

D.I.Y.starting at 1 .29

sq. ft.

Taft Independentwww.taftindependent.com

[email protected]

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SERVICES

Aries (March 21-April 19): Don’t let anyone tell you how you should handle this situation. This is between you and one other person, and no one else – period.

Taurus (April 20-May 20): It doesn’t matter how hard you try or how hard you work in some scenarios – some things are just out of your control and can’t be prevented.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): In trying to do a good deed for one person, you may inadvertently hurt someone else’s feelings. Be sincere in your apology, but after that let it go.

Cancer ( June 21-July 22): You’ve got some seriously big decisions to make and a relatively small window of time in which to make them. Just trust yourself; you know what to do.

Leo ( July 23-August 22): Things are clearly not turning out the way you expected, but why should that be a bad thing? Your future is nothing but bright, regardless of which color it is.

Virgo (August 23-September 22): You have every reason in the world to be stressed out, but there’s no excuse for taking it out on co-workers. Everyone’s doing all that they possibly can.

Libra (September 23-October 22): Listen to yourself once in awhile – you may not realize your tendency to, frankly, whine. You can handle more than you think, so try to take it on the chin.

Scorpio (October 23-November 22): You should feel very proud of yourself this week. How far you’ve been able to come, and in such a short amount of time, is worth bragging about a bit.

Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): Don’t take it personally when a family member drops the ball. It’s certainly not due to a lack of caring on their part.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19): The holidays are fast approaching; it’s almost the end of one year and the beginning of the next; why not take a risk? What better time than now?

Aquarius ( January 20-February 19): You may think you can handle this, but before you know it you’ll be in over your head (if you’re not already). Lean on someone, trust someone to help you.

Pisces (February 20-March 20): You’re finally back on the right track where your physical health is concerned. Now you just have to do what you can to take care of yourself and keep it this way.

If your birthday is this week: There are consequences to everything. Consider it another version of: For every action there’s an equal and opposite reaction. You may not think what you’ve done is a very big deal, and considering you’ve plain old done the right thing you’re not entirely wrong. But there will be some fallout, so be prepared to deal with it.

Concrete parking lot$348,500**


FLOORING REPAIRNo job too small.

Call Jeff 623-5421 or 765-4676.

WANTEDJunk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

Someone to do yard work, mow lawn and clean up. 745-3211

FOR SALE

FOUND PETS

looking for a good home for a puppy i found 2 weeks ago, she is terrior mix if interested please call 6618651660

PETS

LOST PETS

Missing since Oct. Older female Doxin mix, brown w/ purple collar & male chihuahua mix white and tan w/ blue collar. please call 858-4634.

MOTORCYCLES

AUTOMOBILES

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property Management

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

areas.CRIME FREE

HOUSING Brokers Licence

01417057661-577-7136

PROPERTY FOR RENT

230 center streetbusiness office space for rent 4000 sq. foot. retail or restaurant 661-343-0507

PROPERTY FOR SALE

HOMES FOR SALEReal Estate eBroker Inc.

325 Kern Street

and a complete list of homes for Sale!___________________

2bd 1ba. Maricopa. $600 mo. $600 Dep. 1/2 off 1st mo. rent. 769-9597 lv. message.

3bd 1 ba. Dn Rm, ldry rm, Garage, $750 mo. + dep. $700 402 Pierce. 623-5188.

4 bd. 1 ba. 902 Williams Way. large fenced back yard. $1000 mo. plus deposit. 623-4296

Large 2 bed, 1 ba. 415 Kern St. Zoned commercial. Det. garage. fenced yrd on alley. great location. $795. mo. plus dep. 623-4296.

3 Bd. 1 ba. Taft Hts. 522 F St. $700 mo. $800 dep. 765-4016.

325 Lierly 800/mo plus desposit, 2+1 + den, dining room, lg. liv. rm. breakfast room, call Eddie 818-585-9796

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

$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.

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

3bd 2 bath in Maricopa. 2 Car Garage $850 661-645-1641 www.405california.INFO

118 Lincoln 2 bedromm, 1 bath, washer, dryer, carport 650Rent+500Security deposit+ 150 Cleaning deposit. 661-589-9130 661-332-5416

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

Courtyard Terrace

Karri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 &

#01333971661-332-6597

www.BuyTaft.comReal Estate Sales &

Purchase601 E Street (private showings) 3bd/1.75 bath plus guest house Den/ Formal Dining/fireplace/etc.

609 B Street 43K Duplex 1bed/ studio. Wow rent one & live in the other!

Tanning & Salon for sale 30K. Extend lease or move. OWNER MAY CARRY____________________

Special Place. 2 bd. 1 ba. Condo style apartment. Hidden from street. Quiet with private fenced yard. $600 mo Plus $600 dep. Renter pays all utilities. Ref. and Credit check. 623-4296.

Single Wide Mobile Home. 1981 Skyline 12’ x 64’. $12,000 obo. 763-4977 or 765-5541.

Home for sale by owner. Negotiable. 2 bd/1ba garage and large yard, etc. at 103 Polk St. Contact 661-903-1594 or 661-763-3075

Mobile Home For Sale in the Buena Vista Mobile Home Park, 2 bdrm, 2 bath double wide. Needs some work $16,000. Inquire at the office or call 763-5751 or 342-6038.

121 Woodlawn 3bd/1ba. Extra large backyard.Price negotiable. 765-6019

HOMES FOR RENTWest ValleyReal Estate

(661) 763-1500.Lic # 01525550 www.BuySellManage.com.

FOR RENT502 Lucard 1/1418 B. St. 1/1420 B. St. 3/2602 Elkhorn 3/2Other Rental Properties Available!

FOR SALEWhy rent when you can buy for almost half the cost?!620 Ash 3/2.75 completely remodeled!302 Jefferson Remodeled and seller will finance!211 Irene 3/1.75 with pool!Contact us for details

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

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

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

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

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

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

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

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

Yard Sale ads are free, up to 3 lines.

Classified ad deadline is Thursday at 2 p.m.

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

E-mail: [email protected]

Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card. Taft Independent 508 Center St., Taft, CA 93268

Business ServicesCleaning Services

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

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

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

Yard Sale Saturday, Dec 4th. Holiday Stuff and more! 123 N. 10th Space 101 inside mobile home park. 8am-11am

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Grief Support Group, offered as a community service by Optimal Hospice Care. Meetings held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. At Chevron Valley Credit Union, Community Room, 1092 W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. And 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at First Baptist Church. 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 220 N. First St. Free and open to the public. Info call 716-4000.

Alzheimer’s Disease Association Of Kern County is offering Respite Care here in Taft. Call-Cathy Perkins at 760-379-0848 for RESPITE CARE info. Respite Care is available every Thursday At the First Baptist Church located at 220 North St. from 9:00am—3:00pm.

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

COMPUTER SERVICES

Taft PC Services

Affordable Rents

We’ve Got em!

Preserving for the Future

Real Estate eBroker Inc.325 Kern Street

Karri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 & #01333971

661-332-6597www.BuyTaft.com

Real Estate Sales & Purchase

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

We fix computers, laptops, PDAs and cell

phones. TaftPCServices.com. 623-5188.

HELP WANTED

Night Caregiver Needed 5 days a week. 745-4330 or 765-6372

Mechanic/Welder. New Cuyama farm is seek-ing a highly motivated individual that is willing to work in a fast paced agricultural environment to maintain, repair, and overhaul farm machin-ery, equipment and vehicles, such as trac-tors, harvesters, pumps, tilling equipment, trucks and other mechanized, electrically powered or motor driven equipment. Must also be able to weld metal componentstogether to fabricate or repair products accord-ing to layouts, blueprints or work orders, using brazing and variety of arc and gas welding equipment. Must possess knowledge of farming equipment, exp. in fleet service, must be computer literate, (Spanish/English) & a valid CA driver’s license required. Email resume & salary history to [email protected] or fax to (623) 853-9069.

SERVICES

Need your dog groomed? Call Peggy 765-6789.

-DAYCARECHILDCARE

EOEBUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Taft WoodworksTurn key cabinet shop

Equip.& invent.- low rentOwner may carry paper

Doug 340-4354

week as of 1-29-10 CARPET AND FLOORING

CARPET/HARD

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

Imperial Gardens. 1bd. rm. avail. $525 mo. Comes w/stove, dishwasher and refrig. Pool and manager on site. Water, sewer and trash incl. 661-300-1616 or 661-765-4299.

ROOM FOR RENT

Room for rent for Senior Citizen includes room & board + 24 hr care. 765-4368

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

$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.

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Al periodico Taft Independent nos complace introducir una nueva seccion de informacion para la comunidad hispana. Esta incluira listas de negocios, eventos de la comunidad, eventos para recaudar fondos para obras beneficas, reuniones, anuncios de cumpleanos, venta de yarda y listas clasificadas tal como: Casas de renta y venta. Autos en venta, cuidado de ninos, anuncios de “SE VENDE” y “SE SOLICITA AYUDA”. Tambien servicios como limpieza de casas, jar-dineria, y cualquier tipo de reparaciones. Correo Electrónico: [email protected], fax 765-6556, teléfono 765-6550.Su

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News & Business BriefsTaft Union High School Renaissance Rally Taft Union High School sophomore Ryan Gaunt was honored as most improved student and athletic trainer Lindsay Brown was feted as the staff member of the year at the fall Renaissance rally Wednes-day, Dec. 1st in Mullen gym. The rally celebrates academics.

Ryan Gaunt said he got off on the wrong foot at Taft High as a freshman last year but has since found his foot-ing. “When I came to Taft High, I was not too confident. I had low expectations of myself, a poor self image,” he recalled. Consequently, he earned less than a 2.0 grade point average his first semester. But that began to change exactly a year ago when he attended the 2009 fall renais-sance rally and saw Joshie Ramirez win the award. “When I saw that rally I told myself next year that is going to be me.

I made that my goal but I was still surprised. I can’t believe that it came true.” He made a place for himself in high school, joining the Academic Decathlon team, the chess club and Future Farm-ers of America. “People in those groups became my friends. I started feeling better about myself. My grades improved second semester almost a whole point (letter grade). I was liking myself better and liking my life better and everything else followed that. My self image improved over time and by second semester I was feeling great about myself. I became a recreational reader and I’m now I’m trying to get a 3.0 (B average).” Two weeks ago Nov. 18th, he won a plaque in the school science fair and his project on the corro-sive effects of sugar caused him to change his lifestyle. He has eliminated sodas from his diet and has dropped 22 pounds and now is doing more of the cooking at home. “I’m working my way up,” he said.

And students are taking notice. “Ryan Gaunt is a really sweet kid,” praised senior Amber Strong. “He contributed a lot to the Academic Decathlon last year. He is supportive and determined and has a lot of school pride.” Lindsay Brown, who is married to former Taft High star running back Chad Brown, has worked as a trainer at TUHS for five years. She graduated from Saugus High School in Santa Clarita, earned her bachelor’s degree in exercise science at Cal Lutheran and her masters of science in sports medicine at Georgia State. She said she loves working at Taft High and was surprised and honored that

students picked her for the award. Her professionalism and warm attitude have made her a hit with students “My sophomore year when I was playing football, I got tackled by a couple of players in Coalinga and I tore a ligament in my leg,” senior soccer star Jesse Gama recalled. “She helped me recover for a month and a half until I got better for soccer. She is not only our trainer, she’s like our second mother.” All-league running back Daniel Watts added, “She has nursed me back to health from multiple injuries and always has a great attitude while doing it. I am very thankful and Lindsay Brown is very deserving of this award.” “Lindsay really cares,” added soccer player Edgar Padilla. “I didn’t even know she knew my name when one day I got hurt and she said my name. I was surprised. She helped me recover quickly. When we play a good game, she compliments us. She’s always nice and has a smile on her face.” The well-executed rally brought a smile to a lot of faces. The theme was Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and the gym was festooned with colorful balloons and plenty of candy. Top Cats — students with a GPA above 4.0 in the spring 2010 semester — dined on chocolates and chocolate-

covered strawberries in their own section on the south side of the gym. A dozen Renaissance students dressed as Oompa Loompas — white overalls, red shirts and lollipop-striped socks beneath orange faces and green wigs — liber-ally sprinkled chocolate candy among the bleachers.

Students nominated by staff for good attitudes and staff nomi-nated by students wore blue T-shirts they received for their positive attitudes, explained

Greg Goossen, Renaissance team coordinator, who was dressed in a top hat and suit as Willy Wonka.

Taft Animal Shelter In nearly every letter wrote to Santa, someone is asking for a new puppy or kitten. If you are think-ing of putting an ecstatic smile on your loved ones face with a cute and cuddly pet, are you thinking about getting it from the Taft City Animal Shelter? Most of us aren’t looking for a high dollar dog but just a loving and loyal companion. At any given time the Taft City Animal Shelter is stocked full of them. If you walked in there today you would get to meet an energetic shepherd pup sure to keep your young ones active or a sweet border collie look-ing for a happy home. Two rambunctious sibling healer puppies wrestle around next to a Pomeranian mix who would melt the Grinch’s heart. If you’re in the mind for a frisky kitten there’s an attention demanding orange and white tiger striped who will insist you pet him or a gorgeous blue eyed, white coated prince of a kitten who would graciously reign over your home. Scrooge would be at ease at the affordability of adopting a pet from Taft’s shelter. A $63 charge is all it cost to take your new family member home. The charge is divided between the spay and neuter fee, the rabies vaccination and the licensing fee. Gifting your pet with a license gives a gift to the animals still left at the shelter. For every licensed dog in the city, aid is given directly to the Taft City Animal Shelter to feed and take care of the animals waiting for a home. Not to mention a licensed dog is easier to find if lost and a lost dog who is hurt and has a license on gets taken to the vet for help. It’s only $15 to license your fixed pet for a year. Don’t feel bad if you don’t give in to your pleading child’s eyes for a new friend. Teach them one of the meanings of Christmas by letting them donate pet food or other pet care products to the shelter. In the freezing winter time, things like blankets or dog houses are greatly appreciated by the furry critters. Remember before adopting a new animal, these dogs and cats have already been abandoned once and are now looking for a loving, safe and permanent home. You can reach the shelter at 661-763-1227 or drive out to 1080 Ash St, just the other side of the highway. Happy Holidays!

Photos from top to bottom: Most Improved Student Ryan Gaunt gets a hug from his brother Marcus Gaunt, a 2010 TUHS graduate. Staff member of the year Lindsay Brown, holding 18-month-old son Colt, is congratulated. Greg Goossen, Renais-sance team coordinator, was dressed in a top hat and suit as Willy Wonka. He served as the rally emcee. Homecoming King Peter Galvan eats a candy strip as part of a rally skit. Kayla Kaszycki, surrounded by Oomp Loompas, leads the sophomores in a cheer.


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