Document

March 26-1, 2010 • Volume 4 Issue 39www.Taftindependent.com

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

Oilworkers Monument Site Gets Ready!

Community Resource Center Feeds Families on Thanksgiving

[email protected]

City of Taft Honor’s Former Treasurer Art Carlton

The TaftIndependent

Taft Community

Taft College STEM Program

Education Trailer

Coming Soon!

Aera Energy LLC Host Oil Academy Students on Midway-Sunset Field Trip

Carrizo Plain National MonumentBursting With Spring Wild Flowers

By Jessica G. Miller

Taft Primary and Conley School Entertained by Oregon’s Riddle H.S.

San Joaquin Automotive

Center

(661)763-1123531 Center Street

$23.99

(Includes parts, tax, labor, haz fees)(Oil filter & up to 14 qts. of oil)

No Appointment NecessaryIn & Out

WINNERIndependent

The Taft

Best Of2009

READER’S POLL

Billy MessengerVoted Best Mechanic 2009

Gas Engine Oil Change

$51.99 to $61.99Diesel Engine Oil Change

Depending on what engine

Valid 3/1/10 - 3/31/10


2 TAFT INDEPENDENT March 26-1, 2010

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY4 MILES EAST ON LOCKWOOD VALLEY RD.

AT CAMP SCHEIDECKOPEN AT 11:00AM WEEKDAYS AND

8:00AM WEEKENDS

OFF HIGHWAY 33 • (661)766-2521

REYES CREEK BAR AND GRILL

Passion For Nails

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

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

Saturday 9am-6pm

Gift Certificates AvailableNail Services:

Sea Shell • Glitter Acrylic Metalic Flakes • Rock Star

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

Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club

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

Sign Up for Boot Camp Today!Guaranteed Results!

Join Us March 27th at 1pm for the Guns and Hoses Fundraiser

Admission $15! Step Aerobics Class Coming Soon!

What’s Your Style...

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

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

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

Skinny Jeans and Embellished TopsAnd Much More!Personal Style

Salon and Boutique&

Kids Stop

Located at:

The Historic Fort915 North Tenth St.

Suite 34623-1783

We Carry: Fox - Volcom Infamous - Vans SoCal - Hurley - Guess - Juicy

Couture - Ed Hardy - Roxy - Ugg Victoria’s Secret - Coach

Coldwater Creek - Betsey Johnson and Much More!

A Hint of Class

Pamela Dudley, Owner

R ‘N CRibbonz ‘N Curlz Bowtique

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

New Spring - SummerClothing has Arrived!

Have Your Next Party With US!Rockstar Parties and

Princess Parties!NEW STORE HOURSTuesday -Friday 10am-5pm

Saturday 10am-2pm401 Center Street • (661)765-2735

101 B. Street • Taft

(661)763-9890

El Jacalito Restaurant

Mexican Food & Seafood

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

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

From 4pm - Closing.

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

Menu with paying Adult From 4pm - Closing.

Saturday - Noche MexicanaSteak or Chicken Fajitas $9.95

All Mexican Beer $2.50From 4pm - Closing.

All Specials Subject to Change

Special Effects Salon620 6th Street 661-496-9233

Certified Massage TherapistPaula D. Schweitzer

email: [email protected]

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

Offer is valid through the end of April 2010.

Available for evening appointments.

Miller’s

661-763-5445 510 Center Street • Taft

Beauty Supply

Call for an appointment Today

Glam Squad on Premises

Beauty Supply • Salon • Boutique

Barbara • Melissa • Laci • Christine • Carolyn

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

Hair Accessories • Jewelry • Pictures & Prints • Massages

March 26-1, 2010 TAFT INDEPENDENT 3

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

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

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

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

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

Faith and Family............8

Westside Horoscopes.....9

Westside

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

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

Inside Community Events

The Taft Independent

210 6th StreetP.O. Box 268

Taft, California 93268(661) 765-6550

Fax (661) 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.TaftIndependent.com

Locally and Independently owned since 2006

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

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

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

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

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

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

Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long

[email protected]

Assistant Managing EditorAdvertising Sales Manager

Jessica Wallis

Layout & DesignIndependent Graphics

Printing Castle Print and Publication

Contributing Writers Jessica Miller, Kent Miller

Jessy McCulloch

ColumnistsRandy Miller, Wendy Soto, Mimi Collins

Circulation ManagerJobe Edgar

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association

Printed in California

News Briefs

Used to be Paul’s

Adam’s Custom Upholstery

(661)623-4744 608 Center Street

Cars • Boats • FurnitureOilfield Equipment SeatsFree Pick-Up & Delivery

Taft California“Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument”

Guns and Hoses Fundraiser at Next Step Cardio March 27th

Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club will be hosting the Guns and Hoses Fundraiser this Saturday, March 27th at 1pm. Come out and watch some of your favorite locals fight for a good cause. Admission is $15 per person, $20 for ring side seating. Refreshments will be available. Next Step is located at 506 Center Street. For more info call Wendy at 205-5579.

TUHS Future Farmers of America host 6th Annual Donkey Basketball April 6th

The Taft High Union High School Future Farmers of America will host the sixth annual donkey basketball game at Mullen Gym at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 6. The game pits staff vs. students and is usually a very close match. The hilarious game is played with five-member teams. Players must be atop a donkey to shoot or pass the ball. They may get off the donkey, but must lead it by the reins, for rebounds and loose balls. The humor comes when the humans try to get on the donkeys too fast and fall off and when the donkeys have their own ideas on what they want to do. The game is a fund-raiser for the FFA. Admission costs $5 in advance with tickets available at the TUHS business office or from any FFA member. Tickets purchased at the door will cost adults $7, children 6-11 $5 and those under 6 will be admitted free. For more information, call the FFA at 763-2300, ext. 481.

Taft Petroleum Club Holds Chamber of Commerce Mixer April 16th

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

Rotary Health Fair and Peddlars Fair April 17th

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

The Fort and TAPT Wine Tasting Night April 22nd

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

Alpha House BBQ and Auction Saturday, April 24th

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

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

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

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

Rotary Presents the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra Sunday, May 16th

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

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

Relay for Life by Dennis McCall

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

Museum Yard Sale Approaching; Items Soughtby Dennis McCall

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

Joyce Properties Thanks You

“Thank you Taft for making the Pioneer Building Dedication and Reception such a memorable event” - Gary and Pat Joyce


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

-She’s Out of My League-How to Train Your Dragon-Repo Men

The Taft

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Independent

Your

Restaurant

Ad

Here!

Taft Petroleum Club

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

Every Friday is Ribeye Steak Dinner Night

Industries Night Wednesday April 7th

Sponsored by Hill Engineering

Sagebrush Annie’sWine Tasting

Dinner by Reservation

Award Winning Wines

766-23194211 Highway 33, Ventucopa

Chilled & GrilledEvery Wednesday Night

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

$1 Drafts!!!

765-2000621 Center Street

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

Letters to the Editor

Wedding Receptions • Birthday PartiesAnniversaries • Company Dinners and

BBQ’s

Call Today 763-3268

Taft Redevelopmentby Robert GorsonTaft City Manager

California first authorized cities and counties to create redevelopment agencies in 1945 as a vehicle for addressing blight and economic distress. One of the main tools of redevelopment is tax increment financing. Under tax increment financing, the property taxes that existing taxing authorities –cities, counties, schools and special districts – receive from within redevelopment project areas are capped and most of the future tax increases – the tax increment – go to the redevelopment agency. The tax increments are used by the redevelopment agency to finance infrastructure improvements, site acquisition, real estate development and rehabilitation projects and other activities that support the revitalization of the redevelopment project area. Since 1979, redevelopment agencies have been required to set aside at least 20% of their tax increment funds for low and moderate income housing. The use of redevelopment agency housing funds has become increasingly restricted and targeted over the years. In addition, agencies that extend projects beyond their original life are now required to place 30% of their tax increment in their housing set-aside fund. Redevelopment funds can generally only be used within redevelopment project areas in the city or unincorporated county in which they are generated. Housing set-aside funds, however, may be used anywhere within the city or unincorporated county in which the redevelopment agency is located. The redevelopment agency simply needs to make a finding that providing affordable housing outside of the project area supports the project area. This should be a relatively easy finding for all redevelopment agencies to make. State law places numerous housing requirements on redevelopment agencies. In addition to requiring that funds be set-aside for housing, redevelopment agencies must adopt a housing implementation plan and are required to meet certain housing production goals. All housing assisted with redevelopment housing set-aside funds or counted towards an agency’s housing production goals must have long-term affordability restrictions. Rental housing must be affordable to, and occupied by, the target income group (very low, low or moderate income) for a period of at least 55 years. Ownership housing must be restricted for at least 45 years.

Weeding Things Outby Jill GipsonTaft Code Enforcement

Got weeds? Winter rains bring about a pesky problem, but City’s Code Enforcement Division has a few helpful hints: It’s time to dust off the Weed Eater and whack the unsightly brush and thorny weeds from your property. Failure to do so could hit City of Taft property owners where it hurts the most — in the pocketbook. Taft city’s weed abatement ordinance requires property owner’s to clear weeds from the property, including curbs, gutters, alleys, sidewalks and fence lines which help prevent safety hazards (i.e. breeding place for rodents, hidden trash such as cans and broken glass, etc.) The Taft Code enforcement Division is encouraging residents to take steps now to control weeds and grass before it becomes a problem. To help residents and business owners win the battle against weeds, Code Enforcement Division urge you to follow the following helpful hints from Valley horticulture experts:* Keep grass cut and trimmed in your yard, along buildings and fences.* Dig out already emerged weeds early before they get out-of-control.* Use an herbicide (like Roundup) on large weed areas, but be sure to keep it away from other vegetation.* Apply pre-emergent weed killers twice a year (fall and late winter before major rains is best).* Stay on top of it! A little weeding twice a week will help you avoid a big job down the road.

Dear Editor:

On behalf of the City of Taft, I want to thank Melissa Iger of the Kern Tree Foundation for her help is arranging for the transfer of 32 trees from Bakersfield to the to our Rails to Trails parkway. This project would not have happened without her leadership! We appreciate the opportunity to participate in this effort. The Taft City Council voted unanimously to sponsor this exciting opportunity and we look forward to many years of enjoying these mature, beautiful trees. Special thanks also go to Bud Rice, our GIS and Development Services Manager, that coordinated with all parties and presented

Dear Editor

The Tree Foundation of Kern is very proud to announce that we, the City of Bakersfield and the City of Taft have been able to save and will be moving over 50 trees that live on Calloway Drive, which were otherwise slated to die due to the Westside Parkway coming in. The City of Taft is sponsoring this program to remove and move the trees. Half of them will be moved

Editor:

I need to point out that had the City Of Taft had it’s way in 2000, there would be nothing but an empty lot where the Pioneer mercantile stands today. Only through the hard work of a very small group of people was this building saved from demolition. You can thank the Westside and Sunset Railroad Historical Society for buying the building for $1 to save it. The main people involved were, Don Gillaspie, Karen Mitchell, Crag Noble, Carolyn Karrer, and Jay Anderson. Please print the real story of the saving of the Pioneer. Thank You.

Jay Anderson

City Council Meeting in Special Closed Session Monday to Discuss Grand Jury Response, Potential Claims Against City for Hostile Work Environment

The Taft City Council will hold a special meeting on Monday, March 29 in the City of Taft Council Chamber, City Hall, at 5:00 p.m.

The special meeting is being held in closed session to confer with legal Counsel to discuss facts and circumstances regarding potential claims for Hostile Work Environment.

The Council will also meet in closed session to discuss the city’s response to the February 4, 2010 Grand Jury Report due on April 4, 2010.

his findings to the Taft City Council. We pledge to do our best to maintain every tree and thank you again!

Bob GorsonTaft City Manager

to replace some of the dead Sequoias on Hageman Road, and the other half will go to the City of Taft for their parks and Rails to Trails project. Many thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make this happen and to General Tree Service for all that you do so well. This is a treemendous day!

Melissa IgerExecutive DirectorTree Foundation of Kern

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It’s hard not to be enchanted by the diverse landscape and its history. The road through plains is not even entirely paved and sometimes is closed altogether because of weather conditions. The two campgrounds are basic and cell phone reception is almost non-existent, as there is nothing but wildlife for miles. In place of chain restaurants and suburbs, there are glimpses of true nature in the breathtaking views of Soda Lake, the San Andreas Fault and the sky on a clear night. The scenery, coupled with amazing historical ties has much to offer, including six different hiking trails ranging from .9 miles to nearly nine miles, accessibility for horseback riding, and bike riding as well as educational opportunities. On the guided tours to Painted Rock from March to May, visitors are able to learn about the area where some Native American tribes gathered and hike to Painted Rock where rock paintings from Native Americans remain. The area surrounding is meant to be kept almost untouched by the visitors. Although animals and bicycles are welcome on the other trails, they are not allowed on Painted Rock as the site is a cultural resource for the Native Americans. The importance of preservation and to “leave no trace,” is not only stressed at the monument but all over the entire area. “Visitors should accept the land on its own terms,” Deutsche said. “I really hope that the roads remain unpaved, that brush fills the canyons, that coyotes will call at dawn, and that this will be a place for people to explore without being led.” The idea of keeping the Carrizo as it is a sentiment that Czapla shares, “There are two things that stand out to me that make the Carrisa Plains so special,” she explained. “Except for a couple of weeks on a good flower year, it is subtle and it is silent, I would like to see it stay that way.” For information about the Goodwin Education Center and the Carrizo Plains, like hours of operation, trailhead locations and more, you can find it on the web at the Bureau of Land Management’s webpage at http://www.blm.gov.

Do You Have Queen Potential?Taft is getting ready to celebrate their 100th Oildorado Days and you do not want to miss out. We are still looking for organizations to sponsor a young lady from the area as a queen contestant. Many spots have been taken and there is a limit on how many can participate. Dealines are approaching. If you are interested in sponsoring or interested in being a candidate please contact Lisa Willhelm, Queen Contestant Chair at (661)205-5317.

Qualifications for Oildorado Maids of Petroleum Candidates

Young Ladies Must:

Be between the ages of 16-21 (16 by October 15, 2010)Be sponsored by a non-profit organization or club approved by OildoradoBe enrolled and attending school in Taft or the Greater WestsideBe of good character: posses talent, poise, personality, charm and beautyBe willing and capable of representing Taft and Oildorado for the duration of the event, approximately April 1 - October 31, 2010Be obtaining a 2.0 or higher GPA in both the last semester of the 09/10 school year and the first quarter of the 10/11 school yearBe single- Never married, divorced, common law married, or had childrenBe able to purchase items such as (but not limited to) black cowboy boots, formal ball gown and shoes, bathing suit, sarong, and black tap shoesLive on the Westside- A resident of Taft, Dustin Acres, Valley Acres, Fellows, Derby Acres, McKittrick and MaricopaBe one of the first twenty (20) qualifying contestants enteredAgree that the time, manner and method of judging the contest shall be solely within the discretion of the Queen’s Contest CommitteeBe able to participate in appearances for the Queen Contestants.

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 signatureMortgage Documents $150 per setMobile Notary Service $1 per mile

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

Sandy’s Cell: 661-577-6790

by Jessica G. Miller

Spring in Taft is always one of the most beautiful times of the year. With the hills turning vibrant shades of green and the odd patch of wildflowers showing up here and there, it’s as if the Westside is a completely different place. The season change makes Taft, the Gateway to the Carrizo Plain National Monument, a fitting prelude to the splendors that lie just west of us… Painted Rock, Soda Lake, and acres of grasslands covered with wildflowers. The Carrizo Plain, alternately referred to as the Carrisa Plains, was designated as a National Monument in 2001 and rests between the Temblor and Caliente ranges where the San Andreas Fault stretches across the valley, providing a home to several endangered species of animals and plants. From the 166 to the 58, the virtually untouched land holds a wide range of historical, geographical and natural intrigue. “It is peaceful and a beautiful place,” Carrizo Plain National Monument manager, Johna Hurl said. “Especially on years like this with the vast displays of beautiful wildflowers.” With the explosion of the wildflowers and the weather changing, people from all over are flocking to the plains to explore the various hiking trails. At the Goodwin Education Center, visitors are able to find information on the area, including maps, historical accounts, brochures about the different plants and animals as well as interactive displays and the knowledgeable, Jackie Czapla, Education Center Coordinator and volunteer of 15 years. “I believe the people that have lived out here, generations of people, are important to the Carrizo, as well as trying to take the land, flora, [and] fauna back to some particular time,” she explained. “I'm more interested in preserving (staying ) than going. One of the things that make this place so

intriguing, so compelling if you will, is that it hasn't gone anywhere.” Czapla is not alone in her interest. The Mission Statement of the Carrizo Plain from the Bureau of Land Management states that their objective is to, “manage the Carrizo Plain National Monument so that indigenous species interact within a dynamic and fully functioning system in perpetuity while conserving unique natural and cultural resources and maintaining opportunities for compatible scientific research, cultural, social and recreational activities.” For the people involved with the Carrizo, it’s more than a job, it’s a passion. “I like being a part of protecting such a unique and special area of California, “ Hurl, who grew up on the Carrizo and has worked for the BLM for 17 years, said. Craig Deutsche, a volunteer since 2003, explained that his passion for the area was the wide open space. “After a few visits I was so taken by the landscape that it became impossible not to return and to give something back to the land,” he said. “It gives something to me that is important - it provides perspective on our "civilized" life, it is worlds away from traffic problems and text messages, it is a quiet place, and the night skies are still dark.”

Carrizo Plain National Monument Bursting With Spring Flowers

Court Appointed Special Advocates Seeking Volunteers“Stand up for children, so they’ll stand a chance.”

What: Orientation for those interested in becoming CASA Volunteers When: Tuesday April 13, 2010 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.Where: Taft Chamber of Commerce, 400 Kern Street Taft Plan to attend this one hour meeting to learn how you can make a difference in the life of a child in foster care. CASA volunteers make an 18 month commitment and donate an average of 10-15 hours per month in their role as an advocate. All volunteers must be screened and accepted to a 35 hour training program which begins in May. Call Kate Kenney at 631-2272 to RSVP and receive an application. Visit our website at www.kerncasa.org" www.kerncasa.org for more information. There is a great need for advocates in the Taft area, and we are especially in need of bilingual English/Spanish and male volunteers.


San Joaquin Automotive

Center

(661)763-1123531 Center Street

$23.99


No Appointment NecessaryIn & Out

WINNERIndependent

The Taft

Best Of2009

READER’S POLL

Billy MessengerVoted Best Mechanic 2009

Gas Engine Oil Change

$51.99 to $61.99Diesel Engine Oil Change

Depending on what engine

Valid 3/1/10 - 3/31/10


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 3-30-10 thru 4-3-10)

Tues.3-30-10Lunch

Tues.3-30-10DinnerWed.

3-31-10Lunch

Wed.3-31-10Dinner

Thurs.4-1-10Lunch

Thurs.4-1-10Dinner

Fri.4-2-10Dinner

Fri.4-2-10Lunch

Sat.4-3-10Dinner

Hot Roast Beef Sandwich

BBQ Beef RibsChicken Fettuccini

Alfredo

Prime Rib$14.95 Small/ $17.95 Large

Crispy Chicken Sandwich

Veal Liver with Bacon & Onions

Seafood Jambalaya

BBQ Combo

CLOSED SUNDAY AND MONDAY

Seafood Combo

$8.95

$9.95

$8.95

$14.95

$9.95

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Edward J. Herrera Insurance

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

www.edherrerainsurance.com

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Auto - Home - Health - Business - Notary Public

Our Friendly Staff

Taft Primary and Conley School had an assembly by the Riddle High School from Riddle, Oregon. The town has a population of 1200 people and the high school has 120 students. 1/3 of the students are in the band or drama classes. They do a tour every 5 years and do about 8 performances. This years trip will culminate in Disneyland for a band performance. They stayed overnight in the Taft High School gymnasium. The broom dance was a unique performance using an ordinary push boom. The 35 minute total performace had the 1-3 graders in lots of giggles.

Taft Primary, Conley School Gets Visit from Oregon High School Entertainers

City of Taft Gets New Parking Lot Light Standards

The City of Taft has placed new parking lot light poles in the Center Street and Second Street city parking lot.

Taft College STEM Trailer Coming Neatly Complete, Arriving in April

Taft College will soon receive their new STEM educational Trailer from the manufacturer. The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Program is a K-12 outreach program for schools in Western Kern County. The main emphasis of the program is to perform outreach by way of creating fun and interesting demonstrations and activities that will stimulate interest in STEM career paths among local children. Technology is emphasized in the program for its utility in modern society. The flagship projects in the program involve the use of GAVRT (Goldstone Apple Valley Radio Telescope). The telescopes were donated by NASA, for use through a global outreach program, to the Lewis Center for Educational Research (LCER). Physical Science activities have been designed by the global outreach team to incorporate GAVRT into regular activities at the schools, in addition to special project activities involving GAVRT. All sciences, from the life sciences to physical science are part of the Taft College STEM Program.


Paik’s Ranch House“Where Everybody Meets!”

200 Kern Street 765-6915

Breakfastserved 8am-10am $3.95

Lunchserved 11am-1pm $5.50

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

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

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

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].

616 Pozo StreetMaricopa, CA

Open Mon. - Sat. 8am-8pm

Soccoro’s Mexican Grill

(661)745-4924

Dinner Special

Buy 1 Dinner Get 2nd Dinner1/2 Off *

Drinks Not Included.*Must present coupon at

time of purchase

Academy Juniors on a field trip to AERA Energy LLC production and water facilities at North Midway-Sunset, with Bryan Sellman conducting the tour. A group of Academy Seniors (below) completing a Job Shadowing Day with Chevron Midway-Sunset employees. Academy Seniors Marissa McMahon and Rebecca Laureles at the traveling Vietnam Wall exhibit, in Bakersfield, after conducting interviews of Vietnam War veterans for a Senior Project in The Academy. Academy Sophomores Hadley Pittman, Jennifer Hinojosa, and Anthony Lopez-Black working on the annual engineering project of constructing bridges out of toothpicks and white Elmer’s glue.

Greg and Sandy Anderson of Anderson Business Services are now Notary Publics and Certified Signing Agents in California, with Greg being a Mobile Notary Public. Fees include: $10.00 a signature for Acknowledgements and Jurats; with travel mileage at $1.00/per mile. Asked why they became Notaries, Sandy answered, “We wanted to make it more convenient for our existing client base while making it easier to receive services in Taft as a whole.” Greg commented regarding the mobile aspect of their services, “There are many people who are home bound, working during the day and unable to leave work, or unable to meet during normal business hours. This is a vital service to the people in the Taft area based on those needs. There are several cases where individuals have to meet in the evening to have papers notarized. We are sure this will make it easier and quicker for people. And rather than pay for someone to drive from Bakersfield, we are local, so the cost will be kept to a minimum.” For more information on services, you may contact Greg on his cell at 661-577-6032, Sandy on her cell at 661-577-6790, or call the office at 661-765-7665. If you prefer, you may email Sandy at [email protected]

Anderson Business Services Now Offering Notary Service

Clay Walker Joins Showcase of Concerts Scheduled for Kern County Fair Country artist Clay Walker is the latest performer to be announced for the 2010 Kern County Fair, Sept. 22 - Oct. 3.With the theme “Best in the West,” planners of this year’s Kern County Fair have scheduled 12 nights of free concerts, from old-time rock and roll to country music stars like Clay Walker and Pam Tillis. This year’s entertainment line-up on the Budweiser Pavilion begins on Wednesday, Sept. 22, with Morris Day and the Time, whose old-school hits included “Jungle Love” and “777-9311.” The next night, Thursday, Sept. 23, will feature the big-band sounds of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, who recently released their eighth studio album “How Big Can You Get? A Tribute to Cab Calloway.” The album is described as capturing the essence of an American icon in a rowdy celebration of musicianship, mischief, genius, street smarts and fun. The album is the latest success in the band’s multi-platinum-selling career. This is their second appearance at the Kern County Fair, where they were a favorite with concert-goers in 2007. Country fans will want to mark their calendars now for a special show on Friday, Sept. 24, starring Pam Tillis with special guests Williams and Ree. The comedy duo is making a return engagement at the Kern County Fair after winning praise from fairgoers last year. Tillis has been honored as female vocalist of the year by the Country Music Awards. Her music has gone platinum and topped the singles charts time and again. On Saturday, Sept. 25, Air Supply will take the stage. The soft-rock duo has had numerous chart-topping hits in the 1980s including “All Out of Love,” Lost in Love” and “Every Woman in the World.” Their hit “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” sold more than 5 million copies. Clay Walker will perform on Sunday, Sept. 26, bringing his country favorites to Kern County fans. He first topped the Billboard country singles chart in 1993 with “What’s It to You” and followed with his second consecutive number-one hit “Live Until I Die.” Since then he’s placed 31 titles on Billboard’s singles chart – including such hits as “Dreaming with my Eyes Open, “ “If I could Make Living,” “This Woman and This Man” and “Rumor Has It.” The female vocal quarter En Vogue will entertain fairgoers on Monday, Sept. 27. One of the most popular female groups of all time, this rhythm and blues quartet has won more MTV Video Music Awards than any other female group in MTV history, as well as three Soul Train Awards, two American Music Awards and seven Grammy nominations. Concert-goers on Tuesday, Sept. 28, will be entertained by Collective Soul. The group, which has garnered a catalog of number-one hits, originally burst onto the music scene with the rock ballad “Shine” in 1993. Last year, the band released its eighth studio album. Tower of Power returns to the Kern County Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 29. The band is an annual favorite, packing the stands with fans who enjoy the group’s special brand of soul music. Tower of Power performed at the Kern County Fair in 2006 and again in 2008 and 2009. Though Tower’s sound can be hard to define, the band’s leader and founding member, Emilio Castillo, has labeled their horn-driven sound as “Urban Soul Music.” On Friday, Oct. 1, Guess Who will come to the Budweiser Pavilion. The group connected with the masses through a hit parade in the 1960s and 70s that included “These Eyes,” “Clap for the Wolfman,” “Hand Me Down World,” “American Woman,” “No Sugar Tonight,” and many others that have become part of rock and pop culture history. Fairgoers are in for another treat on Saturday, Oct. 2, when Beatlemajesty takes the stage. Beatlemajesty features the same performers who starred on Broadway in the box office smash that won reviewers’ acclaim. Since then, the show has been performed all over the globe, thrilling audiences world-wide.Still to be announced are shows for Thursday, Sept. 30 and Sunday, Oct. 3. Thursday’s show will feature Christian music, while the final day of the fair on Sunday, Oct. 3, will be showcase a line-up of Hispanic entertainment to be announced at a later date. “We’re really excited about the line-up for this year’s event,” said Bill Blair, chief executive officer of the Kern County Fair. “We’ve been able to secure a variety of music with the goal of appealing to all age groups and musical tastes.”He added that all concerts at the 2010 Kern County Fair are free with the cost of admission to the fairgrounds.Schedule updates and more information will be released as it becomes available. They also will be posted at kerncountyfair.com.

Oil Academy Field Trip To AERA Energy LLC


TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

630 North St. 765-5557

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

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

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

Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

Trinity Southern Baptist Church

400 Finley DriveWe invite you to join us

each week as we worshi

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

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm

First Congregational Church of MaricopaSunday 10 a.m.

Bible StudyThursday Nights 7 p.m.

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

Lighthouse Foursquare Church210 Harrison Street 763-1518

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

Sunday Service 10 AMPastors Mark and Kathy Fitzsimmons

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

New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”

308 Harrison Street765-4572

Sunday Morning Worship Service10 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship Service6 p.m

Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.

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

at The Spot - 201 Harrison Street

New Life CommuNity ChurCh

Pastor Floyd and Carol Jordan 1000 6th Street

765-7472 www.nlctaft.org

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

Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced

All Are Licensed Funeral Directors

The Trusted Name Since 1939

Sunday Service at 10:00AM

Taft CrudeCoffee House

Ice Blended Mocha

When its Hotor Not....

Espresso Yourself Today

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

Immaculate Conception Parish

Mass Saturday 7pmSunday 9am

Everyone WelcomeDeacon Ricardo Barragan

No Appointment Needed For Smog Check!

QIKSmog & Tune

500 S. 10th Street • Taft661-763-4445

• Certified Gold Shield

& C. A. P. Station

• General Automotive

Repair

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

Tyler and Cyndy are Back!

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

We are Specialists!

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

(661) 763-3111

Veterans Burial ServiceIncluding American Made Military Gray or Brown

SteelCasket, Burial with Honors, Bakersfield National Veterans Cemetery

$2,295.00West Side Memorial Services

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

www.westsidememorialservices.com

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE209 Harrison Street • Taft

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

$39.75 *

for Smog Check ‘96 or Newer plus

certificate

Ask about $500.00

Free Smog RepairRestrictions Apply

* must present ad at time of service

1/2 offDiagnostics

VISIT TAFTINDEPENDENT.COM

Weddings - BaptismsQuinceañeras

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

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Rev. Linda Huggard

Faith and Family

Yates’ Detailing600 Center Street

Taft, California(661) 623-0827 (661) 765-1171

All your detailing needs!

Wash, Wax, Shampoo, Buffing and Window Tinting. Call for Appointment Today!

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pastor Jim Beilstein’s Ponderings Peace Lutheran Church“The Crown of Life”

Sometimes we suffer in this life because of the things that our human kind has done in the past. AIDS seems to have begun with man interacting with animals.Healthcare costs have increased faster than other costs

Part of the national debt seemingly is placed upon us by past generationsPoliticians have been borrowing from Social Security for many yearsPensions have been promised that can never be paid Sometimes we suffer in this life because of the things we do. AIDS and other STD’s are continuing to be spread Healthcare costs continue to grow Our national debt continues to be placed on future generations For the first time, we are paying out more in Social Security than is being paid in and we continue to borrow We continue to promise more pensions It is a dire situation in our country but there is one we can turn to at Easter time or any time that came to save us. “The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. ‘I know your tribulation and your poverty …Do not fear what you are about to suffer…Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.’” (Revelation 2:8-11, ESV) Jesus Christ is the first because He existed even before the earth was created and He is the last because He will continue to exist even if the earth goes away. Jesus died on the cross and rose on Easter morning to take away the eternal sting of the things human kind has done in the past and the eternal sting of the things we continue to do. The promise of Jesus is that He will give us the crown that is better than any kingly crown or any queenly crown. The crown that Jesus gives us is eternal life in heaven, what a wonderful place as it is described in the Biblical book of Revelation. Unfortunately, we do suffer the consequences on this earth for the mistakes of mankind and for our own individual mistakes. But Jesus promises that during our suffering He will take away our fear. I pray that you do not fear what may be happening to you right now or may happen to you in the future. But that you put your faith in Jesus for your life on this earth and for your wonderful life in heaven.


Westside Horoscopesby Jessy McCulloch

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

370 CALIFORNIA 769-8580

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

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

MARICOpA QUILT COMpANy

March 31st, April 1st & 2ndSewing Machine Service & Repair

Scissor Sharpening

G&S CARPET Service & Selection

Knowledgeable SalesExperienced Installation

Laminate

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

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

Appt.

D.I.Y.starting at 1 .29

sq. ft.

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

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

www.sagebrushannies.com

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

Now Celebrating Our 20th Year

426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

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

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries 426 CENTER STREET • 661.763.5451

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

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts

14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair

Watch Batteries

426 Center Street (661)763-5451

WINNERIndependentThe Taft

Best Of2009READER’S POLL

Fine Jewelry • Candles • Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver

Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair Watch Batteries

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 INSURANCEa division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Rich MillerLicense # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131

531 Kern Street - P.O. Box 985 (661) 765-4798 FAX

Taft, CA 93268 • (661) 203-6694 Cell

E-Mail: [email protected] Hometown Insurance Store

Westside News and Reviews

Aries (March 21-April 19): It may seem like things aren’t going to get better, but while it may take awhile you couldn’t be more wrong. It’s frustrating but you’ll get there.

Taurus (April 20-May 20): You can have the tendency to get a little too controlling. It’s not letting someone else take the reins if you’re over their shoulder playing puppet master.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): What’s meant to be will be, and while that’s little consolation right now, in the long run you’ll see how true it is. Things will work out; just take it a day at a time.

Cancer ( June 21-July 22): You may be a little upset with a family member after a poor showing on their part in front of friends, but try to show a little understanding of their current difficulties.

Leo ( July 23-August 22): This is a fantastic week to start something new. Whether it’s a hobby, volunteering, a project at work, or even a new friendship, go ahead and take those first steps.

Virgo (August 23-September 22): While it may seem like there’s been more and more distance between you and a very close friend, they really are just in a very busy place right now.

Libra (September 23-October 22): If you’re feeling humbled by a recent mistake, that’s a good thing. It means you know what you did was wrong and is the first step towards making amends.

Scorpio (October 23-November 22): Frustration is the name of the game right now. Frustrating and waiting. But while this setback seems enormous, it’s not nearly as bad as you think.

Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): Sometimes beauty can be found in the most unexpected of places. Keep your eyes open as that will definitely be the case this week.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19): While you’ve taken steps to rectify a situation gone wrong, you won’t really earn forgiveness unless you actually apologize.

Aquarius ( January 20-February 19): You are headed in all the right directions, at work and on the home front. Just keep doing what you’re doing and you’ll see great success.

Pisces (February 20-March 20: Feeling regret doesn’t really count if you have every intention of making the same mistakes over and over again. It’s past time for you to make a few big changes.

If your birthday is this week: If it seems like things are off between you and one of your best friends, you’re right. You are just in very different places right now, so relating to each other doesn’t come as naturally as it once did. You’ll get back on track. It just might take a little more work than you’ve ever had to put forth on this particular friendship.

15 Taft Properties Sold in February, 10 Bank Ownedby Karri Christensen Real Estate eBroker Incwww.BuyKernCounty.com661-332-6597

The Federal Reserve policy makers, after their meeting, stated that the benchmark short term interest rate (in the range of zero to 0.25%) will remain unchanged. Using the phrase they have for the past year, they stated that the duration will be for an “extended period of time”. The Obama Administration’s Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP), the U.S. Dept. of the Treasury, and the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that permanent loan modifications, as of the end of February, were granted to 170,000 homeowners. Foreclosure activity in California is down 5% compared to the previous month of January, and down 15% when compared to February 2009. According to a report from RealtyTrac, in California one out of every 195 housing units received a foreclosure filing. In the Taft area in the month of January there were 65 Real Estate purchasing opportunities available. During that same time 21 real estate listings received accepted offers, while 7 properties sold. Out of the property that sold 4 were bank owned property (REO) and 3 were short sales. [This information per MLS (Multiple Listing Service).] In the Taft area in the month February there were 53 Real Estate purchasing opportunities available. During that same time 8 real estate listings received accepted offers, while 15 properties sold. Out of the property that sold 10 were bank owned property (REO), 1 Probate sale, 1 Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), 1 Short Sale, and 2 regular sales. . [This information per MLS (Multiple Listing Service).] The real estate market is coming upon its seasonal sales period, coupled with that is the tax credit for purchases which will be ending soon, as a result the market will continue to see increased activity for a period of time. It is anticipated that there will be fewer bank repossessed property. As of April 5th, the Obama administrations will assist in streamlining the short sale process by offering a cash payment to the home owner, the lien holder(s), and protect to the borrowers from future lender lawsuits trying to reclaim the unpaid mortgage balances. With many foreclosures people are unable to relocate with their pets. More and more pets will be turned out to the streets; in some cases left inside the home in hopes someone will find them before food and water runs out. There is a nonprofit organization to help with this. If you find yourself in this position please visit www.nopawsleftbehind.org for tips and assistance in relocating your pet. Please be a responsible and kind pet owner.

TIL Annual Wine and Microbrew Tasting April 22 Tickets are available for the annual wine and microbrew tasting party for the Taft College Transition to Independent Living (TIL) program. The popular event will be held April 22 at the Historic Fort from 5-9 p.m. Besides a variety of wines and microbrews available for sampling there will be live and silent auctions, entertainment and a guest speaker. The event is co-sponsored by the Fort Preservation Society and the Transition Partnership Team – the college’s advisory board for the TIL program. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door on the night of the event. Sponsorships also can be purchased at $125, $250 and $500 levels.Tickets are available at the Fort and the TIL office at the college.Finger foods prepared by TC food service director Geoffrey Dunham and his staff will be served. TIL is nationally and internationally acclaimed program that places young adults with mild developmental disabilities into a two-year, live-in training regime that teaches them to live independently.The program has a high success rate. Congress has approved legislation and funding to replicate the program nationwide.

Statement by Congressman McCarthy Regarding House Passage of the Health Care Bill “Today’s “historic” vote is a sad day. Washington failed America. The People’s House had a choice – vote to listen to the people and start over with a good bill, or dictate to the people that Washington knows best. 212 Democratic and Republican Members of Congress fought against the government takeover of health care, and voted to listen to America. However, 219 Democratic Members of Congress prevailed with passing an ideological agenda on a purely party line vote. Congress did not listen. “This bill is a bad bill. It’s bad for our children who will inherit more debt, it’s bad for America’s job creators who will pay higher taxes, and it’s bad for Americans who are on a path to pay more taxes for Washington to control their healthcare. This bill contains $1.2 trillion in new spending at a time when America is borrowing 43 cents on every dollar it spends. Washington is once again stealing from our children’s generation. This bill contains $560 billion in new tax increases, which includes higher taxes on small businesses and 12 individual tax increases that break the President’s pledge to not tax families. At a time of record unemployment, raising taxes on small businesses that create over 70 percent of America’s jobs is wrong. America deserves better.


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.

Brents, Ernie Sue Brown, Nancy Collins, Clifford Cramer, Clark Culver, Ellen Fultz, Bob Hall, Jeanine Harrison, Mike Hazeltine, Pat Hendricks, Carolyn Johnson, Shelia Johnson, Kenneth Jones, Annette Kinser, Mark Knowles, Francis May, Beverly McDaris, Marvin Marks, Bill Morton, Betty Norris, David Pritchett, Jerry Ray, Gerry Robertson, Carolyn Ruff, Dennis Schroder, Linda Scott,Jennie Van Camp, Geraldine Villers, Robert Wheeler, Jeff Woods. If you have any information, please call Lodema Hatch 661 765-6007

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

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

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

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

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

Business ServicesCleaning Services

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

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

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

Yard Sale. 312 Eastern in alley. Saturday

Yard Sale. Saturday 7am-3pm. 904 Williams Way. Toys, lawn mower, dishes and clothes.

Yard Sale. Saturday 8am-12pm 905 Williams Way. Sewing machine, glasswear, antiques.

122 1/2 Lucard. Fri. Sat. Sun. 8am-? In alley. Cell phone, tv/vcr combo, digital camera, photo machine. 599-7216

ANNOUNCEMENTS

fems2112 (on YouTube) says:

www.ratethisjudge.com and stay tuned.

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

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

Class of 1960 50th Reunion will be held on Oct 23, 2010 at O.T.’s Cookhouse on the 2nd Saturday of Oildorado. This will also be during the Taft’s 100th birthday year. We have the following as missing classmates. If you know anyone of them, please contact Lodema Hatch [email protected] or call 661 765-6007.

Missing Classmates of 1960’s 50th Reunion

Richard Beebe, Judy Blakeney, Jerry Box, Deanna Brenneman, Fred Braun, Vonda

Housing Opporotunity.

Reed’s House Cleaning. Honest! Ref. Avail. Weekly, bi-weekly. Home & Offices. Call for Estimate! 763-4855

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

Looking for Dance Instructor. 205-5579

Light duty and heavy duty truck Mechanic needed. 4 yrs. exp. req. Competitive wage and benefits. Send resume to PO Box 42. Taft, CA 93268.week as of 1-29-10 CARPET AND

FLOORINGCARPET/HARD

FLOORING REPAIR

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

4676.

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

WANTEDJunk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

FOR SALEOvation guitar. 765-7958.

Harley- Davidson 2006 softail Deluex Black Pearl. 10,500 miles $13,500. Matt 623-0857

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

LOST PETSLost on March 2nd. near 100 E. warren. Small white Maltese. Goes by the name Camey.

Please call 661-496-4943.

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

PETS

FOUND PETS

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

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

PERSONALS

PROPERTY MANAGEMENTTaft Property Management

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

areas.CRIME FREE

HOUSING Brokers Licence

04417057

661-577-7136

OPEN HOUSE HOUSE FOR SALE

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

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

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunsay

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

March 29th and 30thSaturday and Sunday

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From $220,000

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

HOMES FOR SALEwww.BuyKernCounty.comWe work for you NOT

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

Specializing in the Taft Area

661-332-6597 Karri Christensen

Real Estate eBroker Inc #01522411 &

#01333971

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

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

HOMES FOR RENTWest ValleyReal Estate

AffordableResidential HomesOwner Financing

Available

Open House ?House for Sale ?

House For Rent ?

Place Your Classif ied Ad

in the Taf t Independent

for $2 per l ine (18- 20 characters

per l ine)Box your ad for $3

and\orAd a photo or company logo

for $5 more

Your Ad appears on Our Website FREE !

3,000 Visits per Week

The Taf t Independent is a

FREE publication3,300 printed issues

available at 150 locations

Your Best Classif ied Value on the

Westside

Call 765-6550

[email protected]

Taft Construction,Air Conditioning and

Heating

We Do All Phases of Construction

Kitchen and Bathroom Specialists

Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507

30 Plus Years in ConstructionLicense No. 927634

STOP FORECLOSUREFree Report

www.stopkernforclosure.com

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].

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

House for rent at 115 Kern St. 2 Bedroom plus office or small 3rd bedroom. One bedroom is big enough for two kids. Double lot right downtown. $695 plus deposit available now. Call Mark King at 805-689-4122. Apartment in duplex for rent at 405 San Emidio. 1/1 with laundry and huge shared back yard. $595 plus deposit. Call Mark King at 805-689-4122.

2bd, 1ba. 27595 Valley West Rd. Valley Acres. Avail. now. $650 mo + dep. 805-712-0354

1 bd. downtown Taft. Off street parking. 319 1/2 North Street. Fenced Yard. $500 mo. plus dep. 661-623-5188.

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

Must see Home for rent,4b,1b,huge yard,$800 a month,I will work with the deposit,718 Pierce St. 619-857-9361

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preserving for the Future

GRANITE OVERLAYSKitchens • Bathrooms Showers • Fireplaces

No tear out required - Goes over any surfaceRLK Coatings

661-623-7039 661-366-5460

Used to be Paul’s

Bike Shop420 1/2 Center Street

Taft, CA 93268(661)745-4919


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

western shop & PET SUPPLY

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

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

FRESH SCENT - 256 CLEANSER

Visit our website for more informationwww.shawswesternshop.com

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

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

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

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

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

Advertise in the Taft IndependentCall Today! 765-6550

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

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

Edward J. Herrera Insurance

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

www.edherrerainsurance.com

Le Ofrecemos Los Mejores Precios

Auto - Casa - Salud - Negocio - Notario Publico

NuestroPersonalAmable

No Appointment Needed For Smog Check!

QIKSmog & Tune

500 S. 10th Street • Taft661-763-4445

• Certified Gold Shield

& C. A. P. Station

• General Automotive

Repair

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

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

CANINE PARVOVIRUS & DISTEMPER

Used to be Paul’s

Bike Shop420 1/2 Center Street

Taft, CA 93268(661)745-4919


Randy’s Trucking, Inc.Now Renting

U-Cart Away Concrete MixerStarting at $44

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

• Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer

• Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping

• Mixes Concrete While Traveling

• Large Internal Blades

• Rear Operator Control PanelCement Available 7 Days A Week

(661) 763-4773

ANDERSON BUSINESS SERVICESBookkeeping and Income Tax Preparation

TAX TIME IS HERE!Make Your Appointment Early.

10% OFFWITH THIS AD

NEW CLIENTS ONLYVisit

ABSTAFT.com

Sandy Anderson

Call for Appointment: 765-7665 or 577-6790

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

Open 7 Days a Week

BARRON PROPERTIESManagement/Sales

“Putting Management back into your Property”

Ethele M. Barron325 Kern Street

[email protected]

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

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

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

Open House: 10:00 - 10:30 am

Stephen Wright’s Tour of HomesApril 10, 2010

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

DRE# 01415460

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

Open House: 11:00 - 11:30 am

27965 Tank Farm Rd. 216 E. Lucard St.