affectingyourneighborsalsoinside:calendar,westsidewatcher,news,businessfeature,horoscopesandclassifi

Friday, May 8, 2009 • Volume 3 Issue 45www.Taftindependent.com

FREEWeeklyThe Taft

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

Independent

Local Businessman Says New Taft Back Country Tours Coming Soon

Passion Nail Salon Opening in the Pilot Plaza Wednesday May 13

Also Inside: Calendar, Westside Watcher, News, Business Feature, Horoscopes and Classified Ads.

Taft’s Only Locally Owned Newspaper!

Purple Warriors Tribe in The Westside Recreation and Park Report

Seeger Gets Pro-Rated for Skydive DemonstrationS

[email protected]

Next Step Cardio Grand Opening Today at 5:30 pm

We A

re

Unemployed in TaftHow Job Loss is Affecting Your Neighbors

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT MAY 8, 2009

News Briefs

Large Pepperoni Pizza

$7.00Offer Expires:

5/24/09

Three 100% Real Cheeses with 60

slices of Premium Pepperoni.

Limited time offer. Limit 2.Not valid with any other offer.Valid only at participating locations.

1107 Kern Street In the KFC/Taco Bell Center(661) 765-5959

Only with this coupon.

407 Finley Drive In the Save-A-Lot shopping center 765-6424

Buy 1 Large Specialty Pizza and get A Medium 1 topping Pizza FREE

Offer expires 6/1/09. Offer valid only with this coupon on Specialty Pizzas

Gonzales Detail Center

100% Hand Wash - Leather and Vinyl CareWax - Polish - Upholstery Cleaning - Custom Detailing

Monday - Friay 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.600 6th Street at the corner of Center Street - 623-7488

Gloria Tofte, office manager for Brown and Reich Petroleum, presented a $5000 check on behalf of Brown and Reich Petroleum to the Taft Soroptimist Club on Tuesday for the club’s Critical Care Transportation Project. For the last 10 years this project has provided money for needs such as gas, tires and batteries for those undergoing kidney dialysis, chemotherapy, or other cronic long term problems and requiring travel to Bakersfield for treatment. $60,000 has been given out to date and has helped 55 people in the community.

“You never know when you or someone in your family could need this type of help,” said Soroptimist President Jamie Frye, “We are so grateful for the support for this program.”

Patti Cooper (left to right), Critical Care Project Chairman, Gloria Tofte, Brown and Reich Office Manager, and Jamie Frye, Taft Soroptimist Club President.

Taft Soroptimist Critical Care Transportation Project Receives $5000

Taft Relay for Life Received Proclamation from City Hall

John passed away Saturday May 2, 2009 at his home in Bakersfield, California. John was born on October 15, 1962 to Betty (Austin) of Bakersfield, California and Johnny James Waldrop, Jr. of Taft, California. John was one of 3 children and was raised in Taft, California. He attended the local schools and graduated from Taft Union High School in 1980. He met his loving wife Shelly and they have 3 children: Zachary Waldrop, Alexia and Derrick Gustafson. He also has 2 children from a previous marriage: Rachelle Whitaker and husband Eric and Cody Waldrop of Bakersfield, California and two grandchildren Blake and Dilynn Whitaker.

He is survived by his siblings Pam Kling and husband Ben of Temecula, California and Michael Waldrop of Taft, California. He is preceded in death by grandparents Harry and Doris Leffel of Taft, California.

John is remembered as a strong-willed person that was willing to help anyone when needed and was not afraid to speak his mind. He cared for his family and friends dearly and supported them in all phases of life. He will always be remembered for how much he loved the Lord, his practical jokes and sense of humor. Our lives will be forever be changed by the loss of our Husband, Dad, Son and Brother.

Services will be held on May 7, 2009 at 4:40 P.M. at Crossroads Christian Fellowship, 2500 Fairfax Road, Bakersfield, CA

Obituary

John (Sonny) Waldrop, III (1962 - 2009)

May 15th and 16th was declared Taft Relay for Life Days by the Taft City Council. So far the group has raised over $10,000 to help fight cancer. The Relay for Life teams have 474 participants in 33 teams for the May 15th and 16th event being held in Taft. Pictured here from left are ( front row) Lisa Brown, Bonita Bullard, LaNell Howell, Patti Moon and Barry Jameson. Back row (left to right) Edith Laurin and Nancy Langkilde.

MAY 8, 2009 TAFT INDEPENDENT 3

Obituary....................2 & 8

Calendar...........................3

Editorial...........................3

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

Westside News and Business..........5

Westside Humane Society PAWS in the Park.............6

Westside Horoscopes.......9

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

Inside Calendar

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 cop-ies are $1 each. The contents of the Taft Inde-pendent are copyrighted by the Taft Indepen-dent, 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 de-livery of the Taft Independent is available for $8.00 per month or $97.00 per year. To sub-scribe 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 in-clude 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 Mas-ter Card accepted.

Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long

[email protected]

Layout & DesignIndependent Graphics

Printing Castle Print and Publication

Contributing Writers Nathan Bliss

Charissa Mood, Sherise Mitchell Wesley Morris, Jessy McCulloch, Charlie

Advertising SalesJessica Wallis

Circulation ManagerJobe Edgar

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association Printed in California

Petroleum Club Mother’s Day Dinner Friday May 8th

The Taft Petroleum Club is sponsoring a Mothers Day Dinner on Friday, May 8th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in honor of Mother’s Day. Diners will have a choice of Steak or Lazangne with Mom’s dinner at half price. Steak dinner is $13 and Lazange is $8. Karoke will follow dinner. For more information please call 763-3268.

E- Level Co-Ed Slow Pitch Tournament Saturday, May 9

West Side Recreation and Park District & ASA are hosting an E-Tournament Qualifier Tournament Saturday, May 9th at 9:00 AM at the Franklin Field Complex. Cost is $240 per team and the entry fee covers umpire fees/ASA registration. For more information contact the West Side Recreation and Park District at (661)763-4246 or 500 Cascade Place, Taft, Ca 93268.

Pioneer Days Saturday, May 16th

West Kern Oil Museum is holding a barbecue Saturday, May 16th for Pioneer Days starting at 11:30am. Meal includes homemade desserts and drink. No admission charge, barbecue is $10. Gas engine show, quilters, living museum demostrations, working blacksmithing shop, raffle, plant sale, books and more. At the West Kern Oil Museum 1168 Wood St.

South Taft 6th Annual Clean-up Saturday May 30th

South Taft will hold its 6th Annual Clean-up on Saturday, May30th beginning at. 7 a.m.

This years theme is “Cleaning our Neighborhood, Building Our Park”. For more information please call 577-7040.

Old Time Radio Show at Oil Museum May 30th

The Pine Mountain Players will present an Old Time Radio Theater program live at the West Kern Oil Museaum on Saturday, May 30th at 6:30 p.m.

The program will feature the firt esisode of the Flash Gordon Radio Show and the classic “Who’s on First” from the Abbott and Costello Radio Show.

Admission is freee. A donation will be solicited at the end of the show. For more information please call 765-6550.

News Briefs

Chilled and Grilled

New HoursBreakfast

Thursday - Sunday6am - 11am

Lunch and Dinner10am-2pm4pm-9pmEveryday

621 Center Street765-2000

A Passion For Nails salon opens next Wednesday, May 13th in the Pilot Plaza Shopping Center next door to Taft Crude Coffee House. Salon owner Kelly is pictured here with family members Jennifer, Thu, Manh and Emmi. The Taft Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a ribbon cutting at the salon at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday morning.

McCarthy Announces Mobile Office Hours

In May, a Field Representative for Congressman Kevin McCarthy will hold office hours in Taft. “Mobile office hours are a great opportunity for residents to speak with a representative from my office, receive answers to their questions, and access constituent services,” said McCarthy. “I strongly encourage residents to utilize these office hours to receive the help and assistance we can provide.” Office hours will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at Taft College Library – 29 Emmons Park Drive from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. For more information contact Vince Fong at (661) 327-3611.

The Taft Union High School Future Farmers of America awards banquet will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday May 7 in the Mullen gym. The theme is “Step Up, Stand out” and the event will honor dedicated FFA members who have worked hard and have made great achievements this year. Student-members, their families and guests are invited. The dinner will include barbecue tri tip, chicken, salad, drinks and dessert. The dinner is free but the FFA will accept donations. “We hope that you will join us in celebrating our many accomplishments and in thanking those who helped make those accomplishments possible,” Teresa Taylor, the FFA adviser, said. Please RSVP to Taylor at 763-2300, ext. 481.

Congressman McCarthy Announces Kern County Merit Award Recipients

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin McCarthy has announced the recipients of the 22nd Congressional District of California Merit Award. Janeth Medina from Maricopa High School and Kalyn Valentine of Taft Union High School are two of the receipients. “The Merit Award honors the achievements of our communities’ best and brightest, and recognizes their positive achievements and inspires all of our students to work toward their goals,” said Congressman McCarthy. “By coming together and recognizing these students, I believe we help to create a positive community environment that supports the hard work of the next generation’s leaders.” Earlier this year, high school principals were invited to select one outstanding graduating senior per school to receive the 22nd Congressional District of California Merit Award. The Merit Award was created by Congressman McCarthy to recognize outstanding high school students who have demonstrated academic excellence, exemplary school citizenship, volunteerism, community service, involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership skills, and have earned a 3.5 GPA or higher.The Merit Award Presentation Ceremony will be held on Friday, May 8 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office (Board Room), located at 1300 17th Street, City Centre in Bakersfield.

Passion Nails Opens in Pilot Plaza Wednesday

FFA Awards Banquet May 7th

Local Government Calendar

Taft City Council1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the Month Taft City Hall Council Chambers

209 E. Kern Street. 763-1222

West Kern Water District4th Tuesday of the Month

6 p.m. Board Meeting Room800 Kern St.

763-3151

Taft Union High School Board3rd Monday of the Month 6 p.m.

Board Meeting Room701 7th Street

763-2300

Taft City Schools District2nd Wednesday of the Month 7:30 p.m.

Board Meeting Room820 6th Street

763-1521

Taft College Trustees4th Tuesday of the Month

6 p.m. Board Meeting Room.800 Kern St.

763-3151

West Side Recreation and Park District Board

3rd Thursday of the Month 6 p.m. Board Meeting Room

500 Cascade Place763-4246

Get Your Business in The News!

Call Today!

765-6550


Editorial

Westside Watcher

NEXT WEEK 2-13-09

Paik’sRanch House RestaurantJoin us for a Mother’s Day

Dinner on Sunday, May 10th

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Open 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat. 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.Sun, Wed, Fri. 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

765-6915

200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Westside Restaurant and

Entertainment GuideAsian Experience

Asian Food and PizzaLunch and Dinner

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

Saturday 4 pm - 9 pm 215 Center Street, Taft

763- 1815

Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting

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

4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319

Taft Crude Coffee HouseCoffee House and Deli

Monday – Friday 6:30 am to 5pm.

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

1010 6th Street, Taft763-5156

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

Asian Experience

215 Center Street 763-1815

Asian Food and PizzaLunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

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

Live Music Saturday Nights

Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse

Steak, Seafood, Wild Game, Full Bar

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

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

768-4655

Paik’s Ranch HouseWhere Everybody Meets

Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerOpen 7 Days

Mon. Tues. Thur. Sat. 6 am-8:30pmSun. Wed. Fri. 6 am - 9:30pm765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft

Hot Stone PizzaPizza, Subs, Ice Cream

Family ArcadeSunday-Thursday 11am-10pm

Friday and Saturday 11am-11pmLunch Buffet Monday-Friday

11am-2pm407 Finley Dr.

765-6424

332 Club

Karaoke Sunday Night at 5pm.

765-5982521 Center Street

Cali’s Restaurant

101 B Street 765-7610Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri

10:30am to 9pmClosed Tuesday

Breakfast Served Sat. and Sun. 7:00am to 10:30am

Always Fresh!

Mon. - Thurs. 10am - 5pm

Friday10am - 3pm

Dine In or We Deliver765-4143

700 Kern Street Taft, CA

Westside EntertainmentChilled & GrilledMother’s Day Dinner

Sunday 5-8pmLasagne with Stuffed Mushrooms or Fillet

Mignon. Includes dessert for $11.99

765-2000621 Center Street

Sagebrush Annie’sWine Tasting

Dinner by Reservation

Award Winning Wines

766-23194211 Highway 33, Ventucopa

FOXTHEATER

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

Late ShowChild and Senior $7.00

Adults $9.00www.taftfoxtheaters.com

765-4802514 Center St.

SHOWTIMES:Mon-Fri. 7 p.m.

Sat & Sun. 1 p.m.,4 p.m., 7 p.m.

NOW SHOWING

-X Men Origins: Wolverine- Star Trek- Ghosts of Girlfriends PastGet Your Business

in The News!

Call Today!

765-6550

The Place“The Place to Go in

Ventucopa”OPEN 7 Days

Friday and Saturday NightsRibeye Oak BBQ and

SweetbreadsBreakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Everything Homemade766-2660

4414 Highway 33, Ventucopa

Feature Writer Wanted

The Taft Independent is seeking a Feature Writer

forLocal and Community

Oriented Stories.Poor Pay.

Rich Experience.call 765-6550

Taft Crude Coffe HouseFull ServiceCoffe House

Fresh Sandwiches763-5156

1010 6th Street

Maricopa Gusher Days Parade Thank You

The annual Gusher Day Parade and Street Fair has come and gone once more. The event brought in much needed funding towards our scholarship awards and other yearly programs that we are involved with. We would like to thank our Grand Sponsor Nestle Purina for their continued support of this grateful community. When I contacted Paula Harris, Human Resource Department Manager about being our Grand Sponsor,

The Taft Petroleum Club has a new look thanks to a generous donation from Tina and Ron Wilson of the Derrick Cafe in Fellows. The Wilson’s rebuilt and painted the old entrance sign above the outside front entrance of the Petroleum Club making for better signage and improving the club entrance. “We’d like to thank the Wilson’s for the time they took and the money they invested in improving the Club” said Sam Easley, Petroleum Club President. Club members pitched in to help with the new signage. Easley said that the club plans to do more to improve the look and the facilities of the club. For information or to join the Petroleum Club, please call 763-3268.

she replied that we send our request and they would do their best to approve the request. Nestle does a lot for the community and provides jobs to some 90 employees. They have been there during our back to school supplies drive and gives a helping hand at the yearly stand down for homeless Veterans of Kern, helping us provide a new warm winter coat for 120 homeless Veterans this past year. During the Thanksgiving week, we cook a complete Thanksgiving diner for the home bound seniors throughout Maricopa again and would be honored to have either Paula Harris or her associate Ruth Jared as the presenter of the scholarships this year. On behalf of the residents, we thank you for all the help and support for our small community.

M.L. GregoryChamber President

Presentation of Grand Sponsor Plaque by Maricopa Chamber Public Relations Officer Jamie Gregory (left) to Ruth Jared of Nestle Purina.

Taft Petroleum Club Gets New Sign

Petroleun Club President Sam Easley (left) with Jim “Smitty” Smith, Jeff Smith and JR Glass under the newly renovated Petroleum Club sign.

Gusher Days Thank Nestle Purina


Carrizo Area Tours

ROGER MILLER INSURANCEa division of DiBuduo & DeFendis Insurance Group

Kathy DevineLicense # 0707137 • (661) 765-7131

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

E-Mail: [email protected] Hometown Insurance Store

Tuesday -Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Crystal Lee'sNEw SPRINGITEMS!

522 Center Street

New Spring items in stock and more

to come!

BOOTS, HOODIES, SwEATERS, PURSES, JEANS, ED HARDY.

Taft’s oil construction companies have laid-off more than 500 employees. Oil companies are cutting the number of crews allowed on their leases. Driving companies are removing drivers, or shipping them off to other locations. The economic downturn is affecting Taft’s oil industry. However, the affect it has on the other industries of Taft may be less obvious. Founded between two of the largest oil fieldsin California, Taft is “one of the few remaining towns in the United States which exist exclusively because of nearby oil reserves,” according to wikipedia.com. Since the late 1800’s Taft has been known as one of the major crude oil producers in California. The taxes from the oil industry help to fund our schools, pay for our roads, and keep our parks beautiful, among other things. According to Wikipedia, more than half of the people of Taft are directly employed by the oil companies of Taft. Beyond that, the wages from the oil workers pay for the other businesses of Taft. If there was no oil industry, there would be no store clerks because there would be no stores. There would be no waitresses because there would be no restaurants. There would be no need for these businesses in Taft because there would be no people. When looking at it this way, one might see why the over all economy of Taft is suffering. As people loose their jobs, they can no longer shop at the stores. When the stores do not make money, they can’t keep buying stock or employing others. Businesses, in turn, slow down, or shut down. According to city_data.com, the unemployment rate in Taft was 11.6 percent in 2007. According to Sperling’s Best Places, Taft’s current unemployment rate is 14.70 percent. In comparison, the United States unemployment rate was at 8.50 percent in March of 2009. That is nearly doubled since January of 2008. Ballard Oil laid-off 67 people at the end of 2008, “which was basically the entire operation.” One of those was “roughneck” Doyle Angeles. Angeles worked on a production rig for the oil company. He has been unable to find work since. He gave up looking at the oil companies because “they are laying-

Unemployed in TaftHow Job Loss is Affecting Your Neighbors

off so many roughnecks and roustabouts, it’s pointless.” Now he’s looking for just about anything. Angeles is a single father of two children, a 10-month-old daughter, and 3-year-old son. From switching from national brand diapers and formula to “the cheap stuff,” and “staying home,” Angeles is cutting costs in everyway possible. And he is not alone. Many workers are afraid of loosing their jobs for little or no reason. Some refused to be quoted, for fear their employers would read the story. Employers are looking for ways to cut costs, and cutting workers is the simplest way to do that. The workers can’t count on their jobs anymore, and most are being all around more careful. They don’t want to spend the money they have coming in, not knowing if it will continue coming in tomorrow. Another fear workers are having comes from pay cuts. One company recently cut their employees salaries by $1.50 per hour. Other companies reducing the number of days each employee works, in a effort to limit lay-offs. While this seems like an appropriate solution, it still has the families of Taft suffering. Those who have been laid-off aren’t going to the doctor, because it’s too expensive. Luxuries are a thing of the past, from gym memberships to new vehicles. For some, even a chocolate bar or small snack is out of the budget. The lack of spending is doing nothing to boost the troubled economy. A recent comic strip said if every person in the nation would go out and spend every penny in their pockets at that second, the economic crisis would be over. Naturally, it’s not that simple. People simply don’t have the money to spend anymore. Far too many people don’t have any money in their pockets at all. The government is passing bills allowing politicians, businesses and states to borrow from the future. “It’s like if you’ve run out of water, so you put a Dixie cup on your roof and hope it rains,” says Angeles of current politically spending. “It won’t do any good, and what it does help, won’t be enough to make a difference.” The national and local economies are suffering. Taft workers are loosing their jobs. People are cutting costs, so local businesses are either quitting, or cutting costs as well. However, these trends have happened before. Though this may be “the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression,” the nation came back from that. As of May 5th, oil prices were up to $53.52 per barrel, compared to 50.43 on average in April. Taft has the potential for improvement. The cycle will continue.

Doyle Angeles, a single father who lives in Ford City with his two children, was laid off from his job in the oilfield and has been unable to find work.

Next Step Cardio and Fitness Club will be holding their grand opening with the Taft Chamber of Commerce today at 5:30pm in between the live Channel 23 News broadcast. Next Step Cardio invites you to come and check out their new professional size boxing ring and to find out what services they can offer you. “We have something for the entire family,” said Wendy Soto, owner. This weekend Next Step will be offering special sign up rates as well as specials for personal training sessions. Next Step is located at 506 Center Street, join them for their grand opening.

Taft College TIL Program Heads to South Korea

Faculty, staff, students and volunteers from the Taft College Transition to Independent Living Progam are heading to South Korea on Monday Morning for one week to ............picture here are Program Director Jeff Ross, John Dodson, Jeffrey Kao, Brandon Daniels, Mary Halford, Amy McNinch, Sandy Popejoy, Lee Schryver, Ray and Lodema Hatch, Katie Vanoli, Briana Barlow, Eric Galindo, Todd Structhers, Noelle Baldanf, Danielle Trachtenberg and Mark Blanchard. Also pictured are TIL student parents Oscar and Janette Galindo, Steve Barlow and Nancy Ricci. Not pictured are Tim Rockett, Taft College President Willy Duncan, Taft College Borad Member Billy White, Terri White, Olivia Raynor and Zoe Raynor.

Taft Petroleum Club Gets New Sign

Next Step Cardio Grand Opening Today at 5:30 pm

Tiffany Barker and Wendy Soto showing off the new boxing ring.


DAN’S HANDYMAN SERVICEHome Maintenance & Repairs, Windows, Doors, Floors,

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Dan Schroeder - OwnerTaft, CA 93268

745-4502 565-8340

West Side News and Business

Taft College Writers to Read at Taft Crude

In an era of dwindling resources for the arts, it may come as a small surprise to some that great writing is coming out of Taft. On Thursday, May 21, students of Taft College’s Creative Writing class will read their work at a public event at the Taft Crude Coffee House. The event is an opportunity for these local writers to showcase their work to the public and a chance for the community to learn more about the new Creative Writing class at Taft College. “We’re hoping,” says instructor Geoffrey Dyer, “to not only showcase our students but also get more local writers into the course.” The class is being offered for the first time in nearly a decade. This course, which provides students with credit for writing and improving their creative works, is also an excellent opportunity for members of the community to wet their feet, hone their craft, and prepare work for publication. “This area needs originality, and we plan to give it to them...whether they like it or not,” student Joe Mitchell says. Poems, short stories, novels in progress, even screenplays are created in the class at Taft College and shared by student writers. The instructor, Geoffrey Dyer, has an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Mills College, with his Bachelor’s from the Creative Writing program at U.C. Santa Cruz. “The maturity of the work Taft College’s students continue to produce astounds me,” says Dyer, who himself has published a collection of poems from Krupskaya Press. The class has a diverse make-up of students, ranging from young writers to seasoned veterans. “The diversity in the class and the nature of the workshop encourages writers of all levels to flourish,” says student David Layne. For fall semester, the class will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:00a.m. To hear exciting new local writing from the class’s current students, drop by Taft Crude, 1010 6th St., on Thursday, May 21 at 1:00p.m. Sip a coffee and hear poems of love and strife, stories of war and vampires, and sidesplitting memoirs and adventures.

West Kern Water District Approves Community Garden Lease

by Kayleigh O’Neal

During the recent Water District meeting, the WKWD board approved to lease a parcel of land to the Taft Community Gardens project. Instead of sixth street, however, the parcel will be located in a lot across from True Value, near the high school. The lease request passed with a unanimous roll call vote. The women involved in bringing the town

request for the Oil Worker's Monument, as the money would come from public funds. However, the president of the board, Stephen J. Steinhoffer, commended those who are

a community garden are intending to teach water conservation, as approximately eighty percent of gardeners overwater their plants. The area of the garden is less than an acre, and plants will be kept in planter boxes.. Also, the gardens will be fenced in and storage sheds as well as a possible greenhouse may be constructed later. The plot can easily receive electricity and will make use of solar lights at night. It will also be organic, with no pesticides. "It needs to be kept neat, something that the city would be proud of," mentioned board member Thomas LeClair. The WKWD also took no action on a contribution

working on the monument. "The monument is an excellent idea," he said. "It's something for which Taft's history depended."

Taft Community Gardens will be located on this lot across from True Value Hardware on 9th Street near Kern Street.

Seeger Gets Pro-Rated for Demo Jumps

Seeger backflying over Taft. Taft skydiver John Seeger has received his Pro-Rating card in skydiving to do demo jumps in stadiums and open field areas after fullfilling all the neccessary requirments - over 500 jumps (he has over 850 jumps), written test, 10 consecutive accuracy landings within 5 meters center of a 10 meter circle, flew a flag twice, flew with smoke and cannister ankle bracket and crowd control.

Photo by Adam Bishop


TINA’S DINER

Business Feature - Taft Visitor Tours Coming SoonLocal Businessman Ryan Van Trees plans to Bring 4 Wheel Drive and Helicoptor Tours of the Temblor Range, Carrizo Plain National Monument and San Andreas Fault

Local businessman Ryan Van Trees plans to launch back country tours of West Kern County with some advice from Taft resident Darrell Melton. The tours would take in such sites as the Temblor Range, San Andreas Fault and the Carrizo Plain National Monument. The tours are an opportunity for tourists to see the unique natural beauty of the back country of Taft and Western Kern County. The tour packages would include 4 wheel drive tours and helicopter tours of the area as well as old oil production sites. According to Van Trees, tourists would visit the back country roads where they will see historical Indian camp sites, old oil production sites and the natural beauty of the area. The vehicles tours would last up to 4 hours, while the helicopter tours would be 20 minutes long. The tours would also offer lunch at the popular Tumbleweed Cafe in Derby Acres. Van Trees also suggested that special tours could be arranged for helicopter flights to the beach or the Sierra’s. Daryl Melton, who recently took a local group of business persons, media and government officials on a section of the proposed vehicle tour would act as a consultant to the tour company. Melton has spent many trips to the back country on motorcycle and 4 wheel drive trips as a young man, and today with his family exploring the many Bureau of Land Management public roads. Melton is currently involved with creating a road map of the area. “The goal is to drive tourism to Taft from Southern and Northern California,” Van Trees said. “We have a lot of history and a lot to see here on the Westside.” “We also benefit from foreign tourists who have never seen our kind of wilderness,” Van Trees added. Van Tress and his wife Diane are the owners of the Holland Inn Hotel.

Taft Mountain (above) where an abandon mircrowave relay tower is located. An abandon sulphur mine (below). An abandon capped oil well ( far right). The ridge road (bottom center) where you can see both the Carrizo Plain to the West, and Taft to the East.

Darrell Melton (left) shows Taft City Manager Bob Gorson an old Indian food grinding hole.

The back country roads are very popular with dirt bike riders.

A view of the Carrizo Plain from Taft Mountain


TAFT UNITED

METHODIST CHURCH630 North St.

765-5557

Worship Sunday Morning 10 amAdult Bible Study and Sunday School 11:30 am

Adult Bible Study 6 pmJae Haeng Choi and Cindy Bretschneider, Pastors

Praise Team MeetsWednesdays 6 pm

Trinity Southern Baptist Church

400 Finley DriveWe invite you to join us each week as we worship.

Sunday Bible Study 9:45 am

Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 amSunday Evening Worship 6:00 pmWednesday 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.

Rev. Linda Huggard

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

St. Mary’sCatholic Church100 E. Woodrow

Saturday Mass 5:30 pmSunday

7 am Spanish Mass9 am English Mass

Building Stones MinistryTraining Center401 Finley Drive

661-765-6066

Pastors Dale & Kay Sullivan

Kids Klub & Family MeetingWednesday @ 6:30 p.m.

School of MinistrySunday @ 6:00 p.m.

Jennifer, Charlie, and Angie Dedicated • Professional • Experienced

All Are Licensed Funeral Directors

The Trusted Name Since 1939

Veterans Burial ServiceIncluding American Made Military Gray or Brown

SteelCasket, Burial with Honors, Bakersfield National Veterans Cemetery

$1,995.00West Side Memorial Services

Porteous Family763-1594 FD 1220 EST: 1969

www.westsidememorialservices.com

Sunday Service at 10:00AM

Successor to Taft Funeral Home

RUSS LACY

LACY PAINTINGPARTNERS IN PROTECTING YOUR INVESTMENT

P.O. Box 612Taft, CA [email protected]

(661) 203-6677CA License #784342

“Exterior Paint Specialist” Interior and Exterior • Commercial and Residential

OWNER/OPERATOR

Sheila Darlene HammonsJuly 17, 1951 - April 30, 2009

Visitation for Sheila Hammons was held on Tuesday May 5, 2009 from 4pm to 8pm, and again on Wednsday May 6, 2009 from 3pm to 8pm at West Side Memorial Services – Sunset Chapel (1150 4th Street – Taft). A Celebration of Sheila’s Life took place on Thursday May 7, 2009 at 11:00am At West Side Memorial Services – Sunset Chapel where Pastor Mark Fitzsimmons officiated. The sun rose on Sheila’s life July 17, 1951, she was the sunshine to James Herbert and Viva Rea Hammons. Not only was Sheila born here in Taft, California, but she grew up in Taft, and made her home here in Taft. After graduating from High School, Sheila went on to get her Beautician License, and was a beautician all her life, she has probably cut everyone’s hair at least once, if you have lived in Taft for any length of time. Sheila was full of life, no matter what was going on in your life or hers, she seemed to always be able to cheer you up, Sheila always had a smile on her face, and greeted everyone with a hug. The sun set for Sheila on April 30, 2009 at 8:55pm, after a curageous battle with cancer. Even though Sheila knew what was to be, she never gave up hope, and she still had a smile on her face up to the last moment. Sheila will be missed by all that loved and knew her. Sheila is preceeded in death by her precious mother Viva Rea Hammons. She is survived by her beloved father James Herbert Hammons, her brothers Dewey Hammons, James “Mitch” Hammons and Jason Hammons, sister – in – laws: Silvia, Alicia and Devin Hammons. She is also survived by her neices and nephews, Konner, Jaden, Reese, Bryce, Kalub, Rilee, Brad, Matt and Wesley, Nikki, Emily, Zaily, Shaylan, Christian, Heaven, Shelby and Issac Hammons. The family would like to give out a special thanks to Lisa, Kathy and Optimal Hospice for all their love, support and Help durring this time. For further service and floral information, please contact West Side Memorial Services - Porteous Family 763-1594. You may sign the on-line guest book at www.westsidememorialsvc.com. West Side Memorial Services – Porteous Family has been entrusted with the arrangements.

ObituaryPastor Jim’s PonderingsPeace Lutheran Church

“Mothers Remembered”

What an amazing man, Moses of the Bible. This man who was a great leader of the people we know today as the Jewish race. This man of God who parted the Red Sea and led his people out of slavery in Egypt. This man who some of us might picture as Charlton Heston in the movie “The Ten Commandments.” The Bible tells us many stories about Moses but as we focus on mothers this month, what about Moses’ mother? Maybe the following passage will help us get to know her. “ Now a man from the house of Levi went and took as his wife a Levite woman. The woman conceived and bore a son, and when she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him three months. When she could hide him no longer, she took for him a basket made of bulrushes and daubed it with bitumen and pitch. She put the child in it and placed it among the reeds by the river bank. And his sister stood at a distance to know what would be done to him.” Exodus 2:1-4 The passage gives us a little information but we still do not know the name of Moses’ mother until a later passage. Her name is Jochebed. This is a very unusual name and my spell checker even underlines the name as being misspelled. But Jochebed was a loving mother and she was guided by great motherly wisdom. She saved her baby’s life as the Pharaoh of Egypt was doing everything in his power to limit this Hebrew or Jewish minority even to the point of killing babies by throwing them in the Nile River. Knowing this, Jochebed placed Moses in a basket and he floated down the Nile where Pharaoh’s daughter plucked him from the river and allowed Jochebed to raise Moses for a lifetime of service to God and the Hebrew people. As we remember the name Jochebed, I pray each of us will remember our mother on May 10. Maybe your mother does not have the wisdom of Jochebed but I pray that your mother does love you. But if you did not or do not have the love of a mother, there is one with great wisdom that does love you and that is God the Father. He loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to die for you. The Father’s promise is that you are loved as His child on earth and for eternity.

Faith


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

WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUPFord

CityTuesday

South TaftFriday

City of Taft – Taft HeightsWednesday

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

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

ITEMS NOT ACCEPTED

Construction/Demolition Waste/Used Oil/ Hazardous Waste/Tires

If Missed… Call Office at

763-5135

Westside Waste Management Co., Inc.

Westside Horoscopesby Jessy McCulloch

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.

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

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

Lover’s knot class starting May 2nd

Now Celebrating Our 20th Year

Aries (March 21-April 19): Don’t let your insecurities lead you down a negative path. You’ve just found your way back from one; this time if you get lost you may not be found.

Taurus (April 20-May 20): Unfortunately, a friendship will be ending this week. Happily though, there will be a “replacement” entering your life at just about the same time.

Gemini (May 21-June 20): The problems you’re having could be a real learning experience for you if you’ll let them. These frustrations don’t have to be for nothing.

Cancer ( June 21-July 22): While you have an unbelievable amount of focus and drive, you also still know how to let your hair down. Don’t ever lose either ability.

Leo ( July 23-August 22): You have the chance to get some real bonding done with a favorite family member this week. Enjoy every minute of it.

Virgo (August 23-September 22): You’re a serious person and that’s okay, but so is smiling once in awhile. There’s no reason for people to think you’re so aloof when you’re not.

Libra (September 23-October 22): To be defiant in the face of some inequality is an admirable thing. To be defiant just to be difficult is not. Try to more of the former and less of the latter.

Scorpio (October 23-November 22): You may have to cancel a trip due to work. Friends will understand, but be extremely disappointed if you don’t make it so try your best to work it out.

Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): Refusing to see something that’s right in front of you makes you look oblivious and silly, of which you are neither. Face the music.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19): An old flame will be coming back into your life this week, and they won’t be alone. Just because you have a history doesn’t give you claims on a future.

Aquarius ( January 20-February 19): You know what you want and you’ll accept nothing less. There’s nothing wrong with that, but there’s nothing wrong will being a little flexible either.

Pisces (February 20-March 20): The impact you could make with this latest venture is a profound one, and no one knows that better than you. Get ready for an intense ride.

If your birthday is this week: A door will be slamming shut for you this week, and it seems that the proverbial window that’s supposed to open afterwards is stuck and won’t open. Stay positive though. Closed doors can be opened again, especially since this particular one is far from locked.


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 $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. E-mail 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 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.

YARD SALES

Advertise your FREE yard sale ad. Fax your ad to 765-6556 or call and leave message at 765-6550 by 2 p.m. Thursday.

Yard Sale. 207 Van Buren. Sat. 5/9. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Yard Sale. 806 Mallory Court. 8 a.m. - ?

Yard Sale. 111 Rose Ave. Tools, elderly cart, jewelry, glass ware, lots. of misc. 8 a.m. to ?

YARD SALE - TWO FAMILIES, SATURDAY 7:00 AM TO NOON, CLOTHING S-XL, GARAGE SAWS, KITCHEN WARE, MISC. 309 PIERCE STREET

EVENTS

Veteran’s Office will be open in Taft on the forth Tuesday of each month. Come to Supervisor Watson’s office at 315 Lincoln – Room #141, and visit Veteran’s officer Mike Penny if you’re a veteran who needs help. Hours are 9 a.m. until noon.

LOST

Silver Bracelet. engraved on back “Sweet 16” Please call to return (661)763-3618

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Decorative landscape curbing machine. Be the only one in town to provide this service! Complete turn key operation. Reasonable offers will be considered. Possible $500 hr profit. Contact 330-7012 or 428-0575

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Westside Humane Society needs foster homes! Call 765-3297 for application.

Grief Support Group, offered as a community service by Optimal Hospice Care. Meetings held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. At Chevron Valley Credit Union, Community Room, 1092 W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. And 3rd Thursday 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 – 763-3856.

COMPUTER SERVICE

Taft PC Services. Spring Special. PC Tuneup $25. Exp. 5/31/09. See price list at TaftPCServices.com. 623-5188.

HELP WANTED

Driver- Must have clean DMV. Class A and CDL required. Pre employment and drug screen required. Hazmat and tanker EN. Send resume, dmv printout and salory requirement to HR. PO Box 1076 Taft, CA 93268

Lifeguard wanted at the New Cuyama Aquatics Complex. $14.00/hr visit www.sbparks.com for details.

Recycling yard help. Good math and record keeping skills. Background check required. (661)747-9345

Need class A Drivers for a small vaccuum truck company and hiring for a dispatcher postition. 661-859-8426

FOR SALE

Misc. Tools, handyman tools, plumbing tools, and more. (661) 577-7636.

Coolers, downdraft and sidedraft, insulation available. 623.4063.

Like new oversized tan couch, love seat, chair with ottoman $500. Round clear glass coffee table with 2 end tables $50. 763-3949

Refrigerator. $125. 769-8785

Moving most sell 1999 Quad CabvDodge PU, 79000 mi $5,850 OBO; 2006 Thuro-bilt 2 Horse Trailer, pulled 10 times, $7,550 OBO; Oak Computer Armoire, $750 OBO 661-338-9723

Newcon night Vison scope. Need to sell. No reasonable offer refused. 763-3494.

Musical Instruments. Amp., Ovation. Fender Banjo. 765-7958

Electric dryer $25, electric range $50. 763-5776.

Piano. Upright. $100 852-1242

Closing Gift Shop. 6ft. Wire Grid 3 sided display tower w/48 peg hooks $75. Approx. 350 gift bags, beads, curly ribbon. Below cost $200 for all. 2 sm. counter top spinners with hooks $15 each. 4 book/display shelves $75 each or all for 4250. To see call 763-1970

Quincy Air Compressor 80 gal. 13hp key/pull start. Gas engine. 4’x8’ fold up trailer 4’x6’ trailer (661) 808-8810

For Sale 2005 Four Winns 234 Funship. Fully loaded with trailer, like new. $32,000. 661-201-8690 or 661-398-1765

WORK WANTED\LAWN\SPRINKLER REPAIR

Trash hauling @ Clean-ups. Yards, homes & lots. Land scaping, sprinkler repair, flower & tree planting. (661) 205-1203.

WANTED

Wanted. Reasonable priced, in good condition tredmill. (661) 763-3494.

Junk Cars! Cash Paid (661) 805-0552

LOST\FOUND PETS

Black Lab/Pitbull Mix, about 1 year old, in the 100 block of Loma Vista. Contact Westside Humane Society at 661-745-3297

PETS

Goats for sale. All ages and sizes. (661)769-8176

Free Black Lab mix. Free to good home. 978-4159.

Free Pug Puppies. 763-4491.

Playful kitty needing purr-fect home, neutered mle, first shots, (661) 765-5858.

Lab/German short hair Puppies2 liver,4 chocolate,5 black 6 weeks old. $350.00Call #661 763 3241

LIVESTOCK

Goats for sale. All ages and sizes. (661)769-8176

Bay Thoroughbred Mare - 16h - 20 yrs, sound, loads, ties, stands for farrier, real sweet ride - no bad habits $500 763-5187

AUTOMOBILES

1998 Oldsmobile Cutless. 75,000 original miles! Runs Fantastic....Rarely Used! Power Seats and Windows. Leather seats! $3,000. (661) 599-4845.

For Sale ‘79 Bronco, ‘77 Ranchero $500 each, ‘91 Kawasaki Jet Ski $400 661-623-5810

Hobby stock race car. 76 Pontiac Le Mans, 95 percent race ready. 350 motor, 350 trans. with car trailer. $2,500. (661) 763-3494 or 695-3429.

TRUCKS

1999 Chevy Blazer LS. 115,000 Miles. Power seats and windows. CD Player. $4,210 or best offer. (661) 599-4845

Trailer. 8 x 5 covered $2,500. 763-5495 or 623-1281.

For Sale. 2001 Ford F-150 4x4. Fully loaded. Tow package. crew cabAsking $11,000 or

Business Services

Cleaning 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

Taft ConstructionAir Conditioning and Heating

Solar Power SpecialistAskenergysavers.com

Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507

We Do All Phases of ConstructionKitchen and Bathroom Specialists

30 Plus Years in ConstructionLicense No. 927634

best offer. Call 661-768-4517

1986 FORD TRUCK F-250 SERVICE BOX WITH 8 TOOL STORAGE GREAT FOR HANDYMAN JOB.run super strong 97,000 miles 1700.00 including tag and smog. or without tag and smog for discount ok email [email protected].

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Taft Property Management

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

areas.CRIME FREE

HOUSING Brokers Licence

04417057661-745-4892

ROOM FOR RENT

$100 per month. $275 to move in. Cuyama area. Avail. Feb. 1st. (805) 868-5381.

MOBILE HOME

2 bd 2 ba, in Maricopa $600 + deposit. (661)623-1985

24 x 60 Mobile in BV Park. Xlt. Cond. 2 bd. 2 ba. All new carpet. Xlt. Price $30,000 obo. (661) 623-2102 or 745-3217.

APARTMENTS

1bd apartment. 400 Woodrow in Tradewinds. $625/month. 763-1168

HOUSES FOR RENT

3bd 2 ba, in Maricopa. $900 + deposit. (661)623-1985

3 bd. 1 ba., dining room, laundry rm and garage. $950 mo. plus deposit. 402 Pierce St. (661) 623-5188.

3 bd. 1 ba. remodeled, $700 mo. and 1 bd 1 ba. $550 mo. (661) 623-4063.

527 D Street. Remodeled, 2bd. 2 ba. with one car garage. $950 plus $950 deposit.No pets, no sec. 8. Includes wsher and dryer hookups, kitchen nook, stove, micro, and dishwasher, gardner and pest control. 549-0154.

Clean 3bd. 201 Lucard $750/month + deposit. 765-4644 or 363-3005

319 and 319 1/2 Kern St. $650. deposit 650 2/1 [email protected]

319 1/2 kern st taft, ca 2/1 $650.00 Deposit same. 1-866-367-8171 email [email protected]

HOUSES FOR SALE

West ValleyReal Estate

WOW, 5/3 on 2 lots w/pool, 3 car garage, granite, like new! Parkview Village, 4/2, new tile & carpet, super clean! Updated Model Home Standards, 3/2, hardwood floors, granite, pool! (661) 763-1500. www.BuySellManage.com.

Sp. #30 BVMHP. 2 bd. 2 ba. Formal L/D plus den. Call to see @ 765-2989 or 805-1168. Price reduced.

YARD SALE ADS ARE FREE IN THE TAFT INDEPENDENT.CALL 765-6550.

Advertising’s

Easy!

Advertise

with the Taft

Independent--

We get it ready,

and we get it

right!

Call Jessica Wallis

at 765-6550

New This Week3bdrm-1 Ba: remodeled with

granite kitchen and bath, laundryroom,

fireplace accent, landscaped: $900

2bdrm-1bath house with yard. New carpet, paint, tiled

kitchen and bath. Fresh, clean and cozy: $625

27558 Hwy 119, VA Pending 101 E Woodrow 10:50am - 11:20am301 S 6th Street (Cross St. Front) 11:30am 12:00pm601 Grant Terrace 12:15pm - 12:45pm

Tour of Homes May 5th, 2009


P.O. Box 1113Taft, CA 93268

Office (661) 765-6182Fax (661) 765-6155

[email protected]

Crane and Transportation ServicePumping Unit Repair

Lic. # 887301

Churches, Businesses and Residents Invited!

Stay With Us During The Lilac Festival

Nominations are due Wednesday, May 27thWinners will be announced Friday, June 5th!

Pick up Your Ballot In any Issue of the Taft Independent!


419 Harrison St. Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 9-3

Western and pet supply

PET WASHopening soon!

All you will need to do is just bring in your pet!

No Appointments necessaryWalk ins welcomed.

Brand New Homes in Taft3 New Homes 3 Bedroom, 2 bath

For Private Showing or For More Information

Call Colston Construction at 763-3517

Amber Street Homes(on front street between 6th and 5th Streets)

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

RECYCLE THIS PAPERDO YOUR PART TOCLEAN UP TAFT!

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

F u l l S e r v i c e S a l o n

GO GREEN WITH YOUR HAIR PRODUCTS!Introducing New line of “Green” Hair Products by CHI

404 Center Street 763-GLAM

Our team of stylists: Christine Dunning, Laci Rodart, Kandi Gullo, Melissa Thornsberry/Master Colorist our manicurist, Lorelei Hazlewood

and our massage therapist, Samantha HagstromCall Today for an Appointment - Walk Ins Accepted

Nominations are due Wednesday, May 27thWinners will be announced Friday, June 5th!

Pick up Your Ballot In any Issue of the Taft Independent!

A Hint of ClassInside The Historic FortGift Shop- Floral Design

Clothing Boutique915 N. 10th St. Ste. 34

Monday - Friday 10am - 6pmSaturday 10am - 3pm

Pamela Dudley763-3831444-5420

affectingyourneighborsalsoinside:calendar,westsidewatcher,news,businessfeature,horoscopesandclassifi

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