The Taft
FREEWeekly
Independent July 6 - 12, 2017
The Taft Independent
www.Taftindependent.com
Publisher@Taftindependent.com
July 6 - 12 2017 • Volume 11 Issue 1
“Serving the West Kern County Communities of Taft, South Taft, Ford City, Maricopa, Fellows, McKittrick, Derby Acres,
Mexican and Seafood Taqueria Open 7 Days a Week 7 am to Midnight - 7 Days a Week
Breakfast Burrito $5.95 SPECIAL Menudo y Birria de Chivo $7.95 Saturday and Sunday DAILY SPECIAL! 20 Tacos for $20.00 330 Kern Street Corner of 4th and Kern Street 745-4898
Qik Smog & Tune No Appointment Needed for Smog Check! Safety Inspection Professional Service Experienced Mechanics Basic Tune-up to Major Overhaul • 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street
N o w S e l l i n g Te c h I n s p e c t e d a n d S m o g g e d Quality Used Cars
Merced Moreno - Licensed Bonded Serving Taft and the Westside (661) 345-7350
Monarch Fleet Services and Automotive
Open Monday - Friday 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm
217 Center Street (661) 765-2886 www.monarchfsa.com
Financing Available - Buy Here-Pay Here Available
The Taft Independent
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July 6 - 12, 2017
Shop Taft - Support Local Personal Style
Salon and Boutique
Coin-Op Laundry
JUMPER CHISPITA
Sharlene’s Washboard
(661) 313-0726
4th of July Blow Up Sale! SHOP TAFT!
New Washer s & Dr yers
Fluff d l and Fo Ser vice e l Availab
423 Center (661)763-3527
GeigerConstruction&Plumbing Residential • Commercial
Cement & Asphalt Cutting
Lic # B-721903
661-765-4377 Fast • Friendly • Affordable SeHablaEspanol 661-301-4660 24 Hours/ 7 Days a Week
We rent tables, chairs, bounce houses, waterslides, table cloths and chair covers
www.chispitajumpers.es.tl
A Hint of Class Bakery Fresh Pies Baked Daily Cakes and More Now Serving Frozen Yogurt 420 Center Street 623-1783
Your Ad Here 765-6550
New Washers and Dryers 2 Load Capacity Machines 7am to 9pm Wednesday Special 1/2 Price Day 661-293-0015 212 4th Street Taft
Armstrong Locksmithing Fast Friendly Mobile Lock and Key Service Commercial - Residential - Automotive & More Professional Key Duplication & Code Generation
(661) 348-7884 LOC. # 6214
Ten Percent Firearms 1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899
Galvan’s Upholstery 661-313-0726
Over 25 Years Experience Pick-up and Delivery Free Estimates Sofas - Love Seats - Sectional - Dining Room Chairs Bar Stools - Restaurant Booths - Headboards Ottomans - Automobiles\Airplanes - Motorcycle Seats
207 Harrison St., Taft, CA.
July 6 - 12, 2017
Inside Events
The Taft Independent
Taft Business of the Week Art’s Corner
Shop Taft..........................2
By Gardener Field Calendar...........................3
Westside News................6
Liberty Under Fire........8
Taft Business of the Week- Art’s Corner at 400 Harrison Street. Art’s Corner is one of Taft’s longest running businesses, it is also one of the longest running businesses in Kern County. It is owned and operated by great Taft Residents Mike and Nicole Jackson. Mike and Nicole are huge supporters of Taft. Art’s is known for the Coldest Beer in Town. They recently put in an amazing outdoor area in the back with a patio, horseshoe pit, and lots of room for BBQ’s, Concerts, and Events. Art’s has several Dart’s and Pool Tournaments several nights a week. Come in for a Ice Cold Drink tonight.
Classified Ads.................10
Shop Taft........................11
The Taft Independent
CITY OF TAFT COUNCIL MEETINGS
508 Center Street P.O. Box 268 Taft, California 93268 (661) 765-6550
June 20th, 2017 – 6:00 p.m. CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER 209 EAST KERN STREET, TAFT, CA (661) 763-1222
Email: Publisher@taftindependent.com Website: www.TaftIndependent.com Facebook: Taft Independent Locally and Independently owned since 2006
The Independent is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies are $1 each. The contents of the Taft Independent are copyrighted by the Taft Independent, and may not reproduced without specific written permission from the publisher.
AGENDA POSTED ON BULLETIN BOARD OUTSIDE CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS AND POSTED AT THE CITY OF TAFT WEB SITE www.cityoftaft.org TELEVISED ON BRIGHT HOUSE CABLE CHANNEL 11: Wednesday 8 p.m. Thursday 10 a.m. 8 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.
The Taft Independent is seeking Experienced Writers
We welcome contributions and suggestions. Our purpose is to present news and issues of importance to our readers.
News and Feature Writers
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. Email your letter to: Publisher@taftindependent.com.
Experience Required. Contact The Taft Independent Send Bio or Resume to Publisher@taftindependent.com
ADVERTISING. Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representative at (661) 765-6550, or email to Publisher@taftindependent.com. Classifieds: Call 765-6550 or fax us at (661) 765-6556. Phone orders are taken. Visa and Master Card accepted. Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Michael J. Long Publisher@taftindependent.com Advertising Publisher@taftindependent.com Contributing Writers Stephanie House, Jerry Livingston Wesley Morris, Maureen Webb Andreas Fault, William R. Taft Columnists Randy Miller Dr. Harold Pease, Steven J. McDaniels Ray Hatch, Brenda Collins Newspaper Delivery Tim Webb
By Andreas Fault 1st Friday Cruise Night is this Friday on Center Street starting at 6pm. Cruise, Shop, Eat, see a movie at the Fox Theatre, and have a great time. Friday- 1st Friday Worship and Prayer at the Oil Workers Monument at 7pm. Bring a chair. Saturday- Wine and Dine at Buena Vista Golf Course. Call them at 398-9720 for info. Tuesday- Taco Tuesday every Tuesday at the Oasis at 5:30pm. Phone in orders @ 765-5188. Bargain Night at the Fox Theatre every Tuesday. The Fox is open 7 nights a week. Wednesday- Taft Industry Night at the Taft Petroleum Club. Dinner at 7:30.
Westside Watcher..........4
The Taft Independent is a locally owned community newspaper published weekly on Fridays for your enjoyment and reading pleasure. We publish 3,500 issues and distribute to over 225 locations in the city of Taft and the neighboring communities of Cuyama Valley, McKittrick, Maricopa, Fellows and Western Kern County, California.
Taft Calendar
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Save the Date for these Future EventsJuly 29th- Taft Sport Shooters “Steel Match” at the Taft Sportsmen’s Club at 8am. Movie under the stars- “Toy Story 2” at 8:15pm, next to the Rec Center. August 12th: Taft High Football Blue/Gold Scrimmage at 7pm at Martin Memorial Stadium. September 1st: Taft High Football at Home vs. Monache HomeJ/V at 5, WILDCATS at 7:30. September 4th: Labor Day Tournament- Pool, Darts, Horseshoes, and Corn Hole, BBQ, and much more at The Taft Moose Lodge. September 8th: Taft High Football at Home vs. Porterville-J/V at 5, WILDCATS at 7:30pm. September 22nd: Taft High Football at Home vs. Arvin- J/V at 5, WILDCATS at 7:30pm. League October 14th: Taft Chamber Golf Tournament at Buena Vista Golf Course. October 27th: Taft High Football at Home vs. RFK-J/V at 5, WILDCATS at 7:30pm. November 3rd: Taft High Football at Home vs. BCHS. November 18th: Taft Chamber Trout Fishing Derby. The Friday Night Lights at Martin Memorial Stadium will be on soon. The WILDCATS are stacked with talent again this year and are expected to have a great season. The Freshmen Kittens will Kickoff on Thursdays at 5pm. The J/V Bobcats will Kickoff on Fridays at 5:00pm, and the WILDCATS will follow them and Kickoff at 7:30. W-I-L-D-C-A-T-S!
It pays to advertise in
West Side Family Health Care
The Taft Independent
Dr. Timothy Lee, Board Certified Pediatrician
Taft’s Locally Owned Newspaper.
Taking appointments for children under the age of 18 Monday thru Friday 1:00pm – 5:00pm 765-1935
Readers do not pay to see your ad. Call 765-6550 Today! or email to Publisher@taftindependent.com
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The Taft Independent Editorial The
Taft
Independent
Restaurant and Entertainment Guide Your Guide To The
Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside Tumbleweed Café and Steakhouse
Black Gold Brewing Co. American and Asian Steak, Seafood, Wild Game, Food Full Bar Burgers Pasta Thai Food Monday – Friday 6 am to 2 pm Espresso - Beer - Wine Saturday – Sunday 7 am – 2 pm Craft Beers Dinner Hours Open Monday to Saturday Friday and Saturday 6 pm to 9 pm 7am to 2pm 24870 Highway 33, Derby Acres 5pm to Close 768-4655 Sunday 7am to 12pm Paik’s Ranch House Where Everybody Meets 508 Center Street Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 765-6556 Open 7 Days Mon. Tues. Wed., Thur. 6 am-8:30 pm Sun. Fri. & Sat. 6 am - 9 pm 765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft Sagebrush Annie’s Wine Tasting Room 300 Gold Medals for our Wines Call for Reservations 4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa (661) 766-2319
514 Center Street • (661)765-7469 LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft TAFTFOX.COM
Week of Friday, July 07, 2017 through Thursday, July 13, 2017 War for the Planet of the Apes (PG-13) Premiere Showing - All Seats $10 Thu: 7:00 PM Spider-Man: Homecoming (PG-13) Fri & Sat: (4:00), 6:40, 9:20 Sun: (3:00), 6:00 Mon - Thu: 6:30 PM Despicable Me 3 (PG) Fri & Sat: 6:15, 8:15 Sun: (3:20), 6:15 Mon - Wed: 6:15 PM
Paik’s
Ranch House Restaurant “Where Everybody Meets” Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Open 7 Days
Mon, Tues, Wed., Thurs & Fri. 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
765-6915
200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.
Westside Watcher
July 6 - 12, 2017
Letters & Rants Encourage Good Media By Lee H. Hamilton
Discovery Days activities at the West Kern Oil Museum July 5 Discovery Days activities at the West Kern Oil Museum are scheduled to begin July 5, featuring four special sessions for area youth. The programs are Free. Pre-registration is required by contacting the West Side Recreation & Park District, 500 Cascade Way or by phone at 7656677. California Indians Discovery Day on July 5 will feature the native people of California with an emphasis on the Yokuts, who lived in the Buena Vista Lake area. The day will include music, craft activities and a guest entertainer. The program is for grades 4-5, and will be held from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. The deadline for registration is Monday, July 3. The Let’s Draw With Maggie session on Thursday, July 6 will feature local artist Maggie Blackwell, who will give participants instructions on basic drawing techniques. They will have an opportunity to draw a picture of an item at the Museum, and the drawings will be put on display. The program will be held from 10:00 – 11:30 am for ages 6-8. Deadline for registration is Wed. July 5. On Wed., July 12 participants will enjoy Game Day at the Museum. They will play games that were popular before electronics took over, such as marbles, jacks, board games, hopscotch, jump rope and more. This activity is for grades 2 and above, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. You must register by Tues. July 11. Discover and Share the Museum will be held on Tues. July 18. This is a two-day activity. Day 1 will include a tour of the Museum and will feature a scavenger hunt. Kids will then select special exhibits to concentrate on and learn more. On Day 2 they will learn to create a storyboard and film a video about the Museum. Kids from grades 6-12 are encouraged to attend. The activity will be Tues., July 18 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, and Wed., July 19 from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. Deadline to register is Mon. July 17.
I’ll be the first to admit that when it comes to journalism, I’m a traditionalist. Old-fashioned, even. But I don’t think it’s a coincidence that even while confidence in the media drops to new lows and Time magazine feels moved to wonder “Is Truth Dead?” on its cover, huge numbers of Americans have come to believe the media is not as authoritative as it once was. Straightforward, responsible journalism is an indispensable public asset, a cornerstone of democratic life. This is threatened by the trends reshaping the media landscape. With less consensus around information and data, the cohesiveness of our society is diminished. I’m not just talking about the rise of deliberately “reported” misinformation and disinformation. Some news outlets may not be as egregiously destructive of democratic values, but their urge to chase viewership and clicks at the expense of solid, fact-based reporting is doing us no favors. Indeed, I think a lot of people want what I do and feel they’re not getting it: more facts and fewer opinions; more investigative reporters and fewer pundits; more substance and less fluff; more policy exploration and less politics; more respect for consumers and fewer efforts to manipulate them. Is it really behind the times to expect journalists to seek accuracy above all? To pay attention to fairness? To strive to keep government honest and the voters informed? To check facts, use multiple sources, and welcome rigorous editing? I don’t think so. Nor do I believe that infusing the news with a political agenda serves our society or news consumers. There may be no such thing as absolute objectivity, but you can sure strive to get as close as possible. Some news organizations do this. Too many don’t. This is not to say that editorializing and expressing opinion have no place in journalism. But opinions should be separated from reporting. Too many journalists want to be pundits and not reporters. I’ve had any number tell me they’re in the business to express their own opinion rather than report the truth. When I turn on the television and find five or six pundits vociferously sharing their views, it’s diverting, but in the end I’m not that interested in what they think. I’d rather have someone tell me the facts so that I can form my own opinions. In a media world in which opinion serves as the chief currency, rather than straight-ahead reporting of hard truths, politicians face less scrutiny of their statements and less accountability. They are succeeding at manipulating the media by using Twitter, refusing to hold press conferences, restricting questions and cameras, employing set speeches, and refusing to conduct a free-wheeling discussion of their opinions in front of the press. The result is that significant policy decisions affecting millions of Americans are being drawn up with less scrutiny and promoted as beneficial without the clarifying debate that a representative democracy depends upon. Without it, we know less about our officials and legislators, what they think about the issues and what they do. The picture is not entirely bleak. We are fortunate to retain a number of high-quality news organizations with first-rate reporters. The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Financial Times, The Economist, CNN, PBS, ProPublica, Politico, and other news organizations continue to dig deep and uphold high journalistic standards even in the face of the tsunami of media disruption that has taken place over the past decade. They and others have stepped up their games in recent months, partly in response to citizens desperate for hard-nosed and accurate reporting. And where they’ve gone astray, they’ve usually owned up to it quickly. This is crucial, because we live in an era when solid reporting rooted in high standards of accuracy is not just a goal, but a vital, small-d democratic necessity. As consumers of news, we need to encourage the media to undertake it and hold its members to account when they stray. And we need to shoulder our responsibility for helping news organizations improve. After all, we’re the ones who turn to fluff rather than substance and consume only stories that reflect our own perspectives. As citizens, we need to step up our own game, too. Lee Hamilton is a Senior Advisor for the Indiana University Center on Representative Government; a Distinguished Scholar, IU School of Global and International Studies; and a Professor of Practice, IU School of Public and Environmental Affairs. He was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years. For a photo of Hamilton, see: http://www.centeroncongress.org/leehamilton-photo-gallery For information about our educational resources and programs, visit our website at www.centeroncongress.org. “Like” us on Facebook at “Indiana University Center on Representative Government,” and share our postings with your friends.
July 6 - 12, 2017
The Taft Independent
West Side Recreation Report Check us out online! Need more information on programs, classes or facilities? Visit us on the web: www.wsrpd.com www.facebook.com/wsrpd www.quickscores.com/wsrpd www.twitter.com/wsrpd steph@wsrpd.com
NATATORIUM POOL PARTIES Make your reservation soon! Reservations are now being accepted for private party rentals at the Natatorium swimming pool. Parties may take place on Friday evenings, Saturday or Sunday through August 20. Rental fees start at $200 for 2-hours. Call 763-4246 for more information. SUNDAY FUNDAY AT THE NATATORIM Who: All Ages (17 & younger must be accompanied by an adult) When: Sunday, July 9 Time: 2:30-5:30 p.m. Where: Natatorium Swimming Pool, 821 4th Street, Taft Fee: $2 per person **passes/coupons are NOT valid for this event** Join as we kick off Aquatics Week with a family day of swimming and FREE hot dogs! The snack bar will also be open. OPEN SWIM Monday-Friday 1:30-5:00 p.m. Admission: $2.50 per person The William M. Thomas Aquatic Center at the Walter Glenn Natatorium is open for summer! All ages are welcome to stop by to enjoy the cool water and great facility that includes a shallow pool, large pool, diving board, slides and climbing wall. Children ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by an adult during Open Swim sessions. SATURDAY SWIM 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Admission: $1.25 per person Children ages 6 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. **THERE IS NO SATURDAY SWIM ON JUNE 25.** SWIM PASSES Individual: $25 – Monthly or $60 – Season Family: $60 – Monthly or $135 – Season Swim Passes may be purchased at the Natatorium anytime during Open Swim. Passes may be purchased for monthly or full season use and can be used for Open Swim, Night Swim and Saturday Swim only. Family passes cover up to 5 immediate family members (living in the same household). NIGHT SWIM Monday and Thursday Evenings 7:45-9:00 p.m. Admission: $1 per person Ages 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. SUMMER FUN! Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. June 6 – July 27 Recreation Center, 500 Cascade Place, Taft Ages 6 and up FREE! This fun program keeps kids busy with crafts, games, sports and other fun activities. Younger children are welcome to attend with an adult. Kids must have completed a year of kindergarten to attend the program without a parent or guardian. **Program starts on a TUESDAY; there will be no Summer Fun on Monday, June 5.** COOKIE WORKSHOP Who: Ages 4+ When: Wednesday, July 19 Time: 2:00-3:15 p.m. Where: Community Center Assembly Room Fee: $3 per person Come create a jumbo sugar cookie! While cookies are baking, we will draw and color. Younger kids will need to bring along an older helper.
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KIDS SCIENCE LAB Grades K-3: Monday & Wednesday Grades 4-6: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Session: July 17-27 Where: Community Center Registration Deadline: Thursday, July 13 Fee: $25 per person Looking to have some fun indoors and beat the heat? Then this program is for you! Kids will learn the sport of bowling while having fun with friends. Includes ball and shoe rental and a bowling membership! YOUTH VOLLEYBALL CLINIC Who: Ages 6-16 When: Friday, August 4 Ages 6-11: 9:00-11:00 a.m. Ages 12-16: 12:00-3:30 p.m. Place: Recreation Center, Aera Gymnasium Registration Deadline: Tuesday, August 3 Fee: $5 per person This all skills clinic, sponsored by the West Side Health Care District, will include instruction on serving, forearm passing, setting, serve receiving, attacking, blocking, team defense, team reception, attack coverage and more! PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION UNDERWAY The West Side Recreation & Park District’s Preschool program is now accepting registrations for next year. The 2017/2018 school year will begin the week of August 28. The program is for children ages 3-5 and we have three classes available. Fees vary per class. For more information, please phone 763-4246 or send an email to steph@wsrpd.com. Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday Class: 8:30-11:00 a.m. Monday/Wednesday Class: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Tuesday/Thursday Class: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
The Taft Independent
Taft College Unveils Chevron TIL Program Debuts Three New Videos Innovation Lab A special unveiling of the Chevron Innovation Lab and Check Presentation was held on June 20th. At this unveiling the Taft College Foundation announced the naming of the Chevron Innovation Lab on the Taft College campus and received a $75,000 check for the College’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program. This event marks a continuation of Chevron’s involvement with Taft College as an industry partner over the past seven years. Chevron’s partnership with Taft College supports and inspires STEM educational opportunities for the students on campus and the youth of Taft and communities surrounding the Westside. “Taft College is honored to have a working relationship with Chevron that serves our students with support for STEM education toward degrees, certificates, and transfer preparation. This donation and the naming of the Chevron Innovation Lab creates a great place for Taft College students to receive hands-on training that will prepare them for the jobs of the future,” said Dr. Deb Daniels, Superintendent/President, West Kern Community College District. Since the inception of this innovative partnership, Chevron has donated over $1.4 million to Taft College Foundation in support of STEM K-14 outreach programs that build a student college-ready pipeline on the West Side of Kern County. The program strives to provide a strong aligned workforce for our region and transfer students. “Chevron knows there is a lot of untapped talent on the Westside. We must continue to get kids to realize they can achieve anything in life. STEM education can help pave that way for long term success.” said Adam Alvidrez, Chevron, Community Engagement Specialist.
Paik’s
Ranch House Restaurant “Where Everybody Meets” Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Open 7 Days
Mon, Tues, Wed., Thurs & Fri. 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sat. and Sun. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
765-6915
200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.
Small Electrical Jobs Alarm Systems CCTV Installation Free Estimates - Call (805) 314-7330
By Jerry Livingston J.D. Jerry.Taft.Independent@gmail.com Last Wednesday the 21st, the Taft College Transition to Independent Living Program debuted three new videos highlighting the programs past, the program itself and the accomplishments of one of the programs participants. All three videos were presented on the Fox Theatre’s big screen. First up was a video introduced by Sheri HornBunk of the Taft College Foundation highlighting the beginnings of the TIL program in an interview with former WKCCD Superintendent/ President Dr. David Cothrun. Cothrun discussed the significant downturn in the economy that forced the end of many of Taft College’s athletic programs and provided the opportunity to begin a post-secondary educational experience for adults having developmental/intellectual disabilities. The program provides instruction, training, and support on a Taft College’s campus. It was felt with Taft College offering programs and special classes serving individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities since 1976 that a more robust program could take advantage of the dorms left vacant by the shuttering of a number of Taft College’s athletic programs. The TIL program was begun in1995 with initial funding from the Kern Regional Center. The second video, introduced by Dr. Debra Daniels TC President/Superintendent, was a short “day in the life” video about the program, its location in Taft, interviews with TIL student employers, Taft Transit District staff on how students in the program learn to utilize the local transportation system, and highlighting the areas of instruction that TIL students receive such as learning to cook and how to manage their finances.
July 6 - 12, 2017 The final video, introduced by Susan Wells TIL Career Education Facilitator and titled Cooper’s Story, highlighted the experience of Cooper a graduate of the TIL program, who returned to his home town community of San Diego. The film follows Cooper, showing his apartment in the Mission Bay district of San Diego, how he takes care of his transportation using local transit, his ability to manage his food selection and preparation, and his employment with Frito Lay. Cooper’s mother, Rae participated in the video and talked about her concerns when sending Cooper to participate in the TIL Program. She talked about the normal fears experienced by a parent whose child is in need of special attention and how difficult it was as a parent to not be concerned about her child’s ability to participate in the wider community. Rae and Cooper’s sister and friends attended the event along with Cooper and had nothing but good things to say about the program. Initially concerned about how Cooper would take care of himself and how much support he might need, she now says that he is like any other adult child and she doesn’t seem him as often as she would like. “I would be happy to help the program to continue after seeing what it did for my son” said Rae. Interspersed throughout the event, awards were given to the video participants for their involvement in the films.
Maria’s Place Mexican & American Food Taco Tuesdays .89 cents or 20 Tacos for $17.99 Ask for our Daily Special!
763-3311
1008 Kern Street In the Albertsons Shopping Center
July 6 - 12, 2017
The Taft Independent and rants. I appreciate you too, as you haven’t run me off yet. I thought maybe for some of you that go “who is this guy ? I’d give you a little background on me. I was born at the Fort when it still had an auxiliary hospital in a room Hi Everyone, in the far back southwest corner. I was a breech birth, butt first, my mom remembered that day It is definitely summer vividly. Don’t know if that had any lasting eftime with the temps regfect on me to this time. I sure can’t bend like istering over 110 degrees. that anymore. Mom and dad’s folks came from I find that my threshold Missouri and Pennsylvania respectively in the is 105, anything over that; teens and twenties. I grew up on the 700 block the sun just sucks the of “A” Street and the 100 block of Franklin. energy and life right out I went to Taft Heights Primary, Conley, the of me. We have relatives new Roosevelt, Lincoln, and TUHS. I was a that live near Laughlin, very average, awkward, and pimply faced as I NV. They have been out there for over 20 yrs, entered High School. I had a strong C- averand finally the last few summers they take their travel trailer and park it up in Flagstaff at 7,000 age and never got past bonehead English, but did write a lot of themes, which ironically were ft going from 120+ degree heat to high 90’s. short stories on various subjects. Don’t think I Can’t imagine living in 120 degrees; don’t you melt in that kind of heat ?? We’re talking Death ever read a literary novel ever. I spent time in Valley temperatures. We’re in for a cooling trend, the library, but more as a hideout than a place high 90’s. Remember when it was in the 30’s and for studying. I played ‘B’ class football for two years, that’s when Taft had four teams; frosh, B we were complaining then. Still love living in Taft, not so much California, but what tradeoffs ball, Jr. Varsity, and Varsity. I went out for track, because I hated regular PE; I jumped 7.5 ft in do you make to move. The main consideration the pole vault at a meet one time and got third is there is no beach if you head east. Until your state legislature takes us over the edge, we’ll still place. That was about it for my sports career. There was a club on campus called Hi-Y, Young be contemplating our options. Man’s Christian Association, which had clubs I have come to the realization that I have been in most of the high schools in Bakersfield. We writing this column for over seven and a half were very active the four yrs I was in it, doyears and coming up on 200 columns. I truly appreciate the opportunity that the Independent ing a lot of community and charity, and school and the Driller have given me to air my thoughts activities. We sponsored two talent shows every year that were quite popular at the time. Gene Clausen (Claus) was our teacher/advisor, greatest guy ever in my opinion, a true mentor for me of all my teachers. He taught accounting, Best Hamburgers in Taft! in which, sorry to say, I did very poorly. That’s why Ginny handles our books. I ran for school office a few times and finally got elected as the senior class treasurer, funny huh. They wouldn’t let me handle any money, more ceremonial that actual hands on. I had a number of crushes on a few young ladies, but terminal shyness, and a lack of self-confidence didn’t allow it to go Pub Burger and French Fries anywhere. I had a great number of pals I hung Every Day $7.95 with, and we had some good times. Taft High 508 Center Street (661) 765-6556 back in the sixties was a great time to grow up, just like in the movie “American Graffiti”; crusin’ Center Street, looking for girls or beer WEST SIDE or a fight with someone who wronged us. No FAMILY HEALTH CARE weapons; fisticuffs’ straight up, slug it out inside a ring of onlookers. Two or three punches and it was over; week later all was forgiven. Rock and Roll was coming of age, Wednesday night summer dances down at the REC that burnt down was the place to be and it was crowded. Although shy, I did like to dance and I wasn’t shot down too many times. I had some great dance HOURS partners I still remember to this day. All in all, Monday thru Friday through the angst of high school highs and lows 8:00am –9:00pm Saturday and Sunday and heart breaks, I still have strong bonds with 10:00am – 9:00pm classmates from those that were ahead and be100 E North St. Taft CA hind and in my class. Again it was a great time, probably a more innocent time, as I remember I didn’t know any of my friends that didn’t have
Miller Time
two parents in the home. A tell for today’s kids. The Driller ran my column two weeks ago, along with a companion column from one of my ole high school buddies Dennis McCall. He of Midway Driller fame, editor, professor, lecturer, professional journalist, everything I’m not. Apparently he reads my columns, which pleases me to no end. He felt I was a little off track on the fake news aspect of my piece, which is very fine with me, but what I really feel good about is he didn’t critique my style of writing as if I have a style. My intention is to keep you informed and entertained, not to get into a debate with anyone. Thanks Dennis, appreciate it. If you’re interested in more of my life, let me know one way or another. Randy Miller Taft is Home
Black Gold Brewing Company
765-1935
Andy’s Septic Tank & Sewer
UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP
(661)765-5000 or (661)343-0507
Ben’s Books The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft Hours Tuesday to Thursday 10am to 5 pm Friday and Saturday 10am to 3pm
810 Center Street • (661)805-9813
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Liberty Under Fire God Referenced Five Times in the Declaration of Independence By Harold Pease, Ph. D It always amazes me when otherwise intelligent people are unable to find evidence of God in our governing documents. The Declaration of Independence, the signing of which we commemorate July 4th, alone has five references to God—two in the first paragraph, one in the middle, and two in the last. It begins, “When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.” Who is responsible for “the laws of nature” but God—certainly not man nor nature itself ? From the “laws of nature” sprang an awareness of natural law (sometimes called common sense), understood by early philosophers to be a source of higher law that never changes. This was best explained by Cicero, a Roman politician, as early as the 1st Century B. C. —even predating the existence of Christianity when he wrote: “Nor may any other law override it, nor may it be repealed as a whole or in part… Nor is it one thing at Rome and another at Athens, one thing today and another tomorrow, but one eternal and unalterable law, that binds all nations forever.” Of “Nature’s God,” the second reference to deity found in the Declaration of Independence, is more explicit and needs no explanation. Nature is controlled by God.
The Taft Independent The third reference to God is the word “creator” found in the second paragraph. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” This boldly identified our base for at least three unalienable rights as God, and the Founders identified this truth as self-evident. Any person endowed with common sense or reason would/could come to this conclusion. The phrase “that among these” indicates that these are the most important, but that there are others. Many constitutional scholars believe that the Bill of Rights is an extension of these unalienable rights from God. So passionate were they with respect to these three “God-given rights” that such were identified as the purpose of government. “That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed...” Moreover, their right of revolution hinged upon the denial of these “God-given rights.” “That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.” Of course, some measure of restraint is justified for a few missteps, which could be corrected when better understood. “Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes...” But when the intent to undermine these “God-given rights,” becomes obvious, resistance is expected. “But when a long train of abuses and usurpations… evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government and to provide new Guards for their future security.” Once again, an appeal to natural law, which emanates from God, was noted and the loss of which always justifies revolution. “It is their duty.”
July 6 - 12, 2017 The fourth and fifth references to God in the Declaration of Independence are found in the last paragraph. The rightness of our cause was left to God as judge. “We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown…” The fifth and last reference to God asks for his divine protection in our revolutionary course of action. “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.” There was no dissent noted with respect to these references to God and their placement or emphasis in this document by any of the participants then, nor should there be now. The signers of the Declaration of Independence clearly viewed God as justifying revolution from existing government in the protection of “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” rights He had endowed upon man. Dr. Dr. Harold W. PeaseHarold Pease is a syndicated columnist and an expert on the United States Constitution. He has dedicated his career to studying the writings of the Founding Fathers and applying that knowledge to current events. He has taught history and political science from this perspective for over 30 years at Taft College. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.
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TAFT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 630 North St. 765-5557
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The Taft Independent
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Pastor Cindy Brettschneider Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 AM Adult Bible Study and Sunday School 11:45 AM Adult Bible Study Monday 6:00 PM Wednesday Night Service 6:00 PM PraiseTeam meets onThursday at 4:00 PM
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Gateway Temple
Sunday Morning Worship 9:45 Sunday Evening Worship 5:00 Monday Evening Mens Prayer 7:00 Wednesday Evening Worship 6:30 For a ride: Call Dorine Horn 4279722 Pastors Charle (Tommy) and
New Hope Temple “Connecting Lives” 308 Harrison Street 765-4572 Sunday Morning Worship Service 10 a.m. Sunday Evening Worship Service 6 p.m Bible Classes All Ages Wednesday 7 p.m.
Taft First Assembly Your Neighborhood Church 314 Asher Ave
Pastor Stephen McCurtis 600 Hazelton, Maricopa 661-303-0124 Sunday worship 10:00 am Wednesday bible study 6:30 pm
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Sunday Service - 10 a.m. www.standrewstaft.org The Rev. Heather Mueller 703 5th Street - Taft (661) 765-2378
Trinity Southern Baptist Church 400 Finley Drive We invite you to join us each week as we worship
PASTOR MIKE LYNCH
Sunday Bible Study 9:45 am Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 am Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 pm Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm
Peace Lutheran Church- LCMS Taft- A caring community under Christ We welcome you to worship with us at peace lutheran church, 26 Cougar Court (across from the College). Worship service begins at 10:00 a.m. Communion will be offered 1st and 3rd Sundays Sunday School 9:00 a.m. If you have a prayer request please call (661)765-2488. Leave a message if the pastor or secretary is not available
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Deadline for submission is Wednesdays at Noon. Boxed\outlined\bolded classified ads start at $12.00 for 8 lines, $16 for 12 lines, $20 for 15 lines, $25 for 20 lines. Ad your photograph for $5. Ad your company logo for $5. Boxed adsCar, aretruck $5 or additional. E-mail us $5 (orper bring Photo Ads. house for sale ads are week,toor our $10 office) a photo ofus your home, car,office) truckaor motorcycle and with a photo. Email (or bring to our photo of your home, we’ll do the rest. car, truck or motorcycle and we’ll do the rest. Yard Saleads ads are $3 isfor 3 lines, additional lines $2 each. Classified deadline now Wednesdays at 2 p.m.
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E-mail: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Email: Taftindypublisher@bak.rr.com Payment can made by cash, check, or card. credit card. Payment can bebe made by cash, check, or credit Taft Independent210 508 CA 93268 Taft Independent 6thCenter St., Taft,St., CA Taft, 93268. YARD SALES
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HELP WANTED Housekeeper Wanted. 1-2 times per week for elderly couple Family in McKittrick. Call 661-343-4972 Brown & Reich Petroleum is currently accepting applications for a full time delivery driver. Requirements: Class A license, HAZMAT and tanker endorsement, clean DMV record, pre-employment physical and drug screen required. Experience preferred but not mandatory. Simple IRA and group insurance options available. Interested applicants may apply at 215 S. 6th Street. Bring current DMV print-out. 661765-5457.
FOR SALE FARM ANIMALS FOR SALE baby ducks $5 baby geese baby goats baby sheep
West Valley Real Estate www.BuySellManage.com (661) 763-1500 CalBRE Lic # 01525550 FOR RENT
4bedrm, 1 3/4 bath. Approx. 1,700msq. ft. 400 Shasta St. $205,000 661 763-5242
HOMES FOR RENT Studio Apartment. For Rent All Bills included. $600 Mo. plus deposit. For more info call Mr.l Rivas 661-348-3323.
House for Rent 3 bdrm 1 bath. Basement, large yard. $775 Mo. plus last sec. dep. Ref.s required. 661-8170554
Unfurnished Home. Nice and clean. 1 bed, 1 bath. 406 B Lucard St. $450. mo. $200 Sec. Deposit. Call 765-7015 3 bd. 1 3/4 bath. garage and extra storage, duo pac and cooler, 532 Philippine. $750 mo. 661-871-2651 3 bd. garage, cov’d patio, stove 102 Jefferson, $710. 661-871-2651 Americana Real Estate 322 Kern St. 661765-5000 Lic # 01942324, One year lease on following: 119 Taylor St, 4 Bed, 2 Bath $950 Mo + Dep 707 Fillmore St, 3 Bed, 1 Bath $750 Mo + Dep Applications at 322 Kern St in box outside
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on Facebook 155 ½ North St #B 1/1 $500 319 ½ San Emidio St #B 2/1 $600 803 3rd St 3/1 $725 209 Naylor Ave 3/1 $750 619 A St 2/1 $750 282 Mary St 3/2 $800 411 King St 2/2 $880 700 N Lincoln St 3/2 $950 510 Harding Ave 3/2 $1,000 308 D St 3/2 $1,000 606 Pierce St 3/2 $1,100 1002 3rd St 4/2 $1,350
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APARTMENT FOR RENT. 108 Center Street Apartments. 1 bed room 1 bath. starts at $500 per month. Plus Sec. Dep. Based on approved credit. No Application Free. Pet’s OK. Call (661) 846-6403 or (661) 765-7678.
Ken Shugarts (661) 343-0507 30 Plus Years in Construction License No. 927634
FORD CITY RESIDENTS Your normal Tuesday pick up the week of July 3rd will be moved to Wednesday, July 5th. The office will be closed on Tuesday, July 4th.
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Plumbing Repair Concrete Services Rooter Services Drive Ways Sewer Camera Inspection Side Walks Electrical Repair Patios Stamp & Stain Andre Vega kcshomerepairs@yahoo.com (661) 747-9146 Licensed Handyman/Contractor para espanol (661) 748-9274
July 6 - 12, 2017
The Taft Independent
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Sandy Creek Estates New Semi-Custom Homes for Sale in Taft
Models Now Open Call for Viewing of our Models
U-Cart Cement
Call Bob at (661) 763-3517.
Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping Mixes Concrete While Traveling Large Internal Blades Rear Operator Control Panel
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ious c i l e D r Try Ouast Menu! Breakf
July 6 - 12, 2017
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Tuesday - Saturday Eggs Any Style
7am - 9:30am Omelettes
Bacon, Egg and Cheese Sandwich
One large fried egg with mayo, bacon and cheddar cheese on toasted sourdough bread with mayonaise
Bacon and Eggs
Two large eggs, three slices of bacon, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast
Ham and Eggs
$5.95
$6.95
Ham and Cheese Omelette
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Bacon and Cheese Omelette
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Ortega Omelette
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California Omelette
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Denver Omelette
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3 egg omelette with diced ham, jack and cheddar cheese, served with potatoes and toast 3 egg omelette stuffed with crispy bacon, served with potatoes and toast
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Link or paddy breakfast sausage with two eggs, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast
Pork Chops and Eggs
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$9.95
Grilled breakfast pork chop with two eggs, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast
Ribeye Steak and Eggs
$12.95
An 8 oz. Ribeye Steak with two eggs, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast
3 egg omelette with ortega peppers, jack & cheddar cheese, avocado slices, served with potatoes and toast 3 egg omelette with chedder and jack cheese, and avocados served with potatoes and toast
3 egg omelette with cheddar cheese, chopped onions, red and green bell peppers, bacon and ham served with potatoes and toast
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Breakfast burrito with ham, bacon or sausage wrapped in a flour tortilla filled with jack & cheddar cheese, potatoes and veggies
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Ham steak with two large eggs, hash brown or cowboy potatoes and toast
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Homemade sausage gravy served over two flakey flour biscuits - Half Order
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Coffee Red Eye Espresso Shot Cafe Latte Vanilla Latte Cafe Mocha Orange Juice Milk Hot or cold Chocolate Milk
$2.00 16 oz $2.50 20oz $2.50 16 oz $3.00 20oz $1.75\$2.50 $3.50 16oz $4.25 20oz $3.95 16oz $4.95 20oz $3.95 16oz $4.95 20oz $1.50 sm $2.50 lg $1.75 $2.70
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