360 Houses for Taft

January 25 - 31, 2013 TAFT INDEPENDENT

January 25 - 31, 2013 • Volume 7 Issue 28www.Taftindependent.com“Serving the West Kern County Communities of Taft, South Taft, Ford City, Maricopa, Fellows, McKittrick, Derby Acres, Dustin Acres, and the Cuyama Valley”

[email protected] TaftIndependent

Taft Union Hall of Fame Dinner Tickets On Sale Now

TUHS Students Win Weldiong Contest

Hillside Estates: 360 New 1,600 to 2,400 sq. ft. Homes To Be Built North of Hillard Street on both side of Rails To Trails Extention

City Council Approves Construction of 360

New Homes

Used to be Paul’sBike Shop

745-4919

The New 2013 bikes are here! Start your Christmas shopping

now with our lawaway plan.

QIK SMOG & TUNEYour Hometown Auto CareCenter (661) 763-4445

2 TAFT INDEPENDENT January 25 - 31, 2013

Shop Taft

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Ten Percent Firearms

523 Finley Drive • 765-7147 • Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-1pm

Tire & Automotive Service Center

Oil & Filter Special

3995*$Plus Tax

Must Present Coupon at Time of Purchase

$3.50 Oil Disposal FeeExp. January 30, 2013

FREETire Rotation

& Brake CheckPlus

We will checkall fluids

& tire pressure

*Most Cars & Light Trucks

Up to 5 Qts.

Passion For Nails

Monday to Friday10am-7pm and

Saturday 9am-6pm

Nail Services:HOLIDAY SPECIAL

10% OFF $20 SERVICE OR MORE.OFFER GOOD UNITL 12- 31-12.

Men & Seniors & Diabetics Welcome

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

(661)745-4913

CHECK-IN TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE AND GET $1 OFF

Geiger Construction & Plumbing

24 Hours/ 7 Days a WeekSe Habla Espanol 661-301-4660

Residential • Commercial

Fast • Friendly • Affordable661-765-4377

Cement & Asphalt Cutting

Lic # B-721903

A Hint of ClassInside The Historic Fort • 623-1783 • 763-1700

915 N. 10th Street Suite 34

Fine Jewelry • Gifts 14K Gold • Sterling Silver Black Hills Gold • Jewelry Repair • Watch Batteries

Candles • And More!

426 Center Street (661)763-5451

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

Small town, family owned, low overhead.We can save you money on quality jewelry!

Store Hours:Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm

Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pmClosed Sunday and Monday

Watch Batteries Replaced

Most $4.00Some $8.00

Blue Jeans & BlingHats, Jewelry, Purses & More

Miss Me • LA Idol Nicole Lee • Grace In LA

Monday - Friday 11am to 6pmSaturday 10am to 5pm

Women’s Sizes 0-21 Women’s Plus Sizes

Children’s Jeans & Shirts

763-9100Host a partyVisit us on [email protected]

401 Center Street

421 & 423 Center (661)763-3527608 Center St.


745-4919

The New 2013 bikes are here! Start your Christmas shopping

now with our lawaway plan.

1277 Kern Street (661)765-6899

Ten Percent Firearms

610 Center Street • 661-745-4954Prepaid Phones, Accessories & Cards

New years sale!FREE phone with new activation.

Androids as low as $79.00

Jackson’s Automotive

Smog Testand

General Repairs

Front End RepairsTransmission Service

Brake Service Tune Ups and Fuel Injection Service

and Repairs

Call Today for an Appointment763-1055

Corner of 3rd and Center Street110 3rd Street - Taft, CA. (661) 763-1055

Gifts for Valentines or Any Occasion

Personal Style

423 Center Street • 763-3527

BoutiqueSALE!

20%...30%...50% OFF

Winter ClearanceGoing On Now!Spring Fashions

Arriving Now!


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

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

Recreation Report..........4

Westside News.................5

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

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

Movie Review...................8

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

Opinion and Feature....11

Shop Taft........................12

Inside

The Taft Independent

508 Center StreetP.O. Box 268

Taft, California 93268(661) 765-6550

Fax (661) 765-6556

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.TaftIndependent.com

Locally and Independently owned since 2006

The Taft Independent is a locally owned community newspaper published weekly on Fridays for your enjoyment and reading pleasure. We publish 3,500 issues and distribute to over 225 locations in the city of Taft and the neighboring communities of Cuyama Valley, McKittrick, Maricopa, Fellows and Western Kern County, California.

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

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS. Subscription home or businessdelivery of the Taft Independent is available for $6.50 per month or $78.00 per year. To subscribe to please call 765-6550.

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

ADVERTISING.Display Ads: Rates and special discounts are available. Contact our advertising representative at (661) 765-6550, or email to [email protected]: Call 765-6550 or fax us at (661) 765-6556. Phone orders are taken. Visa and Master Card accepted.

Publisher and Editor-in-ChiefMichael J. Long

[email protected]

Advertising

Contributing Writers Kent Miller,

Wesley Morris, Nicole Frost

ColumnistsRandy Miller

Jane McCabe, Dr. Harold Pease

Subscriptions\DeliveryTim Webb, Patrick Harget

Member California NewspaperPublishers Association

Printed in California

News BriefsTaft California

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

Have a community event that you would like to include? Email us at [email protected]

Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com

Bike Shop

Calendar

Grandma’s Attic Resumes at Taft Libraray Grandma’s Attic Storytime resumes at the Taft Branch Library on Satur-day, January 19, 2013 and will continue every Saturday morning at 10:30 a.m. through April 20. Aimed at 5 to 8 year-olds, Grandma’s Attic offers an old trunk full of surprises and stories presented by a different volunteer reader each week. Children who participate will receive a form to return to their teacher for credit in their school reading program. Parents are always welcome to attend, or may enjoy some library or computer time while their child is occupied. Also starting on Thursday, January 17 at 11:45 a.m. is Preschool Storytime, for 3 to 5 year-olds. Join us for stories and fun for the younger set. For more information, call 763-3294 or visit the library at 27 Emmons Park Drive.

Local Motorcycle Enthusiasts Putting on Ride/Event in Wake of TUHS TragedyBy Trent Unruh

Local riders from Taft want to invite all of Kern County’s motorcycle com-munity to participate in a ride that will show support for the victims affected by incident at the high school and to honor the heroes that saved many lives that day. The goal of the ride is to promote awareness of the situation in hopes that an incident like this will not happen again. The ride will be on Saturday, January 26th, 2013. Cost is $20 per bike, $5 per passenger. The funds collected will be allocated towards the heroes and families involved via donations, scholarships, and chari-ties. After the run, the ride committee will meet with those involved with the tragedy and as a group will decide where best to disperse the money. This event is COMPLETELY non-profit to those putting it on. Signups: 8:00am to 10:00 am at: Chilled and Grilled, 621 Center Street Taft, CA.

Kick Stands Up: 10:05 a.m.

Route: 1) Taft Union High School – Prayer and Send Off – (15 min) 2) KMC – Kern Medical Center – Deliver Care Package to the Cleveland family. (15-30 min) 3) Ethels – (45min – 1hr) 4) Trouts – (45min – 1hr) 5) BV Inn – (15-30 min) 6) Chilled and Grilled – (50/50 Drawing) Total: 100 Miles

In order to increase the amount donated to help those affected by the tragedy, food and drinks will be the responsibility of the rider and/or passenger. Chilled and Grilled, Ethels, Trouts, and BV Inn sell food. Thank You From

Taft Union High School

We wish to extend a sincere heartfelt thank you to all of the support that we have received over the last several days. Your kindness, generosity, and willing-ness to be helpful in anyway will not be forgotten. We are extremely proud to be in a community that is so charitable, thoughtful and supportive.

We apologize in advance for any names that may have been omitted.

Taft Union High School District

Community College Counseling National Assoc School Psychologist (NASP)Dr. Norman Wright – Counseling Services New Vision Recovery Center – Scott Huhn

Taft City School District Taft Community Resource Department Taft Community College -Sandy KoeningAll Law Enforcement Agencies Little Caesars PizzaTaft City Police Department Mercy Southwest/Dignity HealthcareChief of Police - Ed Whiting Optimal Hospice – Sherry Davis /FrankKern County Sheriff Department and their fellow dog handlers of Tiger Sheriff - Don Youngblood Woods and StoneyCalifornia Highway Patrol Pizza FactoryF.B.I. and F.B.I.- Victim Unit Project Linus (blankets)Albertsons Red CrossDominos Pizza-Bob & Tina Leikam Salvation ArmyHall Ambulance StarbucksKern County Fire Department SubwayKern High School District

TUHS Offers SAT Prep Taft Union High School is offering a free, 20-hour class to students who want to prepare for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Many colleges require that applicants take the SAT as part of the admissions process.

Similar classes in Bakersfield cost between $100 and $150. All participants receive the book, The Official SAT Study Guide: For the New SAT. Students may use the book, valued at $21.99, to continue to prepare for the test after the course ends. Snacks will be provided during all sessions.

Also, several scholarships awarded through the TUHS local scholarship program give special consideration to students who have above-average SAT scores. More than $200,000 in scholarships was awarded to seniors at the annual Honors Night last May.

Instructors are: counselor Claude Bradford, English teacher Jim Carnal and math teacher Josh Tofte.

Classes begin Monday, Jan. 28, and end on Monday, March 4. Classes will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 28; 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12; Wednes-day, Feb. 27; and, Monday, March 4; and from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays, Feb. 2 and March 2.

All classes will meet in room 136 in the main building. The SAT test will be given at Taft High on Saturday, March 9.

For more information or to register your Taft High student, call the Guidance Center at 763-2324.

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMSTaft- A caring community under Christ

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

Communion will be offered 1st and 3rd Sundays

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

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

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

4 TAFT INDEPENDENT January 25 - 31, 2013Editorial

Westside Watcher

Your Guide To The Best Restaurants and Entertainment on the Westside

The Taft

Restaurant and Entertainment Guide

Independent

Asian ExperienceAsian Food and Pizza

Lunch and DinnerTuesday - Friday

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

215 Center Street, Taft763- 1815

Black Gold Cafe & DeliPastas - Sandwiches

Espresso - Beer - WineCraft Beers

Open Monday to Friday6:30am to 8pm

Saturday7:30am to 8pm

Sunday10am to 2pm

508 Center Street765-6556

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. Wed., Thur. 6 am-8:30 pm

Sun. Fri. & Sat. 6 am - 9 pm765-6915 200 Kern St. Taft

Sagebrush Annie’sRestaurant and Wine Tasting

Wine Tasting and Lunch Sat. & Sun. 11:30-5 pm

4211 Highway 33, Ventucopa(661) 766-2319

514 Center Street • (661)765-7469LIKE us on Facebook: Fox Theatre Taft

TAFTFOX.COM

Week of Friday, January 25, 2013 through Thurs-day, January 31, 2013

Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (R) No Passes Allowed

Fri & Sat: (5:15), 7:15Sun: (3:15), (5:15), 7:15

Mon - Thu: 7:15 PM

Mama (PG-13) No Passes AllowedFri & Sat: (5:30), 7:45

Sun: (3:30), (5:30), 7:45Mon - Thu: 7:15 PM

Life of Pi (PG) Fri & Sat: (5:00), 7:30Sun - Thu: 7:00 PM

93268

Visit Us Online

taftindependent.com Find Us On Facebook

Paik’sRanch House Restaurant

“Where Everybody Meets”

Breakfast, Lunch & DinnerOpen 7 Days

Mon, Tues, Wed., Thurs - 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Fri. Sat. and Sun. 6 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

765-6915200 Kern Street, Taft, Ca.

Continued on Page 11

Finally, Taft Gets Approval for Much Needed Housing On Wednesday night, the Taft City Council gave final approval for the construction of more than 360 homes along Hillard Street. It was a good day for Taft and a very good reason to celebrate. Taft has suffered for many years from a severe housing shortage. For whatever reason - lack of planning, availability of land to build on, and a downturn in the economy - housing was not a priority of past city councils, forcing thousands who work on the westside to live in Bakersfield. Our present city council, however, has made a concerted effort to support new housing development, realizing that without housing, new retail businesses, a revival of the local economy, and a financially sound city government will not occur unless new hous-ing is made available for the thousands of people who work in Taft, but live in Bakersfield. Occidental petroleum and the developer still have to work out an agreement on the mineral rights owned by Occidental before the project moves ahead, but the city and developer seem confi-dent that agreement will be reached in the next 30 days. If you have ever wondered why there are so few shopping oppor-tunities in town, and why you need to go out of town to do major shopping, housing is the key reason. Retail business operators don’t locate in Taft because there are not enough people to support retail shopping. Counting the num-ber of people who live in a community is the magic formula that developers use when deciding where to locate. This is unfortunate, especially for our sales tax base, which provides funding for street and alley paving, public safety and other critical city services. How many people work at Taft High School, Taft College and our local police department who live in Bakersfield today? By our own estimate, more than half, and this is because there has not been a supply of quality housing . Lack of housing also makes it difficult for business and our educational institutions to recruit employees. Mayor Paul Linder has said that it can cost as much as $500 per month in gas and maintenance for a person to drive to work from Bakersfield everyday - as much as half a mortgage or rental payment. As many as 10,000 vehicles per day - 15,000 people (according to the housing developers) - drive from Bakersfield to work every weekday. This effects people in different ways - less family time at home, higher transportation costs, a loss of community involve-ment from local employees, and the loss of important revenue to support the local economy and infrastructure. Housing is critical to our future prosperity. The council should be applauded for their work on this issue, and encouraged to con-tinue to focus on other important issues that will benefit the local economy and our quality of life.

Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. 2013 State of the State Addressby Edmund G. Brown Jr.

The message this year is clear: California has once again con-founded our critics. We have wrought in just two years a solid and enduring budget. And, by God, we will persevere and keep it that way for years to come. Against those who take pleasure, singing of our demise, Califor-nia did the impossible. You, the California legislature, did it. You cast difficult votes to cut billions from the state budget. You curbed prison spending through an historic realignment and you reformed and reduced the state’s long term pension liabilities. Then, the citizens of California, using their inherent political power under the Constitution, finished the task. They embraced the new taxes of Proposition 30 by a healthy margin of 55% to 44%. Members of the legislature, I salute you for your courage, for wholeheartedly throwing yourself into the cause. I salute the unions—their members and their leaders. You showed what ordinary people can do when they are united and organized. I salute those leaders of California business and the individual citizens who proudly stood with us. I salute the teachers and the students, the parents and the col-lege presidents, the whole school community. As the great jurist, Oliver Wendell Holmes, once said when describing what stirs people to action: “Feeling begets feeling and great feeling begets great feeling.” You were alarmed, you stirred yourselves to action and victory was the outcome. That was 2012 and what a year! In fact, both 2011 and 2012 were remarkable. You did great things: Your 1/3 renewable energy mandate; the reform of workers compensation; the reorganization of state government; protecting our forests and strengthening our timber industry; reforming our welfare system; and launching the nation’s first high speed rail system. But, of course, governing never ends. We have promises to keep. And the most important is the one we made to the voters if Proposition 30 passed: that we would guard jealously the money temporarily made available. This means living within our means and not spending what we don’t have. Fiscal discipline is not the enemy of our good inten-tions but the basis for realizing them. It is cruel to lead people on by expanding good programs, only to cut them back when the funding disappears. That is not progress; it is not even progressive. It is illusion. That stop and go, boom and bust, serves no one. We are not going back there. The budget is balanced but great risks and uncertainties lie ahead. The federal government, the courts or changes in the econo-my all could cost us billions and drive a hole in the budget. The ultimate costs of expanding our health care system under the Af-fordable Care Act are unknown. Ignoring such known unknowns would be folly, just as it would be to not pay down our wall of debt. That is how we plunged into a decade of deficits. Recall the story of Genesis and Pharaoh’s dream of seven cows, fatfleshed and well favored, which came out of the river, followed by seven other cows leanfleshed and ill favored. Then the lean cows ate up the fat cows. The Pharaoh could not interpret his dream un-til Joseph explained to him that the seven fat cows were seven years of great plenty and the seven lean cows were seven years of famine that would immediately follow. The Pharaoh took the advice of Joseph and stored up great quantities of grain during the years of plenty. When famine came, Egypt was ready.


Agriculture welding students at Taft Union High School took a different kind of final than most of their peers. Their fall semester final for their welding class was a welding contest. Students in each class competed against their classmates in the annual fall welding contest held during finals week. Intermediate and advanced students were required to complete seven welds in various positions using several types of welding rods in 45 minutes. Beginning welding students completed a bead pad. Representatives from Barnes Weld-ing, Hobart, and Melos Gas & Gear were on hand to judge the competitions and hand out awards. This year’s winners, announced by welding teacher Adam Bullard, were:Period 2 intermediate/advanced welding: Jacob Winfrey, first; Ivan Barajas, second; Hunter Perry, third.Period 4 intermediate/advanced welding: Gabby Hernandez, first; Cody Wise, second; Dylan Bar-nett, third; Lucas Heerdink, fourth.Period 3 beginning welding: Kyle Daniels, first.Period 6 beginning welding: Jeremy Wilmer, first.Period 7 beginning welding: Eduardo Llamas, first.

Photos by Adam Bullard

TUHS Ag Welding Program Contest Winners

Jeremy Wilmer

Jacob Winfrey, Ivan Barajas and Hunter Perry are flanked by Matt Johnston and Joel Wolter of Melos Gas & Gear.

Eduardo Llamas

Kyle Daniels

Dylan Barnett, Cody Wise and Lucas Heerdink are flanked by Kory Horton of Barnes Welding Supply and Willie Stubblefield of Hobart.


Westside News & Business Briefs

OTCookhouse & Saloon

HOOKER’S AUTOMOTIVEComplete Automotive Service

218 HARRISON STREET (661) 765-2437

Happy New Year!!!

OT Cookhouse has launched a NEWLunch Menu. Come in and check out

our delicious creations!!!Lunch Hours: Tues-Fri 11:00am - 2:00pm

OT Cookhouse also features anOutstanding Seafood Menu!!!

Come in and join us for someCharbroiled Oysters

Teriyaki SalmonAlaska Cod

Availability of items varies week to week.Please call us or check with your server.

Dinner Hours: Tues-Sat 4:00-9:00pm

Closed: Sunday and Mondaywww.otcookhouse.com

find us on facebook205 N. 10th Street 661.763.1819

Taft Community Night with Condors HockeyBy Trent Unruh

Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 2nd, for “Taft Community Night” with the Bakersfield Condors. The ECHL hockey team will be facing the Colorado Eagles in three periods of intense, semi-pro hockey action. This game, in particular, is going to be very special for the city of Taft. The Condors organization will be donating money from certain tickets sold at the game to assist with student well-ness and activities for the Taft Union High School Associated Student Body (ASB), which is led by TUHS Science teacher Eric Newton. The tickets that assist the TUHS ASB are: $15 for Executive (Lower level ticket; $4 goes to support the TUHS ASB) $10 for Terrace (Upper level ticket; $2 goes to support the TUHS ASB) The night will also be focused on honoring Ryan Heber, Kim Fields and Mary Miller with the “Spirit of Condorstown” award for their courage displayed during tragedy at TUHS on January 10th. It is also free cowboy hat night in tan or black to the first 2000 fans 5 & older, so get there early. Come on out and enjoy some Condor hockey with your town, a while you are there, show your support for this commu-nity and for the TUHS ASB by wearing some blue and gold.

Fiction • Non Fiction • Paperback Hard Covers • SciFi • Biography • Religion

Childrens • Cookbooks and More!

810 Center Street • (661)805-9813

Ben’s Books

Stop By For Some Great Company

and Good Books!

The Largest, Cheapest and Only Used Book Store in Taft

Fuller Respond to Governor Brown’s State of the State AddressSACRAMENTO – Senator Jean Fuller (R-Bakersfield) released the following statement regarding Governor Brown’s State of the State Address: “Governor Brown was given a reprieve by California voters last Fall and a rare opportunity to work across the aisle to find meaningful and long-term solutions to the state’s most chal-lenging problems. While I am encouraged that the Governor highlighted the critical needs of water infrastructure, educa-tion, job creation and CEQA reform, we should be watchful for any real progress and improvements. And in the other areas of the Governor’s Address, from implementing a new federal health care law to climate change to high-speed rail, it’s impor-tant to note that over-spending on these projects will not result in any immediate economic benefit.” Editors note: The State of the State address has been reprinted in this issue of the Independent beginning on Page 4, in the West-side Watcher column.

By Kent Miller

Taft has moved closer to the launch of a project that could result in the building of more than 360 single-family homes on 127 acres in the western part of the city. But there is one major hurdle left. At its regular meeting on January 15, the Taft City Council went on record 5-to-0 to sup-port plans for the Hillside Estates residential subdivisions project. But the council delayed its decision until a special session Wednesday evening on adopting a Final Mitigated Negative Dec-laration and a Mitigation Reporting and Monitoring Program for Hillside Estates. The delay was to allow Occidental of Elk Hills Inc., the mineral rights owner; and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to have input on the project. The DF&W submitted its guidelines for the project, with no objections from the developer, and on Wednesday the council adopted the negative declaration and the monitoring program, as well as conditionally approving tentative tract maps for 126-home-site Sandy Creek Estates and 271-home-site Hillside Terrace Estates.

Oxy not ready yet But representatives of Oxy said the company isn’t ready yet to sign off on the project. The company wants to have further talks with all parties, said Susie Geiger, a spokesperson for Oxy. “We want more time to work out an agreement,” Geiger said. “(Oxy wants) all issues concerning mineral rights on the project site ... (to) be resolved prior to approval of the final maps to the satisfaction of the mineral (rights) holder.” Representatives of the developer stated at the Jan. 15 meeting that if Oxy demands the placement of drill sites within the tract, they will abandon the project.

The developers stated that they have been working with the project for nearly a year and investors might turn to other projects elsewhere if they are not given a go-ahead soon. “We’re still talking to all the parties,” said Russ Ledbetter, land manager for Oxy. “We want to make sure access to minerals is preserved.” With the items approval by the council, Oxy has 35 days to file a challenge, said City Attorney David A. Prentice. In addition, Oxy could reach an agreement with the developers for an extended discussion period, Prentice said.

Abandoned wells There are eight abandoned well sites on the property, with the most recent drilled in 1968 and the oldest dating back about 100 years. Ledbetter declined to state any specific purpose Oxy has for the property and some people in the area consider the site to have little crude oil production potential. But at least one person knowledgeable of oilfield operations said there is a possibility that Oxy wants to use the abandoned wells to get rid of production waste water.

Open space The proposed tract site is east of Hillard Street, south of the Lassen Street alignment, north of Mallory Court and west of the Kristin Street alignment. There will be phased construction of the homes in the two tracts, with nearly nine of the 32.4 acres in Sandy Creek Estates and nearly 16 of the 87.4 acres in Hillside Terrace Estates deeded to the city and maintained as open space. A 6.4-acre portion of the city’s Rails to Trails bikeway and pedestrian trail runs through the site. The site is zoned R-1 (single-family residential).

Taft City Council Approves 360 Home Development on Hillard StreetOccidental, Developer Must Still Reach Agreement on Mineral Rights

More than 360 homes will be built on a 127 acre site adjacent to Hillard Street and A Street Park.


HAYDENS HOPE“We can keep our Teens off the streets!”

428 Center Street • TAFT

THRIFT STORE

God Bless!

745-4963

New School HoursMon. & Tues.9am - 2pm

Closed WednesdayThur. & Fri. 9am - 5pmSaturday 10am - 2pmClosed Every 2nd Sat.

of the Month

Shirts .25 eachPants .50 each

All pictures 1/2 Off

Visit Us Onlinetaftindependent.com

or find us onfacebook or

www.taftindependent.com

TUHS Girl’s Tennis Receive Tennis Rings

Girl’s Tennis Receive Tewnnis RingsLupita Lozano, Roxi Barboza,Yeraldin Barrera, Gloria Hartley, Taylan Erro, Diana Medina, Ana Estrada and JC Yarbrough receive Valley championship rings in the Athletic Director’s office Thursday. Not pictured: Melissa Gore. This girls’ tennis team was the first to win league (14-0) and Division IV of the Central Section.

Tickets for Taft Union High School Hall of Fame Dinner on Sale Now Tickets for the April 27, 2013 Taft Union High School Hall of Fame Dinner are now available. The tickets can be purchased from one of two source: Sheri Gregory, TUHS, One Wildcat Way, Taft, CA 93268or at the Taft Chamber of Commerce, 400 Kern St, Taft, CA 93268 Prices are $40/ticket; Table of Eight $320. Make checks payable to Taft Union High School District (memo: Hall of Fame Banquet). We will be inducting eight Taft High graduates into the Hall of Fame: DR. BEN DYKES, CLASS OF 1940; TRACY ROGERS, CLASS OF 1985; BILL BLACK, CLASS OF 1943; DICK WALSH, CLASS OF 1956; LEE ROY KELLEY, CLASS OF 1960; JOHN T. HOWE, CLASS OF 1953; MILT STARK, CLASS OF 1950; LARRY PEAHL, CLASS OF 1953. Doors to Main Hall will be open from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. for persons who want to view the Hall of Fame Plaques and visit the generational display cases which feature memorabilia from ten decades of the high school’s history. The banquet will be held in Mullen Gym. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. The banquet will begin at 6:00 p.m. The campus is a smoke free and alcohol free environment. To ensure that you are seated with family/friends, pur-chase a Table of Eight at $320 per table. Single tickets are priced at $40/ticket. Make checks out to TUHS – Hall

426 Center Street (661)763-5451

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

Small town, family owned, low overhead.We can save you money on quality jewelry!

Store Hours:Tuesday to Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm

Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pmClosed Sunday and Monday

Hand Made Greeting Cards by Donna

What’s in your Heart for Valentines Day

New Arrival of different Clocks.

TUHS Hall of Famers: (Top Row) Lee Roy, Class of ‘60, Milt Stark, Class of ‘50, Bill Black, Class of ‘43, Dick Walsh, Class of ‘56, (Bottom Row) Larry Peahl, Class of ‘53, Ben Dykes, Class of ‘40, John T. Howe, Class of ‘53, Tracy Rogers, Class of ‘85.of Fame (Memo: Hall of Fame Tickets). Tickets are sold on a first come-first serve basis and each ticket is tagged to a specific table and seat. Last year we filled Mullen Gym and expect to do so

again this year. Invite your friends to make this a social occasion during which you can both honor our inductees and at the same time “catch up” with long time acquain-tances and classmates. Bring your family!

Qik Smog Received Star CertificationJohn Walker, owner of Qik Smog and Tune has been desig-

nated a Star Certified Smog Check location. Star certifica-

tion is required for some vehicles by the State of California,

which is indicated on the vehicle registration renewal form.

Qik Smog is located at 500 S. 10th Street.


Liberty Under Fire ObituaryDAVID RYERSON

February 17, 1953 – January 17, 2013

After a long battle with sickness, David joined his granddaughter, Mackenzie Ryerson and his Mom and Dad Ryerson in heaven. Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 35 years, Loretta; two sons and their wives, Jason and Tisha Ryerson and Tommy and Julie Ryerson; his three grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren. Also surviving him is his father-in-law, Tommy Little and mother-in-law, Kathy Little; sister-in-law, Bonnie Green; brother-in-law, Lanny Little; his sisters and their spouses, Phyllis Clark, Ellen Criswell, Dorie Winterslaw and Laurie Francis; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. A graveside funeral service will be held in the West Side District Cemetery on Thursday, January 31, 2013, at 2:00 p.m. There are no visitation hours scheduled and the arrangements are under the direction of the Erickson & Brown Funeral Home. To sign and online registry please visit www.EricksonAndBrown.com.

Sorry Mr. President, Not in Utah Either By Dr. Harold Pease Finally, an organization is protecting the Constitution and it is not the House of Representatives, U. S. Senate, U.S. President, the U. S. Supreme Court, or the States, as should be the case. It is the least likely of all those who swear by oath, upon condition of taking office, to preserve it—the Sheriffs’ Departments in county after county and growing. Sheriff Tim Mueller of Linn County, Oregon was the first with his January 14th directive to all sheriffs in his county that they would not be enforcing any law that violated the 2nd Amendment. Two days latter the New Mexico Sheriffs Association, with 30 of their 33 county sheriffs, next stood with “we also will protect the Second Amendment from the federal governments recent assault on it.” Then, the next day, 28 of 29 counties in Utah under the signature of the Utah Sheriffs’ Association informed the President that they will protect the 2nd Amendment for their people even with their lives—even from the federal government. In California 13 county sheriffs have made similar pledges. The straw that broke the camels back for the county sheriffs was President Barack Obama’s signing some 23 executive orders on January 16, further restricting the rights of gun owners. The Utah backlash followed the next day. Sheriffs are the only elected law enforcment body in the United States and they understand that Congress has sole authority to make law, that law must originate with and be approved by both the House and Senate, and that the only power that belongs to the President is suggestion, through his state of the union address, and his veto, which can be overridden. The Utah sheriffs reminded the President that, “It is imperative this discussion be had in Congress, not silenced unilaterally by ex-ecutive orders” and advised that he remember, “that the Founders of this great nation created the Constitution, and its accompany-ing Bill of Right, in an effort to protect citizens from all forms of tyrannical subjugation.” Some 535 individuals make all the law on the federal level not just a single person as was the case with kings and is the case with dictators today. All executive orders that have the effect of making law are unconstitutional; the President has no authority to make law. Doing so reduces the relevancy of the Congress and is a form of tyranny. Moreover, it is well to remember that a law cannot undo an amendment to the Constitution—only another amendment and that requires the support of 3/4ths of the states, so Congress is restricted also. The Utah Sheriffs letter said in part, “With the number of mass shootings America has endured, it is easy to demonize firearms; it is also foolish and prejudiced. Firearms are nothing more than instruments, valuable and potentially dangerous, but instruments nonetheless. Malevolent souls, like the criminals who commit

mass murders, will always exploit valuable instruments in the pur-suit of evil. As professional peace officers, if we understand noth-ing else, we understand this: lawful violence must sometimes be employed to deter and stop criminal violence. Consequently, the citizenry must continue its ability to keep and bear arms, including arms that adequately protect them from all types of illegality.” This inference also includes the government. The letter ended aimed directly at the President. “We respect the Office of the President of the United States of America. But, make no mistake, as the duly-elected sheriffs of our respective counties, we will enforce the rights guaranteed to our citizens by the Constitution. No federal official will be permitted to descend upon our constituents and take from them what the Bill of Rights—in particular Amendment II—has given them. We, like you, swore a solemn oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, and we are prepared to trade our lives for the preservation of its traditional interpretation.” Finally, we have a body that understands the Constitution, hon-ors its oath, and is prepared to defend it—even against the federal government. Look for other counties all over the United States to follow. Is your sheriff, who took the same oath, willing to defend you? Why not ask him? Send him a copy of this letter. In light of the National Defense Authorization Act signed into law by the President December 31, 2011, which authorizes the arrest of U. S. citizens on U.S. soil by the military and their shipment to Guan-tanamo Bay, where they can be held indefinitely without trial, you might wish to have the support of your county sheriff. Dr. Harold Pease is 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 25 years at Taft College. To read more of his weekly articles, please visit www.LibertyUnderFire.org.

TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

630 North St. 765-5557

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

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

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

Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

Trinity Southern Baptist Church 400 Finley Drive

We invite you to join us each week as we worship

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

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm


TAFT UNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

630 North St. 765-5557

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

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

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

Praise Team meets on Thursday at 6:00 PM

Trinity Southern Baptist Church 400 Finley Drive

We invite you to join us each week as we worship

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

Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study 6:00 pm

New Hope Temple“Connecting Lives”

308 Harrison Street765-4572

Sunday Morning WorshipService 10 a.m.

Sunday Evening WorshipService 6 p.m

Bible Classes All AgesWednesday 7 p.m.

Gateway Temple CommunityChristian

Fellowship631 North Street

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

St. Andrew’sEpiscopal

ChurchSunday Service - 10 a.m.

Rev. Linda Huggard703 5th Street - Taft

(661) 765-2378

Peace Lutheran Church- LCMSTaft- A caring community under Christ

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

Communion will be offered 1st and 3rd Sundays

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

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

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

Sunday Morning Worship 9:45Sunday Evening Worship 5:00

Monday Evening Mens Prayer 7:00Wednesday Evening Worship 6:30

For a ride: Call Dorine Horn 427-9722Pastors Charle (Tommy) and

Mary A. McWhorter

604 Main Street • P.O. Box 578Maricopa, CA 93252 • (661)769-9599

The Only Mortuary On The West Side Where All Arrangements And

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WANTED: BULKY WASTE PICKUPFord CityTuesday

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

ITEMS NOT ACCEPTEDConstruction/Demolition Waste/Used Oil/

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Black GoldCafe & Deli

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Open 7 Days - 765-6556508 Center Street • Taft

St. Mary’s Church 110 E Woodrow Street • Taft

661 765-4292

Mass Schedule Tuesday-Friday 8:00 A.M. Sunday 8:30A.M. English

11:00A.M. Spanish

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Rich Miller • Jordan MillerKathy Devine • Shelly Hamilton

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

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First Baptist Church

Pastor Scott Pearson

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

Evening Service 6 p.m.

Awana Childrens ProgramWednesday 6 p.m.

220 North Street - Taft661 763-3138


CHILD CARESERVICES

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Junk Cars Wanted. Cash Paid. 805-0552.

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

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

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HOMES FOR SALEReal Estate eBroker Inc.

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205 W Ash #B 2/1.5 $700

203 W Ash #A 2/1.5 $700

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2 houses for rent. 2 and 3 bd. laundryroom. English 661-321-9636. Espanol 661 577-7041.

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.

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Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

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

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

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

Yard Sale ads are $2 for 3 lines, additional lines $2 each.

Classified ad deadline is Wednesday at 12 p.m. (noon)

Phone: 765-6550

Fax: 765-6556

E-mail: [email protected]

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

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

YARD SALESAdvertise your yard sale ad. 3 lines for $2, additional lines after that $2 each. Fax your ad to 765-6556 or call and leave message at 765-6550 by 12 p.m. Wednesday.

306 Easter St. In the house. Fri. and Sat.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

New AA meeting just started in Taft at the Chevron Valley Credit Union Community Room. 7:30 am every Saturday morning. We read a topic from As Bill Sees It. 9-19.Grief Support Group, offered as a community service by Optimal Hospice Care. Meetings held Thursdays 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. At Chevron Valley Credit Union, Community Room, 1092 W. Kern St., Taft. Enter by outside entrance – Albertson’s Shopping Center. Free and open to the public. Info call 716-4000. 3-27.

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

Real Estate eBroker Inc.By Appointment

Karri ChristensenLIC# 01522411 & #01333971

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YARDSERVICES

HELP WANTEDCosmetologist

Station Available in well established salon. In business 34 years.

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Secretary/Accounting Technician II

Taft City School District is accepting applications

for a Financial Secretary/Accounting Technician II to work under the direction of the Chief Business

Official for 8 hours per day/12 months per year with a salary range of $19.47 to $21.47 in

six steps. The benefit package provided includes medical,

dental, vision and life insurance. Employment process includes written

exam, application screening, interview,

DOJ fingerprint clearance, and physical exam with drug screen.

Application and Job Description may be

picked up at the District Office, 820 Sixth Street, and must be returned by Monday, February 4 at

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Now accepting applications for mechanics and

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2bd 1 ba. New carpet and paint. $675 mo plus $500 dep. No pets. Call Jeff 661 348-6788 or Betty 805 550-0565. 1-28.

Derby Acres. 2bd. 1 ba. 1/2 acre w/horse corrals. $700 mo plus dep. 661 805-2245. 2-1.

House for rent. 2bd. 1 ba. 661-747-6968.

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429 Rose. 2/1 with Garage and laundry. $730. mo plus dep. 661 765-5000.

House for rent. 2bd, 1 ba. Very nice. $800 mo. plus dep. 203 Lucard. 765-4644 or 363-3005.

APART. FOR RENT1bd. 1ba. Upstairs. $475 Mo. plus $475 dep. 155 1/2 North Street. (661) 477-9636. 1-30

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Governor Brown, Continued from Page 4 The people have given us seven years of extra taxes. Let us follow the wisdom of Joseph, pay down our debts and store up reserves against the leaner times that will surely come. In the midst of the Great Depression, Franklin Roosevelt said: “There is a mysterious cycle in human events. To some generations much is given. Of other generations much is expected. This genera-tion has a rendezvous with destiny.” We --right here in California-- have such a rendezvous with des-tiny. All around us we see doubt and skepticism about our future and that of America’s. But what we have accomplished together these last two years, indeed, the whole history of California, belies such pessimism. Remember how California began. In 1769, under King Charles III, orders were issued to Jose de Galvez, the Visitor General of Baja California, to: “Occupy and fortify San Diego and Monterey for God and the King of Spain.´ Gaspar Portola and a small band of brave men made their way slowly north, along an uncharted path. Eventually, they reached Monterey but they could not recognize the Bay in the dense fog. With their supplies failing, they marched back to San Diego, forced to eat the flesh of emaciated pack mules just to stay alive. Undaunted, Portola sent for provisions from Baja California and promptly organized a second expedition. He retraced his steps northward, along what was to become El Camino Real, the Kings Highway. This time, Father Serra joined the expedition by sea. The rest is history, a spectacular history of bold pioneers meeting every failure with even greater success. The founding of the Missions, secularized and sold off in little more than 50 years, the displacement and devastation of the native people, the discovery of Gold, the coming of the Forty-Niners and adventurers from every continent, first by the thousands and then by the hundreds of thousands. Then during the Civil War under President Lincoln came the Transcontinental Railroad and Land Grant Colleges, followed by the founding of the University of California. And oil production, movies, an aircraft industry, the longest suspension bridge in the world, aerospace, the first freeways, grand water projects, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Venture Capital, Silicon Valley, Hewlett Packard, Apple, Qualcomm, Google and countless others, existing and still just imagined. What is this but the most diverse, creative and longest standing mass migration in the history of the world. That is California. And we are her sons and daughters.This special destiny never ends. It slows. It falters. It goes off track in ignorance and prejudice but soon resumes again—more vibrant and more stunning in its boldness. The rest of the country looks to California. Not for what is conventional, but for what is necessary—necessary to keep faith with our courageous forebears. What we have done together and what we must do in the coming years is big, but it pales in comparison to the indomitable courage of those who discovered and each decade thereafter built a more abundant California. As Legislators, It is your duty and privilege to pass laws. But what we need to do for our future will require more than produc-ing hundreds of new laws each year. Montaigne, the great French writer of the 16th Century, in his Essay on Experience, wisely wrote: “There is little relation between our actions, which are in perpetual mutation, and fixed and immutable laws. The most desir-able laws are those that are the rarest, simplest, and most general; and I even think that it would be better to have none at all than to have them in such numbers as we have.” Constantly expanding the coercive power of government by adding each year so many minute prescriptions to our already de-tailed and turgid legal system overshadows other aspects of public service. Individual creativity and direct leadership must also play a part. We do this, not by commanding thou shalt or thou shalt not through a new law but by tapping into the persuasive power that can inspire and organize people. Lay the Ten Commandments next to the California Education code and you will see how far we have diverged in approach and in content from that which forms the basis of our legal system.

Education In the right order of things, education—the early fashioning of character and the formation of conscience—comes before legislation. Nothing is more determinative of our future than how we teach our children. If we fail at this, we will sow growing social chaos and inequality that no law can rectify. In California’s public schools, there are six million students, 300,000 teachers—all subject to tens of thousands of laws and regulations. In addition to the teacher in the classroom, we have a principal in every school, a superintendent and governing board for each school district. Then we have the State Superintendent and the State Board of Education, which makes rules and approves endless waivers—often of laws which you just passed. Then there is the Congress which passes laws like “No Child Left Behind,” and finally the Federal Department of Education, whose rules, audits

and fines reach into every classroom in America, where sixty mil-lion children study, not six million. Add to this the fact that three million California school age children speak a language at home other than English and more than two million children live in poverty. And we have a funding system that is overly complex, bureaucratically driven and deeply inequitable. That is the state of affairs today. The laws that are in fashion demand tightly constrained cur-ricula and reams of accountability data. All the better if it requires quiz-bits of information, regurgitated at regular intervals and stored in vast computers. Performance metrics, of course, are in-voked like talismans. Distant authorities crack the whip, demand-ing quantitative measures and a stark, single number to encapsulate the precise achievement level of every child. We seem to think that education is a thing—like a vaccine—that can be designed from afar and simply injected into our chil-dren. But as the Irish poet, William Butler Yeats said, “Education is not the filling of a pail but the lighting of a fire.” This year, as you consider new education laws, I ask you to consider the principle of Subsidiarity. Subsidiarity is the idea that a central authority should only perform those tasks which cannot be performed at a more immediate or local level. In other words, higher or more remote levels of government, like the state, should render assistance to local school districts, but always respect their primary jurisdiction and the dignity and freedom of teachers and students. Subsidiarity is offended when distant authorities prescribe in minute detail what is taught, how it is taught and how it is to be measured. I would prefer to trust our teachers who are in the class-room each day, doing the real work – lighting fires in young minds. My 2013 Budget Summary lays out the case for cutting categori-cal programs and putting maximum authority and discretion back at the local level—with school boards. I am asking you to approve a brand new Local Control Funding Formula which would distrib-ute supplemental funds — over an extended period of time — to school districts based on the real world problems they face. This formula recognizes the fact that a child in a family making $20,000 a year or speaking a language different from English or living in a foster home requires more help. Equal treatment for children in unequal situations is not justice. With respect to higher education, cost pressures are relentless and many students cannot get the classes they need. A half million fewer students this year enrolled in the community colleges than in 2008. Graduation in four years is the exception and transi-tion from one segment to the other is difficult. The University of California, the Cal State system and the community colleges are all working on this. The key here is thoughtful change, working with the faculty and the college presidents. But tuition increases are not the answer. I will not let the students become the default financiers of our colleges and universities.

Health Care California was the first in the nation to pass laws to imple-ment President Obama’s historic Affordable Care Act. Our health benefit exchange, called Covered California, will begin next year providing insurance to nearly one million Californians. Over the rest of this decade, California will steadily reduce the number of the uninsured. Today I am calling for a special session to deal with those issues that must be decided quickly if California is to get the Affordable Care Act started by next January. The broader expansion of Medi-Cal that the Act calls for is incredibly complex and will take more time. Working out the right relationship with the counties will test our ingenuity and will not be achieved overnight. Given the costs involved, great prudence should guide every step of the way.

Jobs California lost 1.3 million jobs in the great Recession but we are coming back at a faster pace than the national average. The new Office of Business and Economic Development — GoBiz —directly assisted more than 5,000 companies this past year. One of those companies was Samsung Semiconductor Inc. headquartered in Korea. Working with the City of San Jose and Santa Clara County, GoBiz persuaded Samsung to locate their only research and development facility in the world here in Cali-fornia. The new facility in San Jose will place at least 2,500 people in high skill, high wage jobs. We also leveled the field on internet sales taxes, paving the way for over 1,000 new jobs at new Amazon distribution centers in Patterson and San Bernardino and now Tracy. This year, we should change both the Enterprise Zone Program and the Jobs Hiring Credit. They aren’t working. We also need to rethink and streamline our regulatory procedures, particularly the California Environmental Quality Act. Our approach needs to be based more on consistent standards that provide greater certainty and cut needless delays. California’s exports are booming and our place in the world economy has never been stronger. Our ties with The People’s

Republic of China in particular are deep—from the Chinese im-migrants crossing the Pacific in 1848 to hosting China’s next Presi-dent in Los Angeles last February. This year we will take another step to strengthen the ties between the world’s second and ninth largest economies. In April, I will lead a trade and investment mis-sion to China with help from the Bay Area Council and officially open California’s new trade and investment office in Shanghai.

Water Central to the life of our state is water and one sixth of that water flows through the San Joaquin Delta. Silicon Valley, the Livermore Valley, farmers on the East side of the San Joaquin Valley between Fresno and Kern County and farmers on the West side between Tracy and Los Banos, urban Southern California and Northern Contra Costa, all are critically dependent on the Delta for Water. If because of an earthquake, a hundred year storm or sea level rise, the Delta fails, the disaster would be comparable to Hurricane Katrina or Superstorm Sandy: losses of at least $100 billion and 40,000 jobs. I am going to do whatever I can to make sure that does not happen. My proposed plan is two tunnels 30 miles long and 40 feet wide, designed to improve the ecology of the Delta, with almost 100 square miles of habitat restoration. Yes, that is big but so is the problem. The London Olympics lasted a short while and cost $14 billion, about the same cost as this project. But this project will serve California for hundreds of years.

Climate Change When we think about California’s future, no long term liability presents as great a danger to our wellbeing as the buildup of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. According to the latest report from the World Bank, carbon dioxide emissions are the highest in 15 million years. At today’s emissions rate, the planet could warm by more than 7 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the century, an event unknown in hu-man experience. California is extremely vulnerable because of our Mediterranean climate, long coastline and reliance on snowpack for so much of our water supply. Tipping points can be reached before we even know we have passed them. This is a different kind of challenge than we ever faced. It requires acting now even though the worst consequences are perhaps decades in the future. Again California is leading the way. We are reducing emissions as required by AB 32 and we will meet our goal of getting carbon emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Key to our efforts is reducing electricity consumption through efficiency standards for buildings and appliances. Over the last three decades, these pioneering efforts have saved Californians $65 billion dollars. And we are not through yet. We are also meeting our renewable energy goals: more than 20% renewable energy this year. By 2020, we will get at least a third of our electricity from the sun and the wind and other renewable sources—and probably more.

Transportation and High Speed Rail In the years following World War II, California embarked on a vast program to build highway, bridges and roads. Today, California’s highways are asked to accommodate more vehicle traffic than any other state in the nation. Most were constructed before we knew about climate change and the lethal effects of dirty air. We now expect more. I have directed our Transportation Agency to review thoroughly our current priorities and explore long-term funding options. Last year, you authorized another big project: High Speed Rail. Yes, it is bold but so is everything else about California. Electrified trains are part of the future. China already has 5000 miles of high speed rail and intends to double that. Spain has 1600 miles and is building more. More than a dozen other countries have their own successful high speed rail systems. Even Morocco is building one. The first phase will get us from Madera to Bakersfield. Then we will take it through the Tehachapi Mountains to Palmdale, con-structing 30 miles of tunnels and bridges. The first rail line through those mountains was built in 1874 and its top speed over the crest is still 24 miles an hour. Then we will build another 33 miles of tunnels and bridges before we get the train to its destination at Union Station in the heart of Los Angeles. It has taken great perseverance to get us this far. I signed the original high speed rail Authority in 1982—over 30 years ago. In 2013, we will finally break ground and start construction.

Conclusion This is my 11th year in the job and I have never been more ex-cited. Two years ago, they were writing our obituary. Well it didn’t happen. California is back, its budget is balanced, and we are on the move. Let’s go out and get it done.


The Tumbleweed Bar and Restaurant

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

Located in the Heart of Oil Country On the Petroleum Highway

Happy New Years from all of us at the Tumbleweed Cafe

Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 9-3419 Harrison St. Taft, CA 93268 (661) 765-2987

(661)763-4445No Appointment Needed for

Smog Check!

General Automotive Repairs

• 661-763-4445 • 500 S. 10th Street

Qik Smog & Tune

Devon’s Body Shop

408 Main Street • (661)765-4337

western shop & PET Wash

HARRISON STREET AUTOMOTIVE209 Harrison Street • Taft

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

Diagnostic SpecialistsService & Repairs • Smog Repairs

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$15.00 OFF with mention of this ad**1996 Vehicle or newer

Black GoldCafe and Deli

508 Center Street 765-6556

We CaterYour Place or Ours Full Bar

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608 Center St. 745-4919

BMXBikes

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Full Grooming Salon

www.shawswesternshop.com

Andy’s Septic Tank & SewerUNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

(661)765-5000 or (661)343-0507

Randy’s Trucking

(661) 763-4773 1050 Wood Street

Cart-Away Concrete Mix Trailer • Hydraulic Rotation and Tilt for Mixing and Dumping

• Mixes Concrete While Traveling • • Large Internal Blades •

• Rear Operator Control Panel •

January Clearance

Jackets 30% OffDickies and FR Wrangler

Flannel Shirts 30% Off

Dickies InsulatedCoveralls $49.00 Overalls $42.00Hats - Boots - Jewelry - Purses - Jeans

Lert us wash and Brush outthose wooley dogs

Nails 12.00 2nd Dog $9.00

Birds - nails and Wings $9.00 with beak $14.00

360 Houses for Taft

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