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Articles from the August 29, 2024 edition


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  • County accepting bids for new park at La Colonia

    Jamie Stewart, The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    Kern County Public Works is accepting bids for a new park in Shafter, according to a statement from Public Works Director Joshua Champlin. The park will be the first such project in the La Colonia area of Shafter, formerly known as the Mexican Colony. The area is steeped in tradition, with residents going back generations. For years, residents have been wanting improvements or revitalization done in the southern part of Shafter. Thanks to funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, $330,000 was...

  • 'Good samaritan' hit by vehicle, in critical condition

    Jamie Stewart, The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    A Shafter woman who tried to intervene in an altercation in Bakersfield was hit by a vehicle and is in critical condition at a local hospital. Shelli Fuller was driving on Knudsen Drive at approximately 4 a.m. on Thursday morning when she observed an altercation taking place. She reportedly exited her vehicle and tried to intervene in the altercation. Fuller was then struck by a vehicle and critically injured. The driver of the vehicle initially fled, but later contacted police to report her...

  • Shafter police turn traffic stop into felony arrests

    Jamie Stewart, The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    Officers from the Shafter Police Department arrested three felons on drugs and weapons charges that began as a simple traffic stop. According to Acting Chief Randy Mulligan, the officers were conducting a proactive patrol on the 300 block of East Lerdo Highway, officers observed an equipment violation and initiated a traffic stop. The vehicle was occupied by three people, all of whom, later discovered, were all felons. The suspects were later identified as Cinthia Rizo, 40, of Bakersfield, and...

  • Museum holds Gossamer anniversary celebration

    Jamie Stewart, The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    The Minter Field Air Museum held a celebration on Saturday night, commemorating the 47th anniversary of the Gossamer Condor historic flight in Shafter. Gossamer Condor was the first human-powered aircraft in the world, reaching speeds of 38 miles per hour in flight. The event started coming together late last year. Museum Board Chairman Ronald Pierce was contacted by Jean Peters, whose father had taken video of the historic test flight and wondered if Pierce and the museum might be interested...

  • Shafter Learning Center offering varied activities

    Jamie Stewart, The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    The Shafter Library and Learning Center had a busy summer program, including their Summer Reading Challenge and a variety of activities keeping children busy. Now that school is in session, the center is not slowing down, still offering programs for all ages. For the little ones, they are offering a KinderPrep program that is aimed to prepare Shafter's pre-K kids for their educational careers. KinderPrep helps prepare 4.5-6-year-old old for their first in-person school year. Pre-K helps younger...

  • Discover the Rose Queen contenders

    Veronica Jacuinde, Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    The Miss Wasco Rose Queen Pageant contestants take a break, resting in their petticoats during the formal-gown practice session. See more profiles of the contestants on Page 4....

  • Generals get victory, but lose quarterback

    Jamie Stewart, The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    The Shafter High Generals opened their home schedule with a rout of the Arvin Bears, 56-13, last Thursday night.The victory was a costly one, though, as the team lost the services of their starting quarterback for the majority of the season. Ezekiel Osborn, the junior signal-caller for the Generals, was injured during the game. Osborn didn't miss a single play and finished the game apparently okay. But, after the game, an examination determined that Osborn had broken his clavicle. He will have...

  • Strata and CRC sponsor Wasco students for Camp KEEP

    Veronica Jacuinde, Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    Strata Credit Union and California Resources Corporation presented sponsorship checks totaling $250,000 at the Wasco Union Elementary School District's Back to School Night, held last week at Palm Avenue Middle School and Thomas Jefferson Middle School. The event was a celebration of community support, with parents, friends and media in attendance. The donation underscores Strata Credit Union and CRC's commitment to local education and environmental stewardship. Together, the two organizations...

  • Community Calendar - Aug. 29, 2024

    The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    The Shafter Press and Wasco Tribune encourage local organizations to let the public know about coming events and activities through this column. Drop off or mail items at the office, 455 Kern St., Suite E, in Shafter, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, call 661-292-5100 or email [email protected]. Deadline is 4 p.m. Thursday prior to publication. Updates will be on TheShafterPress.com and WascoTrib.com. ANNOUNCEMENTS Shafter High reunion – Class of 1994 Reunion early sale, $40 per person for dinner and raffle. Oct. 19 5 p.m. at H...

  • Mystery History - Aug. 29, 2024

    The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    Here's this week's challenge, courtesy of the Shafter Historical Society. If you know the location, circumstances, exact or rough date and/or people in the photo, send your educated (or semieducated) guess to The Press, 455 Kern St., Suite E, Shafter 93263, or e-mail it to mysteryphoto@The ShafterPress.com. Winners will be revealed here next week. LAST WEEK: Richland PTA Committee gearing up for the schools' Fall Festival in September 1984. From left are Jeanie Firkins, Doyle Amos and Donna...

  • Arrest Report - Aug. 29, 2024

    The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    Aug. 22 Xander Cortez, 19, of Shafter, was arrested in the 700 block of East 21st Street for evading a peace officer, child abuse, obstruction and using a handheld phone while driving. Aug. 24 Jose Cruz Rodriguez, 45, of Shafter, was arrested in the West Tulare Avenue and VeraCruz Way on a bench warrant/failure to appear on a misdemeanor charge. Manuel Flores Nunez, 45, of Shafter, was arrested at Gossamer Grove and Cotton Creek for forgery, disorderly conduct: alcohol, impersonation and on a bench warrant/failure to appear on a misdemeanor...

  • Sun World introduces new grape varieties

    Veronica Jacuinde, Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    Sun World International held a highly anticipated fruit show at its Wasco Center for Innovation, marking the official launch of two new grape brands, "Applause" and "Epic Crisp." The event was open to potential licensees, industry partners, retailers and the media, drawing a significant crowd eager to celebrate this milestone. Attendees were treated to an exclusive tour of the Wasco facility, where they were introduced to the new grape varieties and other promising ones still in development....

  • Discover the Rose Queen contenders

    Veronica Jacuinde, Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    In this second installment of our spotlight series on the Miss Wasco Rose Queen Pageant candidates, we highlight the young women competing for the coveted title. These contestants reflect a range of talents, dreams and experiences. Last week's profiles of the other six contenders can be viewed on WascoTrib.com. Cedes Saldaña, is proudly sponsored by Saldaña Welding and Fabrication. The daughter of Mando and Gracie Saldaña, Cedes has been working hard to represent her community with grace and po...

  • N. Kern Christian School presents pancake breakfast

    Veronica Jacuinde, Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    North Kern Christian School will kick off the Wasco Rose Festival with a pancake breakfast on Saturday, Sept.7, from 7 to 10 a.m. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy a quick meal before the festivities begin. The breakfast will include three pancakes, eggs and sausage. For dine-in, there are complimentary orange juice and coffee. There is also a take-out option. "It's easy for a grab-and-go. We encourage you to come for a bite before you go to the parade, especially if you're having a busy...

  • Explore Wasco history at museum open house

    Veronica Jacuinde, Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    On Saturday, Sep. 7, the Wasco Rose Festival will host a variety of activities, and one of the highlights will be an open house at the Wasco Historical Museum. This event offers an opportunity to explore the town's rich history and connect with the community. Marlene Swan, Wasco resident and museum director since the 1980s, is eager to welcome visitors. Swan invites everyone to immerse themselves in the museum's collections and share in the stories of Wasco's past. "I'd love those who visit the...

  • Inmate dies at Wasco State Prison

    Veronica Jacuinde, Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    David Dominguez, 29, died at Wasco State Prison around 4 p.m. on Saturday, with prison officials investigating his death as a homicide, the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said Monday. Dominguez was discovered in a day room, being assisted by other inmates, the prison said. He reportedly informed staff that he had a seizure and fell. Investigators said a video has emerged showing two inmates, Jose Landeros, 27, and Michael S. Padilla, 37, fighting with Dominguez earlier in...

  • Pet of the Week: Meet Roxy and fall in love

    Wasco Animal Shelter|Aug 29, 2024

    Roxy is an affectionate and friendly 3-year-old female shih tzu who recently arrived at the Wasco Animal Shelter as a stray. She's a gentle soul who gets along wonderfully with both small and large dogs, making her a great addition to any family. Though her behavior with cats is unknown, Roxy's loving nature shines through in her interactions with our staff and other pups. Roxy will be available for adoption on Wednesday, Sept. 4. The best part? Adoption fees are waived! Don't miss the chance...

  • Generals open season with win

    Jamie Stewart, The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    The Shafter High Generals football team began their 2025 journey with a win against the Exeter Monarchs on Friday night. Shafter showed that they can win when they are not at their best, beating Exeter 22-14. Led by Head Coach Jerald Pierucci, the Generals, who came into the game as the top-ranked team in the Central Section Division IV, did just enough to top the Monarchs, who came into the game as the fourth-ranked team in the division. The Generals offense didn't get going in the first half...

  • Tigers open with a tough loss, 40-12

    Wasco Tribune|Aug 29, 2024

    After a surprising 2023 season that took them all the way to the State Championship game, Wasco' s Tigers started their latest campaign by showing how challenging a new season can be. The Tigers took a 40-12 bashing from the Porterville Panthers in a game that was only close into the early second quarter, when the locals were tied 7-7 after a long touchdown pass. Porterville's Ethan Enriquez threw for 132 yards and four touchdowns on only 11 passes. Jonathan Ruiz caught for 94 yards. Wasco...

  • Pastor's Corner: A place for lonely places

    Pastor Pat Coyle, Shafter Mennonite Brethren Church|Aug 29, 2024

    I don't need to tell you that we live in a pretty fast-paced culture. Whether it's getting from one place to another, receiving or sending information over the internet or simply trying to keep up with the latest news, it's fast! Sometimes the pressure of trying to "keep up" in some way can really wear us down. The culture that Jesus was born and raised in was much different from the U.S. in many ways. It tended to be much more rural, transportation was either on foot or on an animal, and communication was either handwritten or face-to-face. Bu...

  • Maria Francisca "Frances" Espericueta

    Aug 29, 2024

    In celebration of a life well-lived and love generously given, we honor Maria Francisca Espericueta, known to all as Frances. Born in Weslaco, Texas, on June 25, 1957, Frances passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 25, 2024, in Bakersfield. Frances was the heart of her family, embodying Proverbs 31 throughout her 48 years of marriage to LeRoy. A devoted wife, mother of five - Eli, Beatris, Leia, Priscilla and Lucas - and grandmother to eight cherished grandchildren, she instilled love and service in...

  • Annice Novella Allen

    Aug 29, 2024

    Novella Allen passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 24, at the age of 85 at Carrington in Shafter. Novella was born on Jan. 25, 1939, in Viola, Ark., to Trudy Novella Dillinger and Charles Opal Reynolds. Her mother would later marry Ival Hanes Henson (Jack) in 1940, and on that day he became her daddy. She attended Wasco schools from kindergarten through high school, graduating in 1956. She met the love of her life, James Dale Allen, and they were married May 4, 1957. They made their home in...

  • Death Notices - Aug. 29, 2024

    The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    Felipe Reyes Garcia, 63, of Shafter, passed away Aug. 12, in Shafter. Basham & Lara Funeral Care, Shafter. Ramon Lopez Tapia, 59, of McFarland, passed away July 26, in Delano. Basham & Lara Funeral Care, Shafter. Nelson Duriel Pineda, 51, of Wasco, passed away Aug. 18, in Wasco. Basham & Lara Funeral Care, Shafter. Cornelio Ruiz Moreno, 84, of Shafter, passed away Aug. 18, in Shafter. Basham & Lara Funeral Care, Shafter. Rafael M. Zungia, 80, of Wasco, passed away Aug. 21, in Shafter. Peters Funeral Home, Shafter. Rose Marie Carlon, 80, of...

  • Classified Ads - Aug. 29, 2024

    The Shafter Press|Aug 29, 2024

    To see this week's Classified Ads, click on the e-edition icon at the top of the page....