[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 133 (Wednesday, September 29, 2010)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1865] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TRIBUTE TO THE CITY OF TAFT ______ HON. KEVIN McCARTHY of california in the house of representatives Wednesday, September 29, 2010 Mr. McCARTHY of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the city of Taft, California, which is celebrating its 100th year of incorporation on Thursday, October 14, 2010. The city of Taft is located in the southwestern part of the San Joaquin Valley, and has quite a unique history. Named after our 27th President, William Howard Taft, starting in the late 1800s oil was discovered in the western San Joaquin Valley and overnight an oil town was born. The oil that was discovered was in the now-famous Midway- Sunset region and Buena Vista Hills, and by 1910 Taft had officially become a fixture within Kern County. Standard Oil was one of Taft's primary employers and helped lay Taft's foundations by building numerous construction businesses, a machine shop, numerous supply shops, bunkhouses for workers, and dozens of company homes for employees. As one of the only towns remaining in the United States which exists solely because of nearby oil reserves, Taft has a rich historical connection to our County and the history of our Nation's domestic natural energy production. The operational activities within the oil fields surrounding Taft have been the economic lifeblood of the city for over 100 years. From the remnants of old wooden oil derricks, to the historic Taft Fort, Taft has become a hallmark of the prosperity and endurance that has distinguished our County's industries and progress. State Highway 33 is now called the Petroleum Highway because of legislation that I initiated when I was a State Assemblyman representing the 32nd district of California to recognize the national resource that has put Taft on the map. In celebration of its oil heritage, Taft holds an event every 5 years called ``Oildorado.'' This year will be the first Oildorado celebration that will consist of 2 weekends and will include many traditions and activities such as the grand parade, Maids of Petroleum Oildorado Queen Pageant, barbecues, dances, a World War II aircraft exhibit, arts and crafts fair, and oilfield skills contests. Also included in this year's Oildorado celebration will be the unveiling and dedication of the Oil Worker Monument, built to honor all the men and women who have worked in the oilfields over the years. Taft has truly developed into a wonderful city of progress and yet through the years has still maintained a familiar, rural atmosphere making Taft a unique and enjoyable community to visit. The city of Taft is a vital component of California's 22nd District, and will continue to remain a place of economic importance and growth for the State of California. I recognize Taft and the members of its community in celebration of the city's 100th year of incorporation. ____________________