Frontier High School Marching Titans band

Frontier's band probably will do great things. Mr. Kelley is a heck of an instructor and a nice guy, too. I never played in band or colorguard, but my sister did colorguard at Centennial. Mr. Kelley's bands always fared pretty well at many major competitions and the band and colorguard even was allowed to march in London's Millenium Parade held to usher in the new millenium almost 8 years ago (my sister was a part of that group).

Families to Amend California's Three Strikes

For the comment that Mr. Witbee made:As a member of FACTS(Families To Amend Three Strikes), We take a stand to amend the "3 Strikes Law". We are not condoning anyone that commits a crime, but we are asking that when a crime is commited, they do have to pay for their crime; but the time has to fit the crime. Our prisons are so over populated with non-violent offenders, that are doing "25 years to life". There are so many serious and violent offenders (such as child molesters, rapists or even murderers) that do less time, and are out sooner than the non-violent offenders. Ex. petty theft, drug possession, etc....... Go to our website Facts1.com and you will be able to read all the stories of the inmates that are doing 25 years to life for non violent crimes.

Do you recognize this bar?

This is from Tom Hawkins: The picture in qestion is either the Brass Rail or Pyrenese Bar in the late 30's but more probably in the early 40"s. My dad is the second gentleman standing at the back of the bar behind the pin ball machine. He worked for Genetral Petroleum, which I believe later became Mobil. He worked on the old Belridge Lease and was foreman of a roustabout gang. If there was an old days parade close by he was in it. As far as being in the bar it was to have a drink, I'm sure it was not to have his photo taken. The latest it could have been was when he moved to East Bakersfield around 1945.

Families to Amend California's Three Strikes

And just what type of "harmless" felonies are these people being convicted of?

Do you recognize this bar?

This was e-mailed to me by Angie "Checchi" Brown, the niece of Dick and Rose Fanucchi: It is our families opinion, (and we hope the correct one) that the bar you featured in The Bakersfield Californian submitted by Peter Apanel, Oregon resident was The 808 Club on Baker St in East Bakersfield. The The 808 Club was owned by our Uncle and Aunt, Dick (Domenico) and Rose Fanucchi. Dick and Rose are in the picture, Rose sitting at the bar and Dick sitting directly behind her. The picture was probably taken during one of the “Western Day” celebrations. Some of the light fixtures bar equipment and furniture featured in the picture was stored at their ranch in Old River, but was stolen years ago. My brother, Alfonso Checchi still owns a gun given to him by Uncle Dick in the past, once adorned the walls of the 808 Club.

Why Men are Insensitive to their Wives' Pain

Your husband's "silence" merely denotes his evolution from a "servant" to an equal partner.What am I talking about? We will NEVER be equal!

Pacific Islands no paradise

do u have any pic from pearl harbor

Do you recognize this bar?

I just talked to Mary Metropolis, who was born in 1917 and will turn 90 on Halloween. She says that when she was 16, she worked for Advanced Beverage and knew many of the local bars. She is not sure which bar is in the photo. But she says the photo is from either 1933 or 1934 when Bakersfield hosted Frontier Days. Her dad, John Demos, owned The Last Chance bar under the Bakersfield Hotel at 19th and M streets. She also remembers the Brass Rail, Johnnie Johnson, Mission, Mint and Suzy's. As for the Frontier Days event, the parade route included 19th Street and Chester Avenue. And the men all grew facial hair lest they be thrown in the "jail" and have to pay to get out. Her father, who is on the far left of the photo below, won first place in the category of "Best beard started on or after Sept. 1, 1934."

Do you recognize this bar?

I just realized that because I'm posting everyone's responses that are sent to me via e-mail, MY picture is showing up a lot here. Sorry! I just talked with Marlene Orloff who says her dad is the man in black in the foreground of the photo. She is not sure which bar is pictured, but she is sure it's her father in the photo: Martin Orloff. He was born in 1905 and she puts him at about 35 years old in the photo. She says he was in oil and real estate and spent a lot of time at the El Tejon and Padre hotels for business or drinks. Marlene says she was adopted when her father was older, 47 years old. And he died in 1967. But her family is part of the well-known Orloff family of Taft.

Do you recognize this bar?

This comes from Mona Carver of Granite Station: This photograph of the bar is not Granite Station bar because it never had tile floor and no pin ball machine and the bar was much shorter than the one pictured in this photograph.

Do you recognize this bar?

Sent by text message by Darrell Bowen: Is the picture in todays paper the Noriega hotel? I know that Noriega's has been changed a time or 2 but you can walk in there today and see that wall behind the bar thats what i thought it was when i first looked at it.

Do you recognize this bar?

Mr. Richard Lopez just called me to give this response: The bar looks like it's my cousin's bar at Narducci's. I'm not sure, but it looks like that bar. It's not Woolgrowers because they never had a bar. It's not the Padre because the bar at that angle is too big. It looks like Narducci's. At the far end of the wall where the people are standing, they may have taken that out and that's where the kitchen is now. The bar looks big enough ... to be the same.

Do you recognize this bar?

Jess Perales e-mailed this: I believe this picture is of the Arizona Cafe located at 809 Baker St. I've been going to the Arizona Cafe for the last 30 year, at least once or twice a year. When I saw the picture, it reminded me of this restaurant. I called the Cafe and was told that at one time it was a bar, prior to opening as a Cafe in 1953.

Do you recognize this bar?

Mr. Kenneth Rhoads, born in 1929, called me this morning to say this photo was taken in the 1930s during Old Frontier Days in Bakersfield -- an annual celebration that included parades, rodeos and other events. He says he believes the photo is from in the Old Southern Hotel at 19th & Chester. He says he used to sneak in there as a boy, and that he went there with his uncles and dad in the 1930s. He said it was a really high class hotel, second to El Tejon.

Do you recognize this bar?

E-mailed by Kenny Loewen: I think it is the old Hermitage Bar that was located in the 1800 blk. on the west side of Chester Ave.. Between the Wall St. Ally and 18th. street. Approximately 1936 or 1937 I was in that bar with my Dad.

Do you recognize this bar?

Angelo A. Haddad e-mailed this: The floor tile looks like the tile in the Padre Hotel that was revealed when my daughter Shawna Haddad Byers and her partner Kip Sullivan opened up Fishlips in November 2000 (the 18th Street entrance, next to the Post Office). You can peer through the window today and still see the tile, despite the construction that has been halted. The Padre opened in 1927 . The long room pictured in the photo could either be the large room in the back called “The Frontier Room” or it could have been a part of the large lobby.

Golfers forum of Bakersfield

The parrot died At dawn the telephone rings, "Hello, Senor Rod? This is Ernesto, the caretaker at your country house." "Ah yes, Ernesto. What can I do for you? Is there a problem?" "Um, I am just calling to advise you, Senor Rod, that your parrot, he is dead." "My parrot? Dead? The one that won the International competition?" "Si, Senor, that's the one." "Damn! That's a pity! I spent a small fortune on that bird. What did he die from?" "From eating the rotten meat, Senor Rod." "Rotten meat? Who the hell fed him rotten meat?" "Nobody, Senor. He ate the meat of the dead horse. " "Dead horse? What dead horse?" "The thoroughbred, Senor Rod." "My prize thoroughbred is dead?" "Yes Senor Rod, he died from all that work pulling the water cart." "Are you insane?? What water cart?" "The one we used to put out the fire, Senor." "Good Lord!! What fire are you talking about, man??" "The one at your house, Senor! A candle fell and the curtains caught on fire." "What the hell?? Are you saying that my mansion is destroyed because of a candle??!!" "Yes, Senor Rod." "But there's electricity at the house!! What was the candle for?" "For the funeral, Senor Rod." "WHAT BLOODY FUNERAL??!!" "Your wife's, Senor Rod. She showed up ve ry late one night and I thought she was a thief, so I hit her with your new TaylorMade SuperQuad 460 golf club." SILENCE........... LONG SILENCE.......... "Ernesto, if you broke that driver, you're in deep shit!!"

Do you recognize this bar?

Robert Rivera also sent me this: Are those dogs behind the cash register? Or are they rabbits? Are my eyes and memory deceiving me? . . . They're hunting dogs disguised with rabbit ears! Rene is the man in the dress suit. He had a great sense of humor, everyone that met him loved him. As the former owner Rene's 903 Club, he was proud of his antique gun collection on the back bar. I once asked him how he could have guns behind the bar, I thought it was illegal. He replied, "it's okay they are antiques". However, the rumor was that he kept one loaded and in working order just for protection. Can you guess which one? Someone once asked Rene, which gun works? Rene scoffed at the question and then replied with a chuckle, "They all do!" That is his wife seated next to him. And the young boy may be their son. Baker Street was the center of many celebrations and parades during that era. This one was most likely a celebration of western days . . Old Kern days . . . but obviously something along the lines of the "Old Town Baker" theme. LIfe was fun . . . life was great . . . life is a celebration . . . Baker Street was in its heyday. The gaiety of the tapestries behind the bar depict life's celebration. Rene's 903 Club was a bar for the working man, as portrayed by the two men in the foreground of the picture. But during the evening the bar would be full with people dressed in white shirts, ties and suits. It was a time of prosperity, it was a time for celebration . . . this was clearly the "good times" on Baker Street. My dad and Rene were competitor's in the bar business . . . but they were also good friends. A little friendly competition was good for business. And so it was on Baker Street. I had the honor of befriending Rene when I was a 5 year old child. He treated me like a son. But alas our friendship was short lived. I was saddened one day when his widow told me that he had died suddenly . . . we hugged each other and agreed that everyone loved Rene. . . and the celebration of life continued. Rene, "Are those dogs or rabbits behind the bar?"

Do you recognize this bar?

Robert Rivera e-mailed me this response: This bar looks very familiar to me. I recognize the tapestries on the wall and the dogs behind the cash register. The ceiling fans and the black and white diamond floor pattern are typical of the era. My Dad, John Rivera Sr. owned the 905 Club on Baker Street in East Bakersfield from the 1940's up until his death 6 years ago. He knew all the bar owners on the Eastside. He would often frequent other bars in the area to discuss business with the bartenders and owners. As a young child (1953-1955), my father would take me with him on short business errands. Here is my best guess. My dad had those very tapestries and ceiling fans stored in the upstairs storeroom located at 905 Baker St. for the longest time. I do not think they are from the 905 Club bar, I believe they came from another bar. Sometime during the late 50's or early 60's he purchased the bar next door located at 903 Baker St. I think it was called Rene's. That is where I remember the dogs behind the register. If you have time, go to the northeast corner of Baker and Jackson. Checkout the tile work underneath the entry way of 901 Baker St. (my dad purchased that building around the same time as Rene's). It has similar black and white tile work; and says "Globe", for Globe Pharmacy. I think the tile work is still there. It was once owned by a prominent pharmacists here in Bakersfield, I think he owned the pharmacy on the corner of Chester. I am nearly certain the bar is Rene's 903 Baker . I don't know the name of the prior owners. I would not be suprised if the man in the dress suit and the woman seated behind the young boy are the owners (but that is a guess). My dad and his brother Don purchased the 905 Club during the 1940's from a Mr. Frankel. I believe he was the father of our former Coroner, Helen Frankel. There is definitely some interesting history on that corner of Baker and Jackson. I hope this may be of some help. Robert Rivera

Golfers forum of Bakersfield

This blog is also a good one for local golfers: http://people.bakersfield.com/home/Blog/fairwaysandgreens

Do you recognize this bar?

Gloria (Barsotti) Cory e-mailed me this: "How surprised to see the picture of the bar in Saturday's paper. It really brought back memories from my childhood. I am almost sure that the bar is The Brass Rail that was located on the SW corner of 20th and Eye streets. My grandfather Wally Linn spent many an afternoon or evening there. I would stop by on my way home from school and peek in through the double doors to see if he was on his usual stool. Sometimes he would call me in, and the bartender would give me a cherry with a stem, what a treat. I especially remember the long bar and the tile floor pattern. I have thought about that wonderful place with the smell of alcohol, and felt so daring to peek in to a place where only adults could go. Thank Mr. Apanel for bring to life a wonderful childhood experience."

Do you recognize this bar?

Dan Giordano e-mailed me this: "I believe this picture is of the inside of the now burnt down Granite Station stop. The wood work on the back of the bar and the flooring made me think of the place immediately."

Do you recognize this bar?

It looks like it could be maybe The Padre Hotel or maybe The Pyrenees Restraunt. ( this is just my guess ). Jackie

Soldier paid ultimate price for country that interned his family

I suppose it would be more accurate to say Asians (vs. "people of color") owe the 442nd, as I was specifically referring to the 1952 McCarran-Walter Act, which eliminated the restriction on naturalization of Asian immigrants. That's not to say the exploits of the Tuskegee Airmen or latino servicemen did not cause social change as well, but those changes occurred over a longer period of time. The 442nd, nicknamed "The Purple Heart Battalion" became "the most highly decorated unit of its size and length of service in the history of the U.S. Army..." (Wikipedia). This was in spite of the government incarceration of their families, based solely on race. Their motto ("Go for Broke") came from Hawaiian gambling slang for "risk it all", and their high casualty rate reflects that motto. They had something to prove--that their loyalty was not based on race.

Governor Schwarzenegger Casts Veto of Harmful Card Check Bill in California, Reports The National Alliance for Worker an

So why *DOES* the Gropenfuhrer hate California's workers? Is it just his corporate puppeteers, or something more basic?

Do you recognize this bar?

It looks like woolworths

My sister ended her life last week in Bakersfield

My heart goes out to you Debbie. I lost my youngest daughter Karen under similar circumstances of the immense physical and emotional pain she could not endure. I loved her with all my heart and would have cheerfully taken her pain on myself. My heart goes out to you for the loss of Dina.

Recipe: Pizza salad

Mini Chef salad at Pizzaville! It has all of those things on it and despite the "mini" in its name, you can make two meals out of one of those suckers.

Got A Great Doc?

I agree. Dr. Patel is awesome. My wife is alive today because of him. He found a lump in her breast and insisted she get it biopsied and MRI'ed. Saved her life. Her OBGYN had just said it was probably nothing. A great guy and a credit to his profession. Rob

From renderings to reality

This facility should of been named the BOLTHOUSE CENTER. After all didn't they pay for it?

Soldier paid ultimate price for country that interned his family

I love your story and your family photos. I feel your love and respect for your family, yet I detect some bitterness. One part I didn't understand was the inference that "people of color" owe the 442nd, is a little racist, and I am surprised being of Japanese descent you would say such a statement. During WWII there were black, and Mexican units that fought. Have you ever heard of the Tuskegee Airmen? And Mexicans were very highly decorated (Medal of Honor Recipients). All races have been exploited, during various wars and conflicts, even today they pay in blood.

The War in Iraq

Interesting perspective, Mitchell.

The War on Iraq; Remembering Vietnam

I re-read my post, my intention was not to lionize the men that served our country, or take away from those who chose not to. I was just stating what I know as truth from my childhood memories. At each level of the war as new problems arose such as those I listed, it was something in the news that meant a lot to me as a child. I am however greatful to those who did serve our great country. Thank you sir, and I'm truly sorry for your loss. Janet

The War on Iraq; Remembering Vietnam

Many of us were called. Many didn't go. Those of us that didn't want to but felt it was our duty were legion, and many didn't come back. I lost one bro and another badly injured. I was lucky I guess. Do not lionize those who ran, nor denigrate those of us who went. Its not right.

A Legacy of Literature

Thank you so much, Heather, for your kind words. I am happy that you enjoyed it.

A Legacy of Literature

Absolutely beautiful! What a treasure! I am so moved by your story and your writing. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful memories of Jordan. God Bless you!

I support our troops and their purpose!

Kelly I agree but I disagree. I think that we were in the war for the right reasons. Were bring the key word. I am irate also. Heck yes we had the right reasons for going over there. But now i think it is time to come home. We have already achomplished what we wanted to over there. So lets bring our troops home. So Kelly I agree that we were over there for good reasons but now its time to come home.

I support our troops and their purpose!

I support our troops but they are being misused in a war to secure the Iraqi oilfields for multinational corporations. Bring. Them. Home.

I support our troops and their purpose!

Kelly:You are right on the money with your post.

There are far too many people whose abject hatred of GWB clouds their common sense and I believe on some absurd primal level, they actually WANT us to fail so they can point their fingers and yell "I told you so!" at the top of their lungs not for once thinking THEY will be the primary cause of a military failure by refusing to support the troops.

They pay a stupid lip-service to the troops by saying "I support the troops but not the war." which is absurd. To support the troops, you have to support their mission and fund thair actions in a mannner that actually allows for a win. I have several neighbors whose sons are in the hot zones of Iraq and Afghanistan (not pencil pushers, but actual shooters) and THEY believe in the war and what we are doing. Further, they are mad as hell at those who only pay the aforementioned lip service.

I'm sure the "usual crowd" will lambaste you for your post, but a whole lot more agree with you. Your post is a breath of fresh air in an otherwise beat-up subject. Thanks!

Loving my wife

Friday August 10... Thanks to the 366 viewing of this love note to my wife. Honey when you read this just think there is close to 400 hundred more people I have let know how much I care for you! I now thank daily our Lord Jesus in heaven for bringing you in to my life no matter were we go from here!

Love always art... (would draw cowboy but only words here)

I Support our U.S. Troops

Actually, I think Bush and Cheney who both avoided combat service during Vietnam, should volunteer to fight in Iraq. It is very easy to talk-the-talk, but they have never walked-the-walk.

I Support our U.S. Troops

I dont think Jenna and not-Jenna should serve in Iraq. I don't think *ANYONE* should serve in Iraq, and I'd try to dissuade anyone from joining the military at this time. With one exception: George W. Bush should be required to make up his missing Air National Guard time on foot patrol in Baghdad. I wouldn't identify him as any different from any other soldier, but I'd put him on the front lines. Then extend his tour. Twice.

I Support our U.S. Troops

My final post on this: First and foremost, I do not have any sons serving in the military. However I have met with several brave young men who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan who are my neighbor’s children…. One is a fine young man who joined the Marines as soon as he was able after the September 11 attack on our country. This young man joined the Marines against his parent’s wishes and volunteered to serve in the most dangerous areas as a grunt. He was in Fallujah during the most fierce fighting between US forces and insurgents, so suffice it to say he is not in some rear area moving boxes of Cheerios from one truck to another he is in the thick of it... After his tour was complete, he volunteered for another tour in the Iraq battle zone… His second tour was no less dangerous and no less difficult than his stint in Fallujah… He is now on his third voluntary tour to the battle zone. This time in Afghanistan. This time he is in a very dangerous and difficult battle zone and the majority of his operations are of a classified nature and as such he can no longer communicate home –via- email so I will have to wait until he returns to ask him how he is doing… One thing that stands out about this fine young man is his dedication to duty. He more than anyone posting on this blog knows the danger of what he is doing and he more than anyone on this blog knows exactly WHY we are committing troops to a battle that is difficult, bloody and more dangerous than any war this nation has ever fought…. He is not some “glory-hound” looking for batte to satisfy an oversized ego nor is he an adrenaline junkie. He is a level-headed young man who deeply believes in the war against Muslim extremism and the threat to the entire world the Muslim fanatics pose to freepeople around the world….This young man also believes the American public is being misled. NOT by the government but by the media who in the name of ratings will focus only on isolated “bad news” and completely ignore the great positive things our troops are doing. He is angry the media will chose to show video of a Muslim terrorist yet will not (ever) show the positive things our troops have done: such as rebuilding villages, providing water wells, and building and rebuilding critical infrastructure even though terrorists target this building for destruction…. I believe this young man is right in his criticism of the media and I believe anyone who swallows the media’s skewed view of this conflict is ill informed. The media will never interview this fine young man because his view (the truth) is diametrically opposed to the strategic goal of the media; manipulate the news to force us to leave the Muslim extremists alone……I’m done with this blog. You can either believe on not believe this young man. I choose to believe him as he has been there and I have not.

I Support our U.S. Troops

You "support the troops 100%" yet you decry their action as unjustified. OK, which is it do you support the troops or not? If you support the troops, you support their war (you support them 100% remember?) you can have issues with the politics and that's fine but to call the soldiers actions unjustified is to say every thing the troops do is illegitimate and therein lies the problem. To say you support the troops and not support their action is hypocrisy. Now as for the Bush daughters: My comment about mob mentality is to point out the idiocy of linking a political action or activity to someone who doea not hold public office. The Bush girls are adult children of a political figure. They do not make nor do they influence political policy. To play the tired old blame game and say the Bush girls should be required to go into a battle zone is the epitome of idiocy. Do they have les rights than the masses who are trying to visit the sins of their father on them? Are they somehow less American? Just because YOU don’t like their father’s politics gives you no right to smear them. They have not committed a single soldier to battle nor have they signed a single bit of legislation to commit soldiers to battle yet you wish them harm? What’s with that? As I said it’s a mob mentality against something unpopular. Given you your wish, these two ladies would be placed in harms way to satisfy your bitterness at someone else’s political decision. What makes YOU so high and mighty you would wish to deprive someone of their free will, their freedom or even their life at the hands of an enemy who would gladly disembowel them on live TV if they had the opportunity. Should the children of every single politician who initially voted on this military action be involuntarily conscripted as well?... Like it or not, the President of the United States is the Commander in Chief of the Armed forces and he (or she) can commit troops to battle anywhere in the world. I don’t like war very much either but sometimes war IS necessary to combat a greater evil.

The War on Iraq; Remembering Vietnam

JANE FONDA HAD GUTS TO SPEAK OUT AGAINST VIETNAM, JUST LIKE CINDY SHEEHAN HAS AGAINST IRAQ. WHERE IS JANE TODAY? WAS SHE EVER SO RIGHT, AND ALI HE HAD HIS RELIGIOUS CONVICTIONS BUT DURING THOSE TUMULTOUS YEARS A BLACK MAN WAS ALWAYS BEING TARGETED AND QUESTIONED, AND AS FAR AS THE DRAFT DODGERS THEY TOO HAD THEIR REASONS, HOW ABOUT AN UNFAIR DRAFT?

Loving my wife

No matter what happens this will always be true!

What do i think of the war in Iraq.

The US did nothing about Hitler until the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. The Soviets fell under their own weight because communism doesn't reward ingenuity and the risk involved in developing new ideas. Iraq didn't threaten US interests. Al Qaeda and the Taliban did. We keep saying we are there to stop Al Qaeda and stabilize tensions between 3 ethnic communities that have hated and ditrusted each other for centuries. We opened the door for Al Qaeda and destabilized the region with our preemptive unprovoked war on another country. Sure Saddam ignored UN resolutions. So does the US. So does Isreal. So do several countries in Africa.

I Support our U.S. Troops

> Do you think the president's daughters should volunteer to Iraq or any other country that we have invaded unjustifiably?

I think the President's daughters, like every other American citizen, should be free to make that personal, individual decision without some blaring spotlight light focused upon them.

With that said, I add a question of my own. Why should they volunteer to engage in any war you deem unjustifiable?

As an aside, I note that the clinton daughter did not volunteer in the dirty little war on the intern.

I Support our U.S. Troops

Dear Curt: I read the comment in I posted "I SUPPORT OUR U.S. TROOPS". I find your comment very nicely putted and as you’ve said in your profile you are a big star of "People's Magazine". In regard of your first comment that "This whole "mob-mentality" is repugnant and ignorant. And in the second you stated the following "Let's put the shoe on the other foot. Suppose yOUR father is a successful businessman and over 30+ years has amassed a sizeable fortune. Using this idiotic model, YOU should be REQUIRED to do time in The Peace Corps". First and foremost, I’m appalled that a well educated and a public figure person like you have that kind of mentality to write that kind of statements. Secondly, you don't know me, and most of “my father” never had any money nor amassed any sizeable fortune in 30 or 50 years. And to conclude this note I am proud to be a Viet-Nam Era Veteran, I was drafted and chosen by the president of the United States of America to serve in the U. S Army 69-71. And I have in my possession a DD-214 and some medals as well. If I be called again to serve my country in rightfully and justifiable manner I’ll gladly do it all over again. If to your understanding this whole thing is ignorant and repugnant and because according to you "this is America dufus" and I'm quoting you as you've utterly stated "people have to decide their own fate without the loud idiots in the mob having any say in your future." I'm totally surprise about a highly educated person would think that way about other people without even knowing them. My comment was I support our U.S. Troops and I do 100% the reason for that is that I proudly have a son deployed in Iraq, but speaking for myself and no one else I do not agree with the Bush Administration, which is full of lies and a corrupted organization. Once again thank you for your comment and I welcome you as a friend despite our different points of views.

I Support our U.S. Troops

Al Gore's son: Perhaps he should "volunteer" to serve in a Colombian Drug Cartel.----Same anology!

I Support our U.S. Troops

This whole "mob-mentality" is repugnant and ignorant. Let's put the shoe on the other foot. Suppose yOUR father is a successful businessman and over 30+ years has amassed a sizeable fortune. Using this idiotic model, YOU should be REQUIRED to do time in The Peace Corps. You don't have any choice the ignorant mob says you have to! As I said, ignorant and repugnant. This is America Dufus. People get to decide their own fate without the loud idiots in the mob having any say in your future.

I Support our U.S. Troops

I don't see the relevency whether or not if President Bush's daughters should volunteer to Iraq. When someone volunteer's for something it is done of his or her own free will.

Can anyone answer this question for me

No, he doesn't. And he himself didn't serve in Vietnam. Nor did (I believe) any current member of his administration.

I Support our U.S. Troops

The Bush twins could care less about Iraq and anything else, when Bush was first elected those sloshed party girls embarassed their Dad, "the President" to no end,until they were silenced before the second term. Volunteer? I think not, what kind of patriotism and integrity do they have?

Can anyone answer this question for me

You know what...I don't think he does. not quite sure, but I would have to say no. I think if he did he would definitely say something to encourage others who have family there! But he has never said anything.

I Support our U.S. Troops

TO ALL MY FRIENDS AT Bakersfield.com: I will reply tomorrow to those people that made comments today. I'm still looking for those 190,0000 AK-47 missing. This administration is nothing but corruption, we look at another countries, like Mexico, Venezuela, Colombia just to name a few, but the reality is in fact that we are the biggest crooks, and I'm talking about the Bush administration and all his friends and relatives. Okay I said enough, but tomorrow I will definitely reply to aforesaid comments. Yours truly, Frank Prieto Jr.

I Support our U.S. Troops

YES! Let his family set a good example for once. If this war is important enough for other people's children to fight it, it is important enough for his family and the families of other politicians' who voted for it to get over there, too. Why is the Army having so much trouble meeting recruitment goals when there were so many people eager for this war?

I Support our U.S. Troops

President Bush's daughters have about as much control over their fathers actions as you do. Attempting to visit the sins of the father upon the children is moronic, self-serving and is not even worth consideration.

Somethings got to give!

Doesn't suprise me. This city bends over backwards for Illegals. They let them sell food from Bicycles without running hot water, or a health permit, They let them build unsafe structures, and let them cram 4 families in 1 2 bedroom house. Good luck in finding a job.

War in Iraq

Amen. We also have a son serving his 2nd tour in Iraq & thank & pray for him & all the others serving each & every day.

I Support our U.S. Troops

ABSOLUTELY !!!!

If not over there, they would be fighting on our own soil

You have been brainwashed!!

No they would not be fighting on U.S. soil if we had not attacked Iraq - you bought into Bush's BS. Our troops being sent to Iraq has nothing to do with U.S. freedom. Get real!!

Why are we still There??

First of all, Iraq DID NOT do 9-11.Second, we didn't go to help Iraq. Bush went on the LIE that Iraq had WMDs and was "not disarming". And we have not helped them. Look at the number of Iraqi civilian casualities per day and how many hours of electricity they have (2 per day) - 5 years later. Bin Laden launches an attack on the US that kills 3000 and that makes him a terrorist. Bush launches an unprovoked attack on Iraq that kills tens of thousands but he's not a terrorist? We had no reason to be there in the first place.

What do I think of the war in Iraq?

I complely agree with you. Someone has lost sight of this war, and we need someone to step up and regain control, and refocus on why we are in Iraq.

If not over there, they would be fighting on our own soil

The war in Iraq has nothing to do with out freedom. If our soldiers are fighting for our freedom, they should immediately storm the White House, the Capitol, and every other government building that has imposed so-called "laws" to limit our freedoms. The Patriot Act, the elimination of Habeas Corpus, and illegal wiretapping and spying are all clear violations of privacy and freedom. Therefore, if our military fights for our freedom, we know what the targets ought to be. None of the items I mentioned that affect our freedom have anything to do with Iraq, nor does Iraq have anything to do with our freedom. Wake up.

What do I think of the war in Iraq?

Once again, and ill-informed person wrote about Iraq and then invoked the "I-won't-forget-9/11" card. I won't either, and in late 2002 and early 2003 when this moronic administration was preparing to go to war against Iraq, I couldn't help but to think, "Didn't we learn something from 9/11? Isn't our ubiquitous presence in the Middle East and decades of disastrous foreign policy one of the reasons 9/11 happened?" I never forgot about 9/11. I think you are right that some politicians did forget about it, and that is why we are in Iraq right now. Smart and educated liberals like myself were those who were against this war because we were the ones who didn't forget about 9/11.

War in Iraq

9/11 wasn't started out of hate and jealousy.. are you kidding me? Go ahead and live under that rock your under. I can guarantee you folks that if we weren't in Iraq and Afghanistan, we would have had more attacks on our soil... don't believe it and continue to deny what will happen once were out of Iraq... The war in Iraq was not about oil, it was about finishing a job that Bush's dad didn't finish, when he had the opportunity to... Clinton was too much of a coward to face our enemies.. look what happened in Somolia in 93.. a little shock and he took the high road and ran.. that encourage these Muslim fanatics as they thought that we would be push overs.. I don't 100% agree with the Bush administration, however I do believe they have done a great job at keeping terrorism out of here... Just imagine if we get Obama for Pres, even worse Ms. Clinton... or them together, were in trouble if that happens..

War in Iraq

I am very proud of our soldiers, and truly.... my hat is off to your son, and all of our men and women serving our country. I've conveyed this to all the U.S. soldiers I have crossed paths with in my travels. I do believe that one can fully support the troups and thier families while disagreeing whole heartedly with the administrations empirical decision and reasons to take us to war. The military, albeit our country's son's and daughters, is first and foremost, a tool for our leaders to use to defend us. If that tool is misused we owe it to our soldiers, our sons and daughters, to stand up and fight for them, if we don't..... who will? I believe, because these kids have made the incredible choice to be that tool, they deserve to be watched after and taken care of...... and with all due respect, I deeply fear that day when a nations people say...... "right or wrong, I support the my government". Because at that moment...... we all lose...... and we become exactly like a nation I won't even mention!!!! History has proven this fact over, and over again. This will never mean, I don't support the troups, or my country.

War in Iraq

I applaud your son for serving so honorably. However, your son is fighting in a war that never should have been started in the first place. The troops, the country, and the world were lied into this war. And once again, you have incorporated 9/11 with this war in Iraq--these are two distinctly different matters that the President, Vice President, Republicans, and those on talk radio are constantly trying to conjoin in an effort to justify the misguided foreign policy and lies of the Bush administration. Therefore, any blame (which you state we need to stop) is completely justified, and when someone messes up, especially as royally as this administration has done, someone needs to be held accountable. Since you are such proud parents of a son who is serving in Iraq, please open up your eyes and realize that he is in harm's way for no good reason. This has nothing to do with politics, but it has everything to do with the security and safety of our country. Our presence in the Middle East only makes our country more vulnerable. We need to get out of there--now.I hope for the safe return of your son.

War in Iraq

While I have a different point of view on the war, I certainly share your strong beliefs that we should support our troops. It is tough for me to abandon the idea that our government would have handled this entirely different, if this country had no oil! My prayers go out to you and your son. May God protect him and bring him home safely

What do I think of the war in Iraq?

You should be proud of your son. Unfortunately, he and many other young American men and women are nothing but pawns of corporate greed, lies and incompetence. Our commander in chief and his vice president never served a day in combat and are but puppets and guardians of the wealthy elite and NOT the average American citizen. This war is about $$$ for a few and not about any threat to American safety or democracy.

War in Iraq

We are always proud of the service of our men and women in uniform, which makes the war in Iraq even more tragic. The attacks on 9/11 took place not out of hate and jealousy, but because of decades of imperialistic foreign policy and actions in the middle east by the United States. Since the discovery of oil in that region the US (and European countries) have supported dictators and despots (including Saddam Hussein) who have tortured and killed their own citizens while selling us oil to run our corporations and feed our consumerism. The average person in the middle east lives a very harsh life at the expense of our very high life style in the west.

What do I think of the war in Iraq?

Is there a mission in Iraq? I think not its all about oil and money, ever hear about Haliburton? I feel for you because of your son, may he come home safely.

Why Play ASA Softball

I think your new Rec Director will help out alot. He is into sports and understands what is needed. You need more people playing to make your league better. Also touraments will help if someone will start putting them on? I hope to meet with him soon to try to get the all-star program back in the girls youth league in Taft.

Why Play ASA Softball

We're playing both Slow & Fast Pitch ball out here in Taft -- maybe we can get some of those in Bakersfield & those at the Rec District in Taft to come together and get some REAL GOOD COMPETITION going?! Softball rocks -- especially now I'm too old to play ball in college / professionally!

What I think of the war in Iraq

Amen, sister. No one who is truly a compassionate human "likes" war -- but sometimes it is a necessary evil. I too am sure we don't necessarily know all the fact (nor may we ever know them as a general citizen of this nation), but I believe & hope that we're there fighting for all the right reasons (although, I definitely am not naive as to others' opinions & beliefs). Give your son a big hand shake, hug, & "Thank You" from me & mine -- I couldn't be more thankful for your son, his brethren in the Armed Services, & all those who have served before them. God Bless everyone – especially our service members, their families, our leaders, & our country.

Why Men are Insensitive to their Wives' Pain

We are insensitive, because sometimes you girls make no sense. It's pretty simple, and we have been accused of being simple minded too. I choose not to have female problems so I choose to stay single. It really works well for me.

Bakersfield Market for investors

I am aquainted with the story, as a matter of fact some of these anecdotes are taken from that story. I am not affiliated with Crisp or Cole. I do believe in Bakersfield Real Estate, even in a down market.

Bakersfield Market for investors

Are you aquainted with Crisp and Cole?

Noah's Ark-Fact or Fiction?

One believes what one chooses to believe but it should be based on some kind of logic, evidence or fact. It is clear you did not thoroughly read how 'all ' those animals were able to be in the ark.If you read it again it will partly answer your comment. As to the animal species living within 'walking distance' to the ark, they didn't need to. If you are familiar with the Genesis account you would know that the animals at that time were in subjection to humankind which meant they were not in fear of them. They would have followed Noah to the ark when it was time. it would not have been a problem for Noah to 'gather' those creatures who needed to be on the ark and which would exclude the ones mentioned in the article I originally sent.

I am very familiar with the Epic of Gilgamesh as well as Aztec, Norse and other 'mythological legends'
Regardless of whether one chooses to believe the Bible account or not it is clear that Gilgamesh, described as part man, part god with a violent and lustful personality is based on an unreal and legendary creature of which no human has ever seen or will.
But there is one thing of interest. All of these legends have a similar account running through them: A world-wide flood.The Epic of Gilgamesh mentions a flood, a ship and survivors.
Aztec mythology tells of an ancient world inhabited by giants and of a great deluge.
Norse legend describes a race of giants and a wise man named Bergelmir who constructed a large boat and saved himself and his wife.
All of these legends simply corroborate the Bible's testimony that all humans have descended from the survivors of a deluge that destroyed an ancient wicked world.(If that were not so we would not be here today as we are all descendents of those flood survivors, Noah and his family)
It is clear that man has twisted the word of God retaining some truth and making up the rest. The facts, not mythology, speak for themselves. And an honest study of the Bible will prove it never-and I repeat never- contradicts itself it is men that contradict it. Any seeming 'contradictions' are cleared up immediatly by supporting scriptures. One can not make a fair assessment unless they have actually done that.

I took a man's life, and I am sorry

Global Warming

The issue of global warming is so convoluted by politicians and opportunists that most of us don't know what to think about it. Howevere, air pollution is an obvious, measurable problem. I think more people should focus on ridding our air of serious pollutants and less on carbon dioxide. Just my opinion. Rob

Global Warming

That settles it! You said it, so we all must believe it. Give me a break! It's being reported by reputable sources that the earth survived a 9-degree hike in global temperatures some centuries ago, now we're crying over a predicted 2-degree hike. Come on… our current crop of scientists can't predict what the weather's going to be like two weeks from now. How can we believe those who say it's going to get hotter? I remember reading about the coming ice age 30 years ago. Whatever happened to that?

Noah's Ark-Fact or Fiction?

Are we to believe that every animal species in the world lived within walking distance of Noah's ark? Ever read the Epic of Gilgamesh? Philosophers can explain the flood motif and historians how the story made the cut for the Bible.

From labor camp to ocean cruise, how the first Arvin High students have stayed close

This is a wonderful article. I grew up in Arvin (Class of 1964) but agree with you about the work keeping the kids out of trouble. (Well, most of it) When you fall asleep in the ole pickum up truck coming in from the fields after a hard days work and everyone tries talking to you in spanish because of the deep tan you have, you have little time for misthief. We have tried to "Make things better for our kids" and we have taken a giant step backwards. It is time for the manditory CCC camps to start up again.

I met Inga Barks

Child you must be abused, if Inga barks bark is charming, gentle and kind, enough where you can write poetry, then you must get a life. Listen carefully and you will see the deciet, lies and spin. Listen carefully and you will find that with others she manipultated the Federal airwaves and continued the lies about Iraq and its complicity in the attack of September 11, 2007 that led to the massacare of millions that continues till today. Read BBC, read Khallleej Times, read the Greek News, Read Pravada, read other news papers and Inga Barks Bark will stop sounding sensible..

Is it worth it?

After a long night of camping out for the new iPhone, I wondered if it was going to be worth it. After activating my iPhone it was ready to go. I was very supprised at how easy it was to set up and start using. I had no errors and no problems with it. The picture quality is amazing for a 2MP camera. Customizing the iPhone is as simple as the flick of a finger. I believe it was worth the $600. The 8GB of storge for music is perfect. Connecting it to the computer was a snap. Flawless and easy for any computer user. Overall I give it two thumbs up. - Brandon

Is it worth it?

I've got my iPhone! My wife waited in line for two hours, then I joined her for another two hours. We were the 17th in line at the Mall View AT&T store and I had my phone by 6:45 PM. This thing is cool. It functions like you think it should. There is virtually no need for a manual. Think about that. The most advanced smart phone ever made and it requires no manual to operate. The touch surface is amazing. Very responsive to the simple gestures needed to navigate the interface. Sound quality is great for a phone. My wife told me that it's easier to hear me when I called from the iPhone than when I called from my old phone. There are a lot of ringtones included but I'm disappointed that I can't use my own music as a ringtone. Maybe in the future they will update the software to allow this. Overall, definitely worth what I paid. ($599 for the 8GB version) I plan to use this to help keep me organized.

My Friend Alberto, In Memory of His Father

I love my friend Alberto

God & Godchildren

took a lot of guts Will win the first Prize

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should get the Nobel Prize

My Little Sis, Maria Vincenza

Lil sis you must be a great lady I love your brother

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Go, Topo, go.

My Grand Children!

Thanks Nonno, I wish I was your grandchild

The Little Bird

My family and all my friends love it It's about time Poems make sense. Keep it up Paolo

Antonietta Maria

Papa, you're Great

My Friend Casey

Beautiful! we do need Love

Ground Breaking for New Educational Wing

What a awsome article. Sounds like a church that is on the move. Great Pastor, Great Saints and Most of all GREAT GOD. To God be the Glory.

Little People Road Trip

WHAT A GREAT FATHERS DAY, FOR MR. GONZALES! HOW COOL IS HE TO HAVE THE LITTLE PEOPLES VW BUG IN HIS REPAIR SHOP RIGHT HERE IN BAKERSFIELD! I'M A BIG FAN OF THE SHOW.

Is Retention the Right Answer for Underachieving Students in Kern County?

I would like to know if this means that my child can play 5 years of a sport rather than 4. If so then heck yes I love the retention program. He will be a much stronger athlete and more likely be able to be recruited for college.

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If not over there, they would be fighting on our own soil

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What do I think of the war in Iraq?

If not over there, they would be fighting on our own soil

What do I think of the war in Iraq?

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What do I think of the war in Iraq?

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