Los Angeles Times | Plunging oil prices choke off boom in Bakersfield Los Angeles Times Each year, the American Assn. of Drilling Engineers hosts a meeting here affectionately called the Liar's Club. A cocktail-fueled crowd hears oil companies' well-drilling and production forecasts — estimates often so grandiose everyone understands ... California county declares fiscal emergency due to oil price plunge Oil Price Drop Hits California County's Finances |