Delawired

Why The State GOP Doesn't Win Elections

2006-03-03T20:04:00.000-08:00

This has Mike Protack written all over it. One day, maybe two after Jan Ting entered the race for Senate Protack issued a press release ripping Ting for using immigration as his big issue. Protack chided Ting for being concerned about immigration now, when he worked in INS 15 years ago. Because apparently Protack was the only one back then who foresaw the massive influx of illegal immigrants and all that it would bring.

Now on the eve of a big GOP dinner and straw poll, letters have been circulated to GOP big wigs ripping Ting for being anti-Vietnam back in the 60's. ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME?!?!?!!

I guess Republicans in Delaware are in awe that Tom Carper flew a navy jet in that war. Not to denigrate Carper in any way, I like the guy, but at this point Vietnam service doesn't really mean anything to anyone. If anything Ting was ultimately on the right side of that issue way back when. But apparently his protests of the war are a weak spot for him. Well, I guess that's if you really want to see Protack try and break that 15% mark in a general election.

Now the airline pilot may or may not be behind it. We don't really know yet. But there may exist a deal between Protack and the GOP in Delaware that if by a certain date later this year, if it appears that someone else is the guy the GOP wants Protack will back out. That means, no bitter primary. Even if that's the case though, I'm doubtful Protack follows through on it. And this could be the latest of many slimy attacks between now and that date as Protack tries to protect his candidacy. But even as Protack may attract a few votes here and there to his side, he's alienating many more Republicans in the state. Before he was seen as a major annoyance. I'm sure a big chunk of the party would love to be able to dispel him from their ranks. But if this keeps up, there won't be many Republicans in his party willing to issue even a no comment when asked about him. Mike, many in your party are ready to turn on you viciously. It's going to start coming soon, too.

Some blame Protack for Judge Lee not being the current governor of Delaware. The state GOP finds a great candidate to challenge Carper, and even if at his best Ting may not be able to match up with Carper this year, if Protack keeps playing dirty it may be the straw poll that breaks the elephant's back. Republicans already say Protack is the best thing the Democrats have going for them. That isn't a compliment. Though it does appear like he's going to prove that adage once again. I think this is the first time I've seen a political party actually hate one of their own candidates for a major office. Let me put it this way; the Democrats could run Barbara Lifflander for statewide office and if her opponent was Protack she'd win easily.

Am I clear now?

Why Biden vs. McCain Would Be A Dream

2006-03-03T19:38:00.000-08:00

First off, who knew that the latest issue of GQ (the one with that dude from Lost on the cover) had a profile of Biden inside? It's a pretty interesting read. Certainly paints a different picture of the man from what I hear down here in Sussex, including from some Dems.

Anyway, deep into the article it mentions a pledge that Biden and McCain made to each other that if they're the nominees for their parties, they'll actually campaign TOGETHER. Not as a joint ticket, but to actually show up at places and hold impromptu debates with each other. Supposedly like Kennedy and Goldwater agreed to do in '64. Can you imagine McCain and Biden duking it out in a respectable manner all through 2008's cycle?

Of course, as GQ said immediately after that statement:

"It's a lovely notion, isn't it?
What's likelier to happen is that the bloggers and the talk-radio loudmouths will try to bury a Biden candidacy in 1987's muck."

Right now my gut tells me neither one win the nomination anyway. Some days I think Biden would be fine, more often though I think that not only is there no way he gets it but it's better that way anyway. Luckily it's still 2006. Besides, it'll be more fun to see how many Republicans Mike Protack can piss off between now and the summer. Mike, I know the airline industry is tough but if you want to endear yourself to the party you've got to change your slimy ways. Right now, you're just not well liked.

Additional Comment: Biden stressed repeatedly through the article that he felt one thing working against him was that he wasn't liberal enough for the Democrats. I read that and I think to myself you know, Biden is to the left of me. But I think Bush is awful too. Where exactly do I sit then? Thinking about it more though, I think that's more Biden trying to appeal to middle America. On foreign policy though, if I think back to a lot of what he's said over the last few years it's not that bad. Yeah, he talks a lot. Yeah, he's more politics than he is real. Yeah, if you're not Meet the Press or Chris Matthews he doesn't have time for you. Yeah, I'm not saying this with much certainty yet. But, after reading that article, maybe he isn't that bad? Good thing 2008 is a long way away. If foreign policy will be the most important Presidential focus over the next several years, the Dems, and this country could do a lot worse I guess. Even if they could do better too.

IR School Board Ready To Piss Away Taxpayer's $$$

2006-03-02T17:41:00.000-08:00

To those that congregated at the special school board meeting earlier this week, it was a gutsy move. They stood up for principle. Stood up against the ACLU. And as they're going to find out, stood up to their insurance company and the lawyers involved by telling them all to fuck off. No one is going to tell the Indian River School Board they can't take the time during school board meetings and other school-related functions to pray "in Jesus' name."

No one said that board members and anyone else involved in the schools can't take their own time to pray. If I'm not mistaken, part of the deal with the ACLU and the plaintiffs in the matter is that all non-denominational forms of prayer and thanks would be perfectly acceptable. But that isn't good enough, not in a place where ACLU is a four letter word. Rumors are abundant that not only did they want the righ to pray the way they want to, but they also sought hard to squash anyone else's attempt at religious content that didn't conform to their style of Christianity.

Ultimately this is going to be a colossal embarassment for the board members. I have a better chance of getting enveloped in a sizzling and torrid affair with Jessica Biel than these folks do of winning their case. The settlement negotiated by their lawyers and the plaintiffs would have meant a $1 million payoff. Now? Who knows. When they lose their insurance company will be absolutely livid after the insurer's lawyers were told to go to hell. IR taxpayers, welcome to a property tax increase. The damages awarded will be likely more than a million dollars I'm sure. That'll lead to a bigger increase. And of course, the cost of paying Neuberger and all the associated court costs will have to ultimately lead to yet an even bigger tax increase. Well, either that or else residents better not expect any sort of services next year.

Later this year you can expect a proposed bill to circulate through Dover that would absolve school board members from being named as defendants in future cases, thus making sure they never have to pay out of their own wallets anything when the board gets sued. Whether there's enough support in the legislature to pass it remains to be seen, but if some have their way it will be. But one can only hope that ultimately, when the IR Board gets smacked down harder than Delaware's basketball team in a road contest, it won't be the taxpayers subsidizing their foolish arrogance. Because to penalize the students and the innocent residents who are caught up in this idiocy only because of where they live would be an injustice. These board members are brazenly gambling with other people's money. When they lose, the consequences shouldn't be felt all over southern Delaware.

Delmarva Power To Phase In, Make For Bigger Increase

2006-02-28T20:54:00.000-08:00

Well, sort of. Rather than just see your bills jump up 59%, Delmarva Power will start phasing in their electric hikes starting in May, and continue over the following 13 months. Their average bills will see increases of $18 starting on May 1st, then another $18 on January 1st, 2007. June 1st, 2007 will see a $34 increase on the average bill on top of all that. That'll turn out to be about an extra $20 on our bills after that, because of what they're calling "interest" on the phase in.

Is that really what we wanted? Is that really better?

Honestly, will 13 months do anything for our bank accounts other than make it FEEL like the power increase won't be as bad? It likely won't for mine. Just give it to me all at once so I know what to expect. And see my post further down the page regarding the actions of lawmakers in this whole debacle.

Downstate Dems Decide Not To Bother In 41st

2006-02-27T21:06:00.000-08:00

Because it wasn't amusing enough the first time it happened, we'll be treated to Round 2 this year. Indeed Barbara Lifflander will try again to unseat John Atkins in the 41st district. And by try I mean her name will be on the ballot just so there's a name there. We'll see Mike Protack voted Senate Majority Leader on Capitol Hill before we'll see Lifflander voted into the state house. The Dems have been talking about taking some seats from the Republicans this year. And maybe they will. But it won't be happening there. Knowing that, at least the Democrats decided to keep us entertained the next eight months.

Delmarva's Power Problem

2006-02-27T20:27:00.000-08:00

The power company goes before the Public Service Commission later today expecting to propose ways that they can make their imposed 59% strike somewhat easier for everyone to swallow. Then in a grand ceremony up in Newark they'll announce them to the rest of the world. Well, the meeting before the PSC isn't closed or anything, but then my last line wouldn't sound so good.

Now unless you're a DuPont you're probably noticed that gas prices are a little bit higher than they were before, and by higher I mean that I may consider buying a pansy ass hybrid next time instead of another F-350. It's the way things are today. But the fact that this would happen right when our swift-thinking legislators decide is the time energy de-regulation will be a good idea is both not that much of a surprise and a terrible bout of bad timing. Granted Pepco deciding not to buy in bulk ahead of time (or however Markell explained it) was a colossal error working against us, but hey, what are we going to do, burn candles?

No matter what happens, it's pretty clear we're going to have to face the increase one way or the other. Delmarva Power doesn't even HAVE to do much of what they're proposing. I mean, we're all to a certain extent on fixed incomes, regardless of age. Some of us are just more than fixed than others, again regardless of age.

Most lawmakers in Delaware are entrenched in office. It's damn near impossible to lose once you're in there, unless you're Shirley Price. House and Senate leaders played the entire state for short-sighted fools by forcing that pay raise to go through a year ago, knowing full well that by this November few of us will remember, and those of us that do won't blame our legislator but instead someone else's. Now many of them, on a part-time basis make more than a lot of others do working full time. They've made being an elected official nice work if you can get it. With this latest crisis at hand, now they've got to scramble to come up with something else to prove how hard they're working for YOU even if there's some suspicion to that. Terry Spence wants to take your tax dollars and put it on your bill for the rest of the year. How very Republican of him, though it IS an election year. (Another aside, does anyone ever get tired of hearing Senator Bunting talk about how he's the ONLY legislators who voted against de-regulation? I don't, and he should rub it in their faces every time.)

Ultimately what we in Delaware need to do is think long and hard between now and November about just how much Delaware's politicians are thinking of us, and not them. Many of them upstate, some of them here downstate, are damned fools if they think they can say they're doing the jobs we put them there to do. It's time for voters in Terry Spence's district to think about the way the legislature has moved under his tenure. Voters in Bridgeville, I know it's a reflex but hasn't Thurman Adams' time in the legislature shown that the only thing Adams worries about is what his buddies in politics stand to gain? Voters in Laurel, just what the hell has Biff Lee done? The answer is, barely anything more than Bobby Outten who is the most worthless legislator in Dover. Hopefully the residents of Harrington remember that.

This is the year that Delawareans can enact some change in the legislature. We've been reminded over the last year that once someone gets to Dover, more often than not they only care about keeping that commute going for as long as they want. And even if how they voted on something a bunch of years ago will keep that commute going, changing their minds and voting differently next time is perfectly reasonable. And while it shouldn't, that somehow makes it pretty hard to hold lawmakers accountable for all their other sins, leaving the best chance we get to be often wasted by reflexive and partisan voters.

Steve Summers continued

2006-02-24T15:07:00.000-08:00

So Newsblues is saying that moments before a 6pm newscast, one produced by someone whose relationship with Steve is less than monumentous (her words, not his, or our's), Summers walked out and said he had enough of this shit 20 minutes before showtime. Then moments before the show would start he evidently changed his mind, but was instead escorted out for I guess the final time.

Being that some of the staff at WBOC like to glance at this particular site on occassion, I figured I'd appeal to them for the full story. Feel free to drop what happened on here, or on the mailbag friendly DCRTV.com where we saw the newsblues story. It's pretty clear that he wasn't the most endearing figure there. Hmm, perhaps that statement eclipses the previous one declared the understatement of the year less than two full months into 2006. Anyway the beauty of anonymity is that you can say what you want and not have to worry. I imagine that outburst was a sight to see, one that was even monumentous.

Media Note: Another News/Talker Hitting Delmarva

2006-02-22T00:48:00.000-08:00

Great Scott broadcasting is expected to bring another news/talk station to Delmarva. Rumor has it they'll be flipping their current programming on 107.5 FM. It's the area's second attempt to chip into WGMD's news/talk audience. If they want to achieve any success perhaps they'll try harder than 101.1 FM out of Ocean City. That station has two hours of local content a day, and the rest of the time syndicated fare. Their ratings? Wayyyyy down.

If Great Scott puts more local content on perhaps people will tune in and listen. But if all they're going to do is run syndicated shows from across the country it'll be a waste of time. Especially since all the syndicated programming available is 4th and 5th tier content that no one either listens to or has even heard of. Great Scott's reputation isnt' exactly sterling in this area which has me wondering. If a talk station turns on a microphone and no one's listening, did they really say anything?

The Races Start To Heat

2006-02-20T16:36:00.000-08:00

With candidates starting to file against the statewide candidates running for congress this year, I got to wondering who will come closer to knocking off the incumbants Carper and Castle. Will it be the Democratic Dennis Spivack, running in a decidedly Democratic state who gives Castle a run for his money? Or will Jan Ting, the Republican professor from Philadelphia making Carper spend some of that money he's raised? The answer obviously right now is that we don't know.

But come November, I'd be surprised if Ting doens't give Carper more of a race than anyone first thought someone could. And while Castle's office on Capitol Hill isn't likely to need movers either, I somehow expect him to finish better than Carper. And that's no knock on the junior senator from Delaware, who is doing a fine job in DC. But early on it appears as if Ting is more than just a sacrificial lamb. He may not win, and I'd be surprised if he does, but I hope this isn't his only stab at it. If this is a warmup for '08, when Biden runs for the Presidency, Delaware may lean more Republican on Capitol Hill in two years, even if the rest of the state is a solid blue.

How Is This Guy Still Allowed To Smile In Salisbury?

2006-02-20T16:16:00.000-08:00

Unless the owners and management at WBOC are trying to turn a once good TV news department and run it into the ground, it's time to wipe that silly smirk off his airheaded face.

For months now, every month without fail someone has always made it a point to leave. There are nearly as many producers needed as there are on staff. Their morning show idea has been described as painful, awful, and worse and worse every day. Professionalism was not a requirement for that gig. Reporters can't wait, can't WAIT until their contracts are up and they can leave. Most of them know the exact day that is, and at the same time laugh that they aren't counting. No, of course not. This is the same guy who demoted Steve Hammond, who is as well liked as anyone on Delmarva and whose professionalism is only exceeded by the character that makes him who he is. He was replaced by someone most everyone in Salisbury and beyond consider part of the problem at the station. And while you can't just let Hammond go, if you're the weekend sports anchor, you are as well liked and well respected in the newsroom and in the field as most anyone else there, but you've also been treated like crap from the time Bob Laun quit, until she was told her contract won't be renewed this spring. They decided to do the counting for her. Just the latest in a long run of idiotic decisions that has staff morale at an all-time low.

The WBOC that once was isn't anything close to what it is today. It's now virtually unrecognizable on the inside to many who were in the not so distant past. The content, the standards, and the product have declined and people notice. There's the saying, floggings will continue until morale improves. Floggings would likely be an improvement compared to how many are treated now.

Now watching the news, it's obvious a lot of their reporters work hard, and some of them are clearly better than others at what they do. But it's hard to think that the man pictured above could do a worse job running the show there. Lucky for them, the folks running WMDT are more than content to half-ass it and keep their reporters and producers focused on moving on as well.

Old People On Sussex Roads

2006-02-09T18:17:00.000-08:00

Frankly it's gotten to be too much. I'm not advocating anything close to keeping 'em all from getting behind the wheel. No no. But testing them on an annual basis is one hell of an idea.

Consider, last year the string of fatal accidents up and down Route 113, many of which involved an elderly person not yielding the right of way or pulling out in front of traffic.

Consider, right around Christmas time an older woman has a heart attack in the plaza where the Staples and Superfresh is on Route One in Rehoboth. Her car goes from that parking lot, across BOTH lanes of traffic on Route One, and hits a pillar in front of the H&R Block and Planned Parenthood. She passes away, but amazingly no one was hit.

Consider, someone plows into the Lewest Post Office near 5 Points.

Those examples are just the ones off the top of my head. For years I've heard how driving is a privilige, not a right. Why doesn't it apply to the elderly too? If they can't handle themselves behind the wheel anymore, as history has shown, the consequences can be deadly. Yet in Delaware right now we don't bother testing people after they get their license, when history has quite so clearly shown we should.

Sadly, you and I both know that there isn't one legislator in the state who has the balls or the guts to propose such a new law. Instead we'll just see accident after accident happen, and life after life get taken senselessly. Yet another instance of lawmakers valuing re-election over the right thing.

Bridgeville Bans Sex Offenders

2006-02-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

Not completely, but pretty close to it. Sex offenders can no longer live within a half mile of places like schools, day care centers, playgrounds, parks, and on and on. Look at Bridgeville, getting tough on crime. Protecting the kids. Parents, go ahead and let your kids run around unsupervised now!

Oh wait, you mean there isn't anything stopping them from just going to those same places they aren't allowed to live? You mean similar laws have only meant that more and more sex offenders go unregistered on a daily basis? And that nearly every police report we read regarding sex offenders caught in the area talks about how the scumbag knew the child and their family long before any molestation began?

Bridgeville: We act tough on crime, it makes us sound like we're doing something, without actually having done jack squat to really protect you.

Ting To Sussex: You're Going To Love Me!

2006-02-03T17:44:00.000-08:00

Jan Ting began his statewide campaign to unseat Senator Tom Carper this week, and today ventured into Sussex County. This former Reagan Democrat is no stranger to Republican politics, having played an extensive behind the scenes role in issues while living up state.

But as Minutemen Projects keep popping up all over the country, and Sussex Countians get angered every time they hear the words "como estas" his anti-illegal immigration message should resonate well down here.

Ting has also tried to play to the more moderate side of the GOP, something he'll have to do if he wants to go to Washington with Mike Castle. But pushing the immigration issue sure won't hurt with many of the conservatives in the state. Does he have a chance? I'll let you decide. But I'm not sure there's anyone in the legislature who could do better than him right now.

Ting Runs

2006-02-02T20:32:00.000-08:00

Will he prove to be a strong opponent for Carper? Carper is a stutterer, Ting isn't. Ting also isn't a Mike Protack, who is about as endearing as stepping on a nail.

Ting fancies himself an old-school Republican, rather than much of a neo-con. He'll play well in the southern end of the state. Up north though? Hopefully the race is just that. He has his work cut out for him, but even he realizes that. But at least it's someone who CAN make it a race.

Campaigns

2006-02-01T21:03:00.000-08:00

I figured I'd take a haitus until the GOP came up with a challenger for Carper. Aren't you happy to see me again?

So, Where Have I Been?

2006-02-01T20:13:00.000-08:00

So I've spent the last month or so swimming underwater, trying to fill in those 100 foot holes next to the Indian River Bridge. I'll admit, I was scared. I'd hate to see the thing collapse. Then some guy fishing along the inlet told me money was found and the'd fix the damn thing. So I came out and realize I've missed a lot of shit. Sorry!

PS that water is fucking cold!

Seperated at berth?

2006-02-01T10:38:00.000-08:00

Muslim scholar Tariq Ramadan vs. Film Star and Pot advocate Matthey McConaughey

More updates coming soon... we've been busy.

Dales

Don't Be That Guy

2005-12-17T09:01:00.000-08:00

So I head off to the post office today, doing my best impression of Santa Dunn with Christmas presents going all over the country. With boxes up to my head, and none of them all that light, it figures that the line is long. But damn if half the assholes in line didn't just walk up and ask for a book of stamps. Honestly, these fuckers all just walked right past the stamp machine that's in the back of the lobby that's devoid of any line what-so-ever. Seriously, all they had to do is walk right in, drop a few bucks in the machine, get their stamps and walk right on out. Single stamps, two stamps, or a book. Whatever, it's ALL there! But no, while saps like myself have big ass boxes stacked up in our arms, these douchebags had to wait in line and all for just a book of stamps. Please, be considerate. Peace. Love. Happiness. Good will to men who carry large ass boxes too. Thanks, Merry Christmas. Your line is over there though.

Carper To Dean: Shut The #*&)!@ Up!

2005-12-09T17:27:00.000-08:00

Word has quickly spread from upstate down to us here in Sussex that Tom Carper recently told a reporter from the News Journal that the next time Howard Dean wants to comment on the situation in Iraq he'd do well to go there himself first. It'll be part of a story sometime next week.

Again Carper showing his moderate tendencies in the Democratic Party, while Whacko Howie continues to do his best to erase all the gains being made on the current corrupt Republican establishment. Hopefully Carper's rebuke is one of many that will come from Democrats on The Hill. Joe Biden, we may have to watch you with Stephanopolous to see if you'll say the same thing. I'm not sure anyone will argue that the situation there is all fucked up. I'm not sure it can be argued that things aren't going well there. But to say we flat out won't win there? The best thing Dems might think about doing would be to nudge Dean and his Deaniacs out of the way and preach a more moderate message, which is only what the whole country is begging one party to deliver.

Meanwhile, why would the News Journal save a slam like that for days later? That's truly baffling, since a story like that would most likely echo across the blogosphere. This is not a story to sit on for a few days so you can tie it into something else like they're supposedly doing. Print it, it's news as it is by itself.

Beau Biden's Campaign Kicks Off Today

2005-12-07T21:42:00.000-08:00

Of course, that'll happen when Carl Danberg is sworn in as the new Attorney General here in Delaware. He'll only serve for about 11 months or so, until Beau Biden beats some lamb offered up by Republicans just so they can say they tried. I wonder though if he'll be his own AG, or if he'll just campaign for baby Biden all year? I just hope the answer I want and the right answer are both the same.

I'm worried though that this will be a rather weak AG's office this year. Danberg has made it clear from the get go that he's only doing this because Biden is letting him. That's not exactly inspiring to the citizens of Delaware. Especially from someone who is supposed to uphold the law.

Should I Feel Bad For Feeling Good?

2005-12-06T19:49:00.000-08:00

We feel bad for Nathan Heyward getting cancer. We really do. But we just wish that he was leaving DelDot for other reasons. Such as the fact he didn't do a very good job and the agency became among the more mismanaged and problematic ones in Delaware. So the good news is that Delaware is getting a new DelDot secretary. The bad news is, it's for the wrong reasons.

Yeah, That's Why

2005-12-03T07:29:00.000-08:00

Anyone else catch where Frank Infante's wife claims her husband called her a "junkie wife?" All because he didn't want a ham and cheese sandwich? Seriously, that's why he called her a "junkie wife?!?!" Because of lunch meat?!

Yeah, THAT'S why he called her a "junkie wife," suuuuure it is. It's the ham and cheese sandwiches. If you believe that then you should buy me a ham and cheese sandwich too. More likely, he called her the "junkie wife" as she was serving a ham and cheese sandwich. I hope he didn't forget her cheetos. The scales of justice are a little off balance these days.

Seriously, Someone Finish The Job

2005-12-02T18:02:00.000-08:00

How in the name of all that is good AND entertaining, can the same network that gives us the wit and intelligence of Keith Olbermann for an hour every night then turn around and give an hour to the most unintelligent, dimwitted, and otherwise jizz covered fingernails on a chalkboard Rita Cosby?

Honestly, with a voice that sounds like a wolverine ripped out half her vocal chords you'd think she'd have nooooooo business even speaking into a microphone. Seriously no matter what she said, and we knooooow it wasn't worth listening to, the first dipshit producer that gave her a microphone should never work in TV again. Though chances are there is a management position at one of the TV stations in Salisbury awaiting them. Will somebody please reach down into that wind tunnel of worthlessness that is her throat and take the rest of those vocal chords out though? Pretty please?

And it wouldn't be so bad if the douches at the network didn't feel that the same people who watch an intelligent and entertaining show hosted by Olbermann, one that's both informative, off-beat, and otherwise fantastic, with a wasted hour talking about Natalee Holloway. Honestly, has no one else disappeared in this world? You mean no one is kidnapped and/or killed but her, on a "school trip" to a fucking Carribean Island? Just one pretty white girl, with substantial naivete and poor judgement, with good looks and a face that looks more innocent than it apparently was is the most worthwhile news story of all of 2005. MSNBC MUUUUST spend one show talking about the latest developments, though last I checked there was no body just lots of pretty shark bait, because it matters that much. Please, stop it.

And get Rita Cosby off my fucking television.

Where's Dales? In bed w/ the CIA like Reho

2005-12-02T06:09:00.000-08:00

I heard a wacky story on WGMD radio this morning regarding a suspected CIA link and a local Rehoboth Lawyer. I have suspended my month long silent protest of Delawired to post the information garnered from this credible broadcast.

In the following article from the associated press in Romania, notice the link between Rehoboth’s Path Corp and the suspected CIA torture planes.

Further Research indicates that airplanes spotted over many foreign countries, including the icey Iceland, that are said to contain terror suspects escorted by the CIA, are registered to a local Rehoboth company.

N-Number Search

N-NUMBER
120JM
Aircraft Serial Number
AT-577
Aircraft Manufacturer
FAIRCHILD
Aircraft Type
Fixed wing multi engine
Aircraft Model
SA227-AT
Engine Manufacturer
AMA/EXPR
Engine Type
Turbo-prop
Engine Model
UNKNOWN ENG
Year Manufactured
1983
Registrant
Corporation
Name
PATH CORPORATION
Address
413 REHOBOTH AVE PO BOX 305 REHOBOTH BEACH , DE-19971 US
Registration Date
07 May 1990
Airworthiness Certificate Type
Restricted
Approved Operations
Patrolling
Status
The Triennial Aircraft Registration form was mailed and has not been returned by the Post Office.
Aircraft Transponder Code
50052206

Information on the above address: One Barbara O’Leary, a real estate lawyer located on Rehoboth Ave.

What we know: Planes spotted in foreign nations contain registration designation registered to the Path Corp of Rehoboth Beach. The address is merely that of a local Real Estate Lawyer.

Any attempts to reach this lawyer have been halted.

Is there really a CIA link to Rehoboth Beach? Are these Really Shell Corporations operating Covertly right before our eyes? Was this really fit for broadcast this morning? Doubt It, clayton.

Dales

AP Story:

Nov 25, 9:13 PM EST
Investigator Says Big CIA Prisons Unlikely
By ALISON MUTLER Associated Press Writer
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) -- The head of a European investigation into alleged secret CIA prisons in Eastern Europe said Friday it was unlikely that there were large clandestine detention centers in the region.

Dick Marty, the Swiss senator heading the investigation on behalf of the Council of Europe, said he did not believe a prison like the U.S. base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, was possible in the region.

"But it is possible that there were detainees that stayed 10, 15 or 30 days," Marty told reporters, without referring to any country. "We do not have the full picture."

Marty was in Romania for a meeting of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe
The council's secretary general, Terry Davis, said he has written to its member nations asking them if they have laws to prevent the transportation of prisoners and secret prisons. The countries have until Feb. 21 to respond.

The council, Europe's main human rights watchdog, began investigations after the Washington Post and Human Rights Watch published reports about CIA planes transporting suspected terrorist through European countries and raised the possibility that the CIA had set up secret detention facilities in Eastern Europe.

Human Rights Watch said flights stopped at the Romanian air base of Mihail Kogalniceanu and Poland's Szczytno-Szymany airport, basing its information on flight logs of suspected CIA aircraft from 2001 to 2004.

Romanian leaders and the Pentagon have denied that the Mihail Kogalniceanu base ever hosted a covert detention center, and the Romanians insist the United States never used it as a transit point for al-Qaida captives. Poland's prime minister said the reports were worth investigating.
The CIA has refused to comment on the European investigation.

Marty has asked the Brussels, Belgium-based Eurocontrol air safety organization to provide details of 31 suspected aircraft that landed in Europe and, according to Human Rights Watch, had direct or indirect links to the CIA.

The Dutch government confirmed Friday that a plane landed at Amsterdam's airport last week belonging to Path Corp., a company previously linked to the CIA.

Also Friday, the Portuguese government said it was consulting with the U.S. government after Diario de Noticias reported Friday that 34 planes that landed in Portugal over the past three years were suspected of involvement in secret CIA operations.

Spanish authorities have investigated at least 10 stopovers on the Mediterranean island of Mallorca by private planes described in Spanish media reports as being operated for the CIA, and a smaller number of similar stopovers in the Canary Islands.

Iraq, Iran, They Sound Similar Enough

2005-11-30T19:48:00.000-08:00

And even more so now if it's true that Iran is funneling people and money into Iraq in an effort to keep things destabilized. Recently it came out that a number of murders originially attributed to Sunnis were actually the work of Shiites, who were either members of the Iraqi security forces or impersonating them.

So what you ask? Well, earlier today in a teleconference Senator Tom Carper said that members of the Iraqi police were actually there on behalf of the Iranian government, working to help impose a strong Theocratic Shiite government. Hmmmmm. So that, and other ways they're trying to influence the new Iraq coupled with their nuclear desires, makes Iran an emerging threat. Carper wasn't trying hard to be shadowey with his thoughts, making a statement so definitive about Iran's gathering threat that when (no, not if) it comes time for a war with Iran you can assume he'll be an advocate.

Iran has long been one of the biggest supporters of terror (and was only about a 1,000 times more logical a place to go than Iraq) and their forray into southern Iraq would give their Shiite thinking regime an easy path into Sunni thinking Saudi Arabia. You know, our buddies, the Saudis. And you also know them bitches in Iran are crazy, so what would stop them from trying to help fulfill Osama's vision of a Muslim Empire in the middle east? Well probably not much, but I'll give you three guesses as to who will show up if they do.

Allow my imagination to go wild here for a moment now. Iran keeps acting up in Iraq, drawing US retaliation there. Iran starts lobbing missiles and bombs into Saudi Arabia, sending their country into turmoil and more or less beginning WW3. For shits and giggles, W's buddy Putin sides with Iran. Am I crazy for thining all of this can happen over the next few years? Maybe it's possible, or maybe I'm just drunk tonight.

But somehow, I get the feeling Senator Carper is prepared, and was preparing us for something a little bit along the lines of what I dreamed up. No one is surprised, I'm sure. And right now I'm wondering when Iran becomes the focus of our military.

Infante Part Two

2005-11-29T20:37:00.000-08:00

Former Independent/Libertarian candidate for governor Frank Infante was back in court on Tuesday the 29th. You may remember that before Thanksgiving Infante promised the truth would set him free, and his wife would get the help she needs. And from what sources tell us, she does need help and the situation is bad. So in all seriousness, if you're the praying type then send some to Smyrna. But in the end Infante and his wife got matching PFA's from each other, and were warned that even thinking about each other could be big trouble. And, apparently because of something that happened last Tuesday (perhaps not so coincidentally his first day in court) he was then arrested for violating a PFA. Infante left the Family Court in handcuffs and was taken to state police headquarters in Camden.

Now as much as I like listening to the guy, there's no way I can say one way or another whether Infante is guilt free in this, and more than likely he does bear some of the blame. But that's for the courts to work out, and anything I'd say is speculation. Infante has made numerous mentions about demons his wife is fighting, but hasn't gone on the record with them. But if things are half as bad as what we hear then by all means lets hope his wife gets the help she needs, and if he has to put his political career (or whats left of it) on hold for even a couple of years, so be it. It may be salvageable.

Right now this whole thing is a circus. But usually those are fun, and right now the only clowns in this show have sad faces on. At least for myself, it's not so entertaining anymore.

Holding Your Booze For Ransom

2005-11-28T14:50:00.000-08:00

In the news again is the debate about open containers in Delaware, and how a good chunk of money is held back from construction funding because Delaware's lawmakers don't see the big deal with letting passengers tip some back while riding down the dirt roads of ole Sussex. Because we already have laws against DUI, laws that are pretty limiting already, it should be enough to placate those fat cats and busy bodies in congress. But apparently not. In these times of financial distress, the chorus will sing louder about the need to pass that simple law so that Delaware can spend more money to build roads. They will be wrong, and it's imperrative that the legislature understands that.

Just because me and Billy Bob tip back a few Buds on our way to a party doesn't mean that Jimmy John is tipping one back too. And if we do get pulled over and Jimmy John has booze on his breath, his fat ass is already hoping his overalls sustain a trip to the big house. No need to go beyond that. Other states nearby (I'm look at you sissies in Maryland and Virginia) have overturned their open containers law. Hopefully Delaware doesn't follow suit. There's just absolutely no need for it, besides allowing some politician to grand stand and act like they're tough on crime and drunk drivers. And there are enough issues to use to grand stand already.

Holiday Deja Vu

2005-11-22T21:30:00.000-08:00

Remember holidays of yore, when your dad or your uncle got drunk and by the end of dinner was making an ass out of himself? Well now it's your turn! Because when you're at your in-laws and the Spiderman balloon looks stupid no matter how big a hard on it gives Matt Lauer, your only hope is an alcohol induced mid-afternoon nap. It's okay, because you can just blame it on watching the Detroit Lions. They haven't been good in years, so it's totally believable. To help get you there, here's my advice:

Start the day by turning on your favorite AM radio morning show. Preferably a conservative show that Thanksgiving morning. Drink four shots in a row and follow it with a beer if the phone lines open up and the host wants you to share what you're thankful for. If the topic goes into a second hour, that's at least two more beers.

Drink once every time someone calls in to thank the troops overseas. I don't doubt the sincerity. I just don't like cliches.

Drink once if a wine snob brags about the bottle they've brought for dinner. And when dinner comes that night make sure you drink some of it right out of the bottle. Put that snob in their place.

Drink once for every pie put out.

Drink once everytime someone asks you to spread some baste on the turkey. If you're the one actually cooking the bird, drink for every hour you've got it in the oven.

Drink once if someone comments on the Humane Society and expresses concern for all the little birdies and the horrible way they're slaughtered. Then take that bottle of wine you're drinking out of and finish it. Then clobber that whiner over the head. They deserve it.

If you played football that morning have a beer or two. You deserve it.

If you called it the turkey bowl, you're lame.

If you bet on any of the Thanksgiving games, you should be ashamed. You're also entitled to drink once.

And the minute someone starts cracking jokes about the chemical in turkeys that makes everyone get sleepy (and you know what the hell I'm talking about even if I won't ever spell it) then start knocking 'em back and don't stop until you pass out. Chances are you've suffered enough already that day and need some relief. And you've been gift wrapped an excuse for the rest of the evening too.

Lastly, drink once because I'm so lame. Drinking games were cool when I was stumbling around Newark. Now that I'm done with college, maybe I should act my age.

Infante Interrupted

2005-11-22T21:15:00.000-08:00

It's been kind of surprising that more people haven't paid much attention to the legal troubles surrounding former Independent candidate for governor, Frank Infante. Yeah yeah, so no one beyond the regular at Bull Dozer's voted for him last year. But he was damn fun to listen to, and if he weren't so damn honest and open he might actually have been a legitimate candidate.

Anyway, it seems as if he made little ole Sussex's favorite conservative mouthpiece his outlet of choice. (Or maybe we should trust the internet and find out for ourselves that there's life beyond the farm) First he went on Ron Letterman's show to say that he had evidence that would prove him innocent, and insinuated that his wife had lost her marbles and he was going to make sure she got them back together. But the next morning on Dan Gaffney's show he wouldn't come right out and say that he never beat up his wife. Odd, considering his otherwise outspoken nature.

Alas nothing happened at that Family Court hearing, as it got pushed back a week because of dueling restraining orders. I hate it when that happens!

I really hope things get all cleared up with him and that his political career can stay afloat. Not because I agree with everything he says or believes. But because he's just so damn fun to hear talk. If he had been a math teacher I'd have passed calculous. If he was a rabbi I'd become jewish. If he was from Cape May, well I guess I'd have to let him have Jersey all to his-self. I'll only go so far! But Fran Infante is one of the characters that makes politics fun in Delaware, there's no doubt about it.

Media Note: Check Out GQ This Month...

2005-11-22T09:06:00.000-08:00

And not just because Jennifer Aniston is on the cover. Though if you're a straight male (and here in Sussex, we're well aware not everyone is) that short little denim skirt and bare top should be more than enough! But in the media column is a few pages dedicated to the scum that is Sinclair Broadcasting. Always good to read about the scummy media companies out there, and their efforts to spin commentary into news. It makes fools like Steve Doocy and Neil Cavuto (Mr. President, is all the Brad and Jennifer news the reason your numbes are down?) look both competent and impartial.

Rehoboth Life Guard Can't Save His Own Ass

2005-11-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

To me he'll be the guy sitting in the chair with sunblock on his nose, making a bit more than minimum wage while living in his spacious ocean front home bought with gambling money. To you, he's Michael Scanlon, Tom DeLay's old boy who worked with Jack Abramoff to rip off Indian casinos. Either way looks like there may be a house for sale in Rehoboth soon. Bob Ney must be getting a bit worried out in Ohio. Jack Abramoff has teed it up one last time in Scotland me thinks. And if there's any justice, if the indictments he's already facing don't work then DeLay himself will be caught up in this too. And to be perfectly honest, ANYONE whether they have an (R) or a (D) next to their name should be put through the wringer. We already figured out that national politics mean shit for us unless we're bringing checks double our yearly salaries, but that doesn't mean I won't sit back and enjoy watching those pols get squeamish and get busted every chance I can.

Delaware is a small state...

2005-11-22T08:48:00.000-08:00

and so while despite that we still can't find Artie, generally it's pretty hard not to see through things. Such as Carl Danberg's appointment to serve as Attorney General for a year. It's nice to throw us all off and say the political game isn't rigged up a bit by saying you don't want to be appointed as the AG, but rather use daddy's name to win it in 2006. But just make sure that the guy who does take over for a year doesn't sit there and say that everything that happened was precipated on how baby Biden felt. It cheapens the office a bit, and it's hard to take anyone serious when they say some unelected schlub who would be no one without his daddy's name is calling shots for them.

Media Note: Hello everyone from WBOC!

2005-11-15T19:28:00.000-08:00

Just want to say thanks for checking in. Word from Artie is that we may have rankled some feathers a few posts down. Not that we care that much. But thanks for checking in. The note on this blog may have been the very first time anyone in management there cared about anything regarding an employee.

Michelle Rollins is no loser... and she's not going to become one now

2005-11-15T19:07:00.000-08:00

So the state GOP's biggest hope for dethroning Tom Carper has decided not to run, huh? No surprise down here. Face it, Rollins married well, into money and politics, sits on a pretty darn good fortune, and had a lot of backing among her party's faithful. But none of it means she could have beaten Carper.

The junior Senator from Delaware is among the most popular politicians the first state has ever seen. Delaware has been voting solidly Democratic over the last few years, at least when it comes to the statewide elections. So while Rollins would have probably won the vote here in lovely Sussex, the Carper Machine would have rolled over her up north. Why spend the money and waste the time in an effort that'll prove to be fruitless about a year from now? It just isn't good business. Something that Ms. Rollins apparently knows a little about. Let Mike Protack crash and burn. Just as long as he doesn't crash in his real job.

Is This Still On?

2005-11-11T13:18:00.000-08:00

Wow, just wanted to stop by here and dust off the place. Mop the floors. Vaccuum the living room. That sort of thing. Actually, I just wanted to do my Governor Minner impression and just disappear for a while. Like the rest of Delaware, I'm sure no one missed the either of us. Also, it got cold real fast down here in Sussex. Can someone turn the heat up? JJ Davis, I'm looking at you babe!

Cinderella's Insurance Rates Go Up

2005-11-05T05:58:00.000-08:00

Was cruising around Millsboro this weekend when a damn pumpkin popped along the side of the road, exploding and leaving seeds and goop all over my fender. I was none too pleased. Who do these rednecks think they are?!?! Lucky for me though, the state legislature is thumbing their nose at doing anything to keep Punkin Chunkin in southern Delaware after this year. Just a bunch of rednecks drinking beer all weekend is far less classy than being a run down golf course up north, and all those legislators from New Castle damn well want you to believe it. Besides, if you keep the event going down here there are fewer hotel rooms at more expensive rates for them when they feel like gracing us with their presence. And really, the highlight of every trip to my watering hole comes whenever I get to hang out with someone from NCCO so that I can be given a lesson on class and manners. Legislators from upstate, telling us what we deserve, and we're better off for it. Lets hit the golf course now, though if I'm allowed to come, I'll make sure to keep the pumpkin innards here in Sussex. KA-BOOM!

Death Penalty DuJour

2005-11-02T19:50:00.000-08:00

So sometime in the next 30 hours or so from this posting Brian Steckel will be executed by the state. There's enough reasons why the death penalty should be put away in Delaware, and in no way does that suggest Steckel deserves to live a moment of life again as a free man. But I wonder how many executions would still occur in this otherwise fine state if the same 12 jurors who recommended death and the judge who imposed the sentence were required by law to be the ones who pressed the button that started the robot that administered the series of lethal shots? I wonder if the number of prisoners on death row would decline, and by how many.

Aren't the Greek Funny?

2005-11-02T07:13:00.000-08:00

And aren't the rich rich?

Paris Hilton's boyfriend Stavros Niarchos III played a cruel joke on a homeless man, Page Six of the New York Post reports. The Greek shipping heir and his entourage had left L.A.'s Element club the other night, when they stopped for a bite at Burger King. "Stavros offered a homeless man outside $100 to dump a soda on himself," a spy told Us Weekly. The desperate man took the money "and everyone laughed," reports the source.

I knew a guy from greece... fell asleep behind the wheel of his car, killing a friend of mine. The above story is just gross. Not even funny.

Dales

Little More Libby

2005-10-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

I'd like to THINK I may buy what this guy is saying. But Tom "Steroids Are Baaaaaad" Davis doesn't exactly bring to mind words like integrity and honor when I think about him. Maybe it has something to do with federal intervention into planned neighborhoods in his district, which he seems to think brings the kind of people who would vote his ass out of office. Pussy. But I digress. It sure SOUNDS good.

House Government Reform Committee Chairman Thomas M. Davis III (R-Va.) was
stinging, saying he was "very disappointed in Libby, and the White House, and
the vice president and the president."

"They should have taken care of this a long time ago," Davis said in an
interview. "They should have done their own investigation. They're going to get
very little sympathy on Capitol Hill, at least from me. . . . They brought this
on themselves."

You can read the rest of it here. Interesting analysis and comments in that there Washington Post article, huh? Somehow though, I can't see the national GOP doing anything but going down in flames with this and possibly future indictments.
Personally, anything that comes back to haunt people so damn obsessed with secrecy and answering to no one makes me happy. The cynical and perverse side of me almost hopes that something comes back to backfire on the worthless Governor of Delaware. After all, when it comes to accountability and honesty she proves that Democrats can do it just as well as Republicans. But for today we'll let the Dems have their day in the sun. They'll figure out a way to fuck it up later anyway.

The "I" Stands For Indictment

2005-10-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

Delaware's senators react to the indictment of I. Lewes Libby:
"I take no satisfaction in learning of the indictment handed down today by
the special prosecutor. It is a sad day for Mr. Libby and his family, and
for the country.

"But the system, the rule of law prevails, and
those who break
the law will be held accountable, even if they work in the
White
House.

"My greatest concern is that America faces enormous
challenges at home and
abroad, and I worry that the credibility of the
Office of the President is
diminished at this critical time when we need it
most." -- Senator Joe
Biden (D)

And further on:

"These are serious charges against one of the Bush administration's
most-trusted advisors. Regardless of your political views, it's a sad
day
for this country when the vice president's chief of staff is charged
with
perjury and obstruction of justice.

"I'm dissapointed in
the president. It shouldn't have taken a special
prosecutor two years
to uncover what happened and find out who was
involved. When I was
governor, if any of my senior aides had been involved
in something like
this, I woudl have demanded the truth immediately. If I
had found any
impropriety there, I would have taken action. The president
should
have done the same thing.

"Unfortunately, this indictment and all
the other scandals that have
enveloped the Republican Party of late are
hurting our ability to get things
done. These scandals distract us
from doing the people's work and coming
together to improve the lives of
everyday Americans.

"When public servants break the law, it damages
all public servants, no
matter what party you're from. It hurts our
ability to govern, and it
hurts our relationship with the American people
who find it harder and harder to
trust our elected leaders." --
Senator Tom Carper (D)

Gee, which one of those statements comes from the guy running for higher office? Well okay, so Carper is facing re-election next year, but it isn't like a credibile candidate has emerged. Biden on the other hand is considered a roving co-host on the Sunday morning shows where everyone knows he wants to run for the White House in a few more years. No matter what your politics, you need not look far to find someone from each side of the punditry saying how it's a great day for their side, or a disappointing one. For me, Stuttering Tom just reinforced why we like him so. By the way, I think Biden was just warming up knowing that the best is likely still to come for him and the other Democrats on the hill. Why use a good soundbite now when more microphones could be thrust in your face?

Media Note: Why Is This Man Smiling?

2005-10-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

Perhaps because after his two day suspension this week, it's one more reason why when next summer comes around, it'll be a summer without Steve for WBOC? Now in real life his head is never that big, but when he gets behind camera his ego needs somewhere to go. But for berating some of the idiots there and actually asking for some intelligence to eminate from his news at 6pm, he's the one that gets in trouble? No wonder that station's newscasts are so underwhelming. Too bad we can't get a buck for every time he says this is his last contract there, we might have less time to blog and more time to sail down the French Riviera. But I still have a hard time wondering why he gets in trouble when it's the dumbass producer who nearly made the monumentous (yes we know, but apparently she didn't) mistake.

Delaware's Politics: It's all who you know

2005-10-27T14:13:00.000-07:00

The Governor announced today that Attorney General Jane Brady has been nominated for a spot on the state Superior Court, a move many figured would be just a formality after she applied for it earlier this fall. Brady is sure to be confirmed in the legislature, and that will be one less statewide office held by a republican here in Delaware, since most people expect Baby Biden to be nominated to take over the AG's office. Good for Brady, as I have no real problem with her new potential position. But it also makes for what should likely be an easy, easy election victory for Biden and the Dems for another statewide office. Delaware's Republican Party, as dead as the dinosaurs right now.

Don't Worry, We Get Ill Just Thinking About Her

2005-10-26T20:28:00.000-07:00

So the governor has been laid up in bed the last couple days with a little head cold. I mean geez, I guess I never realized how hard it can be to cut ribbons and attend over-pomped banquets? I mean, first she can't make it to the Teacher of the Year Dinner. That's bad enough. But if she doesn't start taking it easy soon, before you know it when something that REALLY matters around the state comes up she'll be too sick to handle something where leadership is required. What if thousands of Delawareans are about to lose their jobs just in time for Christmas? What if a scathing report comes out suggesting that Delaware's prisons make the Lewes Sewer System look clean? What if our state transportation department happened to run out of money and a giant bridge that is of huuuuuuuuge economic importance to the southern end of the state was about to wash away at the next high tide?

Luckily all is well in this here first state and we don't have anything to worry about. I'll go to bed tonight confident that a bed-ridden governor is just resting up so that by, ohhhhhh, next Saturday or so she'll be back on her feet and raring to go. And when she does, she'll be front and center at a number of important issues affecting all of us. Because that's how Governor Minner does things. Effectively. With leadership. Remember, Done!

Okay, time for another shot of NyQuil!

What's Torture Is Having This Guy As Veep

2005-10-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

Is torturing prisoners really going to be that effective? I mean really, the fact that such a large number of terrorism suspects turned out to be completely uninvolved in terrorism (unless being a Muslim is being a terrorist) shows that the roundups of suspects and detainments are at best, hit and miss. So of course, when they detain someone who turns out to be innocent, why not ratchet it up a bit and get them to confess to something, anything? Sadly too many Christian conservatives will likely find nothing wrong with that. The modern day Pharisees have no problem with conveniently overlooking a lot of things that their guy Jesus stood for. It's a shame the bible has become so politicized.

Read it and shake your head in frustration.

Can This Be Changed?

2005-10-25T19:36:00.000-07:00

If so, how do we do it? Isn't it time we started doing it? Does the Bush Administration even know they need to be doing it?

• Forty-five per cent of Iraqis believe attacks against British and
American troops are justified - rising to 65 per cent in the
British-controlled
Maysan province;
• 82 per cent are "strongly opposed"
to the presence of
coalition troops;
• less than one per cent of the
population believes
coalition forces are responsible for any improvement in
security;
• 67 per
cent of Iraqis feel less secure because of the
occupation;
• 43 per cent of
Iraqis believe conditions for peace and
stability have worsened;
• 72 per
cent do not have confidence in the
multi-national forces.
The opinion poll,
carried out in August, also
debunks claims by both the US and British
governments that the general
well-being of the average Iraqi is improving in
post-Saddam Iraq.
The
findings differ markedly from a survey carried out by
the BBC in March 2004
in which the overwhelming consensus among the 2,500 Iraqis
questioned was
that life was good. More of those questioned supported the war
than opposed
it.

For every post like Arthur's down below, and it's an extremely persuasive argument against the rabid ideologues that have captured the heards and minds of Iraquis, I again wonder if we're fighting a losing battle? I mean, are these the answers, and are the attacks that occur every day the actions of those who want our help?

It isn't like the billions spent every month can't be better spent elsewhere. And isn't it time for other so called "allies" in the middle east to step up and help with the process too? Does Saudi Arabia realllllly think that if civil war continues without the presence of coalition troops they won't be affected? And with the current state of affairs, it's becoming painfully obvious that we aren't up to the necessary task of regime change in Syria and Iran (though who knows what may have happened had we started in either of those countries in the first place, as logic dicated) and failing to achieve that is one more reason I worry we'll fail to achieve what we as a country set out to do.

When our so-called "allies" in the region stab us in the back and offer us minimal support, cursing us in Arabic while praising us in English (and hey, since we fired all the translators for being gay, how do you expect to be able to call them out?) how much can be achieved? When a President lambasts a challenger and distorts his statements so it sounds like he says something about a world's permission slip, and then turns around and lets Pakistan dictate that American troops can't cross its borders (ie; denial of permission, and letting another country dictate our foreign policy), what can be achieved? For the record, I'd be surprised if covert ops weren't there anyway, but still.

It's become transparently clear that after a number of incorrect and misleading statements (mushroom clouds, Ms Rice?) that got us into the war, nothing has been done to correct anything. Those who were wrong get medals for it. Others get promoted elsewhere. And we're told to stay the course which has been so bereft with mistakes and worse, as if things might magically change. Can't someone just wake up and offer a radical change? If we can't just up and leave (and not only do I accept that argument, I think I still agree with it) then perhaps something else will happen to radically change the direction.

Sadly, when it comes to leading I think Bush and Governor Minner studied under the same spoiled brat. Fuck accountability, we answer to no one. And death in Iraq or in a Delaware prison (which these days seem remarkably similar) doesn't prove that anything is wrong.

On a lighter Greasier side

2005-10-25T18:53:00.000-07:00

Recently was in Philadelphia, home of the famous Pat's Steaks... what's the best place in Delmarva to get a cheesesteak?

2,000 Dead Americans in Iraq -- Lewes rejoice

2005-10-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, so 2,000 Americans have died in Iraq, Cindy Sheehan says she'll chain herself to the Whitehouse fence, 53% of Americans now feel the decision for war in Iraq was wrong
(http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp)
and the peaceniks in Lewes will most likely be singing a dirge of praise to combat Toby Keith from the opposite side this weekend.... and the big picture is still being ignored. Are we simply at war with Iraq or in a war against radical Islam? Bush says the latter. The liberal media skews the polls by skewing the questions. I was watching television tonight, and it featured a debate between two radio talk show hosts -- one white conservative from San Fransicko, and one black liberal from Chicago -- The tv moderator asked them, now that this poll is out, how do your listeners feel about the war? The Chicago Bull could only spout off "we went to war under the guise of WMD's" -- whereas the San Fransicko could only say the old 9/11 speil... I wish that someone would just tell the truth. We need to fight Radical Islam -- Iraq, America, wherever... and here's why:

http://www.thereligionofpeace.com/

a small sampling of the violence just this week:

10/25/05

Nine civilians are killed by a Fedayeen suicide bomber on a city street.

The Taliban opens fire on a police vehicle, killing an instructor and injuring two others.

A child is among four civilians killed by Taliban extremists in a rocket attack on a convoy of cars.

Sunni insurgents kill a 7-year-old boy by the side of the road with a bomb that also injured nine other pedestrians.

10/24/05

Three separate incidents include the discovery of eight bound and executed victims, a suicide car bomb that kills two civilians, and a shooting ambush that kills three municipal workers and a passerby.

A man is killed inside his home after failing to heed the warning posters at a local mosque.

Twenty passersby are massacred by three coordinated suicide attacks against a hotel. The bombs were packed with ball-bearings to maximize human suffering.

al-Qaeda militants kill the driver of a military truck with a remote-controlled bomb.

Terrorists execute twelve people working at a construction site. Five of the victims were brothers.

10/23/05

Jihadis murder two young boys riding in a car, as well as two girls, ages 7 and 9, who were standing by the car when the remote-controlled device was detonated.

A suicide bomber kills two civilians and two police officers.

Two civlians are killed by a suicide bomber. Thirteen others are injured.

Three Iraqis are shot to death by Sunni insurgents while driving a water truck.

Islamic terrorists open fire on a group of security personnel, killing three.

A terrorist shoots at a group of three men at a bazaar, killing one.

Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen suspected of bombing that kills a party leader.

Jaish-e-Mohammed members attack and kill two policemen at a market.

10/21/05

Fourteen people are injured, and one civilian killed, when an Islamic militant hurls a grenade at a crowd outside a hotel.

Start adding these up and see how high much higher of a price for freedom we must pay, you commies in Lewes.

Dales

What is Most Likely to Destroy Delaware?

2005-10-25T18:20:00.000-07:00

There is a poll up on smashleftwingscum.com

What is most likely to destroy America:

Votes
The Liberal Media 10%
The Liberal Schools and Colleges 11%
Liberal Politicians 9%
Neoconservatives 30%
Fox News 2%
George W. Bush 9%
International Terrorism 4%
Islam 2%
Illegal Immigration 15%
"Other" 8%
116 votes total

I voted for "The liberal Schools and Colleges" --

Wesley college is promoting, tomorrow, a prominent anti-war, liberal speaker to come to campus as a college sponsered event -- encouraging students to attend. In a letter addressed to the college Dept. of Ed's Dr. Cooper, the delaware federation of college republicans questions their motives:

October 24, 2005
Dear Dr. Cooper,

On October 20 you circulated an email message through the campus announcing the visit of Colonel Ann Wright to Wesley on Wednesday October 26. The email notes that this visit is sponsored by the Department of Education. As this appears to be a visit of a political nature, several concerns have been raised among the Executive Board of the Student Government Association. Please respond to the following questions at your earliest convenience.

1. In what way does Colonel Wright’s visit further the mission of the Department of Education at Wesley College?

2. Does Colonel Wright require a speaker’s fee and if so, is this fee coming from the Department’s budget? If not, who is paying the fee?

3. If the Department is sponsoring Colonel Wright’s visit, will the Department also be sponsoring a speaker of an opposing view during the Fall 2005 semester?

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and prompt response.

Sincerely,
Robin Smith, President

In my own school, it was a constant battle for the democratic vote of my classmates. One instructor even held a seat in DE politics, often railing, in the midst of a lesson, on the Delaware and National Republican party. And without a voice from the right, often won over the minds of my classmates. Very persuasive, he was. Also, a personal friend of Minn, he was.

If a similar poll was made for SouthernDelaware, what would be the choices?

Nathan Hayward?
Gov. Minner?
WGMD Radio?
Liberal Colleges and Schools?
Myspace.com?
Nazi's?
Immigrants?
Sussex County Council?
The News Journal?
The media bias?
The Positive Growth Alliance?
Over Development?
Gays?

You tell me.. and cast your vote.

The feminization of Men continues

2005-10-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

Women are sent such a mixed message in the media these days. The Liberal media teaches women a that they should be more like men. "Be more ballsy" "Be more aggressive" "Have more attitude" "You don't need a man to be happy" -- Yet, men are supposed to do the opposite. As a man, if you get angry about something.. And God forbid, yell about it.. you're told that you need anger management counseling. People have become cowards that need to be coddled and treated with an overdose of prozack -- all moods should be evened out. there should be no highs and lows. Everything should be 'easy does it' -- let me ask you, friends, does that make for an interesting life? Everyone immediately shuts off their mental facilities they hear someone raise their voice, they cower in the corner and revert to their kindergarten philosophy that 'Anger is bad' -- Our enemies are angry and backstabbing -- people lie to us -- the world is full of hate, but, it's all glossed over by a faux sincerity. Everyone is afraid of conflict, yet, they lie, cheat and steal behind your back. They covet your property, your girlfriend and your position. They undermine you at every turn. Your enemies are just out for themselves and that makes me angry. I yell all the time. I'm not an angry person, however. I am passionate though. I deal with my aggression by raising my voice. However, as a result, I have to deal with the label of being angry. I recently read a journal article that said that women are told to 'stand up to their man' -- and maybe rightfully so.. there's a lot of woman abuse in the world and women have been treated unfairly in the past. However, the journal article continued, a man is simply supposed to sit down and be understanding when a woman yells, screams, cries and hits him. The minute he raises his voice, the police are called. A Yale study shows that showed that 1 in 4 Americans feel at least somewhat angry at work -- they are then told that the best way to deal with this anger is by "venting" -- by "getting it out" -- People, who are inherently weak, are afraid of anger and conflict. They can't stand to hear it, because it makes them quiver to their very soul. "You're not being a good Christian" --- "Turn the other cheek" -- I don't advocate violence... I don't advocate fisticuffs of any kind... But, I'm always up for a rousing screaming match. I listen to Michael Savage. Savage says that the feminization of men is an agenda of the Liberals. He says that they want to sedate men and sedate the world. Peace, Love and Pot Smoking Atari players. I'm not sure what the agenda of that is, other than to create a weaker sex -- yet, woman are constantly told to undermine their cheating lovers. Men are bad because masculinity is bad. Women are constantly told how to sneak around on their spouse and they're constantly told how to go for the sexiest metro around. No substance. A nation of lesbians. Women for Women, or Women for Feminized Men, or Feminized Homosexuals for More Feminized Homosexuals. Yet, somehow, women still go for the macho abuser. Or maybe that's just the story they've been telling me. I just want everyone to be themselves without fear of being labeled by a professor or doctor or busy old woman. They say that a new sexual revolution is going on, but, it's a backwards one. One of a nation of Playboy bunnies. I don't mind a strong woman who doesn't mind a strong man. It's two sides of a fence... Playboy bunnies vs. Career Gals. While us men are simply being told to tone it down a notch. Don't be passionate, Don't be angry -- just be women. Do your hair, dress elegantly and god, oh god, never show a genuine male emotion... "It's okay to cry guys" -- Yet, I've never known a woman that doesn't recoil at a weeping male. I'm generally happy, but, not happy with the world. It's full of spineless self serving conflict coward. And it does make me want to yell at the hypocrisy of it all.

final thought on myspace

2005-10-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

The Cape Gazette picked up the WGMD story on myspace.com --, I'd hoped to see some news outlet deliver the goods -- to lend credence to the fact that it is not just Gaffney and Crew making a big deal out of nothing. Personally, I hope to see some of these kids be made an example out of... After a little poking around, You can see that some of these kids, especially the Nazi guy, had criminal records. In fact, two Milton teens were just arrested on b & e charges, and the theft of firearms. Upon poking around on some of their sites -- a lot of them have been changed to reflect a cleaner lifestyle, virtually turning myspace into a house of lies. Well, the behavior hasn't stopped, and the damage has been done. Arrest these fools on Conspiracy and Terroristic Threats. That may sound a little harsh, but, I don't mind being unforgiving when it comes the stupidity of youth. Maybe it's because I was a particularly bright kid, never to be found smoking pot at the skate ramps. I applaud Mr. Gaffney in his actions and wish all the best to he and his family. And now you know.... The rest of the story.

WGMD radio host receives threats from students
By Jim Westhoff
Cape Gazette staff

After discussing student web pages on his morning radio show, a local radio host says he has received emailed threats from area high school students.

At least two emails to talk-show host Dan Gaffney show unidentified young people wearing bandannas and pointing guns.

Delaware State Police said its hi-tech crimes unit is investigating the alleged threats.
Gaffney, general manager and program manager at WGMD 92.7 FM, discussed myspace.com on his Oct. 20 morning show. On the air, he told listeners that Cape Henlopen High School students have posted personal web pages that he finds alarming.

“Off the air, I happened to be reading the site and was concerned about a couple of the kids,” Gaffney said.

“They were talking about being depressed, that their life sucked and they had a gun. I emailed the school and said ‘I’m not a professional here, but this is something you might want to take a look at it.’

“The school took it seriously and looked into it. Then the school approached us to make public comment about it. That’s how it became public Thursday on my show.”

On Oct. 22-23, following the show, Gaffney said he received several emails from students who were upset by his comments.

One student sent a photo of himself wearing sunglasses, a bandanna over his face, pointing gun at the camera, with a caption that reads, “Hey Gaffney, Screw You.”

Another photo has a student also wearing a bandanna and holding what appears to be a small submachine gun.

On their websites, the students have profiles identifying them as students at Cape Henlopen High School.

“Those are two of several,” Gaffney said.

Cpl. Jeff Oldham, state police spokesman, said the photos may result in felony charges. “[Gaffney] could classify as a victim of terroristic threatening and that is also being looked into,” he said. “Arrests could be made.”

Another student, a 17-year-old girl from Lewes, has an online journal that rails against Gaffney. “I dunno about you guys, but I think this is f***in nuts, and somebody needs to shut him up,” the journal reads.

School board Vice President Gary Wray said the school has taken swift action in response to the websites.

“Superintendent George Stone sent a letter to the parents asking parents to monitor the websites,” Wray said. “He listed the websites in his letter. It will go out to every high school and middle school parent.”

While the school is working to make sure the students are safe, this is a matter that should be addressed at home, Wray said. “The parents have to show some initiative here too,” he said. “These are their kids. At the school, there is only so much we can do.”

High School Principal Ed Waples said the web sites are a serious matter.

“We investigated the situation and looked into it to ensure that things were safe, and that the students are not in any danger, or that they are not a danger to anyone else.”

Because of student confidentiality concerns, Waples could not say what action, if any, was taken against the individual students. “I can say that we’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure the safety of students and staff at Cape Henlopen High School,” Waples said.

Superintendent George Stone said he is concerned for the safety of the kids on these websites. “After talking with law enforcement, we understand that a lot of convicted sex offenders frequent these sites,” he said.

“So the kids may be communicating with people they don’t even know. They can be putting themselves in dangerous situations. They might think they are just communicating with their friends on some kind of private network, but that is simply not the case with anything on the internet.”

Stone said the letter is meant to make parents more aware of what their children are doing online. “We just want parents to be involved, and be able to check for themselves and be sure they are aware of what their kids are doing,” Stone said.

“’Myspace’ is supposed to be like an online journal,” said Molly Lingo, the Student Government Association president. “People are saying it’s a way to meet people, but I don’t have one because I think it’s a little shady. I don’t think you should put your pictures and personal information all
over the internet.”

She said some students are angry at Gaffney because they feel he has intruded on their privacy.
“I guess they think that someone is trying to revoke their freedom. They’re just throwing a fit,” she said.

Lingo said some parents need to take drastic steps. “I think they should take away their internet privileges if they are going to abuse it by going on myspace.”

To view the student websites, go to www.myspace.com, click on the search icon and do a classmate search, listing Cape Henlopen High school and current students. At press time, there were about 183 student web pages on myspace.com.

The vast majority of the sites appear innocuous, listing hobbies as riding four wheelers, or going to football games.

Dickie Makes the Big Time

2005-10-24T18:26:00.000-07:00

While taking my daily jaunt to the paper mill, and while wzbh rocked a commercial break, i tuned my portable radio to the Gaffney Mourning Show to get my daily dose of local kid bashing. That and my talkerspaniel's barrel of brandy keep the blood running warm, especially on a day like to day when the coast line took a pounding from Wilma. I was quite surprised to hear the Messiah of Delmarva mention our humble blog on the air. Knew if dickie ranted long enough, he'd get some bleedia attention.

http://www.wgmd.com/SOUNDS/AMSHOW/102405-7-dickiedunn.mp3

Thanks for the mention, Gregsy.

How Is This Funny?

2005-10-24T15:20:00.000-07:00

The controversy around these spoiled Cape Henlopen High students continues on WGMD's airwaves, at least on Dan Gaffney's show (and thanks for the plug, Dan). Taken from a link provided by Dan on his station's message board, apparently this is considered funny now.

I'm hardly laughing. But what's even funnier to me is how cool these kids think they are. I mean really, how cool and how tough can you be if you've got to hide in mommy and daddy's house and then cover up your face to point a gun, toy or not, at a camera? I've had guns pointed at me where the idiot didn't bother with covering his face and hiding in his parent's house. That kid wouldn't have the balls to do anything like that, I guarantee it. This front he and other idiot students are putting on is such a pathetic attempt at being cool, it's become just another example supporting the idea that maybe we as a society really have become a bunch of sackless pansies. Too bad there's no real way of making these kids put their money where their mouths are, since they wouldn't have to travel very far to get put into their places. And it's also too bad their parents have allowed their kids to not only remain immature through willful neglect and intentional ignorance, but they've also shielded them from any real accounatability for their actions. Parents, remember you have the right to have a child, but you also have the responsibility to raise it. Too many seem to have forgotten the harder part of the bargain.

Sometimes I Wonder Why...

2005-10-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

Iraq. These are the people that, right now, we're doing our best to protect from getting their assed kicked and deemed irrelevant from here on out? From this story:

Two contractors who were not killed in the initial firing were dragged from
their vehicle, and one was shot in the back of the head, the newspaper said.
The
crowd "doused the other with (gasoline) and set him alight. Barefoot
children,
yelping in delight, piled straw on to the screaming man's body to
stoke the
flames," according to the report.
Accountability? Zilch, unless you mean giving out medals of
freedom. Leaving now would probably invite a lot of disaster. But
sometimes I run out of patience.

Media Note: New TV Station Coming To Delaware?

2005-10-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

From DCRTV.com:

Help!! Don't ignore us! This is Meyer Gottesman of Macon, GA. I am the President
and majority owner of Rehoboth Beach Communications, Inc. We own the FCC CP
for
a new LPTV station to serve Rehoboth Beach. a-We will be only the third
commercial TV station in all of Delaware! b-We will be the ONLY commercial
TV
station in Sussex county, DE. c-We will be the ONLY commercial TV station
in
Delaware with both studios and transmitter IN Delaware! Channel 59, about
20,000
watts ERP. Our call letters are WRDE-LP. R=Behoboth Beach, the DE is
a
"duh:!!!!! LOL! I am age 70 and a radio ham since 1950. Was the past
President
and founder on non-commercial KPOO FM in San Francisco, CA. It is
on the air
since 1973.... . Don't ignore us. We intend to be the finest damn
TV station in
Delaware! Cordially, Meyer Gottesman, W6GIV

I guess my first question is what network he plans to affiliate himself with? It's my understanding (and I could be wrong, I'm no expert) that an NBC affiliate has been allotted to the area, though never used. I also thought the only other TV allocation was in Seaford. But that sort of FCC red tape stuff is of zero interest to me.
My feeling is that this will be a less than successful venture. Though if this guy is willing to spend some decent money on a news department it COULD work. After all WMDT is a non-factor out of Salisbury, and the nimrods that run WBOC could use some competition that actually cares. Don't get me wrong there are some good reporters there, but somewhere a court should order that the management wear more makeup, so that it's evident to everyone that the station is run by a bunch of clowns.

Delaware, Trapped In Its Own Prison

2005-10-23T08:47:00.000-07:00

Now that summer is over, do you think maybe it's time for Governor Minner to go back to work? I mean sure, she pops up at events all over the state to cut a ribbon here or shake a hand there. But the state is again taking a pummeling over what happens inside its prisons and there's no leadership to be found.

The Wilmington Snooze Urinal (I keed, I keed!) totally destroyed the prison system with a series of articles that would have you believe that once you're able to get through the chain links and barbed wire fences you immediately enter a third world country. While most state lawmakers are admitting that things may not have been totally accurate, they tend to agree that the substance of them are true.

Senator Charlie Copeland has been out front about this, joining the list of Republicans around the state trying to jockey for position as they look towards higher office (indeed I'm also a cynic), and I tend to agree with him about some of the proposals he's calling for (and what is it about Delaware's Democratic leadership which makes me agree with Republicans so often? Or maybe Delaware's Republicans smell less than some of the national ones? No matter, that's too far off tangent) in terms of cleaning up the filth.

Why is it that the state appears to be doing nothing about the fact that diseases that were close to erradicated in this country, illnesses like TB and such, are festering inside its prison walls? Copeland is right in arguing that things need to change quickly, since 95% of the criminals inside Delaware's prisons are back out on the street someday. The high recidivism rate matters not, since even five minutes with something like TB or an untreated grapefruit sized tumor coming from the back of your head is five minutes too damn long.

But the most galling aspect, and one I haven't heard that much about, is that many of the prison guards in Delaware aren't getting vaccinated or even protected against some of those filth-produced disease. Guards that walk amongst us every day, that have kids who mingle with our kids, aren't getting the very basic of protections.

And where is the governor in all this? Well at the conclusion of the News Journal's series a terse press release denouncing the series and chiding the paper for not printing a letter from Commissioner Stan Taylor was it. This is leadership? Are you serious?

Sometimes with the stories I've heard about her, I wonder if the governor feels as if she's entitled to her office. As if she thinks she paid her dues as a state senator, as Lt. Governor and such, and that she deserves to be governor because of it. I hope I'm wrong. But I'm not completely convinced I am.

The chairman of the House committee that handles issues revolving around the state prisons has been heard saying that even though things may not be as dire as the paper's series claimed, Stan Taylor still has got to go. Since speaking out initially he's since been rather quiet on the issue while other Republicans continue to slam the Minner administration for its inactivity. And rightly so we might add.

Is it possible that Republicans continue to bat on this issue in part because it allows them to gain politically? Most definitely. But while Governor Minner transitions from summer vacation into her fall break (and remember, the holidays are just around the corner!) someone needs to step up and demand accountability and responsibility. It's sad that the governor either thinks there's no problem at all, or that a terse and dismissive press release sufficiently addresses the issue.

How Dare You Read The Internet!

2005-10-22T05:30:00.000-07:00

The fallout from the topic discussed by Arthur down below continues to reverberate around Delaware. I'm curious, were these kids posting stuff like this on the internet born stupid? Or did they just grow up that way? When it comes to the nature vs. nurture debate, I tend to side with nature. (Funny story, a program for us smart kids in college tried to get us to think that you can make the next generation of leaders, while I tended to argue that you were born that way. They didn't much care for that theory. Yet the program was run by a bunch of out of the closet gays who I'm sure otherwise grew up in straight environments. Sheesh.) The basic gist of the argument these kids are putting forth is that they're entitled to post as much personal information about themselves as they'd like to, including photos revealing a violent, gun playing side (and the state police are going to love checking into illegal firearms these stoned fools take pictures of themselves with) or even a more sexual side. That's fine if you're 26, not so much if you're 16, though some Delawareans (you know, the ones from Rehomo) may not mind. Those are the creeps we hear about every week being in possession of child porn.

So as I listen to the arguments put forth by these teens (A battle of wits with an unarmed group of stoners), their assertion is that wellllllll, they should be able to read the news, opinion articles, listen to ball games, and download music, movies and tv shows at absolutely no cost at all. After all, it's on the internet. They should also be allowed to publish for all the world to see any and everything going on in their lives, including who they're getting high with, drunk with, or screwing around with. But while they should have the right to download all that stuff that's in public, everyone but their parents are allowed to look at their websites. Nevermind that they're likely using computers provided by their parents, they actually expect you to not view something that's there for everyone else in the world to see! That's tantamount to me going down to the Rehoboth boardwalk and walking around naked, but asking you not to watch. (though the ladies would surely dig that, yeah baby!) No doubt in my mind, these kids were just born that stupid. And most of the time, I fully believe they inherit their dumbness from their parents, who either don't care or don't suspect that their little Ryan would be capable of such behavior. I guess that's up to the state police to decide, huh? Remember abstinence is the best way to prevent stupid kids from populating the world. That, or I hope you become a Trojan Man.

Smalltown discovers the Internet

2005-10-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Sheesh Gaffney, Open your eyes,.. I listened to a portion of your broad-clash this morning.... Your small town listeners don't know the difference between the Internet and a toaster. "I'm shocked mr. gaffney! Little Graham promised us he'd be a good boy. Sorry Andy, your son, Huck Finn, is out cruisin' for a racist boozin' and slipping darling Sally a Mickey Mantle. "I can't believe it, my confederate flag shirt is chaffing me."

Press Released received from WGMD Radio...

“Blatant operating racists, wanton sexual activity, alcohol and drug use... This is about more than just one kid,“ said Dan Gaffney, host of WGMD Radio’s Dan Gaffney Morning Show.

--editor's comment: calm down tiger.. what a sensational broadcast

During his Thursday, Oct. 20 broadcast, Gaffney alerted local parents of the troubling social trends, disturbing actions and hostile posts of local high school students on Internet based blogs.

Gaffney exposed Web sites, such as Myspace.com and Xanga.com, as world accessible outlets used by local teens to express hate, racism, profanity, self-loathing, alarming violent ambitions and explicit sexual exploits.

“I’m not so naïve to think that teenagers have never done anything wrong or engaged in risky behavior, but what’s mind numbing to me is the blatant publication of it. What does that kind of narcissistic behavior say? You’re going to break the law and then tell the world about it? Talk about a lost generation,“ Gaffney said.

In a letter e-mailed to the principal and superintendent of Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes, Gaffney detailed one student’s online profile that concerned a possible gun threat to the school and it’s students.

“When I read a kid writing how his life sucks and he’s holding a gun and says he want to quit life, I am concerned,” Gaffney said.

Janine Hanwell of Cape Henlopen’s Facilities Task Force said, “As soon as we were aware of that, we took immediate action. The administration acted quickly to identify who the student was and make sure there were no safety risks to the school.”

However, the scope of the issue reaches further than one troubled student.

During the following days broadcast, Gaffney fielded a myriad of phone calls from concerned Sussex County parents.

“Oh God,” said one local mother after accessing her son’s online blog. “It was mortifying. One kid was taking pictures of himself setting fires at his grandma’s house. And the things that he was saying were the most disgusting things. I don’t know what they are thinking. It was insane.”

editor's comment: The Melodrama Continues

In addition to the shocked response by local parents, Gaffney also heard from outraged students who cited Gaffney’s broadcast as an invasion of their personal privacy.

"Surprising are the false feelings of anonymity and privacy these students believe they have," said Dan Gaffney Morning Show Producer Jared Morris.

--editor's comment: "Suprising are..?" Thanks for your comment Yoda. Go back to Del Tech.

“These kids are acting like we’ve blown the door off their secret club house,” Morris said. “Maybe they don’t realize what they’re publishing is up for the entire world to see.”

After viewing the Web sites, Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf stressed the need for parents to be involved in their children’s Internet activities and for corrective action to be taken by parents.

“I urge parents to go on these Web sites, urge them to look up their kids and be involved and understand what their kids are doing,” Schwartzkopf said.

He said he sees these Internet activities as warning signs that parents should heed.

“Some of these kids, like the guy that’s talking about how he doesn’t like his life, that’s a cry for help.” Schwartzkopf said. “He is posting something on a Web site that anyone in the world can see, with his picture, he might as well just put his name and address, this kid is asking for help, he’s a troubled kid.”

--editor's comment: Right On, Schwartzy

Dale Thaxton of Ameritechnologies, a local computer support firm, echoed similar sentiments. He said parents need to be aware of their children’s Internet use.

“I’m sure there are parents out there that really don’t have a clue about how to get on these sites or how to set parental controls, but, these kids nowadays are so fluent in the Internet,“ he said.

--editor's comment: Let the sales swindle continue

For more information and audio resources, visit http://www.wgmd.com. The Dan Gaffney Morning Show broadcasts live local talk and community issues mornings on WGMD Radio 92.7 FM beginning at 5:30 a.m.

DSU -- My Cholera of Choice

2005-10-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

After a year long investigation, it has been found that a "now former" Delaware Stale University tenured facutly member is guilty of academic fraud in altering appox 40 students grades. According to the News Germ-al, the cholerage is now in danger of facing hard-ships in finding "top-notch" students. Yet, interest in enrollment to DSU by non-minorities is mainly attractive only when seeking hefty financial aid... I'm not sor sure they've ever really had the creme de la creme of academia.

Excerpt from an e-mail sent to Dales by a current DSU student:

To add one more nail into the coffin that has become my flirtatious bout with academia: alteration. Well, according to one of my professors, it was widespread, and he offered a testimonial to it happening right under his nose. Not just with basketball players. Pragmatic, yes they are. He doesn't seem to think it will affect the University, in general (outside the realm of NCAA standing, but who fucking cares about that anyhow). I can imagine the media has probably had a field day smearing the good name and reputation (did it ever have a good one to begin with?) of my Alma Mater. I know not, my good friend. Oh yes, didn't you love the fact that the self-exposed altercator was the head of the Communication Department?
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Grade fixing at schools is fairly common, however, much like a low flying aircraft shadowing a tractor trailor, it usually goes under the radar. At my own college it was farley common -- at a time when enrollment and successful completion in your department is at the top of the list of the hierarchy at schools -- many instructors artificially inflate the grade of the entire class just to boost the scores of those two flailing students - often minorities or those receiving a financial bandaid -- who simply must pass -- If you want your record to look impressive or if, in your bleeding heart, you don't want that student to lose his/her financial HIV. Not a Sermon, Just a Trough. -- Dales

Carper For Veep

2005-10-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

The good people at the Delaware Grapevine are quoting Senator Carper as lobbying to get tapped as the running mate for whoever secures the Democratic presidential nomination in 2008. While Delaware's other senator, the Balding Biden, is openly discussing his aspirations for higher office and making appearances on the Daily Show when he's not grandstanding in some sort of senate committee, Carper has proven himself to be a more diplomatic statesmen. Biden might sound better on tape, but Carper is by far the more genuine and down to earth politician. He's probably the kind of pol that would never make it jumping straight into the most glaring spot light. But he'd make a great choice as a running mate for someone (besides Biden obviously) which could elevate his profile even more and perhaps even get him into the Oval Office someday. And even if you aren't a Democrat, consider, he'd be better than Biden, right?

Is Delaware's Republican Party A Lame Duck Venture Or Bucking A Trend?

2005-10-11T21:26:00.000-07:00

A recent Washington Post article highlighted the fact that even in otherwise Republican strongholds, or at least red leaning states, the GOP is having a tough time finding their top choices to run against Democratic senators. Currently the GOP has for the most part the nation's voting popularity in firm grasp, what with a 55-44 grasp on the US Senate and a sizeable advantage in the House. But with all the scandals plaguing the party, much of it brought on by its member's own hubris, it's no longer as fashionable to be a card-carrying Republican as it was even last year.

One state that is bucking that trend appears to be Delaware. If you're up in Wilmington then of course you're laughing. But down here in lovely Sussex the population keeps going up as does the number of registered Republicans. The State House is already controlled by the GOP while the leadership in the Senate are Dems in name only. Judge Bill Lee put up a noble challenge and kept the race close against Governor Minner, who won only because of the voting bloc in New Castle County. Already there's speculation on who may run in '08. First off it'll be a bit easier since Jack Markell (who isn't running for anything but State Treasurer, riiiight) and John Carney appear to be sharpening the knives. And the candidates appear to be testing the waters so to speak. Charlie Copeland, Colin Bonini, and Wayne Smith (especially Wayne) have to make up the short list, though Bonini has already said Lt. Governor ain't a bad gig either. Otherwise they're well spoken, upstate Republicans who can all make the Democrats work for votes. Down the line Georgetown's own Joe Booth could give it a go.

So how come no one wants to step up against Tom Carper? Okay, so the guy like never loses an election. And he's probably one of the easiest Dems to like on Capitol Hill. But for a lot of years now the state GOP has been going down like some of Newark's finest coeds. Jane Brady would rather apply for a job on the State Superior Court than bother with taking on Baby Biden, and once that office is vacated the only ones held by Republicans will be so inconsequential, the only reason Dems aren't holding them now is because they don't care. One way to gain traction for 2008 (a year the Balding Biden is both running for President, and perhaps for his Senate seat again) would be to send up a strong challenge in '06. But just over a year from election day, all we see is Mike Protack, the perenial loser. Of course no one wants to have major election losses on their resume and going against Carper is probably the easiest way to get one. But if the GOP in Delaware wants to be taken seriously again (and quite frankly, if I ever look past the dirt roads that make up Slower Lower, I have a hard time doing that) then the least they could do is TRY and put up a challenge. And that's something Ken Grant and his buddies just aren't doing.

Meanwhile right now as Governor Minner continues to run her administration like a high school drop out, (oh wait) all the state Republicans have been good for is a few snappy quips here and there. Sure they sound good, but when it comes time to getting stuff done in Leg Hall what do they accomplish? Aside from the Democrats' legislative goals that is?

This Guy Loves Hookers

2005-10-10T10:07:00.000-07:00

Name: John B. Sorowice Charge: Patronizing a Prostitute Date of Offense: 07/31/2004 Date of Conviction: 08/16/2004 Community Affected: River Road Park

In the great tradition of the Delaware Wanted Person Review and the Sex Offender Registry, The NCC Police have now started uploading images of those convicted of prostitution offenses on their Web site: http://www.co.new-castle.de.us/police/nccpolice/psu/webpage10.asp

"The following persons have been arrested by the New Castle County Police for PROSTITUTION RELATED OFFENSES and been convicted in Delaware courts. Please be aware, that in some cases, it can take more than 12 months for a case to be processed from arrest to conviction."

It's no secret that New Castle is a hot bed for heroin faced prostitues soliciting every poor john and would be john that stops at the red light at the 13/40 split. Forget classmates.com, I regularly check the registry to seek out any girls who I may have known who attended the Colonial School District with yours truly. Word has it that a few, now augmented, former Colonial students now regularly dance [er, lap] at Wilmington's prestigeous stripclub, Haks (named for former professional wrestler and former owner Hardcore "Sandman" Hak.) You know if I'd of known in High School all I would have had to do was show these girls my checkbook, I would've been a lot less lonely. Still haven't seen any appear on the registry though.

I've got my fingers crossed regarding the Ogletown brothal bust. More than 20 people were arrested at this Harmony Rd. house of ill repute. All my years in the Northern reaches of the first state, I was only propositioned by horrible gangly prostitutes. And boy were there a lot of them.

MBNAs Sweet Severance

2005-10-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

Okay,

Word has it that the buyout, however, has not been offered to upper middle management and many many others -- including those in the IT division -- that being said, the fable that the MBNA sale will not cause jobloss in the first state is an utter farse. Hence -- The perils of the banking industry -- The stronghold of Northern Delaware's economic base. Not built on a solid foundation after all. And the sad part, it will all happen again and again -- as it does in the endless cycle of bank takeovers. From Delaware Trust, to Corestates, to First Union to Wachovia -- MBNAs employees are just the latest suckers to sup upon the lies of the banking lollypop. Besides, everyone knows that the media is where the money and security really is.

WILMINGTON, DEL. (Oct 8): MBNA employees who are not offered jobs with the Bank of America now know terms of a new severance package.

The credit card company has been the focus of a $35 billion takeover by Bank of America, of Charlotte, N.C. If approved by stockbrokers and regulatory agencies, the buyout is expected to be finalized by Jan. 2, 2006.

At that time -- and following restructuring -- some 6,000 employees of both companies are likely to become unemployed, according to estimates offered by both Bank of America and MBNA.

Now, according to the Delaware News Journal, MBNA employees -- from hourly employees to middle and upper management -- know the severance range that will be given anyone not offered a comparable position with Bank of America.

MBNA also operates call centers in Delaware, New Jersey, Georgia, Ohio, Canada, Ireland, England and Spain.

Enough Tomfoolery

2005-10-07T15:20:00.000-07:00

Vince Vaughn put it best in "Old School" saying: "Legally speaking there will be a loose affiliation. But, we will give nothing back to the academic community. As well as provide no public service of any kind. This much I promise you."

Now that we've had a bit of Friday afternoon fun, lets be somewhat serious. Rep. Mike Castle (R) is again defying the Bush Administration, this time supporting measures to establish guidelines for the interrogation of detaines both in Cuba and elsewhere around the world. The Bush Admin. was royally pissed at the US Senate for passing it earlier this week. I'm guessing any even sliver of hope Castle may have had for his stem cell bill just got Abu Ghraibed.

Though as personal preference, the day that Republicans like Castle are given more relevance and consideration will be a good one in America. And to those loons on the right who think Castle is the best Democrat that Delaware has, well, a few more D's in congress wouldn't hurt right now. It isn't like the Republicans have exactly behaved with the keys to the gavel since taking power in 1994.

Mmmmm Scarlett Johannson

2005-10-07T14:41:00.000-07:00

Sorry Sonny, Arthur Dales just voted Scarlett Johannson as the sexiest person alive. Sorry Minn. I'd take you out to dinner if you were a little thinner. But, Like the polka goes. I don't want her, you can have her, she's too fat for me. Or maybe it's the way that she only blossoms towards the North. I would've just made this a bloody comment to the last post, but, It wouldn't let me post this amazing image of my babydoll. Dunn, you can have Jess -- I'm transfixed on the girl above. Newsworthy? Nope. Get out of Hollywood and into my bed.

Mmmmm Jessica Biel

2005-10-07T14:20:00.000-07:00

Esquire Magazine has named Jessica Biel their "Sexiest Woman Alive" in an upcoming issue. Really, I have no complaints with that, and want to personally thank the magazine for bringing more pics of the incredibly hot, though incredibly mediocre actress to my mail box. The future Mrs. Dunn as I prefer to call her is extremely underrated in the looks department if you ask me, so any recognition is always welcome.

I do want to dispel one rumor though. Governor Minner did not come in a close second for the title. That is all.

Rain

2005-10-07T12:46:00.000-07:00

It's been called to my attention that we may be in for a bit of rain all weekend. The days worth of cloud cover and such not really providing a good enough clue. I can only imagine that channel 16's portly weather guy will blow everything out of proportion, and compare the trailors from Pot Nets that will be seen floating away into Indian River Bay with Noah's Arc. Well, I guess better Mother Nature give him a hard on than the females on staff that he creeps out all the time.

We're an organized bunch

2005-10-07T11:57:00.000-07:00

So Lush won't be posting much, syphillis being the nasty problem it can be. So you'll get me instead. I'll just be trying to capture the spirit of the thing.

Welcome to Delawired

2005-10-07T05:11:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Delawired, the premier *new* blogspot for Delaware and the Delmarva peninsula. Here, we as legitimate wannabes, will tackle local Delaware issues, national issues, non-issues, sports, entertainment and anything that strikes our fancy. Stay tuned for more information. Comments welcomed and updated frequently.

Arthur Dales