WHY?

WHY?

Friday, December 30, 2011

You can't make this stuff up!

I'm all for freedom of religion. Until it becomes bullying.
First off, the Muslim society KNEW there was a pig farm next door. They still bought the land. Then a week later they were 'suggesting' that the farmer sell his land and move!!??! They deserve the pig races.
Freedom of religion is a gift AND a reponsibility.



Best part was the newsroom guys 'cracking up'.

Dan Emplit WBFD

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

I am flypaper for freaks and morons

From the comment box:

####
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "SHTF Ammo":

Scenarios where having a gun would be advantageous are rare to the point of being virtually non-existent. Most people who are threatened with deadly force are in a situation of their own choosing, in a place where reasonable persons rarely find themselves. No one is going to break into your house and try and rob you. Yeah, it happens but you're more likely to get hit by lightning. Keep your guns if they make you feel safer but better advice would be: don't hang out in places where people carry guns and don't deal or buy drugs. Follow that advice and you'll be fine.
####

OK first off, that post was for if the SHTF ($hit hits the fan).

Next, Just to make sure I understand, You said ,"Most people who are threatened with deadly force are in a situation of their own choosing". So by your reasoning, the THREE delivery persons held up THIS WEEK at Sherman Hills were at fault. Not the dirtbags that robbed them.

And the workers at the nail salon on Main Street, who were WORKING, are not "reasonable persons".

Oh and, "No one is going to break into your house and try and rob you.". Really?
Scammers posing as PPL workers
Woman claims she was robbed at gunpoint
Alleged burglar caught in act in W-B
And that is just one street here in Wilkes-Barre. In a THREE WEEK PERIOD.
Oh and read these,
I don't understand Sheeple
Man Thwarts Attack from Black Teen Mob

Let me explain reality to you. If a predator can't find prey where they are at, they go somewhere else. And that somewhere else may be where you are at.

It's time to take off your rose colored glasses. Some people, like me, believe it is better to have and not need than to need and not have when it comes to life and safety.

And when you get over your 'butthurt', realize that "don't hang out in places where people carry guns" means 'don't go anywhere where there may be people'. Reponsible conceiled carry people get permits to do so. Criminals DO NOT.

Don't go on an obviously pro-carry website with your anti beliefs and not expect a spanking. If you don't want to carry, then DON'T.

Moron.
Dan Emplit WBFD
USN 1986 - 1992

Monday, December 26, 2011

SHTF Ammo

The other day I was involved in a firearms discussion. A kid barely over 21 was basically asking, "What caliber of handgun would be the best in a SHTF ($hit hits the fan) scenario?". He was getting BAD advise from his friend. REALLY BAD.
I'd like to point out some of the bad choices.

The Taurus Judge.
A five shot revolver chambered for the .410 shotgun shell as well as the .45 Long Colt (this is NOT the .45 that our modern military used).
My opinion;
Pro's: None

Con's: If you want a .45 Long Colt there are better choices. If you want a .410 shotgun, buy a .410 shot gun. 'The Terminator' couldn't carry this monster without Stevie Wonder knowing. This gun is NOT an effective weapon, it is an over-hyped range toy IMHO.

The Desert Eagle in .50 AE
A semi-automatic pistol made by Israel Military Industries designed (mainly) to fire Magnum revolver cartridges like the .357 magnum (9 rounds) and .44 magnum (8 rounds). Add to this the .50 AE (7 rounds) which is one of the most powerful pistol cartridges in production.
My opinion;
Pro's: The .357 and .44 magnum are somewhat common. Tends to be accurate, but no better than a good revolver.

Con's: I owned a Desert Eagle (Nicknamed a 'DEagle'). It jammed as often as it worked. Not something I would depend on. BTW, unlike a revolver it cannot fire the .38 special or .44 special. The .50 AE is VERY rare. This is another range toy. Add to this, it is HUGE and HEAVY. There are reasons the Israeli military does not carry it.

The Smith & Wesson Model 500
Pro's: None (I guess it would be handy if attacked by dinosaurs)


Con's: TOO powerful. It will make a .50 caliber hole through some one.... and the wall behind them.... and your neighbors wall.... and your neighbor..... and the wall behind them...... and so on...... and you only get 5 wrist SNAPPING shots. Another range toy.

In a SHTF scenario, you need to think about resupply. WHERE the hell do you think you are going to find .45 Long Colt, .50 AE, or .500 S&W magnum? The local stores are closed. Your supply is finite. And what about the disposable accessories? Like magazines or speed loaders? Not to mention repairs or spare parts.

If you want a SHTF weapon, look at what the military and police in your area are carrying for calibers and then look even closer at their choices.
Like, The PSP carries the .45 GAP, this would be a poor choice of caliber. The .45 GAP is a cartridge that equals the power of the .45 ACP but is shorter to fit in a more compact handgun.
If YOU NEED a .45, stick with the MUCH more common (and MUCH less expensive) .45 ACP. And use the savings to shoot more or get training.

The US Military uses the 9MM. I've read that the 9MM is the second most produced round in the world (beaten only by the .22LR). This make it RELATIVELY cheap. That alone would make it a good choice, because you can use the savings to shoot more or get training.

And for people that think reloading will take away the resupply problem, Think again. The components are also a finite supply. IE, the .500 S&W magnum takes several TIMES the powder to reload than a .45 ACP or a 9MM.

The calibers that he should be looking at, IMO, are:
9MM, .45 ACP, .40 S&W and in revolvers (If he demands something that only holds 5 or 6 rounds) .357 magnum (.357's can also fire the .38 special).
Why? They are common. Common means less expensive. Less expensive means you can shoot more. An example, the cheapest .50 AE I found at Midway is like $1.25 a round.
9MM about 24 cents a round. 45 ACP is less than 30 cents a round. When you shoot several HUNDRED to several THOUSAND rounds a year. That adds up.

As for handguns themselves, look for what people teaching the classes carry. You will find Glocks and Smith & Wesson M&Ps are the most common.

And these are just the handgun suggestions.

Dan Emplit WBFD

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Prometheus (2012) Trailer #1

The preveiw for Ridley Scott’s Prometheus a prequel for the Alien franchise.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

I'M BACK

Last weekend I was in Beaver Valley, Pa. taking a class.
F2SConsulting Practical Carbine/Pistol Course held at the Beaver Valley Rifle & Pistol Club and run by Jack Leuba.


That's Jack^

Here's his 'bio': Involved in combat marksmanship and combat marksmanship training programs since 1999. Heavily involved in the creation and implementation of the USMC's Combat Marksmanship Program, as well as the Foreign Weapon Instructor Course. Worked for the UK MoD training specialized units in effective marksmanship techniques and close quarters battle. Deployed to several combat zones including HOA, Haiti, Iraq, and Afghanistan. One of the USMC's representatives for the SCAR program.

He is also a Bronze Star Recipient. By the way, If you have any interest in practical gun issues you should look at that Blog. It's run by a friend of mine (He has exceptional taste in firearms, dogs and twinks..... don't ask.)

Back on topic. The class ran from Saturday to Sunday, Quitting well after dark on Saturday. It was about 22 degrees Saturday morning and warmed up to about 30, meaning it was COLD, and did I mention SNOWING. Sunday was a 'balmy' 28 to about 36. Conditions that can be best described as miserable. Not the best for an outdoor class. I had only met one other person in the class (Call him DBM) and had traded Emails with another (Jay, a Navy Vet, who also acted as an 'assistant' instructor).

Lots learned. Some things didn't get covered, Mainly because Jack was spending ALOT of time individually helping people.
I will DEFINITELY be taking another class..... when it's NOT 22 degrees or snowing.
That's something I should point out. Despite MISERABLE conditions I still really enjoyed myself. That in itself should show how Jack and Jay made learning in the class fun and challenging.


That's Me^

We had 1 M-1A and an AK fail on the first day.

I found out that about 700 rounds of Wolf (Cheap, low power Russian ammo) is all my Colt will take before it refuses to feed Wolf (It was OK with normal ammo) and needs cleaning.


The biggest problem I had was..... Me. I had gotten dinged up at work and was sore as hell for the weekend. Moving was painfull and the cold didn't help.

I will be looking for more classes and if you are serious about learning firearms, so should you. Jack's courses would be an excellent place to start or even to polish your existing skills.

Dan Emplit WBFD
USN 1986 - 1992

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Wait aren't you contradicting youselves?



Our government wants to have wide-spread anti terrorist powers. Hey, that sounds good to me! Doesn't it sound good to you? But then look at the Gov's definition of terrorist and suddenly, IT'S SCARY! (Here comes another list)

1. If you have less than 10 fingers. You might be a terrorist.
My friend Bill had an industrial accident, and now has 9 fingers. Will he disappear one night, without warning or real reason?

2. If you have 'waterproof' ammunition. You might be a terrorist.
Newsflash, ALL factory made ammunition fits their definition of 'waterproof'. So will hunters suddenly wake up in Guantanamo Bay? With NO ONE knowing that you are there, arrested and detained WITHOUT trial, WITHOUT a lawyer!

3. If you have more than 7 days worth of food. You might be a terrorist.
Even though the CDC Recommends "2 week supply for home". Do these people even read what they recommend?

4. Any reason the President thinks is a danger to the country. You might be a terrorist.
This is REAL. Watch the video. Nowhere does he mention that US citizens are not included.
Even if you are an American Citizen. Get ready for 'Prolonged Detention'. Even MSNBC has problems with Obama trying this.

Who's stepping on the Constitution in this picture?

Dan Emplit WBFD

Why We NEED 3 Engines and AT LEAST 14 Men

Last night there was a Commercial Structure Fire Alarm at Whiskey Business on Wood Street with smoke inside the building (There was NO fire). It is a popular bar.

The Alarm sounded at 21:06 (9:06 PM).
Less than 90 seconds later all units were enroute.
Less than 2 minutes after that Engine 1 was onscene, and a few seconds later truck 6 was there.
It took Engine 2 until 21:14 to GET to the hydrant.

Here's a few things to think about,
An Engines water suppy lasts less than 4 minutes with ONLY one line being used.

Fire doubles in size every minute.

There was VERY LITTLE traffic last night.

How many casualties can we handle at our diminished manning?

Could we fight the fire AND handle the casualties?

Could we even stop the fire from jumping to the next building?

With 2 Engines, we WILL NOT have enough time to make THE differance.
With 12 men, we CAN NOT handle the type of emergencies that WILL happen.

Leighton knows this. He has a copy of TWO studies that tell him, "Wilkes-Barre NEEDS 17 men, MINIMUM". One of those studies, the city paid for WITH OUR MONEY.

We pay for cheap, crappy garbage bags. We pay 'The Right to Work' tax. EMS tax. Sewer Tax (like anyone does anything to the sewers). Recycling Tax.
We are paying for the best. And what do we get?
Cuts to public safety.
A raceway next to a playground (Coal street).
A $12 million parking garage that cost $30 Million.
Nepotism
Public SERVANTS that get 'free' ($12000) security systems (and we have even payed some of the monthly fees on)
And more.....

They need to remember, They are public servants.
We are experiancing POOR customer service.
And remember (thanks to our dictator) When Seconds count, The Engines are only Minutes away.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Thursday, December 8, 2011

An era is ending

Vets group disbanding

It is sad that we are losing an organization for our few remaining Pearl Vets.
####
During the ceremony, a group of survivors of the Dec. 7, 1941, attack announced that they would disband at the end of the month. William Muehleib, president of the Pearl Harbors Association, cited age and poor health of the remaining members.
####

As age takes these examples of 'The Greatest Generation', I would like to point out one of the classiest things that this country does for the survivors of the USS Utah and the USS Arizona. As they pass away they have the option of having their cremated remains placed with their fallen brothers. Not just at Arlington National Cemetery, but IN their vessels in Pearl Harbor.

####
Also this week, five ash scattering and interment ceremonies are being held for five survivors whose cremated remains are returning to Pearl Harbor after their deaths.

On Tuesday, an urn containing the ashes of Lee Soucy was placed on his battleship, the USS Utah, which is lying on its side near the place where it sank. The ashes of Vernon Olsen, who was on the Arizona during the attack, will be placed on his ship late Wednesday.
####

An example of why these men are heroes is Lee Soucy, who lived to be 90, was a pharmacist mate on The USS Utah. He had just finished breakfast that morning when the Japanese planes started dropping bombs. He rushed to his battle station after the Utah was hit, but he soon heard the call to abandon ship as the vessel began sinking. He swam to shore, where he made a makeshift first aid center to help the wounded and dying. He worked straight through for TWO DAYS.

Dan Emplit WBFD
USN 1986 - 1992

Thursday, December 1, 2011

How safe are we?

On May 5, in Tucson, Arizona, a travesty happened.



####
Jose Guerena Ortiz was sleeping after an exhausting 12-hour night shift at a copper mine. His wife, Vanessa, had begun breakfast. Their 4-year-old son, Joel, asked to watch cartoons.
An ordinary morning was unfolding in the middle-class Tucson neighborhood -- until an armored vehicle pulled into the family's driveway and men wearing heavy body armor and helmets climbed out, weapons ready.
They were a sheriff's department SWAT team who had come to execute a search warrant. But Vanessa Guerena insisted she had no idea, when she heard a "boom" and saw a dark-suited man pass by a window, that it was police outside her home. She shook her husband awake and told him someone was firing a gun outside.
A U.S. Marine veteran of the Iraq war, he was only trying to defend his family, she said, when he grabbed his own gun -- an AR-15 assault rifle.
What happened next was captured on video after a member of the SWAT team activated a helmet-mounted camera.
The officers -- four of whom carried .40-caliber handguns while another had an AR-15 -- moved to the door, briefly sounding a siren, then shouting "Police!" in English and Spanish. With a thrust of a battering ram, they broke the door open. Eight seconds passed before they opened fire into the house.
And 10 seconds later, Guerena lay dying in a hallway 20 feet from the front door. The SWAT team fired 71 rounds, riddling his body 22 times, while his wife and child cowered in a closet.
"Hurry up, he's bleeding," Vanessa Guerena pleaded with a 911 operator. "I don't know why they shoot him. They open the door and shoot him. Please get me an ambulance."
When she emerged from the home minutes later, officers hustled her to a police van, even as she cried that her husband was unresponsive and bleeding, and that her young son was still inside. She begged them to get Joel out of the house before he saw his father in a puddle of blood on the floor.
But soon afterward, the boy appeared in the front doorway in Spider-Man pajamas, crying.

########
The Pima County Sheriff's Department said its SWAT team was at the home because Guerena was suspected of being involved in a drug-trafficking organization and that the shooting happened because he arrived at the door brandishing a gun. The county prosecutor's office says the shooting was justified.
####

Despite the Tucson police claims that they announced themselves, I can't hear it on the video. Which was taken outside, with NO walls or doors to muffle the announcement.

####
The 27-year-old Guerena had completed two tours in Iraq, and a former superior there was among those who couldn't make sense of his death. Leo Verdugo said Guerena stood out among other Marines for his maturity and sense of responsibility. Verdugo, who retired as a master sergeant last year after 25 years in the Marines, placed Guerena in charge of an important helicopter refueling mission in the remote west desert of Iraq. "He had a lot of integrity and he was a man of his word," Verdugo said.
####

Here is some of the things that people who knew Jose Ortiz had to say about him:

"I don't care what the cops say. I don't believe for one moment Jose was involved in anything illegal, They were judge, jury and executioner, and there was no excuse."

"Personally, I think he was murdered, and that is the feeling that is out here."

"No one in their right mind" would choose this work, which paid about $41,000 a year, if they were bringing in drug smuggling money.

####
"high-powered rifles and bulletproof vests that were found in Guerena's home after the shooting back up investigators' belief that Guerena was involved in drug trafficking. A shotgun found in the home was reported stolen in Tucson in 2008."
####

Well the last time I checked "high-powered rifles (How 'bout a better description) and bulletproof vests" are NOT illegal. An a shotgun that was reported stolen... Hmm I don't know if Arizona requires a firearms transfer for a smooth bore long gun. If it doesn't then this is a smear and misdirect to cover the police.

####
In the affidavit, sheriff's Detective Alex Tisch laid out the case against Guerena's family. It details two instances of drug seizures, one in April 2009 in which Jose Guerena was found in a home with other people who had just dropped off 1,000 pounds of marijuana at a separate residence, and another in October 2009 in which a man who had met with Guerena's brother was found with drugs and weapons. Neither Guerena nor his brother was charged.
####
OK so let me get this straight. If you go to SOMEONE elses house and someone "drops off marijuana at a SEPARATE RESIDENCE", Then YOU are guilty.

And if someone with drugs meets with YOUR BROTHER then you are guilty.
But no arrests were made... Even though they are using these instances in a character assassination.

####
"What reasonable person comes to the front door and points a rifle at people?"
####
He DIDN'T 'come to the front door', THEY BROKE IT DOWN!!!! AND IT WAS THE WRONG DOOR!!!!

And finally,
####
An independent expert, Chuck Drago, a former longtime SWAT officer for Fort Lauderdale, Fla., police who now does consulting on use of force and other law enforcement issues, said that the shooting itself appeared justified.

"It's a horrible, horrible tragedy, but if they walked in the door and somebody came at them with an assault rifle, that would be a justifiable response," said Drago. "It doesn't matter whether he's innocent or not."

But after examining elements of the search affidavit, Drago questioned whether the sheriff's office truly had probable cause.

"When you back up and look at why they're there in the first place and whether the search warrant was proper, my mind starts struggling," Drago said. "There are a lot of things that don't make a lot of sense."
#####

Here's what I think happened.
Point man makes entry.

Sees Ortiz with AR15

Point man panics and opens fire (This man should be prosecuted for MURDER, his job is to protect citizens, not assassinate them). You can actually see him trying to back out in a panic.

The rest of the SWAT team (trusting the point mans judgement, as they are trained to) also open fire

Now the lies and covering of asses begin.



Dan Emplit WBFD
USN 1986 - 1992
And wondering what is going on in this country

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

The Iran hostage crisis (British remake)

It's happening again.

Iranian protesters stormed two diplomatic compounds in Tehran, This time it was the British that were the victims.

"The attacks come at a time of rising diplomatic tension between Iran and Western nations who last week imposed fresh sanctions over Tehran's nuclear program which they believe is aimed at achieving the capability of making an atomic bomb."

OK, lets look at some of the facts. (Oh look! I'm making another list!)
1. Two diplomatic compounds were 'stormed'
2. Diplomatic compounds are sovereign soil.
3. 'Stormed' seems to be politician double talk for INVADED.
4. The Embassy's defenders were in life threatening danger. The invaders were throwing Molotov cocktails.
5. The Brits would have had EVERY RIGHT, morally and legally, to open fire.


If This were to happen to the US embassy, And I were in charge.
1. Guards open fire.
2. Spin up the fleet. Aim EVERY gun at the Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejads (AKA Mahmoud Ah-ma-nut-job) house.
3. Send Message, "Make them stop, You have 20 seconds to comply... 19"
4. If it doesn't. Bye bye palace.
5. Bye bye nuclear plant.
6. Bye bye Mahmoud Ah-ma-nut-job.

Jimmy Carter tried the 'diplo-dunk' approach, and is considered one of our weakest presidents EVER. Next to the anti-American CLOWN we have now.

When is the world going to wake up?
This is no different than handling bullies.
Bullies don't pick on a person able to defend themselves, They pick on the weak.
Muggers don't attack the 30 year old martial arts instructor carrying a Glock, They attack the 75 year old senior citizen with a walker.

But with Obama cutting our military past the bone, we are becoming the easy target. Did you know that with the retirement of the USS Enterprise (the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier) in 2012 We will be down to only 10 aircraft carriers? Than is the lowest number since 1943? In a world were studies and experts say 15 US carriers are needed.

We need to start "Speaking softly and carrying a Big Stick". Where are the Teddy Roosevelts when we need them.

"We need intellect, and there is no reason why we should not have it together with character; but if we must choose between the two we choose character without a moment's hesitation." ~ Theodore Roosevelt


Dan Emplit WBFD
USN 1986 - 1992
Rabidly Pro-American and PROUD of it.

Friday, November 25, 2011

DIVORCE AGREEMENT

From the Email inbox

####
DIVORCE AGREEMENT
--WRITTEN BY YOUNG COLLEGE STUDENT--
5 STAR RATING:


The person that wrote this is a college student. Perhaps there is hope for us after all.

DIVORCE AGREEMENT
THIS IS SO INCREDIBLY WELL PUT AND I CAN HARDLY BELIEVE IT'S BY A YOUNG PERSON, A STUDENT!!! WHATEVER HE RUNS FOR, I'LL VOTE FOR HIM.

Dear American liberals, leftists, social progressives, socialists, Marxists and Obama supporters, et al: We have stuck together since the late 1950's for the sake of the kids, but the whole of this latest election process has made me realize that I want a divorce. I know we tolerated each other for many years for the sake of future generations, but sadly, this relationship has clearly run its course.
Our two ideological sides of America cannot and will not ever agree on what
is right for us all, so let's just end it on friendly terms. We can smile and chalk it up to irreconcilable differences and go our own way.

Here is a model separation agreement:
--Our two groups can equitably divide up the country by landmass each taking a similar portion. That will be the difficult part, but I am sure our two sides can come to a friendly agreement. After that, it should be relatively easy! Our respective representatives can effortlessly divide other assets since both sides have such distinct and disparate tastes.
--We don't like redistributive taxes so you can keep them.
--You are welcome to the liberal judges and the ACLU.
--Since you hate guns and war, we'll take our firearms, the cops, the NRA and the military.
--We'll take the nasty, smelly oil industry and you can go with wind, solar and biodiesel.
--You can keep Oprah, Michael Moore and Rosie O'Donnell. You are, however, responsible for finding a bio-diesel vehicle big enough to move all three of them.
--We'll keep capitalism, greedy corporations, pharmaceutical companies, Wal-Mart and Wall Street.
--You can have your beloved lifelong welfare dwellers, food stamps, homeless, homeboys, hippies, druggies and illegal aliens.
--We'll keep the hot Alaskan hockey moms, greedy CEO's and rednecks.
--We'll keep the Bibles and give you NBC and Hollywood
--You can make nice with Iran and Palestine and we'll retain the right to invade and hammer places that threaten us.
--You can have the peaceniks and war protesters. When our allies or our way of life are under assault, we'll help provide them security.
--We'll keep our Judeo-Christian values.
--You are welcome to Islam, Scientology, Humanism, political correctness and Shirley McClain. You can also have the U.N. but we will no longer be paying the bill.
--We'll keep the SUV's, pickup trucks and oversized luxury cars. You can take every Volt and Leaf you can find.
--You can give everyone healthcare if you can find any practicing doctors.
--We'll continue to believe healthcare is a luxury and not a right.
--We'll keep "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "The National Anthem." I'm sure you'll be happy to substitute "Imagine", "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing", "Kum Ba Ya" or "We Are the World".
--We'll practice trickle down economics and you can continue to give trickle up poverty your best shot.
--Since it often so offends you, we'll keep our history, our name and our flag.

Would you agree to this? If so, please pass it along to other like-minded liberal and conservative patriots and if you do not agree, just hit delete. In the spirit of friendly parting, I'll bet you answer which one of us will need whose help in 15 years.
Sincerely,
John J. Wall
Law Student and an American

P.S. Also, please take Ted Turner, Sean Penn, Martin & Charlie Sheen, Barbara Streisand, & (Hanoi) Jane Fonda with you.

P.S.S. And you won't have to press 1 for English when you call our country.
####
Add "Mayors against Illegal Guns" which is not really against "illegal guns" but is in fact "anti-gun" and is actually part of the "Brady Campaign", and it sounds good to me.
I wish politicians would remember this country was founded on 'Individual Rights' and not what THEY believe is the greater good.

Dan Emplit WBFD

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thanksgiving

Please take the time to remember those who can not be home for the holidays. Having been someone who couldn't be home, I know that even the smallest message from home can mean more than most will ever know.



God bless those who serve, in all our armed forces (even the jarheads), Thank you.
You are the reason this country is great.


Dan Emplit WBFD
USN 1986 - 1992

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

It shouldn't have happened

48 years ago today, the unthinkable happened. John F. Kennedy was assassinated at 12:30 p.m. Central Time on Friday, November 22, 1963, in Dealey Plaza. Kennedy was shot while traveling with his wife Jacqueline, governor John Connally, and Connally's wife.

30 minutes later, after all heart activity had ceased and after a priest administered the last rites, the President was pronounced dead.

The Warren Commission, in a 10 month investigation, concluded that the President was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald. However the United States House Select Committee on Assassinations concluded (in 1979) that President John F. Kennedy was probably assassinated as a result of a conspiracy.

Was Oswald the assassin? Did he work alone? I believe so. Would I bet on it? NO.
What matters most is that one of the three darkest days in recent U.S. history happened. The other two are Pearl Harbor and 9/11.



John Fitzgerald "Jack" Kennedy
May 29, 1917 – November 22, 1963 Age 46
RIP

Dan Emplit WBFD

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Is it beginning?

In my 18 years, I've seen 3 fire house closings and three Engines (plus our now 'part time' Engine)& a Truck go out of service. It follows something of a predictable pattern.

The Engine becomes a reserve Engine (Last night the 'new' front line engine from South Station was filling in for Engine 2 at Hollenback, even though a reserve engine was available and even though South Station was manned all day. South Station had to use the 20 year old reserve).

Equipment starts 'disappearing' from the Engine or it doesn't get new equipment. (This has been going on for a while)

Equipment needed for building maintenance starts disappearing from the Engine house. (The 24 foot ladder we need to change the lights in the very high ceilings is gone, we had to borrow a floor buffer, etc.)

Repairs to the building get put on the back burner.

Upgrades to the building don't happen.


Is this Engine 3 or a reserve piece now?



Why? I guess some parts of our city are 'more' equal than others.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

A little slow, aren't they?

PennDOT and Luzerne County to Close the Division Street Bridge, Wilkes Barre




I posted about this on Saturday, September 11, 2010. And the bridge has been off limits to Fire Engines since, so city hall knew.

Oh and BTW, it's NOT 230 feet from Carey Ave. It's about 30 feet.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Saturday, November 12, 2011

.22 vs Skulls.... I mean Coconuts

With all the country obsessed with zombies, I thought I'd try an experiment.
Several people have touted the .22LR as the perfect round for slow 'Romero' style zombies. I know, you don't know if you should laugh because of 'zombies' or that some people think a .22 can penetrate a skull at any real distance. But hey with "The Walking Dead" being a hit show, I've heard several people asking if the .22 could work.
And I rolled my eyes at the thought.
First off, the .22 is NOT a combat round. It is a training round, and a fun to shoot round. By NO measure a combat round.
Now back to my experiment.
Since I couldn't get anyone to volunteer to be shot in the head (Damn you all, It's for science!!), I had to look to alternatives. So standing in for a skull, I used coconuts. A doctor friend remembered reading that a coconut is slightly stronger than the strongest part of a human skull and was used to test helmets in the '30s (before moving on to animal testing).
The weapons, A Ruger Mark II.

And A Smith & Wesson M&P 15/22

For a visual comparison, here's a .45ACP next to a .22LR with a nickel thrown in for gauge


My plan was simple. I'd set 2 coconuts (one for the pistol and one for the rifle) at 100 yards, 50 yards, and at around 20 yards. I would start at the 50 yard range and work from there.
I expected these results. The pistol would be ineffective at 50 and 100 yards. And marginal at 20. The rifle would be ineffective at 100 yards, marginal at 50, and effective at 20. I expected this because the .22 is known for ricocheting off curved surfaces, and it is a low power cartridge.

Well here is the 50 yard pistol hit.

Above is the entrance. Below is the exit.

WOW. Not at all what I expected.
So I tried again at 100 yds (And tried and tried and tried, you try to hit a coconut at 100 yards with a .22 pistol without a bench rest)

It entered but did not exit. I did this multiple times (I have 1 coconut left out of 6).
Results? I have to up my opinion of the .22LR, It would work in a 'Walking Dead' scenerio. But, I still wouldn't bet my life on it if I had a better option.

Dan Emplit WBFD

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Rioting is NOT going to fix the problem

What the HELL is wrong with the students of Penn State? Acting like a pack of bloodthirsty piranha REALLY shows how mature the future generation is. Rolling over a news van will get the press on your side. NOT.
I understand that the a$$hats at Penn State used Coach Joe Paterno as a sacrificial lamb. As I understand it, he did what he was supposed to do. Reported what he knew to his, then, respected superior, and then Paterno went back to his job. He is not an investigator. And he was burned for not doing a job, that is not his and he is not trained for, by the board of trustees.
BUT THAT DOES NOT GIVE THESE CHILDREN THE RIGHT TO RIOT. I'll admit I never understood the worship of the alter of football (or any other sport), but even that worship, when betrayed, does NOT give these INFANTILE students the right to riot.
Each and every student that can be identified should be forced to make restitution, do the legal punishment (jail time, community service, whatever fits the crime they are identified doing), and be EXPELLED.

Really rolling a news van will get Paterno back in the (coaching) drivers seat.
Rioting and the destruction of private (not Penn State) property will change things for the better.



Do these STUPID crowd mentality CRIMINALS know that if 'the book is not thrown at them', then it will be like telling all the other immature idiots that this kind of destruction is accepted?

To the students who were involved:
Do you realize that you are playing the game the board of trustees wants you to? Now everyone will be looking at the riots and NOT the board of trustees.

MORONS.

Dan Emplit WBFD

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

It's been more than 30 days




Leighton was more concerned with the re-election than our safety. Need proof? Walk down River St.
Battle over razing Hotel Sterling brews
Well it's been over 45 days and not one thing has changed with the Hotel Sterling. Not one word in weeks. Not one move to MAKE Cityvest demolish the building or pay.
Someone with clout should put some heat on the powers-that-be, or the traffic tie ups and safety concerns will continue.
Leighton and his administration hasn't done anything. Where is 'his' outrage that Cityvest:
1 Let such a magnificent building be destroyed by neglect.
2 Tried to get the Taxpayers to pay for the demolition.
3 Lied, saying the flood put the building in such a bad state (well, OK Leighton couldn't say that. He was also involved)
4 Stole $6 million + from the taxpayers.

On a different note. Everyone who was wondering, the answer is,"I ain't going away."

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

From the Email inbox

Subject: UNBELIEVABLE waste of money


UNBELIEVABLE
How do they vote in the United Nations?
Below are the actual voting records of various Arabic/Islamic States which are recorded in both the US State Department and United Nations records:

Kuwait votes against the United States 67% of the time
Qatar votes against the United States 67% of the time
Morocco votes against the United States 70% of the time
United Arab Emirates votes against the U. S. 70% of the time.
Jordan votes against the United States 71% of the time.
Tunisia votes against the United States 71% of the time.
Saudi Arabia votes against the United States 73% of the time.
Yemen votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Algeria votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Oman votes against the United States 74% of the time.
Sudan votes against the United States 75% of the time.
Pakistan votes against the United States 75% of the time.
Libya votes against the United States 76% of the time.
Egypt votes against the United States 79% of the time.
Lebanon votes against the United States 80% of the time.
India votes against the United States 81% of the time.
Syria votes against the United States 84% of the time.
Mauritania votes against the United States 87% of the time.

U S Foreign Aid to those that hate us:
Egypt, for example, after voting 79% of the time against the United States, still receives $2 billion annually in US Foreign Aid.
Jordan votes 71% against the United States
And receives $192,814,000 annually in US Foreign Aid.
Pakistan votes 75% against the United States
Receives $6,721,000,000 annually in US Foreign Aid.
India votes 81% against the United States
Receives $143,699,000 annually.
WHY? ARE WE HEADED BACKWARDS?
WHO IN THE HECK STARTED THIS AND WHY?
THEY ACTUALLY BITE THE HAND THAT FEEDS THEM.

Perhaps it is time to get out of the UN and give the tax savings back to the American workers who are having to skimp and sacrifice to pay the taxes.

Pass this along to every taxpaying citizen you know.
GO GREEN - RECYCLE CONGRESS IN 2012!!!(If you don't know any taxpayers just delete it!)

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Somethings to think about on Tuesday

Don't forget to vote on Tuesday. It's not just a right (that not everyone in the world has) it is our responsibility.
And I would like you to think about some things.



The security system debacle also don't forget the lies that they paid all the monthly fees.

Campaigning inside the polling location at Kistler Elementary School, remember, It's ILLEGAL.

The Ice rink that saved W-B, HOW????

How's the Pine Ridge development coming along?

The Old river Road bakery sweetheart deal (Really, 8 cents on the dollar?)

Lies to the County to get Tax forgiveness for his campaign contributor

Selling property to a campaign contributor for LESS THAN THE CITY PAYED FOR THE PROPERTY



LAG towing NOT living up to its contract

Leighton and cityvest tried to scam the Feds into paying for the Sterlings demolition. Even though they have access to EVEN MORE data than I have.

Nepotism is AGAINST THE LAW.

The upgrades, for the PD and FD, that have been promised, and still haven't happened.

Hollenback Fire Station.... Built in a flood plain. Only South Fire Station is above the flood plain.

Paying $27 million for the $12 million Intermodel center. (Wonder how that contractor links to Leighton)

Parking on Coal street, which wouldn't (and still might not) have been fixed if this wasn't an election year.

The arrogance, like "I'm not saying he's getting it," Leighton said Wednesday. "And I'm not saying he's not getting it."

Insulting taxpayers because he does not 'like' them

The $17 million Riverfront that has no parking and no bathrooms

His campaigning on city time?

The $225,000 the city had to pay Bob Kadluboski (of City-Wide Towing) after violating his contract with the city.

The money that was spent on the city attorneys to fight the wrong fights

The cuts to public safety to fund HIS pet projects

The largely worthless camera system (How many MILLIONS was that?)

Raised taxes and fees to an all time high.

The outright lies to us (The citizens of Wilkes-Barre)

Ignoring the Lloyds Study (which states the minimum FD manning per shift is 17) and cutting manning to 12 per shift

Blaming anyone else for his faults

The $220,000+ in legal fees Denise Careys lawyer is seeking from the city

Oh and don't forget, Violating Constitutional Rights. TWICE.

And WAY TO MUCH MORE.



Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Thursday, November 3, 2011

It must be contagious

The Citizens Voice reported today that Tony Thomas has stiffed Harry's Market for better than $16,000. The bills go back about two and a half YEARS.

I've got to say, with our councils belief that they are some sort of nobility, this doesn't surprise me in any way. And Tony Thomas has always given me that 'sleazy used car salesman' feel.

He was part of the 'last minute' attempt to change the way we elect council, Thomas himself told me months before that they were going to try.

The vacations on the city dime to study 'splash parks'.

And rubber stamping ANYTHING that Leighton puts in front of him.

I have no doubt that Bruce Fendler will have to fight for his money.
Why? The dictator has gotten away with it for about 3 years. As far as I know Denise Carey still hasn't gotten her money, and the only reason she may? The court order for Leightons personal fiances.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Friday, October 28, 2011

Will these Idiots just STOP

Here is a graph showing the statistics for the NYPD. Our Police do much better.




Dan Emplit WBFD

Did the Mayor just call opposing candidates campaign manager "J*ck-off" ?



The Mayor shows just how smug and aggogant he is, by calling one of his opponents campaign managers a "Jack-Off".

Two things I would like to say

First, Last night Engine 3 was out of service, so I was on Engine 1. After the council meeting we had a call to city hall for a stuck elevator.
As we were walking up the ramp to city hall, Kathy Kane drove up, wound down her window, and yelled to us (in front of the large crowd leaving at the time)," It couldn't have happened to a nicer person!" and then laughed and drove away.
Want to guess who was inside the elevator (they were out when we got there)?
Who could have inspired such an unprofessional outburst?
It doesn't really matter, but it was Linda Urban.
This shows just what kind of person Kathy Kane is. Why would ANYONE vote for such an unprofessional person?

Second, and related to the recent shooting. Where are the new handguns the police were supposed to get? That was back in May. Five months. They are probably sitting in a storage room next to the promised laptops for the Police cruisers and Fire Engines. Unbelievable.
BTW... The Beretta 96 was introduced in 1990, the Glock 21... 1990. The Parent platforms The Beretta 92 was introduced in 1975, and the Glock 17..... 1982.
IMO (and most others) the Glock IS a MUCH better platform. But if they wanted to update to a more modern design, it should be the Smith & Wesson M&P introduced in 2005 and it has a STELLAR record, rivaling the Glock.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

A repost of what my friend Shelly put on Facebook

You're a firefighter?? That's cool. I wanted to do that when I was a kid. What do you make?
WHAT DO I MAKE??
"I make holding your hand seem like the biggest thing in the world when im cutting you out of a car.
I can make 5 minutes seem like a lifetime when I go in a burning house to save your family.
I make those annoying sirens seem like angels when you need them.
I can make your children breathe when they stop.
I can help you survive a heart attack.
I make myself get out of bed at 3am to risk my life to save people I've never met.
I make it possible to keep back the chaos everyday.
I make going to work for your family's safety a duty that I will die for.
I make myself work holidays, nights, during hurricanes, tornados and other disasters.
Today I might make the ultimate sacrifice to save your life.
I make a difference, what do you make?"

Dan Emplit WBFD

Thursday, October 27, 2011

More on the shooting

I've been reading what has been put in the newspapers comments sections about the shooting in the area of George Avenue and North Washington Street Tuesday morning.



To all those who don't know that the WBPD did a stellar job, Do some research.
1. All those shots?
The accuracy of the average State trooper (no particular State) in this type of situation is about 25% hits. If what I've been told is accurate, The WBPD's accuracy was better than 23%. So lets stop complaining about their skills.

2. The stopping power of ANY handgun SUCKS. This is why soldiers use rifles.
"The only purpose for a pistol is to fight your way back to the rifle you should have never laid down".(Sorry I forget who said this)

3. They should have Tasered him.
Yes. Lets advance into the very short range envelope of a Taser while a Bad Guy shoots at you. That is the definition of MORONIC.

4. It was a BB Gun.


or

Now tell me which is real.

And while you're recovering from your Butt-hurt over this, remember there were 60 children FEET away.

As Miss_Brooke said in the Times Leader Comments:
"I work at the Child Care Facility that was affected. I am THANKFUL to the WBPD!!!!!
That man was warned MULTIPLE TIMES to drop his weapon!!!! (Regardless if it was a knife, gun,pellet gun or bat)
He did not follow orders.
I saw his weapon First hand, I'm no expert, but it looked like a real gun to me, I was soooo scared until I saw the police come around the corner with rifles. As for a Taser, The man was shot 3 times in front of me!!!! He did not budge, He walked across the lawn of inter-metro, sat on the stoop, the police again told him to stay down drop the weapon, so what does he do, He gets up and points the gun again, so the cops shot again. He still managed to walk to the other parking lot and then finally collapsed.
And as for being mentally ill, I know a few things about this topic, and people have the RIGHT to be CRAZY!!!
He should have been taking his meds!!! That is NOOOOOOOOO EXCUSE!!!!!
Thank God it was a Pellet Gun, I'm sure more than the Gunman would of been injured if it wasn't."

"If he points a weapon toward the officers, they really have no other choice because there is a viable threat to their safety," King's College criminal justice professor Paul Lindenmuth said.

Using deadly force (it is deadly force regardless of the outcome) cannot be easy for a police officer who is dedicated to preserving life.

Dan Emplit WBFD

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

The O.K. Corral

With recent events, It's interesting that today is the anniversary of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Mainly because of the 'armchair warriors', who have never been shot at, and are criticizing the WBPD.
These morons, who probably consider themselves experts because of the many hours they have spent on their butts playing 'Modern Warfare' and haven't fired a firearm since the Bush Presidency, really need to be smacked. So until they have taken a class or been in the situation, we should just ignore them.
For those who do not know, It is legal in PA to open carry. Meaning that if you want, anyone (who can legally own a firearm) can legally carry it (holstered) in a non-concealed manner. This DOES NOT give ANYONE the right to brandish a weapon or to carry it in your hand.

On to the O.K. Corral.
First off, the gunfight actually happened in a narrow lot a few doors away from the O.K. Corral on October 26, 1881. The gunfighters were only around 6 feet apart. Most credible reports say about thirty shots were fired in thirty seconds. There are MANY conflicting reports about bout the actual events and those leading up to the gunfight.
No one knows who started shooting first. The reports say that the first two shots were so close, in time, that they could have been confused as one. Virgil Earp reported, "Two shots went off right together. Billy Clanton's was one of them."

Thirty shots in thirty seconds from LEGENDARY cowboys at a starting distance of 6 feet. There were three fatalities, Billy Clanton (three wounds), Tom McLaury (One shotgun wound), and Frank McLaury (Two wounds).

Here's my point. If Wyatt, Virgil and Morgan Earp with Doc Holliday needed multiple shots at that distance, What do these idiots expect from the WBPD? Jeez even Doc Holliday (who was noted for his extreme skill) couldn't have done better!

Dan Emplit WBFD

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

PA Live!

A link to the PA Live! Segment they did on my blog.

A big thanks to WBRE for that.

Dan Emplit WBFD

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Sterling series Floor..... Two (the Crystal Room)

The next two pictures make the Crystal Room look salvageable. I couldn't find any of the mold that is prevalent in the building.




Plastic sheeting will not last for years, another example of Cityvests POOR planning and negligent execution.



Look at the intricate moldings. Lost because of Cityvests greed.



Obviously, Cityvest thinks 'securing the building' does not mean keeping people out. Or checking it periodically.



What a waste. Of a beautiful building, the inheritance our children should get, and of MILLIONS of OUR DOLLARS!!!!




Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

I'm BIG TIME NOW

OK, not really. But I did make NEPA Blogs! Check it out.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Bill O'Boyle sounds in on councils attitude

A good amount of articles by the Times Leader have been VERY pro Leighton, but at least Bill O'Boyle has his eyes open. He openly critisized Council for its lack of Professionalism.

####
Florida has plenty of golf carts
Friday October 14, 2011
Posted by Bill O'Boyle boboyle@timesleader.com

At Thursday night's council meeting, politics was the flavor of the month, but coming in second was inappropriateness.

After Linda Urban finished addressing council - with several valid points, I might add - Kathy Kane, the chairwoman of council AND the chairwoman of the Luzerne County Democratic Party - decided to inject a personal attack on Urban, wife of Luzerne County Commissioner Steve Urban.

Kane asked Urban how much time she spends at her Florida residence, causing Urban to remind Kane that she and her husband, District Magistrate Martin Kane, recently purchased a home in the Sunshine State themselves.

Kane said Urban has a car with a Florida license plate. So what? After all, it is cheaper to register a car in Florida.

Seems good advice for council and the mayor to stop trying to belittle critics and start answering the criticisms. To her credit, Urban revealed the purchase in 2004 of two security systems - one for Mayor Tom Leighton's home and the other for then-administrator J.J. Murphy's house. Each cost $4,000 and the city picked up the tab. Leighton and Murphy have paid the monthly fees, but taxpayers paid for the system and installation.

As valid as the reasoning was for the systems - there were real threats to both Leighton and Murphy - city taxpayers shouldn't bear the burden of paying for those systems.

Urban had a valid point and she deserved answers that addressed her concerns. She didn't deserve a personal attack. This logic that people who criticize council and the mayor are out of order simply because they are political adversaries and should be silenced flies in the face of what the democratic process is all about.

Not to mention the disinterested looks on the faces of council and mayor as critics voice their opinions within the council-mandated five minute limit.

Enough has come out over the last several months that shows that there is great concern for the way city government operates and how decisions are made. How that will affect the voters remains to be seen on Nov. 8th.

But the attitudes of some of the city's elected officials has raised suspicions of their abilities to govern and increased the chances of their opponents.

And how can we forget Bob Kadluboski's theatrical-like performance at the same meeting. Using a southern belle accent, Kadluboski drew chuckles and smiles from those in attendance as he again tried to convince council to look at the towing contract with LAG Towing.

Kadluboski, like Urban, has some legitimate points that should be looked into. Instead, he is often gaveled silent and called names - the most famous being "Cupcake" - which Kane and Leighton each has used in the past, only to infuriate Kadluboski more.

Kadluboski has threatned a lawsuit. He has asked for all of the council and the mayor to resign. He said he has contacted the FBI in Philadelphia and Washington to investigate the city.

The city would like Kadluboski and Urban to go away. This coming election may change some faces, but not the way the city operates.

Urban asked about the city's rental of golf carts at Hollenback Golf Course. Kane had the figures, but Urban never saw them. Urban said the golf carts are often see at the Turkey Hill across North Washington Street from the course.

"We need golf carts," Councilman Bill Barrett, Urban's opponent, said after the meeting. "It would be a concern if we had helicopters there."

Flippant? Perhaps, but getting the requested info to Urban would have been a much better approach.

Finally, if anybody truly believes this election will make all of the suspicions, accusations and investigations go away, well, they are mistaken.
####
I posted this online with the papers,
"I would love it if the city would live broadcast all the council meetings. I was there and it was disgusting. The papers don’t tell you the way council acts like they are royalty and we are the surfs."

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Council meeting

WOW



First off Kathy Kane showed her true colors.
Linda Urban stated she wants the charter amended to remove benefits and the retirements for part time employees (Council),as Linda was done speaking....
Well I must have missed something that was said, because the next thing I know accusations were flying.
Kathy snapped "What about your new house in Florida?"
Linda, "What about yours!"
Kathy, "How would YOU know about that"
This is when I started with, "Personal attacks, Really?"
Luckily it calmed down a bit.

By the way Linda, I wouldn't believe Vinsko if he said the sky was blue. His grasp of the law MUST suck if he advised the dictator to violate Denise Careys' Constitutional Rights.

Later I was whispering to another fireman, and Kathy (as her standard Queen B mode) saw so she had to snap, "Be quiet, I can't hear her!". Now ANYONE who has been to a council meeting knows there is NO WAY council can hear a whisper from the back row. That was just her being the Queen B. Evidently, It's OK for her to talk to the others on council, but my whisper was WAY to much.

And near the end of the meeting, I almost got thrown out.
Bob Kadluboski had asked a question before council, and the dictator answered it badly. Bob wanted to get something clarified. Kathy would NOT allow it. So I kinda yelled.
"Why not, we pay your salaries?"
Kathy (to me): "You're out of order!"
Me: "So? What's your point?"

I'm SO TIRED of them thinking they are royalty.

Let's see how the papers handle this.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Election year




Threats to W-B officials prompted purchase of home security systems

Talk about trying to cover your a$$es. Let me get this straight.
####
An attempted break-in, a menacing note stuffed in a mailbox and the destruction of potted plants led Wilkes-Barre police to believe recently elected Mayor Tom Leighton and his city administrator were in danger in 2004. At least that's the justification for two security systems installed at the men's homes on the city's dime.
####
So if you are the dictator or his #1, and you get a threatening note, then you deserve a $4000 security system on the city. BUT if you are a cop, and you get attacked on the job, you don't. And if you complained about this I'm sure a, "if you don't like it, get a different job."

So, I'm looking at this article and things just SCREAM back pedaling to me.

JJ Murphy Paraphrased the note as saying, "J.J. and the mayor, you will pay for this".
Well if there was an investigation, then where is the paperwork? And wouldn't the note be in evidence? So why paraphrase it?

And some potted plants being broken is SOOO threatening. (Maybe if we had more cops instead of a $12 million parking garage that we payed $27 million for, you would be safer)

####
A man who identified himself as a city employee told Murphy's wife that Leighton had sent him to examine the pipes in their home, police said. When Murphy's wife said she wanted to check with her husband and locked the door, the man tried to force his way inside, police said.
####
Wow honestly, this is frightening. Especially to a family man. But this is a common possibility to all of us who DO NOT LIVE IN BARNEY FARMS.
Scammers posing as PPL workers
Woman claims she was robbed at gunpoint
Alleged burglar caught in act in W-B
And this is just a 3 week period, of ONE STREET in the city.

####
"That played a part in my decision to leave the city," said Murphy, who left to start a consulting firm for municipalities. "Ultimately, at the end of the day, I had to do what was best for my family."
####
Wait a second..... This happened in 2005. Murphy 'officially' left the payroll in 2010. WOW, that is a big pile there.

####
Murphy pays the monthly service charge, which has ranged from $27 to $35, but he said it "would have been justified" for the city to pick up the fee.

"But I picked those up," he said. "I think I went over and above what was necessary."
####
Once again, a cop has to pay for their own security. The city doesn't 'pick up the fee'.

####
Murphy questioned the timing of the release of the invoice confirming the city paid for his security system's purchase. Murphy tabbed the development as a political diversion set up by Leighton's critics just weeks before an election.
####
Of course it comes up in an election year, that is when politicians ARE under the most scrutiny!

This is another example of misappropriation of taxpaying dollars. Pure and simple.

Oh and
####
Leighton declined to comment.
####
Of course he did.

A new blog, Wake Up Wilkes Barre! has an interesting comment about the flower pot incident.
####
Let me explain it to you JJ your employer is not required to buy you a security system because a party next door overflowed into your yard, and the drunken folks attempted to gain access to the wrong house. Lie to someone without a scanner.
####
You should check it out.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Monday, October 10, 2011

Some comments from the Leader caught my eye

####
KevinDougherty

Leighton appears slow and dull-witted, he's barely able to form a coherent thought and yet he will easily win re-election. A ringing endorsement of two party politics.


Jolly Roger

Being a hands on mayor of a city the size of Wilkes Barre is no easy task and Leighton has done a comendable job since taking office. Are we better off now than we he took office? Absolutely!


Joe

Mayor Leighton = Hero to the STUPID !


Nicolas321

You have done a good job. But we need to rid ourselves of cronyism, so I will not cast my vote for you.


Jolly Roger in reply to Nicolas321

We finally get a mayor who does the job and you want to be rid of him ..... good thinking = NOT!


mjj 1 day ago

The mayor has a love affair with the square but all that is there are bars and bums.The square is never going to be what it once was. Public square should have a steel fence around it and operated during daylight and locked after dark. The street lights are no brighter than a hand held torch.
Where is the business in WB?No wonder the mayor can't lower the wage tax as most business's have left town. Ask anyone if they would walk the streets after dark in WB.
I believe the mayor earns twice what the mayor in Scranton earns. Anyone want to compare the two.


Nicolas321 1 day ago

Time to go, Leighton. We need new ideas, fresh blood, and fewer cronies.


the_woodrow 1 day ago

'He said the first two proposals fell through.' As are all the roofs about to do on all of the buildings he wants to get rid of in a hurry... fall through. But they don't. Who were the first two deals with? It should be public information.


Jolly Roger in reply to the_woodrow

It was ....... from the looks of some of these comments, the fire depart. is hard at work. Maybe they should just concentrate on doing their jobs.


larrydallas in reply to the_woodrow

narcissist don't admit guilt.


the_woodrow

Was that an admission of guilt? 'Leighton said, adding he wouldn’t hire a relative again for a city job – big or small.'


disabledtaxpayry

He MR. tom Leighton must not drive the streets in wilkes-barre . . THE streets are full of pot holes


larrydallas in reply to disabledtaxpayry

A drive up South Main streeet from Hanover St. to the Square and count the empty Stores and vacant lots will tell you more about the City than all his bragging. they have developed one block of center city and they left the rest of the city to deteriate.


TeaPartyDem

Seems like the Mayor talked about some affordable improvements. Unlike Summers and Cope who talk about lowering taxes without cutting costs. Oh wait, we are going to reduce the Mayor's job to part-time and save $10,000.


TwelvePack in reply to TeaPartyDem

It is so nice to see two people so in love- TeaPartyDem and Leighton.


Jolly Roger in reply to TwelvePack

Tweleve Pack, the name says it all. Bottoms up!

mjj in reply to TeaPartyDem

I believe the mayors salary is around $80,000 dollars per year plus benefits.Compare that with Scranton and Allentown. Affordable improvements? Where is the money coming from? The college kids? More and more properties are going on the no tax rolls. Is there any manufacturing left in Wilkes Barre? It seems to me that the only business's in Wilkes Barre besides retail and restaurants are scrap yards.
You brought up a good point though on the part time issue. Maybe if there was a part time mayor he/she wouldn't have enough time to think about how to mess up downtown traffic patterns. Since when does a city make it impossible to manuever traffic during rush hour to host a party of college kids on the square or some other nonsensical entertainment? Use Kirby Park , that is what it is there for.


CaseyRoman1 in reply to mjj

Leighton makes more than the Mayor of our state Capital.
Does that make sense? Harrisburg is larger in size and population, besides being the State Capital?


TeaPartyDem in reply to CaseyRoman1

Casey, please do not let facts hit you in the head. Please google the City of Harrisburg. It is the laughing stock of the Commonwealth. They are bankrupt and fighting over whether or not to let the State take over control. Running city government mean controlling a $40,000,000 budget. Any CEO of a compant that size would make a salary well over $250,000. Remember, you get what you pay for, and the residents of Harrisburg know that first-hand. Wilkes-Barre will be in the same boat in 6 months if they do not re-elect Mayor Leighton.


Scott Koppenhofer in reply to TeaPartyDem

First of all I know store managers of stores doing 60 million a year making only $60,000.00 per year. CEO's make much much more than $250,000.00 but also control companies doing 10 times more than 40 million. Maybe get back in the workforce and learn more about salaries. Next the city is not a business that has a product to sell to bring in the money a business does. The resident's taxes and fees fund the city so it should not be compared to a business. We do not have a choice but to pay taxes but we have a choice of what product to purchase and where to purchase them. If we are going to compare the city to a business then we should have the choice to shop around for what we will pay in taxes and fees based on other cities just like I shop around to different stores to purchase the same product at the lowest price. Also a Mayor should not make as much as a CEO or other up management employees. I have worked in stores doing $60 million in sales and have had a constant inventory of over 4 million dollars at all times and I was a senior manager making $48,000.00 a year. This Mayor should make much less period.
####

Things I noticed (or suspect).
TeaPartyDem is related to a council person. They are one of the Anonymous' that are insulting. That is what he does when you disagree with him.

CaseyRoman1 started as a Leighton supporter and became a vocal dissenter.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote

Sterling series Floor..... Two

Some of the general ruin

And here

And here


Cityvest didn't, obviously, weather-proof or secure where the apartments were torn down.

And here


I believe this was called the mezzanine. The balcony around the second floor lobby.


Black Mold is visible here, where part of the ceiling was removed by the inspectors.


Yeah this building was 'secured'.

and


The 'Crystal room' is up next and should be up in a day or so.

Dan Emplit WBFD
AKA Don Quixote