Merit-bound Alley

17 for to 19 against, 5 not voting. We have the republicans to thank for almost to a one standing for democracy. A special round of thanks goes to Dave Burris, who was able to convince his party to defeat this unworthy bill at zero hour.

Dave and the Republicans deserve a cookie and Wayne Smith’s plaque! Way to rock, guys and gals of the GOP!

SB5 to regulate embryonic stem cell research in regards to the sale of fertilizef eggs is up for a vote with a surprisng agreement for no witnesses.

Rep Ennis is proposing a last minute amendment to allow the advisory committee to only release guidelines for research. This amendment has been accepted as part of the bill.

Rep. Keeley wants the debate on this to take place as she is uneducated on the issue.

After much debate, and several repeated questions, the bill was soundly defeated.

With rumours flying about a possible powerplay regarding HB177, the Rs have called a caucus until 9:45. Considering some complicated miming between Gilligan and Daniello, this may turn out to be interesting indeed.

PLEASE MAKE HIM STOP TALKING

No, but according to Rep. James Johnson, there is one in the land of Denial (not just a river in Egypt anymore).

According to the 16th district representative, Mark Brunwick’s excellent post on the history of fusion candidacy on Delaware Watch is a complete fabrication. It’s plain that the Dems are trying to strongarm this bill through. Isn’t it just disgusting?

Roll call started with Rep. Oberle as acting speaket and Reps. Cathcart and Gilligan deep in discussion. Wonder what they’re talking about?

HB 240 went to vote to decriminalize minor traffic violations. Yawn.

HB212 for the protection of children passed amended.

We now have a dinner recess.

We’re a few minutes away from he start of the final leg. session.
The night has already proven to be interesting, with a verbal accusation of perjury against one of our warriors and a horridly ugly green dress. Details forthcoming.

Well, it certainly is beautiful down at Legislative Hall today. Sunny, breezy, and an air of tense expectaton pervades the area. Or, maybe I just have to pee, damnd 20 ounces of water I drank.

More later.

Last night, Meg and I ditched the kids with my father-in-law and his partner and went to see Video Games Live at the Kennedy Center in DC. We first had a couple of drinks at the Watergate, and discussed some plans for the future, then headed on the the beautiful concert hall where we saw the National Symphony Orchestra play some of my favorite pieces from games, both old and new.

Many may feel differently, but when I play a game, one of the first things that strikes me and can make or break a game experience is the music. In the last 10 years or so, technical advancements in gaming have allowed music to evolve from primitive bleeps and bloops to huge orchestral pieces of amazing depth and wide dramatic scope. It’s not hard anymore to argue against those who protest the burgeoning artistic merit of the video game industry.

Long story short, Video Games Live was an amazing experience and it was thoroughly enjoyed by both Meg and me. I highly recommend this experience to anyone!

In other news, I will be heading to Legislative Hall this afternoon for an evening of startling revelations, threats, and possible bodily harm visited upon someone by our resident Legislative Hothead, John Daniello.

Delaware bloggers oppose HB 177.