"from one to another thru the years....not all that uncommon...it's cheaper & less time consuming to buy an existing symbol than to start from scratch. "
Exactly. The original corporation still exists but it's operations are defunct. It's a reverse merger into a shell. From there you change the name and usually the ticker. It's generally an above board transaction.
I've been in Delta for several years, from the early days with Barry Rayment, and they've disappointed to be sure, but they haven't stuck me as dishonest. This current situation is a bit messed up... but hopefully it passes soon.