David Carradine Found Dead

BANGKOK - Famous Actor, David Carradine, has been found dead in Bangkok, Thailand. Mr. Carradine was found hanged in his hotel room at the luxury Swissotel Nai Lert Park hotel, and is believed to have committed suicide. Preliminary police investigation states that he had hanged himself with the room's curtains cord. Police believe he had been dead for least 12 hours and there was no signs to suggest there had been a struggle or homicide.

U.S. Embassy spokesperson, Michael Turner, confirmed the death of the 72-year-old actor who had starred in the 1970s TV series "Kung Fu" and had a very successful career in Hollywood. Mr. Carradine was in Bangkok filming a new movie.

It is truly a sad day for action movie fans. David Carradine will be sincerely missed, but will live on in his films.

North Carolina Democratic Party created a Twitter account for NC House Minority Leader

The North Carolina Democratic Party created a Twitter account for Republican NC House Minority Leader, Representative Paul Stam and posted malicious and ridiculous statements attributed to him. The Democratic Party's dirty trick was quickly found out by blogger, Laura Leslie of Isaac Hunter's Tavern. Instead of apologizing and promising never to do it again, the NC Democratic Party defended the practice and then created the "Not Actually Skip Stam" site. Not a word of apology from any Democrat.

On Friday the NCAE sent out the attached political alert claiming – well, read it for yourself. Shortly thereafter I notified the author/disseminator, Brian Lewis, that it was false. No retraction, no apology. Today, they will have their rally at 11:00 a.m. I will go over several of the false statements at today's conference.

Last week we forearmed the press concerning the so called "healthy youth act" (HB 88) and the so-called "school violence prevention act" (SB 526). After providing all the documents to the press and to the membership, we still hear the following statements which are demonstratively false:

1. That the abstinence until marriage curriculum does not cover contraceptives.
2. That bullying policy laws cannot be effective without enumerating categories.
3. That sexual orientation means what its sponsors think it means but does not include other sexual orientations (and they won't tell us which are which).\

By the end of June important decisions have to be made and they should be made based on facts, not lies. We will alert the press in order to assist it in keeping the politicians honest.

Atlantic Hurricane Season

EAST COAST – The Coast Guard is urging mariners and residents living along the coast to plan ahead and prepare for the 2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season which starts next Monday, June 8, 2009.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration outlook predicts that there will be nine to 14 named storms during the 2009 season which starts on June 1 and ends in November.

Tropical systems acquire a name when they reach tropical storm strength with sustained winds reaching 39 mph. Tropical storms become hurricanes when winds reach 74 mph and become major hurricanes when winds increase to 111 mph.

As storms approach, the Coast Guard urges people to be mindful of the following safety tips:

- Stay Informed: The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio and Internet. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF channel 16.

- Evacuate as Necessary: If mandatory evacuations are set for an area, the public is urged to heed evacuation orders. Coast Guard personnel and other emergency responders may not be able to evacuate those in danger during the storm.

- Secure your Belongings: Owners of larger boats are urged to move their boats to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or damage. Trailer able boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to secure life rings, life jackets and small boats.

- Be Cautious of Hazardous Materials: If you have hazardous materials on or near the water you are responsible for any spills that may occur. Take the necessary precautions to secure them prior to any foul weather.

- Stay Clear of Beaches: Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by storms. Swimmers are urged to stay clear of beaches until local officials say the water is safe.

Mariners are reminded that drawbridges along the coast may deviate from normal operating procedures prior to a storm. They are generally authorized to remain closed up to eight hours prior to the approach of gale force winds of 32 mph or greater, and whenever an evacuation is ordered. Because of the uncertainty of weather movements and related bridge closures, mariners should seek early passage through drawbridges well in advance of the arrival of gale force winds.