North Carolina

H671/S631 grants the NC Department of Agriculture sole authority for banning plants and seeds within North Carolina. The intent of this law appears to be preventing cities and counties from using their zoning authority to restrict the use of genetically modified plants and seeds within their jurisdiction. However, there may be equally unattractive unintended consequences. For example, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Orange County (possibly Hillsborough too), currently restrict the types of plants used in landscaping new development. By using their zoning authority in this way, they protect our native species from the most egregious invasives such as bamboo, english ivy, etc. Native species are of critical importance in protecting our riparian systems as well as our local wildlife.

The Terri Schiavo case is a bit far afield for this blog but it's worth reminding people that in North Carolina it is possible to record both a living will and a health care power of attorney. There are many attorneys in the area who do this work, and who can make sure that the language of each accords with North Carolina law.

I found a good overview of these items including links to pdf files for the necessary forms at the New Hanover Health Network.

Tomorrow is the second anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. And there will be a second annual demonstration in Fayetteville to oppose the war. This is not your typical Chapel Hill gathering of peaceniks and hippies making each other feel better. This event is being organized by veterans and military families (see below) who are most directly feeling the costs of this war.

Make no mistake, we all pay for it: in our ballooning federal deficit, in our decreased security, in the repression of the media, and so many more ways. But military families have the most to lose, and a lot to say.

Please join people from all across the South for this historic event.