Hurricane Gustav translated into cancellation of most convention activities Monday, but delegates to the Republican National Convention expect a return to the normal schedule today (Tuesday).

"I think she's absolutely perfect," said Do Shaver when asked for a reaction to John McCain's vice-presidential running mate choice, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

Shaver is one of two Moore County residents who are delegates to the convention in St. Paul, Minn. The other delegate, Dr. Jim Taylor of Southern Pines, could not be reached at the time this report was being prepared.

Although selection of Palin came as a surprise, Shaver recalled that her name had arisen in earlier discussions of prospective candidates. She said Palin is viewed as "an excellent complement" to McCain because of her non-military background, her youth and the fact that as a governor, she is not regarded as a Washington insider.

Because of the expected severity of the hurricane, Sen. McCain canceled appearances at the convention Monday and traveled to New Orleans to study the situation and offer assistance to storm victims.

Shaver, who lives in Seven Lakes, said that convention delegates were drawn into the assistance effort Monday. She said that everyone was asked to use their cell phones to send text messages and to send donations of at least $5 apiece to help hurricane victims.

Despite the absence of major speakers, Shaver said she was pleased to hear brief messages Monday from two appealing personalities, First Lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain, wife of the Republican candidate for president.