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Installation of tolls on Interstate 84, a new transportation payroll tax, major increases in gas, sales or income taxes and higher vehicle registration fees were all put on the table by Gov. Deval L. Patrick today as possible sources for up to $1 billion in new revenue to meet transportation needs.
The governor laid out those options and more as he listed annual revenue sources that the state may consider to fill funding gaps in the current road and transit systems and also to finance major new rail and highway projects over the next 10 years.
The governor is expected to identify the new taxes, fees or tolls he will recommend for adoption in his State of the State address Wednesday night and in his budget proposals later this month.
From there, it will be up to the Legislature to decide whether to raise revenue for transportation needs or which of the options would be used.
Mr. Patrick again splashed cold water on the idea of raising the gasoline tax, saying it is not high on his list of options, although a report by the board of the Massachusetts Transportation Department titled "The Way Forward: A 21st-Century Transportation Plan" indicates an increase from 21 to 51 cents per gallon would raise up to $1 billion in new revenue.
Some business groups favor the gasoline tax to raise transportation funds while a coalition of labor and community groups is supporting an income tax hike.
The initiative stems from the report that identifies the future costs of the current system and the need to finance major expansion projects in the next 10 years.
"Improving our transportation system is key to meeting our economic potential," Mr. Patrick said as he outlined the report at a meeting with state transportation, business and political leaders at the University of Massachusetts Boston campus.
He said meetings held around the state in recent months found people want more mass transit service, including busses on weekends, safer and smoother roads and easier access to jobs, affordable housing and recreation.
"It will take a total of $1.02 billion in new revenue annually both to properly operate the system we have today and to make the modest expansion we should have to accelerate economic growth," he said.
"If we do nothing the public will have to pay for and get less and economic growth will slow in greater Boston and stall out in other areas of the state," Mr. Patrick said.
"What is plain as day is that we have choices to make," Mr. Patrick said. "Choosing to do nothing is a choice, too. It means longer commutes, cuts in services, larger fare and fee increases and a continuation of the self-defeating economics that leave large parts of our population cut off from opportunity and growth," he said.
The report detailed a number of revenue options. Those that would raise up to $1 billion in revenue, include the hike in the gas tax; raising the sales tax from 6.25 percent to 7.75 percent; increasing the income tax rate from 5.25 to roughly 5.66 percent; and adoption of a .16 percent payroll tax.
Another option identified in the report released today would retain an estimated $120 million annually by continuation of tolls on the western part of the Massachusetts Turnpike, where tolls are set by law to be eliminated in 2017 when current turnpike bonds are paid off.
Other options outlined in the report include proposals for introducing tolls on Interstate 95, Interstate 84 or Interstate 93; use of higher-priced tolling during rush hours described as "congestion pricing"; and so-called green vehicle registration fees that would add from $15 for hybrid cars and up to $85 for heavy trucks.
Also the report lists possible adoption of a 2.4 cent per mile mileage tax on vehicles, which would also raise $1 billion annually.
The Legislature called for the report last year when it went along with steep fare increases on the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority bus and commuter rail systems, seeking a permanent solution to massive transportation deficits the state runs each year and lack of funding for new transportation projects.
The report also listed numerous transportation projects that would be funded if the revenues are raised.
They include: construction of a $1.8 billion South Coast commuter rail line from Boston to New Bedford; a $674 million MBTA Green Line extension from Boston to Medford and Somerville; an $850 million expansion of South Station in Boston to increase rail capacity; a $362 million project to create rail lines and extend commuter rail service from Worcester to Springfield; a $20 million project to run summer trains from Middleboro to Hyannis; and $113 million for new rail services from Pittsfield to New York City.
State officials said the additional revenue would also provide direct operating assistance to the MBTA and regional transit authorities around the state. They said $166 million would go to the MBTA in fiscal 2014, while an additional $11 million would go to the Worcester Regional Transit Authority which has scaled back bus service in recent years.
The plan also calls for improvements at the I-495-Mass Turnpike interchange, targeted reconstruction on Routes 9 and 20 and $12 million in interchange improvements at I-495 and Route 9 in Westboro and reconstruction of Worcester's Quinsigamond Avenue, from Brosnihan Square to Southbridge Street.
Lt. Gov. Timothy P. Murray endorsed the development of the plan, but like the governor was not disclosing which new revenue sources he favors.
Investments in the transportation system, he said, would bring new jobs and economic momentum to many parts of the state. He used the start up of commuter rail out of Union Station in Worcester as an example where new transit service has drawn major new private sector investment.


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I play with a group that does 3.5 ed and would be willing to have you join. We would also be willing to teach you what u need to leaern to make the game more fun for you as well. We all have extnsive experience in the game and even 1 of us has played @ conventions. We play saturday nites from about 6pm to midnite(roughly). There is a female in the group already so you may not feel that uncomfortable knowing not the only one. We are ages 22 to early 50's. If interestd let me know
Hi CaesiumTea,
I'm not the best versed at all the roleplaying genres and games out there, so I not sure what Wraeththu RPG is; however, we have a 1st Edition AD&D game that meets every other Friday at GameMasters bookstore. Of course, AD&D has Chaotic neutral and good and Lawful Evil ;-).
Feel free to stop over if you are interested. We post our game schedule on the calendar at the Pittsburgh Dungeons and Dragons MeetUp Site.
We have a game this Friday at 6pm. Other members include John, Alex, and Floyd. We'll post on MeetUp's calendar our next following game proably next week.
Good Luck!
--Rilonor (Matthew)

subset: commoncrawl


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By CHRIS LEHOURITES AP Sports Writer
WIMBLEDON, England (AP) - Roger Federer hit an overhead smash to capture his fifth straight Wimbledon title. He then collapsed to his knees in jubilation and relief - just as Bjorn Borg used to do.
Federer played - and won - his first five-setter in a Grand Slam final, beating nemesis Rafael Nadal 7-6 (7), 4-6, 7-6 (3), 2-6, 6-2 Sunday for his 11th major title.
Federer is the first man to win five straight titles at the All England Club since Borg did it from 1976-80. The Swede watched the match from the Royal Box with other past champions, and applauded as Federer fell to the ground after his smash on match point.
"To see him after the match, it was very fitting in my point of view," Federer said. "To see him waiting there was great."
After Federer left the court, he and Borg exchanged hugs and smiles in front of the board that lists tournament champions. Federer's name had already been added to the list for 2007. "Thank you for coming out," Federer told Borg.
"Not at all. Sure," Borg answered.
Federer stretched his record grass-court winning streak to 53 and his Wimbledon winning streak to 34. He is tied for third on the career list with Borg and Rod Laver at 11 major titles, trailing Pete Sampras' 14 and Roy Emerson's 12.
"Each one is special, no doubt," Federer said. "To hold the trophy is always the best thing." Federer beat Nadal for only the fifth time in 13 meetings. The Spaniard has defeated Federer in the past two French Open finals to spoil his bid to complete a career Grand Slam.
"Today was a little bit disappointing because I had good chances," said Nadal, , who also lost to Federer in last year's final. "Tomorrow I will be happy about my tournament and about my game."
Federer saved four break points early in the fifth set, two at 1-1 and two at 2-2. Then, leading 3-2, Federer converted a break point with a forehand winner after a 14-stroke rally that produced some of the best shots of the match.
It was Federer's first break since the second game of the match.
"If Rafael had won one of these, I think maybe now Rafael would be the champion," said Nadal's coach, Toni Nadal.
Nadal had been trying to emulate another of Borg's feats by winning the French Open and Wimbledon in the same year.
Nadal, who played two other five-set matches in a tournament plagued by rain, was on the court for the seventh straight day.
After taking a 4-1 lead in the fourth set, the Spaniard called for a trainer to treat his right knee. Although he returned with tape below the knee cap, it didn't seem to slow him.
"He's playing phenomenal tennis. He's definitely improved yet again," Federer said. "He had more of a game plan this year than he had last year."
Federer finished with 24 aces, 65 winners and 34 unforced errors. Nadal had 50 winners and 24 unforced errors.
Nadal also used the "Hawk-Eye" replay technology, which made its debut at Wimbledon this year, to great effect. One time, a call reversal in the fourth set infuriated Federer so much that he complained to the chair umpire after being broken for the fourth time.
"It's killing me today," Federer said after sitting down during the changeover. In the first set, Federer converted his third break point in the second game, defensively returning a hard serve from Nadal and watching the Spaniard net a forehand.
In the tiebreaker, Federer jumped ahead 5-2 and thought he won the set on his third set point when leading 6-5, but Nadal challenged a call and "Hawk-Eye" showed his shot was in. Federer wasted another set point at 7-6, but finally won with a backhand volley after Nadal sent a backhand into the net at 7-7.
Nadal broke Federer at 5-4 to win the second set, converting his first set point with a backhand winner. The Spaniard then pulled within two points of doing the same in the third set, coming back from 40-love to deuce. But Federer used a pair of volleys to hold to 5-5.
Nadal was again two points from the set while leading 6-5, but after he put a forehand into the net, Federer served an ace and then finished it off with a service winner.
"Maybe the difference is the serve," Nadal said. "He (served) better than me, and that's important in every surface, but in this surface more, no?"
Federer was broken again to open the fourth set, and Nadal added another break to take a 3-0 lead. "It was such a close match," Federer said. "I told Rafa at the net he deserved it as well. I'm the lucky one today."
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


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Buckshaw Village is set to get a new pub after councillors gave the go ahead to the proposed development.
The proposal is to build a Greene King pub and restaurant with an outdoor play area at Bishopton Crescent, at the junction of Buckshaw Avenue and Ordnance Road.
Chorley Council's development control committee gave it the thumbs up this week, and the decision has been welcomed locally.
Euxton parish councillor Aidy Riggott told the meeting he lived in the village with his family and that a family pub, a second primary school, a grass football and cricket pitch were "pieces of the jigsaw puzzle outstanding" there.
He said: "This application contains many pleasing aspects that, in my opinion, make it a suitable and appropriate development for my community.
"First and foremost, it is a family friendly design with separate areas for dining that should appeal to the many families and young professionals that live here.
"The application suggests in excess of 70 jobs will be created with a good mix of full and part time opportunities.
"The applicant also recognises the importance of the local community and is kindly offering free parking at drop off time for parents of children attending Trinity/CofE primary school, which will hopefully go some way to alleviate the current challenges the community faces in this area.
"I welcome the commitment by the applicant to start work immediately. Buckshaw Village residents have for far too long waited and waited for plans to be turned into reality."
County councillor Mark Perks said: "It was made clear at the planning meeting there had been a strong response from residents to the Greene King consultation in support of the pub and I expressed the view it fitted in with the commercial centre and more appropriate than plans for a trade depot."


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May 23, 2013
DURHAM, N.C. – In what turned into a pitcher's duel between Florida State's Luke Weaver and Virginia Tech's Brad Markey finished with a dramatic nine inning that included a walk-off home run and a Hokie victory at the 2013 ACC Baseball Championship.
The Hokies' Mark Zagunis came through with the game-winning hit connecting on a solo shot to left off Gage Smith (4-1) with one out in the bottom of the ninth as Virginia Tech (37-19) defeated Florida State (44-14) 3-2 Thursday evening inside the Durham Bulls Athletic Park.
"I'm not upset, I'm proud (of our guys)," said head coach Mike Martin. "That was truly a great game of baseball. I tip my hat to Pete Hughes and the Hokies, they did a great job.
"I'm daggum-proud of our Seminole Baseball team, the way we played, the way we kept fighting. We were obviously down and behind for eight innings, but it was a credit to our young men to come back and tie it up, but that is the way it goes."
The win put the Hokies in the driver's seat in Pool B as Virginia Tech improved to 2-0, while the Seminoles dropped to 0-2. A victory by the Hokies on Friday against Georgia Tech (1-1) will advance Virginia Tech into the finals for the first time in school history. The Seminoles will look to end their six-game slide in the ACC Tournament when FSU faces Virginia (1-1) on Saturday, May 25 at 11:00 a.m.
Weaver and Markey matched each other inning for inning on Thursday night as both starting pitchers held the opposing team without a run on just three hits through the first six innings.
"Boy-o-boy, Brad (Markey) pitched beautifully, I think he struck out 10," added Martin. "Then you talk about the man to my left Luke Weaver), he struck out nine and pitched a beautiful, beautiful baseball game."
The Hokies finally broke with two runs in the bottom of the seventh to take a 2-0 lead. Tyler Horan led off the inning with an infield single to third and scored on the very next pitch when Zagunis tripled to the gap in right center. Zagunis scored one pitch later when Andrew Rash lifted a sac-fly to left to give the Hokies a two-run advantage.
Virginia Tech was on the verge of adding to its lead in the eighth but Jameis Winston came through with a huge outfield assist at the plate to end inning and keep the Hokie lead at 2-0. Sean Keselica laced a two-out double off the wall in left and tried to score on a base hit to right by Chad Pinder, but Winston came up firing throwing a strike to Stephen McGee at the plate to get Keselica for the third out of the inning.
Markey kept the Seminole bats in-check all evening long and went out to start the ninth looking for his second complete game of the season against Florida State. But McGee had other plans opening the inning with a double off the Blue Monster in left. He moved to third on a groundout to short by John Nogowski and scored when Casey Smit lined a base hit down the right field line that one hopped into the stands for a ground-rule double.
The double by Smit ended the night for Markey after 8.1 innings of work. Clark Labitan (2-5) came on to hold down the one-run lead for Markey but pinch hitter Josh Delph spoiled those plans with an RBI single through the right side of the infield to score pinch-runner Brett Knief from second to tie the game at 2-2.
"He made a heck of a throw, he couldn't have put it in any better of a spot," added DJ Stewart on the momentum FSU carried into the ninth after Winston's throw to the plate. "Having the crowd cheer for us was a big momentum shift. Steve (McGee) did a great job to get us started in the ninth and Casey (Smit) got a big hit too.
"We were taking about that today," said Martin on Delph coming through with a key hit in the ninth. "That Joshua looked like he was getting a little stronger. He absolutely looked like his old self. It sure would be a welcome addition to get him back out there."
Both starting pitchers did not factor into the decision on Thursday night but both put on quite the pitching clinic. Weaver tied a career-high with nine strikeouts in 6.1 innings allowing two runs on five hits as he walked one. Markey also tied a career-high in strikeouts with 10 over 8.1 innings allowing two runs on six hits and a walk.
"He was keeping his pitches down," said Stewart on Markey's performance tonight. "He was mixing in his fastball, curveball and changeup. He was doing a great job of keeping it down, keeping us off balance and he did a good job throwing strikes."
"I felt great the whole game, everything was there," said Weaver. "In the seventh inning I got a little unlucky with that slow roller off the end of the bat to third. They capitalized and jumped on the fastball when it went out to the gap and that was the biggest mistake I made all night. They did a great job of hitting, they were in an aggressive mode there and they did what they needed to do."
Virginia Tech registered the game's first scoring threat when Brendon Hayden opened the bottom of the third with a single to left. After a sac-bunt moved Hayden to second, the Hokie third baseman was thrown out trying to steal third. Alex Perez followed with a two-out double to right but was stranded at second when Weaver struck out Keselica for the final out of the inning.
The Seminoles left two on in the fourth after Stewart led off the inning with a single and Nogowski drew a two-out walk. Markey got out of the inning when Smit grounded out to short for the third out.
Florida State looked to push across its first run of the game in the eighth but left runners stranded at the corners. John Sansone reached as he was hit by a pitch and moved to third on Stewart's third hit of the game lacing a base hit off the glove of the diving Hokie first baseman. Markey kept the Seminoles off the scoreboard getting Marcus Davis swinging on strikes to retired the side.
Stewart finished the game with his second three-hit game of the tournament as the freshman left fielder has now reached base in 10 of his last 11 at-bats. Pinder and Zagunis paced Virginia Tech with two hits apiece.
FSU wraps up pool play at the ACC Baseball Championship on Saturday, May 25 at 11:00 a.m. against Virginia. The Seminoles will send out LHP Brandon Leibrandt to start against the Cavaliers. The game will air live on the Regional Sports Network (fans are encouraged to check their local listings). Fans can listen to games on the Seminoles.com All-Access player and locally on 100.7 FM. As always, Seminole fans can follow the Noles on twitter @FSU_Baseball and remember to like the Seminoles on Facebook (www.facebook.com/FSUBaseball). Live stats will be available via gametracker.


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Two Quotes That Help Warren Spector Assess Where He's At Right Now
Legendary game designer Warren Spector was talking at the DICE convention in Las Vegas today, but didn't want to talk about his departure from Disney and the shuttering of his studio. He wanted to talk about the "graying of gaming" or at least about his journey though gaming. But the elephant is in the room, he said.


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Plant Types and Container Sizes
Nature Hills sells a variety of plants and products, with many available in different types and sizes:
Select (bare root) Trees - Hand-selected quality bare root trees. The height of the tree you will receive will be displayed under the icon. Popular sizes of Select Trees are 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, etc.
|Select (bare root) Plants - Hand selected-quality bare root plants.The height of the plant you will receive will be displayed under the icon. Popular sizes of Select Plants are 1 foot, 18 inches, etc.
Select (bare root) Small Fruits - Hand-selected quality small fruit plants. The height and # of plants in the pack you will receive is displayed above and below the image. (Ex: 3-pack of 1 foot plants).
Note on No. 1 Select sizes: You may see No. 1 used as the size of Select Tree/Plant. A "Number 1" grade plant is the highest-grade bare root plant available.
|Potted Plants & Trees - Quality plants and trees with developed root systems will have this icon. Typical sizes of our potted plants and trees are as follows:
|Plant and Flower Bulbs - Quality bulbs, roots and tubers. The number of bulbs included in the pack is displayed below the bulbs images.
|Seed Packets - Our seed packets will contain this icon.
|Other product types will simply list what type of product it is (bags of seed, trays of plugs and garden center items etc.).


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Click to view enlarged version of image
Glenn Carter Fellow
I originally studied graphic design, and encouragement through experimentation in many two and three dimensional methods offered a broad grounding and a change of direction. An essential element of my designs in stained glass is a strong personal and where relevant a specific religious message. This celebration of life and subject is a portrayal through a complimentary abstracted structure of narrative images and symbolic colour.
Penfold Cottage – 10 Penfold Lane – Washingborough – Lincoln – LN4 1BB
Tel:01522 793170
- 2005: St Stephen's, Chatham, Kent. St Stephen's window.
- 2005: St Peter's, Saltfleetby, Lincs. Mary Allott memorial window.
- 2004: St Luke's, Grayshott, Hants. Centenary window.
- 2003: Holy Cross, Boultham, Lincs. Resurrection window.
- 1999: Stations of the Cross: fourteen windows at the Church of SS Mary and Gabriel, Binbrook, Lincolnshire
- 1991: Sir Joseph Nickerson two light memorial window at St Mary Magdalene, Rothwell, Lincolnshire
- 1990: RAF Swanton Morley three light window at All Saints, Swanton Morley, Norfolk
- 1989: Three light 405 Royal Canadian memorial window for the church of St Margaret, Hemingby, Lincolnshire
- 1988: RAF Binbrook two light commemorative window at the church of SS Mary and Gabriel, Binbrook, Lincolnshire


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Audrey Hepburn has come back to life to flog chocolate. She's not the first posthumous saleswoman, reports Simon Usborne.
Simon Usborne of The Independent writes "A fictional, yellow celebrity perhaps best summed up the weird lot of the famous dead person. "You celebrities need to realise that the public owns you for life," Homer Simpson said. "And after you're dead, you'll all be in commercials dancing with vacuum cleaners."
Simpson was referring to Fred Astaire (d.1987) whose controversial, computer-assisted number with a Dirt Devil in 1997 was authorised by his widow but led his daughter to say she was "saddened that after his wonderful career he was sold to the devil".
Now Audrey Hepburn has become the latest face to be disinterred for promotional purposes, returning to the screen 20 years after her death to advertise a chocolate bar.
A minute-long spot for Galaxy entitled "Choose Silk Chauffeur", revealed during ITV1's Mr Selfridge, places a young Hepburn on a bus in traffic on the Amalfi Coast in the 1950s. A Galaxy bar tempts her from her handbag. She makes eyes with a hot man in an open-top, swiftly swapping vehicles before tucking in as they speed away.
This time, Hepburn's sons, who control her estate, authorised the use of her image, for which they will have received a fee. Sean Ferrer and Luca Dotti say their mother would be "proud" of her new role, adding in a press release that she "often spoke about her love of chocolate and how it lifted her spirit".
Galaxy Chocolate, a Mars Chocolate brand, teamed up with ad agency AMV BBDO and production company Framestore, to recreate Hepburn in their newest and impressive commercial. Set on Italy's Amalfi Coast; circa 1950's, we find the beauty stuck in a bus and desirous of her chocolate. According to Framestore, the production process was arduous and included discovering a Hepburn double, and utilising VFX techniques to form a Computer-Generated Audrey.
Commented Flavia Barbat, Branding Magazine: "The icon's eyes and smile are said to have been most difficult and, although the Framestore team hoped to utilize real eyes (for which the actress's similarities were cast), they ended up rebuilding all of Hepburn's face."
As for the smile, CG VFX Supervisor, Simon French, states:
"It is amazing how unique and recognizable a person's smile is. When you see it in this detail, it really needs to look perfect."
Remarkable execution aside, I am wondering if the visual effects of the commercial will overshadow Galaxy's branding purposes. Although the aesthetic success of the commercial will bring it all of the publicity it requires, I hope that viewers are capable of comprehending the interaction between the chocolate brand and Hepburn's legacy. Hepburn is of a Golden Age, a time period that oozes sensuality and luxury, while chocolate consumption is trademarked with parallel descriptors. Beneath the fantastic spectacle of the commercial lies a powerful and well-developed partnership between the one-of-a-kind beauty and Galaxy's promoted rich, rare taste. After all, the video concludes with the question: Why have cotton when you can have silk?"
For today's Millenial generation, too young to know her work, seeing a posthumous gamine Hepburn might indeed renew a love of a screen icon of the past. But what's next after chocolates? Washing detergents… vacuum cleaners?
A more morbid question is raised when Usborne asks, "As the words of the younger Astaire show, the image rights and posthumous fortunes of the departed can lay legal and ethical minefields for brands, and raise the morbid question: who owns dead people?"
When there's money to be made, may the dead never rest in peace.


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By JOHN NJAGI
A proposed law seeks to have leading brewers and distillers take care of the consequences that come with drinking.
The Alcoholic Drinks Control Act (Amendment) Bill sponsored by Imenti Central MP Gideon Mwiti seeks to have beer manufacturers put between five and 10 per cent of the revenue they generate in insurance companies to compensate individuals who suffer damages.
According to the Bill, every drink sold must have an insurance sticker.
The Bill also proposes that should a doctor ascertain that certain damages such as death were caused as a result of drunkenness, then the manufacturer of the said beverage must compensate the affected persons family and dependants.
The MP, who spoke at a press conference at Parliament Buildings on Thursday, said beer and spirits manufacturers did not do enough to create awareness among partakers on what amounts to healthy drinking.
He said drinkers incur huge losses such as damaged vehicles in accidents and illness brought about by excessive drinking.
The Bill is a win-win for both consumers and manufacturers, the latter being compelled to ensure their consumers are engaged in responsible drinking, he said.
Mr Mwiti said beer consumers spent a substantial part of their productive lives pumping huge amounts of money into beer companies but when they experienced loss, they were left to their own devices, while the companies continued raking in huge profits, and targeting the next drinker.
Other damages suffered as a result of alcohol include loss of job and livelihood, domestic violence among others, all of which, according to the MP, would be liable to compensation once the claims are made to reputable insurance companies by the victims.


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Cheryl Jean Lewis, 45, of Grinnell passed away July 5, 2013 at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines.
In place of a funeral there will be a memorial gathering at 5 p.m. Wednesday at Monroe City Hall. The family will be there to greet any and all friends that want to celebrate Cheryl's life. There will be a light meal served.
Memorials in her name can be left at any Great Western Bank.
Cheryl was born Sept. 30, 1967 in Unionville, Mo. to Harold Sr. and Charlotte Elam. She was united in marriage to Michael S. Lewis on Aug. 15, 1987.
Cheryl was a wife, mother, homemaker and raised two boys, Curtis and Tyler. She enjoyed square dancing, strolls to the park to feed the geese, listening to music, watching movies and most of all her family. Many people also knew the couple as Bear and Junkman throughout their marriage.
Those left to honor her life are husband Mike; sons, Curtis and Tyler; her father Harold; four sisters, Carolyn Elam, Norma Elam, Mary Elam and Joanna Breckenridge; and one brother, Harold Jr. she was preceded in death by her mother Charlotte; an infant son Brad Lee Jean Lewis; and two sisters, Debra Sweetman and Tonya Elam.


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From students who took our Defensive Driving course in New York.
This is a good course, it reminded me of things I should have known and forgot over the years of driving.Harris C., Hogansburg, NY The course was very informative and interesting. It was a great way to make this information easy to absorb.Christopher D., Levittown, NY I loved doing this at home. Being able to take breaks at home when I needed them was awesome since I am disabled and sitting for a 6 hour class is nearly impossible. I have already recommended this course to friends and will continue to do so! Thanks for creating this course!Donna G., Wantagh, NY I will never take this course in a class setting again. I liked being able to take it at my my own leisure while in the comfort of my own home. I didn't have to worry about getting to a class on time or having to find a babysitter for my children. It was interesting and entertaining. Thank you.Jill A., Flushing, NY This was great. In today's day and age, time is limited. This customized approach to obtaining a defensive driving certificate is long overdue. Thank you!!!Philip S., New York, NY I found this course very interesting and entertaining. It was convenient for me, as I am a stay at home mom. The teacher made this course funny and enjoyable to watch…I truly learned a lot.Theresa A., Staten Island, NY Taking it online was very easy to work into my schedule!Sarah H., Newfane, NY My wife took this course a few years ago and I have to agree with her that it much easier to take at home than at some driving school. Thanks, great program.Richard B., Forest Hills, NY I was pleased to find that I was already driving using many of the suggested practices recommended by this course but the delivery of this course, as compared with others, is infinitely better. Thanks.Stephen B., Babylon, NY Really enjoyed this course. Nice having the flexibility of coming back to it whenever you like.Thomas L., Liverpool, NY I think most drivers should take this course to refresh themselves on their own driving habits. Great online course.Michael O., Mechanicsville, NY I liked that I was able to schedule the course around my busy schedule.Maria M., Farmingville, NY This is one of the best defensive driving courses you can take. The advice is very useful, and I actually remember everything. I apply the lessons later that same day when I am driving! Highly recommend this to anybody who needs the reduction in premiums or just wants to be a safer driver.Ann W., Fresh Meadows, NY Absolutely loved hearing Charles Fleischer doing the narration!Dane D., Niagara Falls, NY I initially did not believe a course like this, much so that it's an online one can be that effective. After completing it, I am a true believer and a changed driver. I highly recommend this alternative delivery method by Improv!Ramoncito D., New York, NY I was pleased to find that I was already driving using many of the suggested practices recommended by this course but the delivery of this course, as compared with others, is infinitely better. Thanks.Stephen B., Babylon, NY I am thankful to have had taken such a helpful, easy to use, defensive driving course. I learned a lot of interesting facts, statistics, and other information that will result in me becoming a better driver.Maxwell F., Yonkers, NY I was very surprised at how easy and informative this course was. It helped me review my driving habits and allowed me to realise how adjustments I needed to make. I definitely believe that I will be a more conscious and considerate driver.Julio G., Queens, NY The insurance reduction course was not boring at all. The content was informative and a great refresher.Maria N., Dix Hills, NY This course was very convenient, engaging and interesting. I found there examples to be funny but at the same time they applied to real life situations. The system was very user friendly and i enjoy taking this course. Thank you!Kostantinos K., Bayside, NY I was very happy to complete the course in my home rather than spend two nights elsewhere. The course was enjoyable, not boring. Thank you.Anne N., Lindenhurst, NY I found it very convenient to use as I have a very busy life. I could return to it whenever I had a little bit of free time, it was great. Also I enjoyed the intro videos, very humorous, it kept my interest.Christine S., Plattsburgh, NY The defensive driving course was much easier than I had expected!Coleen W., Nunda, NY I thought the course is really well done. The information is laid out well. I learned a lot of interesting facts and statistics that I never realized before.Stephanie L., Albany, NY I thought the course is really well done. The information is laid out well. I learned a lot of interesting facts and statistics that I never realized before.Jessica Z., Amsterdam, NY This is so much better than going to a classroom. Better in a lot of ways. One the comfort of your home. Two it can be taken at your own pace. Third it was funny, interesting, and not at all boring. I learned a lot, laughed a lot and really truly enjoyed it. I'm glad this defensive driving course came out in New York.Daluza V. NY, NY This was a breath of fresh air from the online continuing education course for real estate that I STILL have no finished because its so boring! This was very engaging and interesting and I will definitely recommend this defensive driving course to my friends and colleagues.Angela B. Lindenhurst, NY I took your online defensive driving course in NY and really enjoyed it very much and I am looking forward to taking it again J. I think it is the best thing that New York State has come up with as of late. I am going to recommend it to my friends and co-workers. Thank you!Alan M. New York, NY Awesome Defensive Driving Course!Cindy A., Brooklyn , NY The course is really Simple and Fun… Wow what a great service!!David Z. New York, NY It was great, easy, and fun. I will recommend to my friends if they were to need your service. Thank you very much! Best defensive driving school I have taken so far.Ashley C, Buffalo, NY Thank you for offering this great defensive driving program in New York.Michael D. Albany, NY This is my second attempt at an online defensive driving school and this one was the best! I will recommend to all my friends!Bob F. Buffalo, NY I must say I've heard horror stories from my friends about taking defensive driving school class. I honestly don't have one bad thing to say it was really simple and enjoyable.Andrew K. Long Island, NY The Improv Traffic School has made this process an actual joy to experience. I've gained some knowledge, had a good time doing it and everyone who helped me on the phone was so incredibly kind and sweet. THANK YOU! Blessings.Caroline M. New York, NY It was the BEST NEW YORK DEFENSIVE DRIVING SCHOOL that I ever took and I actually learned few things.Mike V., Yonkers, NY You can always count on Improv Traffic School… your customer service is fantastic. I made my entire family take your Internet Defensive Driving Course.Russell J., Albany, NY What a great service for New York drivers… anyone can use an insurance discount in these hard times. Your accident prevention course rocks!Bill G. Buffalo, NY Great Way to complete defensive driving and save on your insurance…Kenneth K. Brooklyn, NY Your customer support is outstanding… I will recommend this defensive driving course to all my friends.Erin H., Buffalo, NY I took a classroom defensive driving in NY few years ago and this is so much better..just like you promised Fun Fast Done…ThanksNeil K., Long Island, NY What a great defensive driving course, every New Yorker should be required to take this.Kathleen C. Brooklyn, NY This defensive driving course is awesome!Anthony D., Buffalo, NY What a great way to save on your auto insuranceCecil C., New York, NY This is really great service for NY drivers, this is my second time doing defensive driving and I really enjoy doing with you, after 3 years I will be back.Martha K., New York, NY I have taken the classroom course 3 times, and the last time the instructor was pretty entertaining. This course, however, was much more convenient and also entertaining.Sharon A., Brooklyn, NY This course was excellent and entertaining while delivering important life saving information. I plan to see if IMPROV has other types of classes because their delivery was excellent.Kim B., Buffalo, NY
Defensive Driving NY
More information to help you make the right choice.
Following are the steps necessary to attend a NY defensive driving course online and get your auto insurance discount and point reduction:
Every three years, all family members who are a principal driver of a vehicle on the insurance policy should take the NYS defensive driving course - Each driver will receive a 10% discount on the auto insurance policy.
Review the list of NYS DMV-Approved PIRP Providers.
Choose the best online defensive driving course for you.
Register for the NY State defensive driving course online as soon as possible.
Take and complete the NY online defensive driving course. Complete the course at your convenience in the same day or over 30 days; it's up to you!
Your original certificate of completion will be mailed to you the very next day after you complete the course.
Begin saving money on your auto insurance! Repeat every three years to renew and retain your insurance rate discount.
The NY defensive driving school will electronically report your completion to the NYS DMV within 30 days so that the DMV can process your four (4) point reduction against driver license suspension (points received within the past 18 months). Take the NY defensive driving course online every 18 months for point reduction/suspended license prevention purposes.
About the Course
What is I-PIRP?
I-PIRP is an acronym for the Internet/Alternate Delivery Method Point and Insurance Reduction Program.
Who is eligible to take this course?
Any New York driver is eligible for this defensive driving course and will save money on their insurance whether they have points on their driving or not.
Will I save more if members of my family take the course?
Yes, the insurance premium will apply to all motor vehicles principally operated by members of the family who complete the course. Please note that the discount can be applied to only one driver for each covered vehicle. To confirm the exact amount you will save, please contact your insurance agent.
How much does the online defensive driving course cost?
Although our course is competitively priced, the real value is in our 24/7 customer care and our fast DMV reporting. See the listed price above for the current course cost. In addition, a $1.50 fee for processing and mailing the official original certificate will be added as well as the $8.00 mandatory NY DMV reporting fee. Optional features such as the Audio Read-along can be added or removed. These fees will be clearly itemized and the total price will be displayed on the payment screen. Promotion codes must be applied prior to completing payment for the course.
How long does it take to complete an I-PIRP course?
State rules require that all I-PIRP courses are a minimum of 320 minutes of instruction time. The good news - you have 30 days to complete and can log in and out as many times as you like. The course is accessible 24/7.
How much time does your course take to complete?
320 minutes. All NY DMV approved courses are at least 320 minutes long to meet requirements of the NYS DMV for the Defensive Driving program. You now have an option of completing the course online or attending a classroom with one of our certified affiliates.
Who should take the defensive driving PIRP course?
Each person with a New York driver license listed as a principal operator on an automobile policy must take this course in order to be eligible for a discount. Example: if a family consists of a husband, wife and a teenaged driver who own 3 automobiles, all three operators must take the course to be eligible for a discount on each automobile.
Can I complete the NY Defensive Driving Course Online?
Yes. We are one of very few courses that can either be completed online or in a classroom. In addition, due to our proprietary validation system, you will not be required to take a proctored exam once you are done with the course. Which means - you can do it ONLINE, 100%!
Is your website secure?
Yes. The DMV requires that all I-PIRP course providers provide secure websites that protect the personal information of those who take the courses.
How is your Course different from others?
We are the only course that is allowed to use humor to teach what can be a very dry subject. We figure if you enjoy the presentation you will learn more. Also, because of our unique technology this course is not required to administer final exams or send you for outside ID verification.
After I complete the New York Defensive Driving course, how do I receive the point reduction?
We will notify the NY DMV after you complete the course. A notice will then be entered on your New York driving record, and the NY DMV computer will automatically reduce your active point total by up to four points. "Point reduction" means the NY DMV will not count up to four points on your driving record toward license revocation or suspension. Points must have been applied to your driving record within the past eighteen (18) months to qualify for reduction with this course. We will also mail you a certificate of completion to present to your insurance company.
Do I receive point and insurance reduction if I take an I-PIRP course?
Yes. When you complete an I-PIRP course, you receive the same benefits as when you complete a classroom PIRP course. You can reduce your driver violation point total by a maximum of four points, and you can save ten percent on your auto liability and collision insurance premiums.
How does the I-PIRP course compare to the classroom course?
Both the classroom PIRP course and the I-PIRP course have very similar content and information, and both courses include 320 minutes of instruction. The classroom course is given in one daytime session or two evening sessions. You can take the I-PIRP course from home, at a convenient time for you. You can take the I-PIRP course at your own speed within the 30-day period.
Can I log off and continue an I-PIRP course at a later time or use different computers for separate course sessions?
Yes. You can log in and out of the course as many times as you wish, allowing you to take the course in increments rather than all at one time. However, the NY DMV requires that you complete the I-PIRP course within 30 days of the date you register for the course. You can complete the course in as many sessions as necessary, but you must complete the course within 30 calendar days of registration. Your data will be stored on-line for each course session. You bill be assigned a user ID (your DL #) and a password (which you choose) when you register for the course. You can use your ID and password to log in on any computer that can access the Internet with an acceptable connection.
Can teen drivers take the course?
YES, this defensive Driving course saves money and increases driver's awareness. It makes an excellent gift to give to a youthful operator.
Are there tests or a final exam for our I-PIRP course?
Because of our unique technology you can complete our course without any final exams. There are four simple questions at the end of each chapter and you are only required to get three right.
What personal information is required to take the course?
We collect certain personal information from you in order to verify your identity and your participation. This includes identity information like the Client ID number from your NYS driver license and your name and date of birth. Identity and participation information consists of personal preference information. We also collect credit card information for the course fee. Under the I-PIRP requirements, your personal information must be (and is) protected. Our website is secure and we do not share your personal information. Please read our privacy policy for more information.
What is done to ensure that the person who registers for the course is the person who takes the course?
We use a personal preference method to validate that the person who registered for the course is the same person who takes the course. Any person who attempts to defraud the system or who accepts a course completion certificate and its associated benefits without having personally completed the entire course has committed a crime and may be subject to prosecution, fines and imprisonment.
How often can I take the I-PIRP course for point reduction?
Every 18 months four (4) points can be reduced on your driving record and every three years for insurance reduction.
How often can I take the I-PIRP course for insurance reduction?
Your certificate of completion submitted to your insurance company will be valid for three (3) years of insurance rate reduction.
What are the hardware and/or software requirements for your course?
Processor (CPU) with 2 gigahertz (GHz) frequency or above. A minimum of 2 GB of RAM. Monitor Resolution 1024 X 768 or higher. A minimum of 20 GB of available space on the hard disk. Internet Connection Broadband (high-speed) Internet connection with a speed of 4 Mbps or higher. OS: Windows 7 minimum/Mac OS/Chrome or any modern operating systems. Browser: Any latest Browsers including Google Chrome, FireFox, Safari, IE. Speaker or Headphones for Audio.
What payment methods do you accept?
You may make your payment online by using a credit card, bank debit card, or Paypal. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. If you are uncomfortable submitting your payment online, you can contact our customer support representatives at 800-660-8908.
Where can I review the C-32A brochure?
You can review the C-32A brochure via this convenient NY DMV link: https://dmv.ny.gov/brochure/point-insurance-reduction-program
What is done to ensure that the person who registers for the course is the person who takes the course?
Any person who attempts to defraud the system or who accepts a course completion certificate and its associated benefits without having personally completed the entire course has committed a crime and may be subject to prosecution, fines and imprisonment.
Defensive Driving Courses Available In New York State
Defensive driving courses in New York State are typically called point and insurance reduction programs, or PIRP for short. These courses are meant to equip drivers with the knowledge and skills that are necessary to remain safe while behind the wheel. New York drivers who successfully complete a defensive driving course can have up to a maximum of 4 points taken off of their New York state driving records.
New York's Defensive Driving Course Details
New York state drivers who would like to participate in a defensive driving course must enroll in one that is administered by an approved classroom provider. Otherwise, they won't be eligible for the driving record point reduction. The course must be taught by a certified instructor and drivers must partake in the course's full 320 minutes.
Those who would rather participate in a defensive driving course from the comfort of their homes can choose to complete an online course from an approved provider. Many favor the online option as it is available at any time of the day. Drivers can complete the coursework from any location with an Internet connection. The other benefit of the online course is that students can pause their progress at any point and resume their coursework later on when the time is right. This is ideal for individuals with hectic schedules who find it challenging to participate in a 320 minute sit-down course in a physical classroom.
What's Necessary To Participate In A New York State Defensive Driving Course
Those who choose to participate in the online version of New York State's defensive driving course will be required to complete it within 180 days of their initial registration. Anyone who fails to pass the course within this time period will be failed and will not receive a refund. The course also requires an up to date New York state driver's license.
Drivers should also be aware that the successful completion of an approved defensive driving course will not forgive a driver responsibility assessment fee or prevent a suspension or mandatory revocation of a driver's license.
The Benefits Of Participating In A New York State Defensive Driving Course
Once a driver has successfully completed an approved defensive driving course NY, he/she will be eligible for a 10 percent reduction in his/her auto insurance rate for the next 3 years. New York state drivers can participate in a defensive driving course once every three years in order to continue receiving lower auto insurance premiums. Those who successfully complete the defensive driving course will also have up to 4 points removed from their New York State driving records.
A certificate of completion will be mailed from the course provider within 45 days if the course was completed in a physical classroom. Those who successfully complete an approved online defensive driving course will receive the certificate within 14 business days. This certificate should be copied and presented to your auto insurer within 90 days of finishing the course. Those who don't receive their completion certificates 8 weeks after completing the course should reach out to the course administrator for assistance.
Useful Learning Resources:
- Defensive Driving Course Albany NY
- Defensive Driving Course Benefits
- Defensive Driving Course Bronx NY
- Defensive Driving Course Brooklyn NY
- Defensive Driving Course in Queens NY
- Defensive Driving Course in Rochester NY
- Defensive Driving Course Long Island NY
- Defensive Driving Course NY Can Save On Insurance Costs
- Defensive Driving Course NYC NY
- I Can See Clearly Now: More than a Song
- Relatively Easy Steps You Can Take To Save on Your Auto Insurance
- Obscure New York Law That Can Save NY Drivers 100's On Their Auto Insurance
- Driving More Efficiently
- How an Online New York Defensive Driving Course Can Save You Money…and More!
- Three Things You Need to Know About NY Traffic Law
- The Point Reduction Program - Online!


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Though gun sales have skyrocketed on fears about new restrictions, gunmaker stocks may be suggesting that the market is close to peaking.
Demand for firearms has been so strong over the past year that manufacturers have been running their plants at near capacity to keep up. That has translated into big increases in sales and earnings for companies such as Smith & Wesson and Sturm Ruger, but their stocks have lacked pop this year after a hot run in 2012.
Smith & Wesson shares are up 3 percent so far in 2013, well off the nearly 10 percent gain for the small-cap Russell 2000, while Sturm Ruger is up 10 percent.


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Hilhi claims district crown
Spartan girls turn in a dominant performance to win their second district track title in three years
NEWBERG Champions again.
It took until the very last event to seal the deal, but the Hillsboro girls are district meet champions once again.
On the strength of a mind-blowing performance from Anna Dean and an ever-game sprint crew, the Spartans edged McMinnville 124 to 120.3 last Friday at Newberg High School to claim their second Pacific Conference district title in three seasons.
The girls are talented girls and great girls and a lot of fun to have on the team, Hilhi coach Tim Kasper said. And they just came through again.
Entering the final event of the meet, the 4x400-meter relay, the Spartans trailed the Grizzlies by a little more than a point. That meant if either relay could win the race, it would also win the meet for its team.
Good thing Hilhis long relay team is its ace in the hole, then.
Sami Moellmer, Kennedy Taube, Kylee Taube and Krissy Thomas pulled away early and crushed the field by almost four seconds to win in 4 minutes, 2.69 seconds to lock up the team title. McMinnville finished fourth.
I just think we did the best we could, Dean said. Everyone gave everything they had. We finished really strong.
Dean had a little bit to do with that, too.
Between last Thursdays preliminaries and Fridays finals, the superlative junior absolutely crushed it, winning all four of her events as well as setting five meet records and one school record while helping tie another.
Her banner Friday started in the 4x100 relay, when she, Thomas, and the Taube sisters set a meet record and tied the school record (48.15). The momentum continued into the sprints, when Dean (12.22), Thomas (12.34) and Kylee Taube (12.29) went 1-2-5 in the 100.
That was tough to top, but Dean managed in the 100 hurdles. There, the reigning state champion blasted the field in 14.18 to finally break Erin Kellys longstanding school record (14.61, set in 1998). Only Tigards Lindsey Rosette third at state last season was within shouting distance (14.86) at the finish.
Every race I just got more and more speechless at how I was competing, because I was going over my expectations, Dean said.
That hurdles performance had both Kasper and Hilhi hurdles coach Larry Binkerd speculating that Dean had moved into the top 10 all-time in Oregon history.
Try top two. Only Lincolns Bianca Mathabane (13.57, 2006) has run faster.
Dean capped her day by leading Thomas and Taube to a 1-2-3 finish in the 200. The junior was just 0.14 seconds off her PR in 25.74. Thomas finished in 26.27, with Taube next in 26.95.
Kennedy Taube (first, 400, 58.94) and Mikayla Webb (second, discus, 110 feet, 8 inches) also qualified for state as individuals. Webb (javelin, 116-3) and Moellmer (400, 1:01.33) added fourth-place finishes.
Other key scorers for the Spartans were Lauren Lykins (fourth, 800, 2:23.90), Payton Johnson (fourth, discus, 106-2), Alana Baldwin-Joiner (sixth, 3,000, 11:18.26) and Anna Mathisen (sixth, shot put, 30-5½).
Courtney Vacek and Leah McClain led Glencoe to fourth place (87.3 points) with individual victories.
Going into the last triple jump round, Vacek trailed Tualatins Karina Moreland, the 2013 champ, by a fraction of an inch. But Vacek bombed out to 38 feet, 7 inches on her last try to top Moreland (36-10) by nearly two feet. Both girls shattered the 1995 meet record by Forest Groves Kristin Sanders (36-2¾). Vaceks leap tied for the 11th-longest ever among Oregon girls.
I could tell as I was jumping that it was far, said Vacek, who also finished fifth in the long jump (16-3½). And when I landed, I kind of stopped and I looked back, and I was like, OK, that looks OK. It felt different.
As for McClain, she got what she wanted in the 300 hurdles. A year after finishing in the hard-luck third spot, the Tide junior gapped the field in the homestretch to win by more than a second (45.85), setting off a wave of emotions at the finish line.
It feels so good, McClain said. I worked so hard, and oh, man, I wanted that so bad.
As for eighth-place Century (35 points), the Jaguars will send Braanna Weber to state for the third consecutive year. The junior finished second in the 800 in 2:21.55 behind Tigards Megan Franz (2:20.35). Weber also took fourth in the 1,500 (4:57.97) and fifth in the 300 hurdles (50.12).
Martyna Adamiec added a third place in the high jump (5-0), while Darryll Buckley took fourth in the 100 hurdles (15.84) for Century.


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This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
France on Saturday bestowed its highest honor on a Salt Lake City man who, at age 22, drove a truck into the surf at Omaha Beach on D-Day and was later in the Battle of the Bulge.
Emanuel Mike Kladis, 91, is troubled by a bad back and legs, but had no trouble standing as Marie-Helene Glon, France's honorary consul in Salt Lake City, pinned the Legion of Honor medal on his lapel and kissed the air on both sides of his head.
She thanked him for helping save France from "sheer hell."
"You have rescued people who you didn't even know, but you can be sure those people have not forgotten you," Glon told Kladis.
"Their children and grandchildren have not forgotten you. We will never forget."
Some 75 friends and family members gave Kladis a standing ovation at the culmination of the ceremony at the Salt Lake Masonic Temple, where Kladis has been part of the Masonic community for decades.
Kladis' friend, Jimmie Miller, a retired lieutenant colonel in the Air Force Reserve, said Kladis was reticent about applying for the honor. The French government has been offering it since 2004 to American servicemen and women who helped liberate France from the Nazis.
Glon said that in her six years in the post, only one other Utahn has been honored with the medal.
"I finally convinced Mike to do this by telling him the next big event in his life, he's not going to enjoy as much," Miller joked as he read a short biography.
Kladis was born in Granger, and was drafted into the Army in October 1942.
On June 6, 1944, he drove his truck which he had waterproofed with wax on its spark plugs and distributor wires and a pipe for air sticking out of the hood off the ship. Luckily, the water came only halfway up the truck, and Kladis carried ammo and food onto Omaha Beach and to the troops on the front lines there and throughout France, Belgium and the Netherlands.
In late 1944, he was in the Ardennes Forest and was in the Battle of the Bulge.
When the war in Europe ended, he was put on a ship bound for the Pacific theater. War ended there, too, so the ship instead took him to New York.
After he returned to Utah, Kladis married Ruby Shuput and had a career as a truck driver and a diesel mechanic for Salt Lake County government, retiring in 1987. The couple have one son, Mike Kladis.
Kladis had little to say for himself at the ceremony.
"I enjoyed doing it, but I don't want to do it again," said Kladis. "That's about all I can say."
A friend, Robert Shupe, said he has known Kladis for years, but never knew he was in pivotal battles.
"There aren't very many graduates of World War II who talk about it and Mike was one of those," said Shupe, a Navy veteran of the Korean War.
Kladis said it never occurred to him to tell all. "I didn't like to brag about it, I guess."
firstname.lastname@example.com: @KristenMoulton
Know a vet who qualifies?
Utah veterans can apply for France's Legion of Honor through the French consulate in San Francisco, 415-397-4330.
To qualify, one must have fought in at least one of the four main campaigns of the liberation of France: Normandy, Provence, Ardennes or northern France.
D-Day">Legion of Honor. France's highest distinction, the honor was begun in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte.


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By Julie van der Poel Jan 07, 2013 0
The Resolution Report
Happy New Year! It seems as though not so long ago, I started another column with those very same words. In preparation for today's installment of Transition from the Trenches, I re-read my first column of 2012 entitled New Year, New Resolutions. I think the resolutions I made last year were good ones, and I'm proud to say that I was pretty successful at sticking to them. (That said, perhaps I would have been even more successful had I re-read that column before now.) I have a few new resolutions for 2013, but first I thought I'd report on how I did with last year's list.
Last year, I resolved to start attending seminars and workshops regarding adult services and other Transition related topics. As a result of that resolution, I was successful in enrolling Cameron in an employment support program. And that program was successful in securing paid employment for Cameron. Can I get a big, "Woo Hoo!"? It was well worth sticking to that resolution and fighting the crosstown traffic to attend that particular information session. I did attend a handful of such sessions, but my attendance could have been better. I will build on the success I had, and just roll that resolution right on over to my 2013 list to ensure further successes this year.
At the start of 2012, I also resolved to keep Cameron on his toes. Now this was somewhat of an empty netter, because Cameron does a pretty good job of staying on his toes without my assistance. This resolution is more about modifying my own behavior than Cameron's. As my loving husband so delicately points out, I tend to come to Cameron's rescue far too quickly. This is one of the resolutions I should have re-read before now. Maybe tattoo it on my forearm, even. So this resolution will roll over to 2013 as well, with a slight modification: I resolve to keep Cameron on his toes by holding him more accountable and not by rushing to bail him out at the first sign of a struggle.
And lastly in 2012, I resolved to keep the short term in sight, as well as the long term. I think I was successful in doing this in a balanced manner. I managed to step back from my obsessive search for postsecondary options, and focus more on current conditions. The paid employment I mentioned earlier is the biggest result of this division of energy. But I still have my ear to the ground for what comes after high school. I made sure Cameron's application for vocational rehabilitation services was processed, and have received the good news that he qualified for the highest level of support offered. Once Cameron graduates from high school, this support will come in mighty handy when determining his next steps. Keeping my energy balanced between present and future is definitely a habit I'm happy to keep.
In addition to rolling my 2012 resolutions forward and continuing on with them in 2013, I have a few new entries to the list. I resolve to stop deciding what Cameron would like or would be willing to try before evening consulting him on the matter. I need to remind myself that Cameron is still growing and developing, and he's quite capable of forming his own opinions. This applies to food, clothes, activities, and even his willingness to ride his bike to work in nasty weather. If he has a problem with something, he's perfectly capable of speaking up, and it's not my job to do it for him.
My final resolution for 2013 has little to do with Cameron. I resolve to make my voice bigger when it comes to speaking up about Transition issues for young adults with ASD. This has nothing to do with my ego. I think issues facing this aging population deserve much attention, and I am going to do my part to bring these issues to light. Now exactly how I'm going to increase my voice remains to be seen. Maybe it will be via social media. Worth noting, at the time of this writing, I have exactly three Twitter followers. And I'm not exactly sure how the whole Twitter thing works. I resolve to figure it out, though.
Wish me luck on successful resolution implementation for 2013! I wish you luck with your list as well. And if you don't have a list, feel free to borrow from mine.


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You are making some wrong assumptions.nikalaitzian wrote:the kite is a 21m flysurfer.actualy there is no wind just a slight breeze and the gravity effect.massive balls and a lot of faith to the equipment !!!who needs a para glider to fly!kites are much stronger if you concider that they have been made to crash and loop and still stay in one piece.that guy broke all the records.he deserves a prize and sponcores.
p.s.the parachute up there hanging from a kite is like the life vest in a passenger aircraft...totally USELESS!!!!
UAH -- it "Wasn't" worthless !!waynepjh wrote: ...
Why say his reserve parachute is worthless?
You don't know how the reserve chute works, do you?nikalaitzian wrote:Hold your horses guys!!!You are saying that if a line broke and goes to an uncontroled loop situation he will try a)eject the kite b)eject the leash c)control the downfall and be in the correct position to deploy the paracute....come on you must be Felix to do that !!!!
As for the lines...I have a bar wich i use only in snowkite and it is new(i rebuilt every season) and after a midle line breakage during a megaloop i have also one..(lucky to survive after that with 2 broken ribs)
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|Latitude 10 (ST2) display support
|Screen rotation is disabled when the Latitude 10 (ST2) is connected to an external display. (Similar to the screen rotation being disabled when connected to docking station).
|How to configure an external display
|When using the Latitude 10 (ST2) with an external display/projector or device - the 40-PIN AC adapter must be connected in order to establish a link with the external display or projector. Once the link has been established the AC adapter can be removed and the link remains functional.
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loungingSaturday, March 01, 2008
This is one of those projects that is so darn easy with such pleasing results. Even if you are a new sewer, you can make these. The directions are super easy and super detailed. The biggest problem I had with these is showing them to you. Because really, am I putting my photo on the internet in my jammies? No, I'm not sleeping in these. No way. Ahem.
Lounge Pants from Amy Butler's In Stitches book. I used a thrifted sheet out of my sheet stash. (Idea prompted by Soulemama) I think I paid $2.00 for it. I am so tempted to use every sheet I have to make more. Although, I will restrain from doing that, I will make more. A few more.
I omitted the trim from the bottom, because, well I just didn't feel like doing it. This pair is a little long. Just a tad. However, with the fit and the comfort level, these have fast become my favorite lounge pant.
64 comments
those are so cute and they look so comfy!! i may have to bust out the sewing machine and give them a go...ReplyDelete
so adorable.ReplyDelete
and thrifted, at that!
love them, and your handiness.
I saw a pair of these on Soulmama's blog a while back which prompted me to add Amy's book to my wish list. Yours look super comfortable. Now, if I could only get comfortable using a sewing machine. I have a stack of vintage sheets just waiting around for something.ReplyDelete
Don't they look great, so comfy! I like the colour too.ReplyDelete
ahhhh, abi, is that who is was? i couldn't remember where i saw them.......i thought it was wisecraft, and i went through all of her archives to link there to no avail. that must have been why......ReplyDelete
Love those! So cute and comfy and what a great idea to use old bedsheets. Cheap idea too - gotta love that!ReplyDelete
gotta make these. need more sheets.ReplyDelete
I love them. I might as well add it to my list. :)ReplyDelete
Leslie that yellow is so darn cheery, nice work!ReplyDelete
what a great idea!!ReplyDelete
i love them, and the pattern is perfect to wait for spring!
they are lovely!
I love the yellow~ you never seize to amaze me Leslie!ReplyDelete
It looks really nice and comfortable!!ReplyDelete
Those are so cute! I made a pair for a Christmas gift and I agree -- so quick and easy!ReplyDelete
you make my day xxxReplyDelete
Those are way cozy looking! I like to thrift for flat sheets too -- I use them for backings for blankets...then I find cheapo old/ugly blankets for the inside so I don't have to mess about quilting them down. :)ReplyDelete
Fabulous pants, Lady! I've long believed in making things from sheets. The Lounge Pants are brilliant.ReplyDelete
Gorgeous! I have that In Stitches book too. I'll definitely be making these pants soon...especially since I could go to the thrift store to get some cheap sheets to make them. What an awesome idea! I remember someone else doing this and had totally forgotten about this cheap way to get fabric. I'm so glad you mentioned it!ReplyDelete
I have a sheet downstairs that I think I have to make into a pair of these pants, though I don't think they'll look quite as cute on me! Adorable.ReplyDelete
It is things like this that make me really really want to learn to sew. I have two broken sewing machines in my closet right now because every time I try to learn I break them. No one can figure out what I am doing wrong...maybe I need to actually take a class. I am inspired now to actually go out and find one! You are so talented!ReplyDelete
Wow, as if I didn't already want a pair of those, now I REALLY do!ReplyDelete
And now I have yet another reason to go thrifting this weekend...
- Anonymous3/06/2008
I actually love that they're a bit long. I wonder if they could be adapted into yoga pants... Hmm... As they are now they'd be pretty loose and not great but maybe with a few alterations.ReplyDelete
I love the fabric, too. Just right for early March -- clearing away the dark of February with something cheery.
OK. Hello. Now I know why I never gave those orange paisley sheets away when the no longer fit our new mattress. Hello lounge pants. Thank you!ReplyDelete
Oh, they are so lovely! Do you have the pattern?ReplyDelete
- Anonymous10/08/2008
Can we say CHRISTMAS Gifts? Hello - found the cutest ruffled pink floral pillowcase - makes a 3-4T size pair to perfection!ReplyDelete


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SoftBank Takes Offensive on Sprint, and More
What's News: SoftBank's CEO launches a biting attack on Dish Network's competing bid for Sprint Nextel. Home prices grow at fastest pace in 7 years. 'Kinky Boot' and 'Matilda' lead 2013 Tony Nominations. Joanne Po reports. Photo: Getty Images
This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.
I ... I ... feel harder to sit on Sprint this is what's news I'm WS J live unto Lanco ... Softbank CEO Masayoshi Son want to think I did catch on Dish Network's competing bid for Sprint Nextel ... favorite led the U S Kerry read that and also delayed to turn around without providing any telecommunications expertise in a forty minute derives aimed at winning over Sprint shareholders Mr. Son calls ... Dish is assertion that its twenty five and a half billion dollar offer present a premium to Softbank's ... quote totally wrong incomplete and ill story ... an upright five on the economic front home prices hit a seven year high of the Ensign peak Case Shiller home price index of twenty cities rose nine point three percent in February ... from a year ago ... as the index's highest annual growth rate since two thousandsix given by a limited supply of homes for sale ... the report shows brought these home price gains with all twenty cities that compose the index ... was seen year over year price gains ... and that twenty thirteen Tony nominations are out Finney whoppers musical kinky boots comes out on top garnering thirty nominations ... British import musical Matilda collect well ... and kicking receives ... ten Tony nods ... for best play nominees ... are the assembled parties looking guy that estimate of Mary ... as well as by the end Sonya and Masha can fight ... award ceremony will take place at Radio City music all the New York on tonight ... bookie keep us anomaly this is about instructed and what's news I'm WS J last


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Poor-shooting Miami ousted from NCAA tournament with 71-61 loss to Marquette
WASHINGTON – Miami's troubles began with a frustrating bus ride to the arena and continued during a first half in which the number of Hurricanes baskets could be counted on one hand and a thumb.
And soon after the finest basketball season in Miami history ended with a 71-61 loss to Marquette in the NCAA tournament Thursday night, the Hurricanes wondered aloud why this game was so different than many of the 35 that preceded it.
"It was really the first time all season long that we didn't have one guy get a hot hand and give us a chance to stay with them," coach Jim Larranaga said.
The Hurricanes went 6 for 29 from the field in the first half while falling behind by 13 points, and it only got worse after that. Sometimes, Marquette played brilliantly on defense. And sometimes, Miami just missed an open shot.
Basically, nothing went right.
"You ever have days where you're just out of sync or things just don't run along smoothly?" Larranaga said. "Almost like our trip over here. Our hotel is a mile and a half, it took us 45 minutes to get here. We had to go on nine different streets, weaving our way in and out of traffic and everything. And that's the way it seemed on the court. We were trying to find our way and never could. Never could get in rhythm offensively, and defensively."
Marquette (26-8), the No. 3 seed in the East Regional, shot 54 percent overall and 65 percent (15 for 23) in the second half. The second-seeded Hurricanes shot 34 percent overall and never led after going up 4-2.
"The game is very simple," Larranaga said. "There are only two things you have to do in basketball — one, put the ball in the basket, two, stop the other team from putting the ball in the basket. We weren't able to do either."
And so, Miami (29-7) still hasn't advanced past the round of 16 in the NCAA tournament. But that didn't entirely ruin a season in which the Hurricanes pinned a 90-63 defeat on hated Duke and won the Atlantic Coast Conference regular-season and tournament titles.
"The things that we've done this season will never be taken away from us," forward Julian Gamble said. "It's history that will stand forever. Everyone on this team was a vital part of that. It was the greatest season in Miami history, and it's something I'm happy to be part of."
The Hurricanes also got outrebounded 36-31, in part because they were without 6-foot-10 center Reggie Johnson, who sustained an injury in Miami's second-round win over Illinois.
But it probably wouldn't have mattered. Not on this night.
"The one thing I can't question is our effort," guard Durand Scott said. "We went out there and played as hard as we possibly could. It was just not our night. Give credit to Marquette as well, they played phenomenal defense. That's just how it goes sometimes."
Scott fouled out with 47 seconds left and received a standing ovation and polite applause from Miami fans behind the team bench. The 6-foot-5 senior was voted ACC defensive player of the year and contributed heavily to the Hurricanes' success this season. But in this game he was 3 for 13 from the floor.
Shane Larkin led the Hurricanes with 14 points and Kenny Kadji had 11.
Kadji gave Miami a bit of hope early in the second half when he drained a 3-pointer to make it 30-19. But Marquette responded with an 11-4 spurt that put the Hurricanes in a 41-23 hole with 14:59 to go.
Miami then got a free throw from Larkin and a layup from Scott, the first time in the game the Hurricanes put a run of points together.
A 3 by Miami guard Trey McKinney Jones made it 44-30, but Marquette answered with four straight baskets to dispel any hope of a comeback.
The Hurricanes went 1 for 11 from beyond the arc in falling behind 29-16 at the break — matching their largest halftime deficit of the season.
The poor shooting began early. Miami missed all six of its 3-point tries and let a 4-2 lead turn into 12-4 deficit by going scoreless for nearly seven minutes. Minutes later, a follow-dunk by Marquette's Trent Lockett and a 3-pointer by Jamil Wilson made it 22-10.
The Hurricanes' starting backcourt of Scott and Jones combined to miss all 10 of their field goal tries, and backup Rion Brown went 1 for 6.