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Cover Story

Grades 4-6

Anchors Await

Should Laura Dekker, a 14-year-old-Dutch girl, be allowed to sail alone around the world in a 26-foot boat? (See TFK, 10/23/2009.) Last week, judges ruled that Laura, an expert sailor, had to put off her adventure until at least next July. The judges were concerned about her safety and that she would miss school. Laura told the court that she has agreed to be guided by an experienced sailor in a separate boat. And she'll take a first-aid course.

Laura is still hoping to be the youngest person ever to sail alone around the globe. "The record is not her primary goal. Laura just wants to sail," said Peter de Lange, her lawyer.

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