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The Best Thoughtful And Inexpensive Valentine’s Day Gifts

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Want to win points without breaking the bank? Here are some suggestions to give your loved one something special on a budget.

It isn’t just your special someone, people give gifts to a variety of people – partners, kids, parents, etc.  It can add up, especially in an uncertain economy. Why not pause and do something which has meaning and you both can enjoy the gift.  Here are the best thoughtful and inexpensive Valentine’s Day gifts.

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Cooking is an every day thing, but cooking for your partner on Valentine’s Day can be super romantic, especially if you cook something which is special between the two of you – favorite food, foods with means, or something which might take time.. Set the atmosphere with a beautiful table, china, lightening before you try to cook the most delicious meal you can. If you’re an average cook try a simple recipe or buy a meal package from your favorite store.

Bake some homemade treats like cookies or brownies. This thoughtful gesture shows you’re willing to put in the effort to make something special just for them. You can even package them in cute containers or bags for a more personalized touch
Create a personalized coupon book filled with promises to cook their favorite meal, give a massage, or watch their favorite movie together. This thoughtful gesture shows you care about their interests and are willing to make time for them. You can customize the coupons to fit your relationship and their preferences
Help your love move away from the phone and create a special photo book. Most drugstore and some other stores can print out the back in a day.  You can load with it 50 pictures which share happy memories, laughs and moments of your journey together. Perfect to have around the house and it demonstrates the bonds you share.

Last, think of an adventure day. An entire day planned around what they love. A trip to their favorite burger joint, coffee shop, a stoll in a romantic place, wine in front of a fireplace and dinner form your favorite take out. Add some silly phone but stating you have 15 jokes to share throughout the day. Bring out moment which bring smiles, laughters, and warmth to the deep and deepens the understanding between you both.

5 Ideas To Have A Fun Single’s Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is considered a big night for couples – but if you are single, it can be tough…here are some ways to make it fun

It is day of love, candy, silliness and more….but for some, it is a tough day emotionally. It is one of the busiest restaurant days and flowers and candy abound everywhere you look. But what if you are single or taking a break for the big night.  Just because you are single, doesn’t mean you have to hide, rather it gives the chance to do something special for yourself.  Here are 5 ideas on having a fun single’s Valentine’s Day.

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Gather your closest and/or your most fun friends and celebrate with a Guy/Galentine’s Day party. This can be a fun way to spend time with people you love and appreciate. You can play games, share snacks, and enjoy each other’s company without the pressure of romantic expectations. It’s a great way to remind yourself that you’re never truly alone on Valentine’s Day.

Treat yourself to a day of pampering. Book a spa appointment or create your own DIY spa day at home with face masks, bubble baths, and your favorite music. Self-care is essential for mental and physical well-being, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to prioritize it. Whether it’s a relaxing bath or a rejuvenating facial, make sure you feel loved and cared for by yourself.
Chill out with cannabis and let your body relax.  Watch a movie or lose yourself in music. marijuana taps into our minds in all sorts of ways, many of which seem to positively influence how we perceive things, including music. It also accesses a special neurotransmitter system, the endocannabinoid system, which regulates appetite, pain, mood and memory. The way the plant activates this system explains a lot of the unique effects. The THC in marijuana can increase dopamine release in the brain’s reward centers, leading to feelings of pleasure and euphoria.
Indulge in hobbies or interests. It can a be a chance to spend time iwth a new or existing activity you love, but might night share with others. Whether it’s gaming, cooking, or learning a new language, stepping out of your comfort zone can be incredibly rewarding. You might discover a new passion or talent, and it’s a great way to keep your day exciting and productive

Sometimes, the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is by taking a solo trip or exploring new places in your city. Whether it’s hiking a scenic trail, visiting a local museum, or trying a new restaurant, getting out and experiencing new things can be incredibly liberating. It’s a chance to focus on yourself and enjoy and discover new things.

The Best Marijuana Strains For Valentine’s Day

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It is the day for lovers and/or friends…make it a little extra special with these love strains.

Friday is Valentine’s Day, one of the most fraught emotional days of the year. It is one of hte business days of hte year for restaurants, second only to Mother’s Day.  It is also given rise for singles to celebrate including the new trends of Galentine’s Day.

Candy, chocolate, and sweets are a top choice for Valentine’s Day gifts. In 2018, 63% of consumers bought candy for Valentine’s Day, but this year think outside the heart shaped box.  Here are the best marijuana strains for Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re looking to enhance intimacy, boost creativity, or simply relax with your partner, there are numerous marijuana strains which can help set the mood. 

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When selecting a strain for Valentine’s Day, consider the desired effects and your partner’s preferences. Sativa-dominant strains like Lemonatti and Rainbow can enhance energy and creativity, while indica-leaning strains like Pineapple God and Sugar Black Rose offer relaxation. Balanced hybrids like Cereal Milk and Red Velvet provide a mix of both, making them versatile choices for any romantic evening.

Love Potion

This Sativa-dominant strain is known for its arousing effects. Love Potion enhances focus and energizes the mind, making it perfect for foreplay and deep conversations.

Lemonatti

This sativa-dominant hybrid offers a sophisticated blend of uplifting and relaxing effects, with THC levels ranging from 21-28%. Its energizing properties make it ideal for a lively (wink wink) Valentine’s evening.

Alien Cookies

This hybrid strikes a balance between relaxation and euphoria, creating a cozy atmosphere while setting the mood for connection.

Rainbow

This Uplifting strain has bright and is full of flavor, Rainbow is great for couples seeking a lighthearted, adventurous Valentine’s Day experience.

Pineapple God

This Indica-leaning is perfect for a relaxing evening, offering a stunning visual display of sticky green, pink, and purple buds. If you are spending the evening alone, this can put you in a great mood.

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Donny Burger

This Indica is ideal for winding down after a romantic evening, providing full-body relaxation effects perfect for cuddling.

Sugar Black Rose

This Indica offers a deeply relaxing experience with a sweet, fruity aroma, making it a beautiful gift for Valentine’s Day.

GG4 Sherbet FF

This energizing strain boosts energy and creativity, perfect for romantic moments and enhancing intimacy.

Cereal Milk

This balanced hybrid promotes creativity and sensory exploration, with a sweet, dessert-like flavor that pairs well with romantic treats….could be a big winner.

Create a cozy atmosphere with dim lighting and soft music and enjoy the cannabis alongside romantic treats like chocolates or desserts.  Avoid alcohol since combining marijuana and booze my not provide the right atmosphere.

 

Federal Funding Freeze To Hit Medical Marijuana Research

Research on Cancer, chronic pain, nausea and more are grinding to a halt due to the federal funding freeze.

New research is validating cannabis can help cancer, chronic pain or more.  It is a key alternative to avoid opioid use for post surgery pain.  But now the deal funding freeze to hit medical marijuana research has significant implications for various sectors of scientific research, including medical marijuana studies. While the freeze has been temporarily halted, the uncertainty it created has already affected ongoing projects and future research prospects.

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Medical marijuana research has long faced challenges due to federal restrictions. Despite growing interest in its therapeutic potential, the classification of marijuana as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act limits research opportunities. Historically, most federal funding for cannabis research has focused on its potential harms rather than its medical benefits. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) are key players in controlling access to research-grade cannabis, which further complicates the process for researchers.

Federal Funding Freeze To Hit Medical Marijuana Research

Effects of the Funding Freeze

  1. Uncertainty and Delayed Projects: The funding freeze, even if temporary, has introduced uncertainty into the research environment. Scientists rely on stable funding to plan and execute long-term studies. Any disruption can delay projects, impacting years of research efforts.
  2. Impact on Academic Freedom: The freeze is seen as a threat to academic freedom, as researchers fear speaking out against government actions might jeopardize their funding4. This fear can particularly affect medical marijuana research, which is already controversial and underfunded.
  3. Limited Access to Research Materials: The NIDA monopoly on research-grade cannabis has historically limited access to materials necessary for comprehensive studies6. A funding freeze exacerbates this issue by potentially reducing the already limited resources available for acquiring and studying cannabis.
  4. State-Level Initiatives: While federal funding is crucial, some states have taken the initiative to fund medical marijuana research. However, these efforts are often insufficient to compensate for the lack of federal support
The ongoing challenges in medical marijuana research highlight the need for consistent and supportive federal policies. As more states legalize cannabis for medical use, there is a growing demand for rigorous scientific studies to validate its efficacy and safety. However, until federal restrictions are eased and funding becomes more accessible, progress in this area will remain slow.
The federal funding freeze compounds the existing barriers to medical marijuana research, further hindering efforts to explore its therapeutic potential. Addressing these challenges requires a shift in federal policy to support comprehensive and unbiased research into cannabis’s medical benefits.

Where Does It Stand With Marijuana And Gun Ownership

Gun ownership is a popular topic in the US, but is there finally going to be movement about marijuana and gun ownership?

Marijuana and gun ownership is slowly winding its way through the courts. Cannabis is a hot topic at the state and business level.  Liquor companies, governors, and thousands of small businesses are holding there breath to see what the new administration is going to do. But duck and deer hunter and thousands like them are wondering where does it stand with marijuana and gun ownership?

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The legal landscape surrounding marijuana use and handgun ownership in the United States is evolving, with federal courts playing a pivotal role in shaping the narrative. This article provides an update on recent developments and their implications for individuals who use marijuana and wish to own firearms.

Under federal law, specifically 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3), it is unlawful for individuals who are “unlawful users of or addicted to any controlled substance” to possess firearms. Since marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, this law effectively prohibits marijuana users from owning guns, even in states where marijuana is legal.

black and silver revolver on red textile

In recent years, federal courts have begun to challenge the constitutionality of this prohibition, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen. This ruling emphasized that firearm regulations must align with historical American traditions regarding the right to bear arms.

One notable case is U.S. v. Daniels, decided by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. The court reversed a conviction under a federal law that prohibits firearm possession by individuals who are unlawful users of controlled substances. The decision highlighted that the law might be unconstitutional when applied to occasional or habitual drug use without evidence of continuous impairment.

Another federal appeals court has reaffirmed that banning gun ownership for people who occasionally use marijuana is unconstitutional, aligning with the reasoning in Daniels8.These rulings suggest a shift towards recognizing that occasional marijuana use does not historically justify a lifetime prohibition on firearm ownership..

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Despite these judicial developments, federal law remains unchanged, and marijuana users are still technically barred from possessing firearms. However, these court decisions may pave the way for future legal challenges to the federal prohibition.

As more states legalize marijuana, the tension between state and federal laws will continue to grow. Advocates argue that the prohibition on firearm ownership for marijuana users is inconsistent with the evolving legal status of cannabis and the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.

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In 2025, while there is anticipation around the potential rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, this change is not expected to occur within the year due to the lengthy administrative process involved. Such a rescheduling could eventually lead to a reevaluation of the firearm prohibition for marijuana users, but for now, the legal landscape remains complex and subject to ongoing litigation.

The intersection of marijuana use and handgun ownership is a contentious issue in the United States, with federal courts increasingly scrutinizing the constitutionality of laws that restrict firearm access for marijuana users. While recent rulings offer hope for reform,

Cannabis, Palestine And Gaza

Cannabis provides medical benefits and a chance to chill out – but is it legal in Palestine and Gaza?

Bordered by Jordan and Lebanon where it is a crime and Israel where it is legal, what about cannabis, Palestine and Gaza? Israel has made a name as being a global leader in cannabis research, especially with medical marijuana. Jordan and Lebanon still has it illegal, but it can be found and used. Palestine, whose population lives in a tense atmosphere, still has not made it available to the public, but the current situation should make them rethink their approach.
Historically, cannabis has been present in Palestine, but its legal status has remained unchanged despite research and a change Western stance. Israel, which shares a border with Palestine, legalized medical marijuana in 1999, but this has not influenced Palestine’s stance on the matter. The cultural and religious context, particularly the strong influence of Islam, plays a significant role in shaping attitudes toward cannabis use among Palestinian medical professionals and the general public

Cannabis, Palestine And Gaza

Although medical cannabis is not legal in Palestine, there have been discussions among medical professionals about its potential benefits. A qualitative study in the Gaza Strip found that while some medical professionals are open to the idea of medical cannabis, there is a lack of knowledge and a strong religious influence against the use. The study highlighted the need for more education and evidence-based research to inform future policies.

Alarmingly high prevalence of high-risk drug use among Palestinian males, which is not surprising considering the day to day tough environment. The tense atmosphere and uncertainty of day to day living can wreck havoc on mental health. In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study, the peer-reviewed journal specified levels of improvement among participants using smoked cannabis blends with a 9 percent THC concentration. With healthcare being difficult to manage currently, cannabis can be an additional help. Medical marijuana also can help with chronic pain, trouble sleeping an more.

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While Palestine is going through one of the tougher moments in the country’s history, relaxing the rules on cannabis could be a way to help their citizens take a breath during the current unsettled environment.

The Best Easy Super Bowl Cocktails

Ready to get your game on with these Super Bowl cocktails?

It is the finale to the football season and a good chunk of the population tunes in to watch the Super Bowl. Alone, with a few friends or a full on party…it is a festive occasions (at least until the 4th quarter in a tight game) and people enjoy a beverage.  The Super Bowl is a drinking day for most viewers.  As you settle into the 59th annual game, try the best Super Bowl cocktails.

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Creole Bloody Mary

In a nod to the host city New Orleans, a Creole Bloody Mary is the best to pre-func and get right to start watching the game! This is a flavorful way to start the day.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup vodka
  • 4-1/2 cups chilled tomato juice
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4-6 dashes Tabasco hot sauce
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Celery for garnish

Create

  1. Fill shaker with ice
  2. Combine vodka, juices, Worcestershire, salt, pepper and hot sauce in shaker
  3. Strain and pour in a tall glass with ice
  4. Garnish with celery stick

Super Bowl Julep

The nice thing about the Super Bowl is you can enjoy day drinking. While a Mint Julep is the drink of the Kentucky Derby, it is refreshing enough for morning football drinking. Plus it is good for the throat after all the cheering.

Ingredients

  • 4 sprigs of mint
  • 1 teaspoon of powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of water
  • 2 oz. bourbon
  • Fresh mint sprig, for garnish

Create

  1. Muddle the mint, the sugar and the water in a cup
  2. Add the bourbon and stir gently
  3. Fill a glass to the top with finely crushed ice, add the julep mix and garnish with mint

FYI, an ounce of mint simple syrup can be substituted for the mint/sugar/water mixture

Perfect Stormy

Why not combine the classic beer with the cocktail.  Mix it up and enjoy this drink…rich in flavor and filling enough you don’t have too many over the course of the game.

Ingredients

2 oz amber rum

1 oz egg white

1 oz fresh lime juice

¾ oz ginger simple syrup

3 dashes Scrappy’s lime bitters

4 oz light beer

Glass: Highball tumbler/Collins glas

Create

  1. Dry shake all ingredients except the beer
  2. Add ice and shake
  3. Double strain into a collins glass with ice
  4. Top up with beer

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Gatorade Margarita

Everyone knows hydration is important when plays sports. It is also important for fans, especially if they are celebrating.  Gatorade is part of the football culture, dive in with this take on a classic cocktail.

Ingredients

Create

  1. Mix the sugar and salt in a shallow dish
  2. Wet the rims of 4 to 6 rocks glasses with water and then dip in the sugar-salt mixture to coat
  3. Combine the sports drink, limeade concentrate, tequila and blue curacao in a large pitcher and stir
  4. Fill the rocks glasses with ice
  5. Pour the margarita into the glass
  6. Garnish each with an orange slice

Fourth Quarter Rum Countdown

When the fourth quarter hits, it can be a focus time, keep it simple with this classic drink.  Quick to prepare, refreshing to drink and the soda is a little caffeine boost after tailgating.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 oz Bacardi Superior rum
  • 3 oz cola
  • Lime for garnish

Create

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice
  2. Pour in a good rum
  3. Add the chilled cola, stir
  4. Garnish with lime

Try This Mouthwatering Pasta With An Optional Marijuana Kick

Nothing is better on a winter night than pasta – go the extra step with this cannabis infused tomato sauce

Super Bowl weekend, cold weather, or just the need for some comfort food? Try this mouthwatering pasta with an optional marijuana kick. This pasta will make your mouth grateful for winter as it warms you up and tickles your tastebuds. And it has the benefits of being able to help you relax if you add in some cannabis.

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Todd Gray is a highly accomplished chef with a rich culinary background. Gray was appointed one of the inaugural State Department Chefs representing the U.S. in Italy and Canada. Well-known in the culinary world, he has appeared on several cooking shows with renowned chefs like Bobby Flay, Guy Fieri, and Tyler Florence. In 2013, he co-authored the cookbook The New Jewish Table with his wife, Ellen Kassoff. Chef Gray’s extensive travels for culinary research have taken him to the Middle East for the Museum of the Bible and to New Zealand for the Cervena Council. 

Gray and Kassoff have developed numerous hospitality projects, including Salamander Resort and Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, Watershed at the Hilton Garden Inn, Equinox on 19th and Muse at the Corcoran Gallery of Art. Gray will be a featured speaker at February Women Who Grow Conference.

Here is how to mike Chef Gray’s mouthwatering pasta.  You can vary the marijuiana potency based on how much regular vs cannabutter you use in the recipe.

Ingredients 

  • 8 cloves roasted garlic, minced 
  • 2 teaspoons cannabutter 
  • 1 teaspoon miso paste 
  • 1 cup heavy cream 
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese 
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt 
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 

Create

  1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. 
  2. Pour in heavy cream,miso paste and bring to a simmer. 
  3. Whisk in Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. 
  4. Let simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes until it is thick and creamy. 
  5. Pour over pasta and serve immediately. 

Cannabutter Recipe (can make ahead)

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups butter 
  • 1 cup water 
  • 20 ML Cannabis oil 

Create

  1. Chop butter into smaller pieces 
  2. Put butter, water and cbd oil into a small pot 
  3. Heat over low heat for 2 hours (You want to use low heat so the CBD oil does not cook out) 
  4. Let the mixture cool a little 
  5. Stir and pour into airtight container 
  6. Refrigerate and use like normal butter

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The NFL, Super Bowl, CBD And Hemp

All eyes are on New Orleans for the Super Bowl. What role will CBD and Hemp play for players and fans?

The big game is in the party Capital of New Orleans this weekend – so what about the NFL, Super Bowl, CBD and hemp? New Orleans is a party capital and know for a good time. Football players and fans love a good times, but what can they do with cannabis while in the Big Easy?  For fans, while it is illegal, it isn’t hard to find and CBD and hemp products, including edibles since they are legal.

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The National Football League (NFL) has historically maintained a strict stance against cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, due to its classification as a Schedule I substance under federal law. However, recent developments have shown a shift in the league’s approach, particularly with the increasing acceptance of hemp-derived CBD.

The NFL has taken significant steps towards reevaluating its stance on cannabis, particularly CBD. The league has relaxed its cannabis policy, reducing penalties for players who test positive for cannabis. This shift focuses on ensuring responsible use without compromising health or performance2. Additionally, the NFL has partnered with researchers to study the safety and efficacy of CBD for pain management and neuroprotection from concussions, investing $1 million in such studies

CBD has emerged as an alternative for pain management and recovery in football. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high,” and research suggests it can reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve sleep—critical factors in athlete recovery. The NFL’s acceptance of CBD could pave the way for other sports leagues to reconsider their policies, reflecting broader societal trends toward cannabis normalization.

The NFL’s evolving stance on CBD and hemp reflects a growing recognition of the potential health benefits of these substances. As research continues and public opinion shifts, it is likely that the league will further adapt its policies. The partnership with researchers and the investment in studies signal a commitment to understanding the therapeutic benefits of CBD, particularly in managing pain and protecting against concussions.
As the NFL continues to navigate this complex issue, its decisions could have far-reaching implications for professional sports and beyond.

New Orleans and Marijuana

The Super Bowl followed by Mardi Gras – New Orleans is definitely the city of the moment – but will marijuana be in the mix?

They have the Super Bowl followed by the weeks long celebration of Mardi Gras. Folks are everywhere with open alcohol containers and you might catch a whiff of a green plant. As the party city of the country, what about New Orleans and marijuana? The commitment to imbibe is so strong, it took the threat of losing federal highways funds before they raised the minimum drinking age to 21. Securing the position of the last state to pass the legalization. While cannabis will definitely be at both marquee events this month, the city and state have a complicated with the plant.

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While recreational cannabis is illegal, New Orleans still hosts various cannabis-related events, such as the Big Easy Vibe Fest, which highlights the growing interest in cannabis culture and industry. Medical marijuana is legal and the city and state have embraced it. Also, being the Big Easy, there are illegal “cannabis” trucks which really sell heavy CBD. Scratch the surface, and you will find it all over.

person riding on tractor surrounded by peoples

In the early 20th century, New Orleans was at the forefront of marijuana prohibition in the United States. The city’s first ordinance banning marijuana was enacted in 1923, following a wave of public concern over its perceived dangers. This period, often referred to as the “marijuana menace,” was marked by police raids and arrests of users and sellers, with those caught being dubbed “muggleheads” by the press and law enforcement24. The state of Louisiana soon followed with its own prohibition laws, solidifying marijuana’s illegal status.

Fast-forward to 2016, when New Orleans took a significant step towards decriminalizing marijuana possession. Ordinance 31,148, signed into law by Mayor Mitch Landrieu, allowed for the issuance of summonses instead of arrests for marijuana possession, reducing penalties to modest fines1. This move was part of a broader trend across the U.S. to reevaluate marijuana laws, reflecting changing public attitudes towards the drug.

Currently, the only legal way to purchase and consume marijuana in New Orleans is through the state’s medical marijuana program. Patients must obtain a recommendation from a licensed healthcare provider to access cannabis products from approved dispensaries3. Louisiana also offers reciprocity for out-of-state medical marijuana patients, allowing them to purchase cannabis while visiting the city

The current political environment in the state doesn’t seem to eager to legalize something already used by a significant portion of the public.  But for now, everyone in town for party will have plenty of access.

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