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Tragedy Strikes: 9 Killed in Austria School Shooting

Brent Edward
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Tragedy Strikes: 9 Killed in Austria School Shooting

Key Takeaways:

  • A school shooting occurred in Graz, Austria, resulting in nine fatalities.
  • The suspect is among those killed.
  • The mayor expressed deep sorrow and confusion over the death toll.

A Devastating Day in Graz

In a heartbreaking turn of events, the city of Graz, Austria, faced a tragic school shooting that claimed nine lives. This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many in mourning.

The Shooting Unfolds

The shooting took place at a secondary school on Dreierschützengasse. The perpetrator, now deceased, was among the casualties. Students and staff were in the building when the incident occurred, creating scenes of panic and distress.

Casualties and Response

Nine individuals lost their lives, including the shooter. Police and emergency services swiftly responded, securing the area to ensure the safety of those present. Their prompt action was crucial in preventing further harm.

Mayor’s Message

Mayor Elke Kahr lamented the loss, expressing deep sorrow for the community. Initially, reports suggested ten deaths, but this was later revised to nine, highlighting the chaos and confusion in the aftermath.

Community in Mourning

The shooting has deeply affected Graz, with students, parents, and residents grappling with the loss. Flags are flown at half-mast as the community unites in grief.

Support and Unity

Local authorities and organizations are offering support to those affected, emphasizing the importance of coming together during this difficult time. Counseling services are available to help students and families cope.

Bigger Picture

This incident brings to light important discussions on school safety, gun control, and mental health. The community and nation will need to reflect on these issues to prevent future tragedies.

This tragic event reminds us of the importance of empathy and unity in the face of adversity. Our thoughts are with the people of Graz as they navigate this challenging time.

Texas GOP Cool on Redistricting Strategy

Brent Edward
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0
Texas GOP Cool on Redistricting Strategy

Key Takeaways:

  • Texas Republican lawmakers discussed redistricting plans to favor the GOP in 2026.
  • They left the meeting unconvinced about the plan’s potential success.
  • The White House encouraged the delegation to consider such a move.
  • Redistricting could impact future elections and political power in Texas.

Texas Republicans Mull Redistricting Plans

Texas Republican lawmakers met recently to talk about changing voting district maps. Their goal? To make the state even more favorable to GOP candidates in the 2026 midterm elections. However, after the meeting, they didn’t seem excited about the idea.

What’s Redistricting?

Redistricting is the process of redrawing voting district boundaries. Politicians often do this to gain an electoral advantage. By adjusting the lines, they can influence which party is more likely to win in certain areas.

Why Are Republicans Unenthused?

Despite the White House urging them to act, Texas Republicans aren’t sold on the plan. They might believe the effort isn’t worth it or that it won’t make a big difference. Redistricting can be complicated and politically risky.

Why Is Texas Important?

Texas has a growing population and 38 congressional seats. If Republicans can control redistricting, they could secure more seats in Congress. But the state is becoming more politically competitive, making it harder for the GOP to dominate.

What’s at Stake?

Redistricting affects who represents Texans in Washington. It can determine which policies are prioritized and how much power each party has. If Republicans succeed, it could help them win more elections. If not, Democrats might gain ground.

The Bigger Picture

This isn’t just about Texas. Redistricting efforts nationwide could shape the balance of power in Congress. States like Texas, Florida, and California are key battlegrounds. What happens here could influence national elections for years.

What’s Next?

It’s unclear if Texas Republicans will push forward with redistricting. They might wait and see how other states handle their maps before making a move. For now, the plan seems to be on the back burner.

Conclusion Texas Republicans are weighing the pros and cons of redistricting. While it could help them in future elections, they’re not sure it’s the right move. The decision could have big implications for Texas and the country.

Foreign Investors May Pull Out of the U.S. Due to New Tax Rule

Brent Edward
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0
Foreign Investors May Pull Out of the U.S. Due to New Tax Rule

Key Takeaways:

  • American fund managers are worried about a new tax rule in Trump’s tax bill.
  • This rule could make foreign investors take their money out of the U.S. quickly.
  • The rule targets foreign-owned companies with “unfair taxes.”
  • Congress is considering whether to keep or change this rule.

What’s Happening?

A new tax rule in President Donald Trump’s tax bill has American fund managers concerned. They’re lobbying Congress to change a part of the law that they think could scare off foreign investors. If this rule goes into effect, foreign investors might pull their money out of the U.S. fast.

The rule is part of a bill called the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” It passed in the House of Representatives in May. The goal of this bill is to penalize foreign companies operating in the U.S. if their home countries have “unfair taxes.” This part of the law is known as Section 899.

Right now, this bill is being discussed in Congress. But fund managers want lawmakers to rethink this rule. They believe it could hurt the U.S. economy by driving away foreign investment.

Why This Matters

Foreign investors put a lot of money into the U.S. They buy stocks, bonds, and even companies here. This investment helps the U.S. economy grow. But if foreign investors feel the rules are unfair or risky, they might take their money elsewhere.

Fund managers are worried that Section 899 could do just that. They say it’s not clear which countries have “unfair taxes” or how the rule will be enforced. This uncertainty could make foreign investors nervous and cause them to leave the U.S. market.

What’s Being Done

Fund managers are talking to lawmakers in Congress. They want to make sure that any new rules don’t chase away foreign investors. They’re asking for changes to Section 899 to make it clearer and fairer.

For now, nothing is certain. Congress is still deciding whether to keep, change, or remove this part of the law. Fund managers are hopeful that lawmakers will listen to their concerns and make the right decision.

The Potential Impact

If Section 899 goes into effect as is, it could have big consequences. Foreign investors might decide that the U.S. is no longer a safe place to put their money. This could hurt the stock market, slow down economic growth, and even affect jobs.

On the other hand, if Congress changes the rule, it could keep foreign investors confident in the U.S. economy. This would be good news for everyone involved.

What’s Next?

The future of Section 899 is still uncertain. Congress will continue to debate this rule in the coming weeks and months. Fund managers will keep pushing for changes to protect foreign investment.

For now, everyone is waiting to see what happens. The outcome of this debate could shape the U.S. economy for years to come.

Netanyahu’s Government on the Brink: Will He Survive the Vote?

Brent Edward
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0
Netanyahu’s Government on the Brink: Will He Survive the Vote?

Key Takeaways:

  • Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a critical vote to dissolve Israel’s parliament.
  • His coalition partners could overthrow his government, but experts doubt his political career is over.
  • Netanyahu has survived corruption charges and security failures, including the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023.
  • The opposition initiated the move to dissolve parliament, adding more uncertainty to Israel’s political future.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the country’s longest-serving leader, is facing a major test. On Wednesday, lawmakers will vote on whether to dissolve parliament, a move that could shake up the government. While this seems like a crisis, many believe Netanyahu’s political career is far from over.

Netanyahu has been in power for a long time, and his government has been through a lot. Just recently, Israel dealt with the aftermath of a shocking attack led by Hamas on October 7, 2023. Despite criticism over security failures, Netanyahu’s far-right coalition remains in control.

However, the current threat comes from within. Some of Netanyahu’s key coalition partners have warned they might join forces with the opposition to bring down the government. If they do, Israel could head into new elections, adding more chaos to its already volatile political scene.

But Netanyahu is no stranger to challenges. He has been battling corruption charges for years, and political experts say he is a master at survival. Many predict he will find a way to stay in power, even if the vote goes against him.

What’s at Stake?

The vote to dissolve parliament is a big deal. It was called by the opposition, which hopes to end Netanyahu’s rule. If the vote passes, Israel could face its sixth election in just five years.

But elections are expensive and unpredictable. Many Israelis are tired of constant political instability, and some fear it could harm the country’s ability to address pressing issues like security and the economy.

Netanyahu’s Long Battle

Netanyahu has been in politics for decades. He became prime minister for the first time in the 1990s and has held the role on and off since then. His leadership has been marked by controversy, but he has also maintained strong support from his base.

One major issue hanging over Netanyahu is corruption. He has been accused of fraud, breach of trust, and receiving bribes. He denies all charges, but the case has overshadowed his time in office.

Despite these challenges, Netanyahu has managed to stay in power. His government has implemented policies that appeal to his right-wing supporters, and he has maintained alliances with other like-minded politicians.

The October 7 Attack

One of the biggest crises Netanyahu’s government faced was the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. The attack caught Israeli security forces off guard, leading to widespread criticism of how the government handled the situation.

The aftermath of the attack placed enormous pressure on Netanyahu’s coalition. Critics accused the government of failing to protect citizens and called for accountability. However, Netanyahu’s government has managed to hold on to power, at least for now.

What’s Next?

The upcoming vote on dissolving parliament is just the latest twist in Netanyahu’s political journey. If the vote passes, Israel will head into another election cycle. If it doesn’t, Netanyahu’s government will continue, but the political tension is unlikely to ease.

For now, Netanyahu is focused on survival. His political skills and experience give him an edge, but the challenges he faces are significant. Supporters argue he is the best leader for Israel’s tough times, while critics say it’s time for change.

One thing is certain: Netanyahu’s story is far from over.

The Bottom Line

Netanyahu’s government is at a crossroads, but few believe this is the end for Israel’s longest-serving prime minister. With his track record of resilience, Netanyahu may once again find a way to outlast his challenges. However, the political uncertainty in Israel is likely to continue, leaving many wondering what comes next.

Former Employee Sheds Light on Government Efficiency

Brent Edward
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0
Former Employee Sheds Light on Government Efficiency

Key Takeaways:

  • A former government worker shares surprising insights about efficiency in federal agencies.
  • He claims waste, fraud, and abuse were hard to find during his time with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
  • His experience challenges common stereotypes about government inefficiency.

The Surprising Truth About Government Efficiency

When people think about government agencies, they often imagine red tape, slow processes, and plenty of waste. But one former employee’s story might change that perception. Sahil Lavingia, who worked for the Department of Government Efficiency, recently shared his surprising experience while embedded with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Lavingia’s job was to uncover waste, fraud, and abuse within the VA. But what he found was unexpected—these issues were “relatively nonexistent.” In fact, he described the government as “efficient,” a word many might not associate with federal agencies.

A Different Side of Government Work

Lavingia admitted he was surprised by how well the VA operated during his time there. Many people assume government agencies are slow and inefficient, but his experience told a different story. He saw firsthand how the VA handled its responsibilities, and it left a positive impression.

This doesn’t mean everything was perfect. But Lavingia’s story challenges the common belief that government agencies are always wasteful or corrupt. It also raises questions about how efficient other federal departments might be.

How the VA Stays on Track

So, what makes the VA different? A big part of its success might come from its clear goals and strong oversight. The agency has a focused mission: serving veterans. This clarity helps employees stay on track and work efficiently.

Regular audits and checks also play a role. The VA is closely monitored to ensure it uses its resources wisely. While no system is flawless, these measures help prevent waste and fraud.

What This Means for Taxpayers

Lavingia’s story is good news for taxpayers. It suggests that at least some federal agencies are using their funds effectively. This means the money you contribute is going toward its intended purpose—helping veterans and improving their lives.

However, this doesn’t mean all government agencies are perfect. Some may still struggle with inefficiency or misuse of funds. But Lavingia’s experience shows that positive change is possible when there’s strong leadership and accountability.

A Call for More Transparency

Lavingia’s story highlights the importance of transparency in government. By sharing his experiences, he gives taxpayers a glimpse into how federal agencies operate. This kind of openness can build trust and encourage other agencies to improve their practices.

It also reminds us that not all government work is slow or wasteful. Many employees are dedicated to their jobs and work hard to make a difference.

The Bigger Picture

Lavingia’s insights are just one piece of the puzzle. They remind us that government agencies are made up of real people working toward important goals. While there’s always room for improvement, it’s refreshing to hear a positive story about federal efficiency.

This story also challenges us to think differently about how we view government work. Instead of assuming the worst, we can appreciate the progress being made and support efforts to improve even more.

Trump’s New Plan: Every Newborn Gets $1,000 Investment Account

Brent Edward
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0
Trump’s New Plan: Every Newborn Gets $1,000 Investment Account

Key Takeaways:

  • President Trump introduces a $1,000 investment account for every newborn U.S. citizen.
  • CEOs from major companies like Dell, Uber, and Goldman Sachs are supporting the initiative.
  • The policy aims to boost the financial future of children.

President Trump’s Big Idea: Free $1,000 for Every Newborn

In a significant move to shape the financial future of America’s children, President Donald Trump has unveiled an ambitious plan. The initiative, part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, promises a $1,000 investment account for every newborn U.S. citizen. This bold step, announced at a White House event, is set to impact millions of families nationwide.

How Does the Policy Work?

The policy is straightforward. For every child born in the U.S., the government will open an investment account with a $1,000 deposit. This isn’t just a one-time gift; it’s a long-term investment in the child’s future. The money will be managed professionally, allowing it to grow over time. By the time the child turns 18, the account could have grown significantly, providing funds for education, starting a business, or buying a home.

Why Is This Important?

This initiative could be a game-changer for many families. Imagine every child starting life with a financial safety net. For low-income families, this could mean access to opportunities they might otherwise miss. It’s not just about individual benefits; it’s about fostering economic growth. As these investments grow, so does the economy, creating a brighter future for everyone.

What’s Next for the Plan?

The next step is a pilot program to test the initiative. Over time, the government will assess its impact and make necessary adjustments. Feedback from families and financial experts will be crucial in refining the program. If successful, it could become a cornerstone of America’s social and economic policies.

A Closer Look at the Companies Involved

Major corporations are lining up to support this initiative. Companies like Dell, Uber, and Goldman Sachs are not only attending the event but also committing funds. Their involvement isn’t just about charity; it’s a strategic investment in future talent and customers. These companies recognize the long-term benefits of a financially empowered generation.

Conclusion

President Trump’s $1,000 investment account plan is a visionary step towards a stronger economic future. With support from corporate giants, this initiative has the potential to transform lives. As the pilot program rolls out, the nation waits with anticipation to see how this plan unfolds, hoping it will pave the way for a more prosperous America.

US Homicide Rates Hit Record Lows, Cities See Sharp Drops

Brent Edward
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0
US Homicide Rates Hit Record Lows, Cities See Sharp Drops

Key Takeaways:

  • Homicide rates in the U.S. have dropped by 20% since 2024.
  • Major cities like Baltimore, St. Louis, and Denver report significant declines in murders.
  • Experts say this trend reflects broader improvements in crime rates nationwide.
  • The White House highlights ongoing efforts to reduce violence.

In recent years, the United States has seen a promising trend: fewer homicides. According to crime data, murders have dropped by an average of 20% since 2024. This decline is not just a small dip—it’s a significant shift. Many cities are reporting record-low murder rates, with some seeing drops of over 60%. Let’s dive into the numbers and explore what might be behind this positive change.

The Decline in Homicides Across U.S. Cities

The data shows a striking pattern: homicides are decreasing in many major U.S. cities. For example:

  • Baltimore: Murders have fallen by 31.6%.
  • St. Louis: The city has seen a 34.5% drop in homicides.
  • Cleveland: Murder rates are down by 36.8%.
  • Denver: This city reports an impressive 63% decrease.
  • New Orleans: Homicides have dropped by 30.6%.
  • New York: Murder rates are down by 26.8%.
  • Chicago: The city has experienced a 23.7% reduction.

These numbers are not just statistics—they represent lives saved and communities becoming safer. The drop in violence is a welcome change for residents who have long dealt with high crime rates.

The White House Responds to the Trend

The White House has taken notice of this positive trend. While the causes of the decline are complex, officials emphasize that efforts to reduce crime are working. Programs aimed at preventing violence, improving community trust in law enforcement, and addressing underlying issues like poverty and lack of opportunities are likely playing a role. The administration has highlighted the importance of continued support for these initiatives to keep progress moving forward.

Why Are Homicide Rates Dropping?

Experts point to several reasons for the decline in homicides:

  1. Increased Police Presence and Strategies: Many cities have adopted new policing strategies, such as focusing on high-crime areas and building stronger relationships with communities. These efforts seem to be paying off.

  2. Community Programs: Local organizations and outreach groups are working hard to prevent violence. Programs that provide job training, mentorship, and support for at-risk individuals are making a difference.

  3. Policy Changes: Some cities have enacted policies aimed at reducing violence, such as stricter gun laws and expanded mental health services. These changes may be contributing to the drop in homicides.

  4. Economic Recovery: The economy has recovered in many areas since the pandemic, which could mean fewer people are turning to crime out of desperation.

While it’s hard to pinpoint a single reason, the combination of these factors likely explains the sharp decline in homicides.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

The drop in homicide rates is great news, but experts caution that there is still work to be done. Crime rates can fluctuate, and it’s important to maintain the progress made so far. Continued investment in community programs, policing strategies, and policies aimed at reducing violence will be crucial.

For now, though, the numbers are clear: the United States is seeing fewer homicides, and cities across the country are becoming safer places to live. This trend is a step in the right direction, and it’s something to celebrate.

Chronic Absenteeism: The Hidden Barrier to Student Success

Brent Edward
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0
Chronic Absenteeism: The Hidden Barrier to Student Success

Key Takeaways:

  • Chronic absenteeism is a nationwide issue affecting student performance.
  • It’s often overlooked compared to test scores and graduation rates.
  • Solving it requires teamwork between schools and families.

The Silent Problem in Schools

Every school day starts with one important question: Who’s missing today? The answer matters because chronic absenteeism is a growing challenge across the country. It’s a problem that affects both small towns and big cities. While it’s not as visible as low test scores or poor graduation rates, it’s just as harmful to a student’s success.

So, what exactly is chronic absenteeism? It’s when students miss too many school days—often 10% or more of the school year. These absences can be excused, like for illness or family emergencies, or unexcused, like skipping class. Either way, missing too much school can set a student back.

Why It Matters

Chronic absenteeism isn’t just about missing a few days of school. It’s a red flag for bigger challenges. Studies show that students who miss too much school are more likely to struggle with:

  • Lower test scores
  • Higher dropout rates
  • Fewer opportunities after graduation

Middle and high school students are especially at risk. By ninth grade, missing just 20% of school days can make it harder to graduate. Why? Because absences add up quickly, and students fall behind their peers.

But here’s the thing: this isn’t just a student problem. Chronic absenteeism affects everyone—schools, families, and the community. It’s a sign of deeper issues, like poverty, lack of access to healthcare, or unsafe neighborhoods.

Why It’s So Common

So, why do so many students miss school regularly? The reasons vary, but here are some common factors:

  1. Economic Challenges: Some families can’t afford basics like food, clothes, or transportation.
  2. Lack of Engagement: Students who don’t feel connected to school or see its value are more likely to stay home.
  3. Health Issues: Chronic illnesses or mental health struggles can keep students away.
  4. Unsafe Conditions: For some, school or the neighborhood feels unsafe, making it hard to attend regularly.

The Role of Schools and Parents

Fixing chronic absenteeism isn’t just about rewarding students for showing up. It’s about addressing the root causes. Schools and parents must work together to create a supportive environment where students feel safe, engaged, and valued.

Here’s how schools can help:

  • Build strong relationships with students and families.
  • Create programs to make school more engaging.
  • Provide resources like tutoring or counseling.

And here’s how parents can make a difference:

  • Show up for school events and parent-teacher conferences.
  • Talk to your child about the importance of attendance.
  • Work with teachers to address challenges at home.

Putting It All Together

Chronic absenteeism is a complex issue, but it’s not impossible to solve. Schools and families must partner up to:

  • Identify students who are at risk early.
  • Provide support tailored to their needs.
  • Celebrate progress and build trust.

When schools and parents work together, students are more likely to attend regularly. And when students attend regularly, they’re more likely to succeed.

So, the next time you hear the question, “Who’s not here today?” remember: it’s not just about missing a day of school. It’s about missed opportunities, lost potential, and the chance to help a student thrive.

By addressing chronic absenteeism, we can create a brighter future—one student at a time.

Newsom Steps In: California Resists Trump’s Immigration Plan

Brent Edward
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0
Newsom Steps In: California Resists Trump’s Immigration Plan

Key Takeaways:

  • California Governor Gavin Newsom opposes Trump’s plan to use military in immigration raids.
  • Trump aims to use troops due to ICE staffing shortages and lack of local police cooperation.
  • Trump federalized the National Guard, redirecting them to assist in immigration operations.
  • Newsom’s legal action could protect state sovereignty and affect national immigration strategies.

Introduction: In a bold move, California Governor Gavin Newsom is challenging President Trump’s attempt to involve the military in immigration raids. This showdown highlights a significant conflict over state rights and immigration policies.

Why Trump Wants the Military Involved: President Trump is facing challenges with his immigration agenda. ICE lacks sufficient personnel to meet deportation targets, and many states refuse to cooperate. This shortfall has led Trump to seek military support for immigration enforcement, marking a new approach in his immigration strategy.

What’s Happening in California: In California, Trump redirected the National Guard to assist in immigration operations, a move Newsom strongly opposes. Protests in Los Angeles may have served as a pretext for deploying troops. Newsom argues that this oversteps federal authority and threatens state sovereignty.

Why This Matters Beyond California: The outcome of this conflict could set a national precedent. If Trump succeeds in California, other states might face similar military involvement, expanding federal immigration actions nationwide. This raises concerns about state rights and the appropriate role of the military.

What’s Next in This Battle: The legal challenge by Newsom is crucial. If successful, it could halt Trump’s strategy and affirm state sovereignty. This case is pivotal in defining the balance between federal authority and state autonomy.

Conclusion: The clash between Newsom and Trump reflects broader tensions over immigration and state rights. As this legal battle unfolds, the nation watches, aware that the outcome could significantly impact future policies and state-federal relations.

Discussion Question: What do you think about Newsom’s efforts to challenge Trump’s plans? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Elon Musk Tries to Mend Ties with Trump After Fiery Feud

Brent Edward
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0
Elon Musk Tries to Mend Ties with Trump After Fiery Feud

Key Takeaways:

  • Elon Musk shared a post supporting Donald Trump’s views on LA protests.
  • This comes after a public fallout where both exchanged harsh comments.
  • Trump recently stated he wouldn’t reconcile with Musk, despite past support.
  • Musk’s actions hint at a desire to rebuild their strained relationship.

Reviving a Rocky Relationship

Elon Musk recently made a move to patch things up with Donald Trump, following a heated public dispute. Musk shared a post from Trump that criticized the situation in Los Angeles, suggesting the city was overwhelmed by crime and illegal activities. Musk added American flags to show his support, drawing attention to Trump’s views.

A Brief but Intense Feud

Just days ago, the two were engaged in a bitter exchange. Musk mentioned Trump’s alleged connection to Jeffrey Epstein, while Trump dismissed Musk, saying he wasn’t interested in reconciliation. This clash started over disagreements on a significant piece of legislation, highlighting their differing opinions.

Trump’s Stance

Despite Musk’s effort to mend fences, Trump has been clear about not wanting to make amends. He emphasized that he doesn’t need Musk’s support, even though Musk’s backing was crucial during his campaign. This recent activity suggests Musk is reaching out, but Trump remains steadfast in his position.

Musk’s Strategy

By sharing Trump’s post, Musk may be signaling a desire to align with him again. This move could be Musk’s way of extending an olive branch, hoping to repair their damaged relationship. It’s clear Musk wants to smooth things over, but it’s unclear if Trump will respond positively.

Looking Ahead

Musk and Trump’s relationship is under scrutiny. Whether this gesture will mend their ties or simply be another chapter in their volatile dynamic remains to be seen. For now, the situation is a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of their alliance.

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