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EDIB L E INDIG ENO U S S O U TH A FR IC A N PL A NT S HOW T O KEEP EV E RY O N E ENT ERTA INED DU R I N G LO C K D O W N M A NA G E C OL D & F LU
EQUESTRIAN
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P u b l i sh e r K-S t udio (P t y ) Ltd o n beh alf of B lue H ill s Eq u est r i a n E sta te A d ve rti si n g S al es Tobia tobia@k-st udio . co . za sales2@ k-st udio . co . za C alv in sales3@ k-st udio . co . za Ed i to r Tobia von Zwietr i n g Copy w ri te r / p ro o f r eader C hantel Venter De si g n & La y o u t K-S t udio (P t y ) Ltd e tobia@ k-st udio . co . za t 082 962 82 5 5 f Kreat iefS t u d i o
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Disclaimer: This e-Magazine is produced especially for residents/owners of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate to provide updates and useful information. It is produced by K-Studio on behalf of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA and/or the Publisher, cannot be held liable for any inaccurate information, and may not agree with all opinions expressed in this publication.
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3 ISSU E 2 • 20 20
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
From The
Estate Manager’s Desk Hello and welcome to our new homeowners. Winter is upon us, the leaves are changing colour on the trees around us and as the temperature drops we welcome the new season. As we all settle into a new way of life with the lockdown, we do hope that you all are safe and keeping warm. While we all are getting settled into the new “normal”, here is a quick update on the Estate Servest landscaping, after some time away from the Estate due to the lockdown regulations have thankfully resumed operations onsite. They have resumed their duties onsite in stages and are striving to get the Estate back on schedule. Speeding within the Estate is still a huge concern. Residents are reminded that this is a community and that we need to be mindful of those around us. Speeding puts those around us at great risk. The speed limit within the Estate is strictly 30km per hour.
We appeal to homeowners to not vent your frustrations onto the guards and to please be mindful that the guards are acting upon instruction. I am currently not onsite full time, this is to limit contact due to the COVID-19 Virus. I am however fully operational, and I am available via email and cellphone to assist with any requirements that you may have.
As a final note, we would like to remind residents that harmonious community living is only achieved when residents are able to use and enjoy their private property as well as the public areas of the Estate amicably. General consideration and mutual respect by all residents for each other and their surroundings will greatly assist in achieving a happy community and a pleasant environment.
Security is an integral part of the Estate and requires a holistic approach. Unfortunately, our guards are being abused for performing their duties which is unacceptable. Security works under certain protocols and any requests or We wish all our residents well during this arrangements that deviate from these protocols challenging time, keep safe and stay healthy. needs to be made via the appropriate channels. 2020 • I SSUE 2 4
Rashni Andhee-Shah
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
IMPORTANT INFORMATION & CONTACTS
BLUE HILLS EQUESTRIAN ESTATE MANAGEMENT BODY
THE BOARD IS MADE UP OF: • • • • • • •
Andile Mtetwa Heather Bowes Jessica Hofmeyr John Frayne Nick Crow Obakeng Mathibe Ugesparan Govender
The Blue Hills Equestrian Estate management body has been developed to ensure that should you have a query or wish to address anything on the Estate, we have a team of individuals you can refer your concerns to. This Committee goes beyond our THE COMMITTEE IS SUPPORTED BY monthly Directors’ Meetings, and is instead aimed TRAFALGAR WHO ARE REPRESENTED BY: at ensuring that the running of this Estate is handled • Michael Schaefer / Director of Trafalgar with all due care. • Shahiem Carr / Director of Trafalgar • Jillian Hendricks / Estate Portfolio Manager • Rashni Andhee-Shah / Estate Manager • Head office support Birdhaven
ESTATE MANAGER Rashni Andhee-Shah 010 109 0935 083 703 9436 rashnia@trafalgar.co.za SALES MANAGER Musi Motsuenyane 082 806 1735 / musi@century.co.za SECURITY SITE MANAGER 076 771 9082/ 061 704 0111 Bluehills@thompsec.co.za EMERGENCY Eskom 086 0037 566 JHB Water 0860 562 874 Police 10111 Ambulance 10177 SPCA 011 265 9935 SNAKE CATCHER Mike 083 448 8854 2020 • I SSUE 2 6
BOOST YOUR BUSINESS & REACH YOUR TARGET
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS IN OUR NEXT ISSUE e tobia@k-studio.co.za
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
7 ISSU E 2 • 20 20
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
Indigenous South African Plants By Stodels Garden Centres
Food foraging is a global trend that is finding its way into news stories, restaurants and our everyday eating. Edible plant varieties are all around us – it just takes a bit of knowledge to identify and cook them correctly. And more often than not, they’re also indigenous to our soils. South Africa has a vast and beautiful array of indigenous plant species. They thrive in their natural conditions, and many are also water-wise or drought-tolerant, making them a logical choice for your garden. Looking for plants that are both water-wise and useful in the kitchen? Look out for these varieties:
Confetti bush (Coleonema pulchellum) A member of the buchu family, this fragrant herb is best used as you would thyme, by stripping off the leaves and infusing them with savoury or sweet dishes. The branches are also stunning in a floral arrangement.
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How to grow: The confetti bush can be planted in a bed of fynbos or in a pot, where it
GARDENING BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
will need to be pruned to be kept small Kluitjieskraal and neat. It needs well-drained soil and (Agathosma ovata) a 3:2:1 fertiliser. Add a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture. While young, don’t Commonly known as the false buchu, allow the plant to dry out. Once it’s estabKluitjieskraal can be used for medicinal lished, it will be able to withstand drought purposes or as an essential oil. It is also conditions. delicious brewed with rooibos in a herbal tea, or used to infuse vinegars and oils Snake flower for a distinct Cape flavour.
(Bulbine frutescens)
More medicinal than it is delicious, the leaf of the snake flower produces a jelly-like substance that can be rubbed over burns, blisters and rashes, or added to hot water to be sipped to soothe coughs and colds. How to grow: The snake flower makes a fantastic water-wise ground cover in the toughest conditions. It requires minimum care and needs only well-draining soil, enriched with compost, and full sun. Prune when untidy and nip off the dead flower heads to encourage the plant to flower.
How to grow: Plant in well-draining, humus-rich soil where it will receive full sun. Water moderately only during very dry periods. Cut off new growth to encourage a bushy shape.
African wormwood (Artemisia apra) As well as being a medicinal wonder plant for fevers, colds, flus and headaches, the African wormwood adds a unique herbal flavour to cocktails, ice teas and other herbal drinks. The flavour is strong, so use sparingly. How to grow: Plant in well-drained, sandy soil where it receives full sun. Prune in winter to encourage abundant growth in spring.
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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
11 ISSU E 2 • 2020
LIEFSTYLE BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
HOW TO KEEP EVERYONE DURING THE LOCKDOWN source: AASA
South Africa is still in lockdown due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We may feel overwhelmed, scared or uncertain about what lies ahead. We are also adjusting to new working from home (if we can), as well as keeping our kids safe and entertained while having to stay contained.
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LIEFSTYLE BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
While we’re all staying at home, working towards flattening the curve of the outbreak to help our healthcare system cope with the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa, cabin fever may kick in.
There are many online workout channels and programmes to help keep you in top form. There are many fitness apps out there, or if you have a trainer at the gym, they can also work out some home training schedules for you.
We’ve compiled a list of activities to help you keep the cabin fever at bay while you’re P.S. Here’s a free Yoga class to get started! doing your bit to help keep your fellow South Africans safe. 3. Tackle those tasks you’ve been putting off around the house.
FOR THE ADULTS:
Those of us working from home are not only navigating new ways of doing things, but we also need to look after ourselves mentally and physically during the lockdown. Here are some activities and tips for adults to help you:
Once your workday is over, and over weekends, tackle those household or gardening tasks you have been putting off to help you switch off. Maybe you’ve been wanting to hang some family photographs or paint a room. Now’s the time to get started.
1. Stick to your routine while you’re 4. You can still see your friends, online. working from home. Set up space where you can work from home comfortably. Avoid working from the couch and bed (your back, neck and shoulders will thank you.) Get up at the same time you would typically do, get dressed and then get going.
Socialising with friends and family may be what keeps you going. But staying indoors doesn’t mean that you cannot see your friends and loved ones. With the technology available to us, you can always set up some time to braai and chat with your friends online. We recommend apps like Zoom, FaceTime or even WhatsApp video call.
Remember to also take a break to hydrate and eat. Also, set your “office hours” and try P.S. did you know that some ISPs to stick to them to prevent burnout. increased your fibre speed from 1 April? 2. Stay active.
5. Declutter your home.
Whether you do yoga or like to go jogging, Whether it’s the linen cupboard, the you can still stay active while you’re at home. 13 ISSU E 2 • 2020
LIFESTYLE BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
kitchen or the garage, now’s the time to KonMari your house. Even better if you can get the whole family involved - tackle your house room by room. You can donate items to shelters or hospice as soon as the lockdown lifts.
FOR THE KIDS:
Even though it would have been school holidays now, our kids need entertainment and stimulation while we are all home. Juggling taking care of your children with working from home can be stressful for 6. Cure your wanderlust with online parents and children alike. We also need tours. to make sure that our kids keep to a routine to help them ease back into school when You can still somewhat settle the travel it starts again. bug, online. Google is offering free virtual tours to over 1 200 museums across the To make sure our littlies are entrained and world. Hop on, and join in. stimulated, you can plan out some fun activities:
7. Start that hobby you’ve never had time for. 1. Set up a timetable for each day. Use this time to take up that hobby you’ve never had the time for. Try out new recipes, bake some bread, read that book you’ve been wanting to, or build that puzzle you haven’t touched since you’ve bought it. There are also free online training resources if you would like to upskill yourself. Try out Coursera or even Massimo Bottura’s cooking classes.
Ask your kids what they would like to do the next, and draw up a timetable. This way, it gives them a sense of autonomy. But do remember to suggest some balance as well with some structured or chosen activities. Here’s an example of a timetable from justmamma.com: • • • • • • • • •
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Breakfast Chore time The main activity of the day Mid-Morning Snack Free play Lunch Naptime / Quiet time Outdoor play Mid-afternoon snack
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
• Screen time • Fitness Fun • Dinner / BathTime / Bedtime 2. Get the kids to help out with chores. Of course, chores need to be ageappropriate, but everyone in the house can chip in and do their part. Here are some chore ideas: • Putting toys and books away every day • Help to feed pets • Helping with laundry, like sorting out the clothing • Making their bed • Water the plants • Setting the table for dinner • Help to prepare lunch or dinner • Help to pack away the dishes after a meal • Help to pack away groceries
• Making playdough (here’s a recipe and some colour and scent ideas) • Finger painting • Baking (from mud pies to actual cookies) • Teaching how to count or doing match puzzles with items from the pantry like dried beans • Scavenger hunts (like finding 10 things in the garden, if you have one) • Helping with gardening • Building obstacle courses • Having Lego challenges (timed build challenges, or imagination play) • Drawing • Building puzzles • Solving puzzles
You can also reward chores with a kind of currency that they can spend on “luxury” snacks (like perhaps chocolate or some crisps) in mom’s tuckshop. 4. Have family activities after dinner 3. Keep learning through play.
Whether its a movie night, board games, puzzles, or reading, take this time to There are so many activities that you can do spend some time as a family enjoying with your kids, it may feel overwhelming. some much needed time together. From arts and crafts to sensory play and motor skills, what does one choose? Together we can help to flatten the curve Simply put, ask your kids what they would and prevent COVID-19 from spreading like to do and set this up as a structured to our fellow citizens. Stay inside, keep activity. Here are some ideas: hydrated, and more importantly, stay at home. 15 ISSU E 2 • 2020
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We also offer system maintance for existing installations including, but not limited to; Smart-Home Automation, Central Lighting, HD Audio Visual Distribution, & Security. For system upgrades, new install, or check-up contact us or visit our showroom in Fourways, Gauteng for consultation with our sales team.
Contact us to arrange a consultation to assess your automation requirements. Juan 082 308 0809 www.automationauthority.co.za Johan 076 540 0393
Gauteng, Fourway. Design Quarter, Shop 58 Tel: 011 465 2390 2020 • I SSUE 2 1 6
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17 ISSU E 2 • 2020
WELLNESS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
manage
cold & flu
source: www.vicks.co.za
If you get the flu, you’ll likely experience a high fever, sore throat, cough, and lots of aches and pains. You might feel like you don’t need to see a doctor, and opt to treat yourself with extra rest and fluids. But in certain cases, seeing a doctor will help you get better faster and prevent major complications. We have a few simple tips to manage the common cold or flu this winter. SORE THROAT
scratchy, dry throat and aids cilia movement, which helps the immune system fight infection, especially during cold and flu season. RUNNY NOSE/SNEEZING There’s No Need to Over-clean When kids are sniffling due to cold or allergy symptoms, it’s smart to keep common areas clean. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the United States found that rhinoviruses (cold germs) can only survive a maximum of three hours on inanimate objects and human skin. So, while cleaning often is important, over-cleaning might not help you avoid getting a cold or flu.
Humidify the Air Indoors Humidifiers, increase moisture in the air, HEAD CONGESTION which helps provide overall comfort and can help clear secretions, soothe airways, Spice It Up to Unclog Your Nose and reduce coughs. Moist air also can asBring on the cayenne! Eating spicy foods sist in minimizing the feeling of having a can make your nose run. A runny nose 2020 • I SSUE 2 1 8
WELLNESS
may be beneficial because it helps break up nasal congestion and remove irritants. Elevate Your Head to Ease Congestion Slightly elevate your head by using additional pillows to ease head congestion while you sleep. The increased angle will help drain your head and relieve sinus pressure.
BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
ACHES AND PAINS
Use the Right Pain Reliever There are two primary over-the-counter pain relievers on the market today— nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen. NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, relieve Drink Water to Relieve Sinus Pressure pain by reducing inflammation, making Keep a bottle of water with you wherever them well-suited for muscle aches, while you go and take sips throughout the day. acetaminophen blocks pain signals, which The extra hydration helps keep your nose is ideal for general headaches and fever. moist and might help you breathe and rest easier. GENERAL COLD CARE Learn to Love Shower Steam Sometimes the best way to care for a stuffed-up head for you or your child is to simply run a hot bath or shower and let the steam fill the room. FEVER Fight Fever with Fluids When you’re fighting a fever, try drinking at least 2 to 3 additional ounces of fluid every hour. Water or non-carbonated sports drinks work best. And remember, even if you’re not sweating, you still can get dehydrated, which might weaken your immune system and lead to a prolonged fever. Moisture from continuous fluids also might help you with sore throat relief. It’s important to stay hydrated all of the time, but especially during cold and flu season. Exercise with a Cold, but Not the Flu The National Institutes of Health in the United States has said that, for the most part, it’s OK to exercise even if you have a cold. The simple act of sweating helps expel harmful germs. Cold medicines might help keep your coughing and other cold symptoms at bay while you’re working out, but don’t push yourself too hard, especially if you have a fever.
Expect Multiple Cold and Flu Symptoms It is estimated that 80% of cold and flu sufferers experience more than one cold symptom. The most bothersome symptoms are runny/blocked nose, cough, aches, and pain. Eat for Relief Warm, flavorful food can help relieve cough and sore throat symptoms by stimulating salivation and secretions to help soothe and lubricate the throat. Put Your Trust in Chicken Soup When you have a cold or flu, a study conducted by the American College of Chest Physicians® suggests that chicken soup can help you feel better. Decrease Stress Studies show that elevated levels of stress reduce the number of T cells in your body. You need T cells to keep your immune system strong. So if you’re feeling under the weather, take it easy. Relax and breathe. Doctor’s orders!
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xtracted from plants to capture their flavours, scents and beneficial properties, essential oils make for great dditions to a natural health, beauty and home care regime. The Wellness Essential Oils are certified organic, Extracted from plants capture their flavours, scents and beneficial properties, essential oils make for great uelty-free and made fromto100% natural ingredients. additions to a natural health, beauty and home care regime. The Wellness Essential Oils are certified organic, cruelty-free and made from 100% natural ingredients.
nd us at: Western Cape - Cape Quarter, Cavendish, Gardens, Glengarry, Helderberg, Howard Centre, Kloof, Paddocks, Palmyra, Piazza John, Plattekloof, The Point, Steenberg, Table Bay, Waterfront. Gauteng - Benmore Centre, Brooklyn Centre, Clearwater Mall, Dainfern, Find us at: Western Cape - Cape Quarter, Cavendish, Gardens, Glengarry, Helderberg, Howard Centre, Kloof, Paddocks, Palmyra, Piazza e Grove Mall, Kyalami Corner, Menlyn Maine, Morningside Shopping Centre, Nicolway, Parktown Quarter, Thrupps Illovo, Southdowns, St John, Plattekloof, The Point, Steenberg, Table Bay, Waterfront. Gauteng - Benmore Centre, Brooklyn Centre, Clearwater Mall, Dainfern, lageThe View, Woodlands Boulevard. - Ballito Junction Grove Mall, Kyalami Corner,KwaZulu-Natal Menlyn Maine, Morningside Shopping Centre, Nicolway, Parktown Quarter, Thrupps Illovo, Southdowns, Village View, Woodlands Boulevard. KwaZulu-Natal - Ballito Junction
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ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
21 ISSU E 2 • 2020
ESTATE NEWS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
2020 • I SSUE 2 2 2
Cold-fighting Chicken Soup Delicious, flavourful and hearty
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil 6 Cloves of Garlic, minced 1 Onion, diced 2 Large Carrots, thinly sliced 2 Celery Stalks, roughly chopped 1 Tablespoon fresh grated Ginger 1 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric 6 Cups Chicken Broth 500g Boneless Skinless Supreme Chicken Breast or Thighs 1 Teaspoon freshly chopped Rosemary 1 Teaspoon freshly chopped Thyme ½ Teaspoon Salt Freshly ground Black Pepper 1 Cup Couscous 2/3 Cup frozen Peas
becomes translucent. Add in grated ginger and turmeric. Sauté for 30 seconds to let the spices cook, then add in chicken broth, chicken breast, rosemary, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil and stir in couscous. The chicken must be covered by the broth so make sure you stir them down to the bottom. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer uncovered for 25 -30 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked. Once chicken is cooked, remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a cutting board to shred with two forks. Add chicken back to pot then stir in frozen peas. If you find that you do not have enough broth, feel free to add in another Method Place a large pot over medium high heat and cup. Everyone likes their soup differently. Taste add oil. and adjust seasonings, if necessary. Once the oil is hot, add garlic, onion, carrots and celery; cook for a few minutes until onion 23 ISSU E 2 • 2020
WELLNESS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
EASILY CREATE A WILL
On MyWill A New Innovative Online Legal Platform A Will is a necessity, however the thought of creating one is usually gloomy and confusing. May 2020 MyWill is an efficient and affordable online solution for creating a Will, available as a service on the MyLegal online law platform. 2020 • I SSUE 2 2 4
MyWill is an innovative online solution that allows anyone to quickly and affordably create a valid Will at a once-off fee of R199 for a Single Will - or pay R250 once-off for a Joint Will. With the recently reported spike in requests for Wills, South Africans are waking up to the seriousness of protecting loved ones and their assets, should they pass away. The brainchild of attorney Matthew De Wet, MyWill reimagines the way we think about the legal process behind a Will. The oftencomplicated process of creating a Will, has been simplified and automated, a process that attorneys study years to perfect. “MyWill was created to ensure that no family is left fighting complicated legal battles after losing a loved one,” says attorney Matthew De Wet. If you die without a Will, according to South African law your estate will be divided between family members and no consideration will be given to any of your wishes, including the guardianship and inheritance of minor children, the appointment of your executor or the future of any assets and businesses that are co-owned. “Addressing these factors on MyWill not only protects your family from unforeseen emotional strain, but will ensure they have a stable income and place to live in the months following your passing,” he says. By applying their technical skill and ethical expertise in the building of MyWill, the legal team at De Wet du Plessis Attorneys were able to find a practical way to make legal advice accessible to everyone who needs it.
WELLNESS BLUE H I LLS E qu e st r i a n E st a t e
A user of MyWill can create a legally sound and binding Will in a matter of minutes. The MyWill software guides users easily through the legalese involved in the process of translating personal wishes into a Will. If at any point you do not understand a term or phrase used, the platform allows users to hover their cursors over the question mark tool and get a full, yet simple, explanation. With MyWill the many unforeseen consequences of dying without a Will are all taken care of including: the guardianship and inheritance of minor children; the continuation of any family business; the listing and fair division of assets; the appointment of an executor, who the balance of the estate goes to, and specific funeral directions. Once the Will has been properly signed, according to specific rules that the platform outlines, you are left with a legally binding document. If you can’t print your Will or have it witnessed due to your lockdown conditions as required by law, De Wet du Plessis Attorneys has it covered and will send you lockdown instructions guiding you on how to validly and lawfully execute your Will. These instructions will accompany your Will built on their platform. The platform encourages you to stipulate any previous Wills you may have had that are no longer valid and offers important advice, such as telling your executor what 25 ISSU E 2 • 2020
WELLNESS BLUE H I L L S E q u e strian Estate
“MyWill was created to ensure that no family is left fighting complicated legal battles after losing a loved one,” your wishes are, as well as where your Will the sale of any assets named in your Will, and relevant documents are being kept. or upon material changes in assets in your estate. MyWill allows you to update your Will Your Last Will and Testament is not only without costly trips to the lawyer’s office. an important part of any estate plan but of This is useful since you should update your life itself. Creating and understanding your will upon the death of anyone named in your Will gives you the peace of mind that your Will; illness of anyone in your Will; changes wishes for your family, business and assets to the relationship status of parties named in will be followed, rather than being ignored by a joint Will; the birth of new family members; a rather impassionate national legal system. the inclusion of new family members and
For more information on MyWill visit our website here: https://dwdplaw.co.za/products/last-will-and-testament or e-mail matthew@dwdplaw.co.za 2020 • I SSUE 2 2 6
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