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How to Choose an HVAC Company
Your heating and air conditioning system is a vital component of your home. Whether you’re investing in a new system to replace an aging unit or repairing your existing system, creating a relationship with a professional HVAC company can save you money and headaches — and keep you warm and cool. The best HVAC contractors are helpful and reliable, but a poor contractor can cost you extra money and heartache. Good word of mouth will go a long way toward helping you find the best professionals in your area. Create a list of candidates and call the Better Business Bureau, your state’s board of contractors or the builders’ association to check on their reputations. Your town’s building inspection office may also have information for you. Avoid companies who have many complaints on their record. Upon narrowing the list, call
the remaining ones and ask about pricing, guarantees and warranties. Also inquire about how long it would take to complete a job and the manufacturers’ brands they use. If you are purchasing new equipment, find out if you need a separate service contractor or if routine maintenance and repairs are included in the price of installation. Does the company provide around-the-clock emergency service? High quality HVAC companies are fully licensed, bonded and insured. If a worker is injured or causes damage to your property, that insurance should cover it. Otherwise, you could be liable for the damages. Your insurance premiums would likely increase as a result. Reputable HVAC companies will usually belong to recognized professional and trade organizations. Some well-known organizations include the American Soci-
ety of Mechanical Engineers, the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute, and the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers. Membership in one of these organizations is not automatic. Applicants are required to have certain certifications, meet professional standards and meet or exceed other requirements before they are admitted. Before any work begins, verify that all the required building permits are in place. Most companies will file permits on your behalf at the local building codes office. But don’t assume that it has happened. Check with the permitting office first. Work done without proper permits could result in a fine and time delay. Have a load calculation done before installing a new system in any building. The best companies perform a thorough calculation rather than estimate. Buildings change over time due to founda-
tions cracking or settling. It will affect the efficiency of any equipment. The HVAC c o m p a n y shouldn’t use the old unit to determine the proper size of a new one. If your old unit was inadequate, you will want to install a unit that is a different size. Speak with your HVAC installer to determine the right size and model for you. Ask your HVAC contractor to perform annual checkups to verify that the unit is running at peak efficiency.
With these tips, you can choose a reliable HVAC business that will help you for years to come.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2020 | 3
How to Choose a 3D/4D Ultrasound Shop
What an exciting time when you are expecting a baby, and you no longer must wonder what you are having and what your baby looks like as we did so many years ago. But even though ultrasound has been around a long time, the technology has come a long way. Women no longer want the old gray image or that quick in and out of the office with a couple of black and white pictures. Yes, times have changed, and women make this an event, they want to bring their family and share that bonding of their bundle of joy. They want beautiful pictures in a family-friendly atmosphere. What you should know about ultrasound Not all 3D ultrasounds are the same. GE’s HD live ultrasound technology uses an adjustable light source that not only provides both 3D and 4D imaging, but it illuminates the baby and even
casts shadows so you can better see your baby’s precious face. Live means you can watch all of this as this baby moves in the womb. Compare Experience Choose a shop that has been in business a long time and has sonographers with experience and certifications. The sonographers and other staff should also be caring and make this event an experience to remember. Ask about packages Choose a shop that does not have hidden fees, is reasonable and does not offer a variety of things other than ultrasound. You are there for what you are paying for, not a boutique or a massage. You want a shop that does that one thing great and does not nickeland-dime you. You want a set, reasonable price. You want to get your entire package at that price. That package should include prints in black and white and color, a JPEG with all images of
your scan, a DVD of the entire scan, and a gender determination if you want. And you want this with no copyrights — they are yours to share. Also ask about discounts for return visits. Things a great shop should offer • Experienced sonographers scheduled six days a week • Large 50-inch viewing screen • Accurate gender determination as early as 16 weeks • Family and friends are welcomed in large viewing room • Children • Evening and Saturday hours • Central location to all seven
cities Ask their Mission Statement “To provide 3D/4D and HD live ultrasounds at an affordable price
in a family-friendly atmosphere. To help create bonding between the expecting family and their unborn child.”
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How to Choose an Insurance Company
Let’s face it: Purchasing insurance isn’t fun. But not having insurance — or not knowing how to access it in an emergency — is worse. And if there’s a loss to your home, auto, or business, the last thing you want to have to do is figure out who your insurance company is when your life’s been turned upside down. Insurance guarantees you peace of mind and protection, so choosing the right insurance company is a worthwhile investment of your time. But unless you know what you’re looking for in an insurance provider, you shouldn’t pick a company based on their marketing hype alone. Premiums from company to company can vary widely, as can the type of coverage they offer. So, before you purchase a plan, you need to understand exactly what type of insurance you’re buying and how it will affect your bottom line.
Know your policy You will have to take a look at the fine details and figures for each policy. If you are in the beginning of this process, insurance representatives should act more like teachers instead of salespeople. Your choices may be complicated, with a range of pricing options, deductibles and exclusions. A good company will give you choices, explain them clearly and let you make up your own mind. While reviewing your options, make sure you are comparing similar policies. If a premium seems unusually low, it might have a higher deductible or more limitations. It is important that you get as much information as possible about each policy before making a decision.
ing which company is best. If you’ve had friends or family who have filed insurance claims previously, ask them about their experiences. Some insurance companies have better reputations than others. Gathering all of these experiences will give you a good idea of how you might be treated. Each company has a different customer service philosophy. Some of them prefer to use a local representative to communicate with clients. Others will discuss policies through their website or a 24hour phone number. Many insurance companies, however, use a combination of these methods. They might give you 24-hour access to national representatives along with a local advisor.
Customer service Customer service always plays a key role in determin-
Financial strength An insurance company is only as strong as its balance
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sheet. Financial strength is especially important these days. Every insurer is independently rated based on their finances. An insurance agent should inform you of the company’s rating and tell you what it means. A good rating means the company can make a payout in the event of a catastrophic event. A reputable, stable, well-capitalized insurance company is also likely to have more coverage options. While your insurance premiums are an important factor, it is just one piece of a complicated puzzle. Choose a company that will not only give you a fair price,
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How to Choose the Best Audiologist
If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing problems, chances are the issue has been developing for some time. Millions of Americans will suffer some sort of hearing impairment but don’t always realize it’s happening to them. Statistics show it takes an average of seven years before those with hearing loss seek help. Although hearing loss can be the natural result of aging, it can also result from heredity, exposure to loud noise, birth defects, illness, head trauma and certain medications. Hearing loss can be difficult to treat. You will need to find an experienced, certified, licensed professional who specializes in hearing loss and treatment. Here are some tips to assist you in your search. Visit your primary care doctor first to discuss concerns about your hearing. The doctor will determine if there is a physical reason for the hearing loss, such as an infection or ear wax buildup. If the loss isn’t caused by an infection or other easily treated methods, your doctor will usually recom-
mend a secondary visit to an ear, nose and throat doctor or an audiologist. An audiologist is trained to diagnose and treat hearing loss and tinnitus (noises in the ear). They typically have a doctorate and are licensed by the state. Before making an appointment, consider your goals. Are you missing out at church or family events? Do you struggle to understand in a crowd? Do your ears ring? An audiologist can provide solutions that may or may not involve getting hearing aids. At your appointment, not only will your hearing be assessed, but also your lifestyle, your goals, and your family and friends’ goals. Your audiologist will make communication recommendations and strategies specific for your needs. If hearing aids are appropriate, they will also be discussed. Most audiologists also dispense hearing aids. Hearing loss has significant impact on the one with the loss as well as those around them. It is never too soon to have your hearing checked.
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How to choose a college
Choosing a college depends on a number of things, such as what you want to study, whether or not you want to train for an immediate job or career, and even how much it costs. As part of the Virginia Community College System, Camp Community College allows for some of the following things to be considered by a potential student: • Enrolling in community college is affordable. One can enroll at Camp at about one-third of the cost of attending most other Virginia public colleges and universities, and for the second consecutive year, the cost of tuition and fees has not gone up. This is ideal for new students, students who are not quite sure what they want to study, and for those who are returning to college mid-career. One can train at Camp for immediate entry into the workforce, prepare to transfer to a four-year college or university, or supplement or
upgrade their current knowledge and skills for advancement in their career. • Getting a head start on a fouryear degree is easy. Camp offers the Passport, a 16-credit hour course of study in which all courses are transferrable and will satisfy a general education requirement at any public institution of higher education in Virginia. In addition, with the right associate
degree pathway and grade point average, a Camp student may obtain admission to more than 30 colleges and universities in the state. Transfer advisors help students plan a path to transfer success. • Working in a high-demand job is rewarding. A student can receive specific training to match the students’ skills with jobs that are available and need to be filled in the surrounding area. Not everyone’s plan is to earn a two- or four-year degree. Students who have families and have lost a job, for instance, need to get to work as soon as possible. Therefore, there are programs designed with those specific needs in mind. A student can learn a trade in a short amount
of time, and get hired quickly as well, as we are providing training in what our regional employers need. • Funding for college helps immensely. Even if you have a job, it’s difficult to juggle family needs, time, money and school. At Camp, there is the opportunity for eligible students to receive financial aid, scholarships, student loans and other funding that can make all the difference in seeing a dream come to fruition by helping to defray the costs of an education. • Taking classes around your schedule is reassuring. Camp offers flexible pathways to your goals that include online and hybrid classes to accommodate busy schedules. This means you can spend the time you need with your family or put in a day’s work as well. For some, it is all about having options. Curricula are constantly being evaluated to
make sure we are offering the most relevant programs. • Having instructors who care about your success makes a difference. Since Camp is smaller than many colleges, instructors have more time to spend with individual students to assist with their studies. At Camp the studentto-faculty ratio is 13:1. Our faculty is very knowledgeable and they want you to reach your goals. • An array of student services is provided to help students succeed. Camp offers academic and career advising, college success coaching, transfer advising, financial aid advising, tutoring and other services to support student success. There are many reasons to consider enrolling at Camp Community College. If you would like to talk to an advisor, college success coach or a student support services counselor, call 757-569-6707.
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How to Hire the Right In-Home Caregiver
In Home Care is a great option for older adults who wish to age in place and who do not want to move into a facility, such as assisted living or a nursing home. However, before you hire anyone to come into your home, arm yourself with a little extra knowledge. Understand the terminology: There are three kinds of inhome care: Companion Care, Personal Care (PCA), and Skilled Care (services delivered by a nurse). The first two are considered non-medical and are usually appropriate for most older adults needing care in the home. • Many older adults only need Companion Care, which includes such things as preparing meals, reminders to take medication, laundry, incidental transportation, etc. • A Personal Care Aide (PCA) also does household tasks, like a
companion caregiver. However, they must be certified by the state and are required to complete training. Training must be supplemented with continuing education every year to maintain the classification of Personal Care Aide. This training allows them to assist older adults with hands-on care, such as bathing, feeding, toileting, mobility and transferring. • Skilled Care, specifically care provided by a nurse, is only necessary if you require medical treatment for health conditions such as tracheotomy, respiratory, colostomy, dressing injuries, etc. A nurse will not provide companion or personal care. Understand Legal Requirements before Bringing a Caregiver into Your Home. • You may hire a caregiver through an agency or on your own. If you do hire a caregiver on your own, that is referred to
as a private caregiver. A private caregiver is an employee and not a contractor by law. This means you must collect and match federal taxes based on their rate of pay. At the end of the year, you provide them with a W2 and not a 1099. • If you hire a private caregiver yourself, the law considers you an employer. As an employer, you must stay clear of illegal questions, such as marital status, race, religion, and a whole host of other subjects when hiring and evaluating a caregiver. • Workman’s Compensation insurance is very important, and for most agencies required by law. You should make it a requirement. This insurance covers employees if they get hurt on the job, and it protects you. Typically, homeowner’s insurance will not cover injuries incurred by someone who is working for you.
Other Essential Checks Before Bringing Someone into Your Home • Background checks are essential. Do not go by your impressions about the person. Unfortunately, scammers and other criminals’ ability to be perceived as very likeable, nice and trustworthy is how they successfully take advantage of their victims. • A DMV report is essential if the person is going to be driving for you. If they are going to be driving your vehicle, you’ll also want to get a rider on your car insurance policy. Without the proper rider, you could be left financially responsible for injuries and damages in an accident. • A drug test must be conducted to ensure that the person is drug-
free. There is no way to tell if someone is a drug user by looking at them. Drug tests should also be given randomly during employment. • It is important to ask for and check references. Those references should not be friends or relatives. Ideally, they should be past employers. If you are checking references, be sure to avoid questions in violation of federal law. There are many questions you cannot ask.
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How to Choose a Diner
The diner is an icon among America’s restaurants. Often open 24 hours a day, serving fast, satisfying food and plenty of coffee to the working class, diners had almost disappeared before they staged a vibrant return. Americans are prone to nostalgia, and diners have benefited from these feelings that have brought about the resurgence in diners. Whether it’s a corner shop or housed in a quirky railroad car or streamlined trailer, modern diners are cleaner and classier than the coffee-and-eggs shop of old. If it’s been awhile since your last visit to a diner, follow these steps to find an excellent place for a bite to eat:
Many diners try to model their style after the heyday of American eating establishments in the 1950s, which can be fun if you want a throwback to a simpler, more carefree time. Others put a modern twist on the theme, though, with trendier decor and funky, fresh styling that reinvents the diner for the 21st century. The best ones will make you feel like a family member from the moment you walk in the door. You’ll know a good diner as soon as you step inside, because it leaves the right impression in an instant, including all the right sights, smells and sounds.
Atmosphere A good diner is clean but not stuffy or overly fancy, and the decor can range from fun and whimsical to a more retro, nostalgic look.
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Food A good breakfast is the key to the diner experience, letting you start your day in just the right way. You can’t go wrong by ordering the basics: bacon, eggs and hash browns. If the kitchen can cook these just right, with a home-
cooked flavor and delivered fast and hot, you’ll know right away how well they can make comfort food. And, let’s face it. Comfort food is what visiting the diner is all about. An extensive breakfast menu should give you lots of options, ideally with a few local treats thrown in for variety. Breakfast should be hearty and delicious, offering some healthy options but focusing more on the heavier, meatier items that make the diner experience so enjoyable. Overall, a good diner should be all about delivering the best comfort food you can buy. For breakfast, lunch or dinner, look for an expertly prepared meal that reminds you of being at home. Service Diners are known for serving food relatively quickly, and that can be a high hurdle for some establishments. The best ones can
serve up delicious meals without keeping you waiting too long, all while providing service in a way that makes you feel relaxed and well cared for. That balance between speedy food and comfortable, detailoriented service can be a tough one to strike, but the best diners manage to pull it off perfectly. And only the best-run restaurants can manage to achieve it during the breakfast or lunch rush, so excellent service at the busiest times is the biggest test you can give a diner. In fact, choosing the best diner comes down to one thing: How
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does it make you feel? When everything comes together — the laid-back atmosphere, hearty comfort food and outstanding, family-like service — it’s a special thing indeed. And once you’ve discovered that combination, it means you’ve found a diner that deserves regular visits from you, your friends and loved ones.
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How to Choose a Modular Home
Modular homes have experienced growth in popularity as more people seek to construct additions to their homes. Others look to modular homes for savings or for a vacation home. Modular homes are built in large sections to exacting standards in a factory, then delivered and assembled quickly at the construction site. The time savings and the efficiencies of producing most of the structure in a modern factory also make modular homes a great value for careful buyers. Follow these tips to help you find a modular home that will fit your needs. The dealer Your first stop is finding a qualified, licensed dealer who works with modular home manufacturers. The best dealers are licensed general contractors who can handle all aspects of constructing your home. He will make certain that the design meets your speci-
fications and budget. Dealers oversee all aspects of putting your home together, which includes securing the correct permits, as well as concrete, plumbing, HVAC, electrical and carpentry work that will occur onsite. In addition, the best dealers will assist you with your lender and title company. They want to make sure everything goes smoothly for you. The manufacturer Once you pick a dealer, you can begin to look at styles of modular homes. Each manufacturer has different options. There are sizes, floor plans and architectural designs to consider. Maybe you would prefer a one-story ranch, two-story home, Cape Cod or chalet-style structure. You can customize the look to meet your lifestyle and budget. Because these homes are manufactured by using innovative technologies in a controlled
environment, the result is a more precisely built home. Variations in weather during construction will not affect the house. Manufacturers purchase massive quantities of materials for their factories, so they pass their cost savings on to you. Typically, production time at the factory takes about eight weeks. The structure will be delivered and placed onto your foundation. After that, the final process of construction usually takes two to four weeks, depending on the
home and job site. Research the background and expertise of your dealer and manufacturer. Look carefully at the
features and design of the manufacturer’s plans. Your hard work will result in a high-quality home built to last.
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How to Choose a Preschool for Your Child
There’s substantial evidence that children gain valuable skills by attending preschool. These pre-kindergarten schools can act as both child care and learning centers, preparing young children for their education experiences to come. They’ll benefit even more, perhaps, from learning to get along with other children. Choosing the right preschool is an important part of preparing your child for life. It’s the foundation for starting a good education, something that can have repercussions for years to come. But selecting a school will also be based on other factors, such as your schedule and the many types of preschools and the curriculum they offer. With so many options for children, how can you pick the right one? Here are some things to consider. Teacher training One of the most important
things to consider — and also something that can have a dramatic impact on cost — is the experience, training and qualifications of the preschool’s educational staff. Some preschools are almost indistinguishable from day care centers, where children will have a safe place to spend time but not necessarily a rigorous academic foundation. Others focus more on learning specific skills and knowledge taught by fully qualified and certified teachers with college degrees. Neither philosophy is necessarily wrong, as some parents don’t want to rush their young kids into academic rigors, while other parents are all about giving their kids an early start from educational pros. The important thing is knowing exactly what training, higher education, experience and certificates are held by your child’s teacher. Only then can you decide if they’re a good match for your expectations.
Length of day Another aspect that can vary with different preschool programs is the length of the day. Some schools are designed around just a few hours per day, while others are full-day programs that offer more time for learning and play. Again, neither method is necessarily superior, but you should know the schedule up front and make sure it meets you and your child’s needs.
they use so you can make a better decision. To think even further down the road, try to find a preschool that uses a recognized curriculum that will dovetail with your plans for their future education, whether in public or private schools as they get older. The schools they’ll be attending may have some good advice about curriculums that would leave your preschooler well prepared.
Curriculum The best preschools do a great job giving your child a head start on life, and the curriculum they choose can be a big part of that foundation. Find out what curriculum materials and teaching style the school uses. Dig into the specifics of what your child will be learning, when and how. From the books they’ll be using to math basics and teaching social skills, know as much as possible about the learning process
Playtime philosophy Studies show that play time serves an important role in your child’s mental and social development. You should make sure the preschool’s philosophy about play time is a good fit for your expectations. When structured properly, a lot of education can take place during play time when children are free to learn and explore in their own, individual ways. Ask about techniques the preschool uses to help
children learn important things while having fun at the same time. The best schools are adept at blurring that line between play time and school time, letting kids have fun but always with an eye on their development. In the end, by finding a school with the right schedule, curriculum, staff and philosophy, you’ll be giving your child a great start toward living a happy, healthy, productive life.
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How to Choose a Flooring Dealer
Carpet, hardwood, bamboo, laminate, stone and tile. The many choices available for new flooring will lead you to flooring deals to determine the pros and cons of each option. Getting the service and value you seek from an expensive and long-term investment requires you consult a reputable, professional flooring dealer with a history of meeting client needs with not only sales but support and service. Here are some things to consider as you shop for flooring. When picking the best flooring and respective dealer, longevity, not price, should be your guide. Everyone wants the best price possible, but it’s important to consider these factors as well: • What if something happens in 10 years and you have no warranty to repair or replace the damage? Or if the installers make a mistake and leave your flooring
permanently damaged? • Be sure to look at additional support and services. Find a dealer who has a great reputation and long track record of excellent customer service. Spending extra money is worth purchasing a product from a flooring dealer you can trust. You aren’t just buying flooring. You are also creating a relationship. • When looking for a flooring dealer, look on the internet or your local phone book. • On the internet, you can find review sites to see how local flooring dealers compare. You can also check advertisements in your local newspaper to find specials and deals. • Be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the company has had any complaints lodged against it. If so, look to see how they were resolved. You might also check with the Chamber of Commerce.
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• After making a list of potential dealers you are considering, give each of them a call. Inquire about the background of the company and how long they’ve been in business. You may ask for referrals from previous customers for references. • Find out about the installation services they use and the dealer’s reliability. Do they use in-company groups or outside contractors? Also, find out about prices and warranty coverage. • If you visit their offices, they
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How to Choose a Garden Center
Once upon a time, gardeners used to order their seeds from mail-order catalogs. The internet replaced catalogs, but not the expert advice and exposure to new flowers, soils, techniques and classes. Fortunately, there are thousands of garden centers located across the country. Garden centers and nurseries are special places for those with a green thumb or those who wish to develop gardening skills. These outlets are run by gardening professionals with a deep level of expertise who can help experienced and novice gardeners alike in choosing the right flowers and plants for their gardens. Because you’ll likely want to develop a relationship with a garden center, choosing the right outlet will help you get the most out of your garden. Here’s what you should look for when selecting a new garden supply store.
Do the research Research will help you determine which garden center is best for you. Look at the center’s catalog or website. Not only should it be filled with quality products, it should also have information to help you become more successful. Staff advice should be easy to understand and apply. Remember, they are not only retailers but also experts in their field. Quality garden centers offer hands-on training and other classes on various gardening topics. Expertise can also be defined by media presence. The specialists at the garden center you are considering should be on the short list that the media uses. Your friends and neighbors may have referrals. Does someone in your social network love gardening? If so, then ask who they use. While some garden centers stock a wide variety of brands
and products, most have a few products they specialize in. Visit garden centers Once you have researched garden centers, visit two or three locations before making a final decision. Talk to a sales person. Think of a problem you experienced in the past and ask them for a solution. The sales people should be knowledgeable about remedies. Note his or her demeanor and attitude. Find out how long they have been in business and more about the owner. Good centers are usually in the same place, operated by the same people for a very long time. Take a look at the plants. Do they look healthy? Are they wellmaintained? Is there a decent variety?
Typically, plants grown in green houses are better quality. After all, they are produced to be grown in your area. Plants grown locally usually have fewer diseases. A plant may not appear diseased until you take it home. Inquire about how the plants are produced. “Open pollinated” designates a seed or plant will reproduce itself purely if a seed is properly saved from the fruit of the plant. An organic seed or plant has been produced without artificial or chemical pesticides. Genetically modified plants are created by laboratory technology that manipulates the plant’s genes. For example, instead of mixing two different kinds of corn t o create one
that is more resistant to diseases, they may combine genes from corn and a totally unrelated tomato plant. These modifications do not happen naturally in the breeding process. Many people may be cautious about using genetically altered seeds and plants, but there are advantages to them. On commercial farms, this type of plant has plenty of assets over organic plants. In a backyard garden, however, genetically modified plants are usually not necessary. When shopping at a garden center, understand the types of plants they offer. There should be a labeling system in place. If not, ask the staff for more information. Commercial crops are more likely to have genetic modification. Once you’ve done your research and know what you want, head on over to your local garden center and get started improving your garden.
(757) 357-4367 (757) 357-4367 865 Main Street, Hwy. 258,
865 Main Street, Hwy. 258, Smithfield
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