Bad Attitude

I haven't played a lot of sports. But with my time on a sports team as well as being friends with a lot of athletes, I’ve realized that there are a lot of misconceptions. People like to say that sports shouldn't be all about winning, but about having fun.But, I'm pretty sure that isn’t actually true. I feel like in most sports, there is an insane level of pressure and disrespect from coaches.  There is already a lot of pressure on athletes to be the very best they can. The added pressure of an “intense” coach is just too much. I don't think there is anything wrong with pushing athletes past their limits and encouraging them to do better, but you have to encourage them even if they lose. If the athletes did their very best what more can you ask for? Sports are supposed to be about fun while competing. You have to treat athletes like human beings, not show ponies. I wonder how many sports players would improve in if their coaches treated them just a little bit better. What do you think? Had a bad coaching experience? Comment your stories below!

Written by Opinion Editor Jasmine Bonner

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Interview: Sherman Watkins

Last week, our Journalism class interviewed Sherman Watkins. Mr. Watkins is an amazing artist. His story was absolutely incredible and a true inspiration to me.

Mr. Watkins was born in Danville, Virginia and orphaned at age 5. He was given to his aunt and uncle who would beat him constantly and his siblings were given to other families. At age 6, he began drawing stick figures. He says that drawing would take his mind off of his situation and make him stop worrying about where his siblings were. From there, his talents grew by the day.

He is now a very successful and  well known artist. His works are incredible and sell for thousands of dollars. Not only is his art featured in museums, it is also featured in the houses of celebrities…yes, you read that right…celebrities! For example, he is heading to Georgia soon to deliver artwork to none other than…Tyler Perry. In addition to this, he has painted portraits for United States Presidents as well as rulers all over the world. He is currently working on finishing a Civil Rights collection. This collection already has 42 paintings, but he is hoping to get a few more pictures (about 8 more) in there before he calls it complete.

One of his best pieces of advice was, “Everyday is a new day to learn. You are always better today than you were yesterday.” This advice can rein true in anyone’s life. No matter what you are going through, stay strong because you, along with what you do, will continue to get stronger.

Written by Ashley Burnette

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Bacon = Death?

Researchers are still trying to pin down exactly how red and processed meat cause cells to become cancerous, but the main culprits seem to be certain chemicals found in the meat itself. Cooking meat at high temperatures, such as grilling or barbecuing, can also create chemicals in the meat that may increase the risk of cancer. These chemicals are generally produced in higher levels in red and processed meat compared to other meats. Various meats rank alongside cigarettes as a major cause of cancer. The World Health Organization said that they are placing cured and processed meats in the same category as asbestos, alcohol, arsenic, and  tobacco. It places red meat in group 2A, as “probably carcinogenic to humans”. Eating red meat is also linked to pancreatic and prostate cancer, the IARC says. While this statement seems really life threatening, you have to look at all the facts. It technically only increases your chances by hundredths of a percent. So for all those meat lovers out there, we’re pretty sure you’ll still be alright eating your daily fix. What do you think? Comment below!

Written by Billy Coles

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Interview: Sean Slaughter

Sean Slaughter, a musician, producer, loving father and husband, was interviewed by the Journalism class last Friday. The man came in and immediately started dropping rhymes. Everyone in the class was impressed by his allusions and lyrics. Slaughter went from rhymes to his life story, which began with music. He was born in Queens, NY, and from there came a lot of his inspiration for music he would make later in life. His career started at 19, when he was living in the basement of a friend with small recording equipment right next to his bed. He named the "producing" business Slaughter Music. The production kicked off when he started making beats for the Wu-Tang Clan. After a couple years of working for them and several others, he started producing his own music and became a more independent studio. His first two albums came out on the same day, August 22, 2001, "The World Is Not Enough" and "Justice for All."

Some of his greatest accomplishments include having his album Prototype on the best selling Top 50 list on iTunes and his song "Die Daily" as a Grammy nominee. He now lives in Hampton, VA and enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, Melody and Lyric. Over the last couple years he has branched out from music and moved into running businesses. Slaughter owns the Virginia Recording Arts Institute, Life Power Music Mentoring, and is Executive Director of YH Thomas Community Center. He was a pretty awesome guest. Give some of his music a listen and comment below what you think!

Written by Keira Zirkle

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Five Quick Costume Ideas

It’s October, and you know what that means: it’s Halloween time! Unless you’re a holiday pro and have been planning your costume since September, you’re probably panicking around Party City in desperate need of an idea, right? Well look no further! I’ve compiled a list of popular 2015 Halloween costumes to help you narrow down your choices. You won’t be original, but at least everyone will know what you are!

#1) Skeleton Facepaint

  This look has been around for a while, but for a good reason. it’s pretty easy to do and makes a bold, spooky statement. All it takes is a little makeup and some black clothes to really pull the look together.

#2) Marvel’s  Avengers

Who doesn’t like a good superhero cosplay? Dress up as your favorite Marvel character with either a store bought costume, or by go the extra mile and DIY your own special take on your favorite superhero. Bonus points if you get the rest of your squad to dress up go with you.

#3) Harley Quinn

One of the most searched for costumes this year is the beloved DC Universe’s villain, Harley Quinn. The costume itself might be a little more work, but it’ll be a big hit at parties as the hype builds for the Suicide Squad movie, in which Harley is featured. The costume itself shouldn’t be too hard, but you might have to hunt a bit to find a wig similar to her’s.

#4) A Viral Internet Meme

This has been a big year for viral hits, so if you want to add a bit of humor, I’d suggest going as The Dress, since there’s already pre-made costumes being sold. This costume in particular is split down the middle with a blue/black side and a white/gold side, but you could always buy the iconic original dress instead.

#5) A Minion

I’m completely kidding, please don’t do this.  Love yourself

Have any other ideas that would make great costumes? Comment them below!

Written by Madison Clayton

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Heritage High Lockdown

There have been multiple shootings and bomb threats concerning Heritage High School in Hampton, VA. The school was on a full lockdown the whole day last week. The threats first swept through the social media realm, causing numerous students to not show up to school.  While some people were joking around with the threats, it was clear that others were serious. Thankfully, due to the efforts of local police and school administrators, no attacks occurred. Whether these reports were all jokes or not, making threats like these is simply unacceptable. No one deserves to live in fear, especially of a supposedly “safe place” like high school. What do you think? Comment below!

Written by Joshua Lewis

The #1 Game That Will Guarantee An End In Your Relationships

NBA 2K has always been by far one of the most addicting games on Xbox and PS4. Who wouldn't stop any relationship they have for this game? It is definitely a must have. Girlfriends,best friends, sisters, and brothers are getting cut off. Whoever isn't on good terms with me by the time that game comes out, it's too late for you. Nobody is getting a text back, nobody will get an answer, and phones will stay on airplane mode. Nothing but death will interrupt players from this game. If your significant other puts down NBA 2k16 for you, marry them. This is more than a game, it's life!

Written by Carlos Marrow

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World Series Predictions

The 2015 World Series will showcase the New York Mets against the Kansas City Royals. The last time the Mets won the World Series was in 1986 against the Boston Red Sox. The Royals last trip to the World Series was in 1985 when they beat the St. Louis Cardinals. This 2015 Fall Classic is a battle between two extremely powerful teams

The Royals won an exciting game one in extra innings. They were able to gain a 5-4 victory over the Mets in 14 innings off a walk off sacrifice fly from 1st baseman, Eric Hosmer. The Royals held off the Mets with fantastic bullpen pitching from Wade Davis, Kelvin Herrera, and Chris Young. The highlight of the night was a game tying home run in the bottom of the 9th  by Alex Gordon off of one of the best closers in the Majors, Jeurys Familia.

The Royals also won game two over the Mets and star pitcher, Jacob DeGrom, 7-1 in 9 innings. Johnny Cueto pitched a complete game and gave up only 2 hits and 1 run. The Royals offense was led by 1st baseman Eric Hosmer, who set the Royals all-time RBI record by passing Hall of Famer, George Brett, with 25.

Going forward into game 3 the match up will be between Noah Syndergard of the Mets and Yordano Ventura of the Royals. I predict that as the Series moves to Citi Field in the Big Apple, the Mets will win at least two of the three games taking place at their home field.  I think Syndergard will pitch very well in game three as well as Steve Matz, who will take the mound in game 4. My prediction is that the Mets will win the next two games with Syndergard and Matz on the mound due to the fact that Syndergard has pitched masterfully this postseason. Also,  Matz’s opponent, Chris Young, has already pitched once this World Series and his arm will most likely be “gassed” and he won’t be on top of his game. From then on, I’m not sure who will win. These are two fantastic teams offensively; however, I give the Defensive advantage to the Royals who have shined defensive this year. If I had to pick, at this point,  I think that the Royals will win the Series 4-2 due to the fact that the Royals have advantages in base running, defense, and bullpen, while I believe the Mets’ advantages lie in starting pitching and power. The World Series is really heating up and we are witnessing a series that is “knocking it out of the park”. I hope this series really goes well and that it’s not a swing and a miss. What are your predictions? Comment below!

Written by  Kenny Quinn

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Artist Watch: Jose Parla

   

                              

       Jose Parla is an amazing artist. He’s one of the top 25 young painters you really should get to know. Parla is a Brooklyn based artist who is known for his paintings, architectural collaborations, sculptures and photography. His work has received critical acclaim and lies between the boundary of abstraction and calligraphy. Basically, his work is awesome. He even recently hit Cuba with the brilliant street artist JR for a series of murals at the Havana Biennial.

Parla was born in Miami to Cuban parents. His early work heavily involved graffitti. As a teen, he hit Miami regularly using the name Ease.  His current art incorporates calligraphy and build up to resemble distressed walls.  When asked about his influences Parla said, “Historically, walls have exhibited the voice of the people. My earliest painting were made on walls at night. My thought and impulse behind the gesture was as primitive as that of cavemen marking and drawing in their dwellings to assert their existence in a place and time.” Jose Parla is an amazing artist that should definitely gain more recognition.

Here’s a couple more examples of some of his work.

 

What do you think? Have another artist you think should we should cover? Comment below!

Written by Justin Poston

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Song of the Week: Hello by Adele

After years without any music, Adele has released a new song and its video within a span of two days. Despite the short notice and absolutely miniscule warning, “Hello,” her new track, not only stayed number one on the charts but broke both Taylor Swift’s youtube record for most views in 24 hours and Miley Cyrus’ fastest VEVO certified status. Featuring Adele’s signature voice and a heartbreaking chorus, "Hello" has only confirmed Adele’s status as a true legend. The song will debut on Adele's new album 25, which is available November 20th. Haven’t heard it ? Watch the video and decide for yourself.


Written by Dustin Jones


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The Power of Life Groups

    For those of you who have been living under a rock for the past nine weeks of school, chapel is definitely a little bit different this year. Instead of having chapel every Friday, the students of HCA are split up into “life groups” which meet every other week instead of chapel. Life groups have been a really healthy outlet for me. They allow my classmates and I a chance to express ourselves in a safe space. I think that we don't have enough life groups. I find the small group experience easier to relate to for a variety of reasons. Being in a setting with other girls with similar backgrounds and perspectives makes for a more meaningful spiritual experience. All of our discussions and interactions feel organic in nature and there's no pressure to respond to anything in a certain way.

In life group I have a chance to express how I really feel about God and other topics in my life. As a girl I finally feel like I have a place where people relate to my emotions. We only seem to have life groups once a month I think more life groups would be beneficial. I, along with other students, need more life groups where we could get more individual help instead of chapels it is sometimes difficult to address personal issues. What do you think? Write your comments below!

Written by Jasmine Bonner

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The Perfect Season

Heading into week 7 of the 2015-2016 NFL regular season there are 5 undefeated teams. The Packers, Broncos, Panthers and Bengals are all 6-0, while the Patriots currently sit at 5-0 due to their bye week. In week 6, the Broncos had a 26-23 overtime victory over the Browns. The Packers also had a 27-20 victory over the Chargers, while the Panthers moved to 6-0 after a 27-23 fourth quarter comeback victory over the Seahawks. The Bengals moved to 6-0 in a 34-21 victory over the Bills, and the Patriots remained undefeated after beating the Colts 34-27 on Sunday Night Football.

So who will remain undefeated the longest?

If you ask me, the Patriots will keep their perfect season the longest. The Patriots are playing fantastic football and have remained healthy so far. Besides decimating weaker teams like the Jaguars, they have also beaten very skilled teams such as the Steelers and Colts. The Patriots are led by MVP candidate, Tom Brady, who only had one turnover through his entire first five games. The Bengals have played strong defense; however, they will have lost by week 10 to either the Steelers, Texans or the Cardinals. The Panthers have ranked towards the top of the league in rushing and are 5th in total defense; however with a tough schedule coming up they will probably lose by week nine to either the Colts or the Packers, who both have spectacular offenses. The Packers will lose their next game 2 weeks from now against the Broncos due to the fact that they have been injury plagued on both sides of the ball and have snuck wins in the last 2 weeks. The Broncos have played spectacular defense, but their offense has struggled. Quarterback Peyton Manning has thrown a league leading 10 interceptions and only 7 touchdowns. The Broncos will most likely beat the injury plagued Packers in week 8, but will probably lose to the Colts the next week because of their great offense.

I believe the Patriots have a legitimate shot at going undefeated. They are currently on pace to have a more productive offense and a more lockdowned defense than they did in their 2007 perfect regular season. I can only see them struggling in their two games against the Jets and their home games against the Bills and the Broncos. The Jets rank number one in total defense this year and Broncos aren’t far behind at number four. The Bills lost to the Patriots 32-40 earlier this year in Buffalo, so they are going to be seeking revenge in their rematch in Foxborough. The Jets and Broncos are both allowing less than 20 points per game, while the Patriots lead the NFL with 36 points per game. So, while there are many undefeated teams, they are going to “pass” on a perfect season. Looks like all 5 teams are going to have to work hard to “defend” their perfect season in the coming weeks. What do you think? Do you agree that the Patriots are going to claim the title of undefeated? Comment below!

Written by Kenny Quinn

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L.A Flash Flood

On October 20, California’s city of Los Angeles declared itself under a state of local emergency because of the flash floods and mud slides.Happening only weeks after North Carolina’s record flooding, the flooding in Los Angeles caused extreme amounts of damage.  By declaring the emergency, the city was able to receive federal and state relief for the families affected by the natural disaster. The flooding and mudslides were caused by the surrounding lakes’ heightened water levels from the thunderstorms. Roads have been closed down due to the high amounts of mud and dirt that can cake the tires and bumpers of cars. City buildings and private properties were also heavily laden with dirt and debris that is still getting cleared out. Relief has been sent, but the flooding has caused severe enough damage that families are still seeking relief and shelter away from their homes.

Written by Keira Zirkle

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Song of the Week

Let’s be honest. Christian music has a tendency to be, frankly, pretty boring. We’re stuck with two options: slow boring hymns, or cringe-worthy country/pop disasters. As normal teenagers with opinions and our own thoughts;  those two choices don’t really appeal to us and we have a tendency to shun the label of “Christian.” This weekly post is here to prove that Christian music can be so much more!

This week's song: Worn by Tenth Avenue North

This week’s song is somewhat of a throwback. We all remember the awesome band Tenth Avenue North, who have established their reputation as a great Christian band with interesting and powerful original songs.

We all feel tired sometimes. Instead of glossing that over, this powerful song admits the struggle. It’s ok to just feel tired. Tenth Avenue North uses simple chords and poignant lyrics to admit their feelings and still manage to cry out to God. I would suggest giving it a listen. Have any suggestions about the song of the week? Comment them below?

Written by Zoe Jones

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Generals VS Bucks: A Close Call

The Generals verses Bucks football game on the 17th was a very intense and close call! The first quarter was heartracing, ending with our Generals down 6 to 8. A tying two point conversion was missed, but easily made up for in the second quarter. The Generals came back out strong and easily scored a successful touchdown from Brandon Blair (#23) and made a perfect two point conversion.

The Generals continued to play a tight game and by halftime  had a score of 35 to the Buck’s score of 16.  While suffering a setback halfway through the 3rd quarter when Tullos  threw a pick 6, our team was quickly able to turn back the tide; Tullos passing to Josh Villa (#89),  resulting in a touchdown and another perfect 2 point conversion.

After ending the 3rd quarter with the score: Generals 43, and Bucks at 30. the Generals had to fend off relentless comebacks from the Bucks. With 3:52 left in the game, Billy Coles( #12) scored a much needed touchdown, giving the Generals a seven point lead. The Bucks tried to rally but our team remained strong, answering back with an amazing interception and won the game with a score of 49 to 42. What a crazy game! What were some of your favorite moment? Comment below!

Written by Billy Coles

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Ole Miss Vs Memphis

The likelihood of Ole Miss reaching the Playoffs this year most likely ended Saturday, as they lost to Memphis 37-24. Ole Miss held a 14-7 lead up until Robert Nkemdiche, defensive end for Ole Miss, was literally knocked out while running the ball on offense. One Nkemdiche was taken off the field, Memphis turned the tide with 24 unanswered points, including scores on four consecutive possessions. The Tigers’ quarterback, Paxten Lynch, got the offense fired up. With no running game to aid, the Junior finished the game with 384 passing yards, three touchdowns and one interception. Who are you rooting for? Comment your favorite team below!

Written by: Justin Phillips

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Autumn Memories

I’ve always loved fall. I can remember when I was a kid, my favorite thing to do was spending time with my grandmother. We would rake all the leaves on her yard into a big pile, then sit on them and eat Oreos. When I got a little older, my mom would take me to the Harvest Festival where they sold all kinds of crafts. I would kick my way through piles and piles of leaves, covering my shoes in mud, just to get there each year. More time passed and fall meant carving pumpkins. I would pick out the most deformed pumpkin and give it a home. At age 18, my main fall priority is to consume as many pumpkin spice products as possible. Fall has always been my favorite season and it has given me many great memories. What are your best memories? Comment below!

Written by: Jasmine Bonner

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The Benefits of PC Gaming Over Console Gaming

There is an ongoing debate in the gaming community if console gaming is better than PC. Well, I have come to the conclusion that PC is a superior platform…here’s why.

1. On a console, you are limited to the hardware that the manufacturer has used, while, on a PC, you can decide what processor, graphics, and everything else you can think of, based on what you need. If you want a top of the line gaming experience, you can have it

2. PC outperforms consoles in almost every aspect. Yes, it is true that for the same price of getting an Xbox One, you can build an even better PC. I would recommend building a $400 PC to outperform a console because the more money you spend on a PC, the better the experience.

3. More games are available for the PC than for consoles. Almost every “triple A” title for consoles is available on PC, excluding games such as Halo and Destiny. You can buy indie games from unknown developers on PC such as, Five Nights at Freddy’s, and Speed Runners. If you want a wilder library of games to choose from, PC is for you!

Overall, this comes down to a matter of opinion and what kind of experience you want to have. If your friends play on Xbox, get an Xbox because nothing is better than playing games with your friends; however, if you can wait and save up money, get a PC. You won’t regret it. What do you think? Comment your preference below

Written by: Dustin Jones

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The Sad End to a Great Season

As this year’s volleyball season comes to an end, there is a mix of emotions from the players. Some people, like me, are sad to see the season end but are looking forward to the new team next year. Other players have been done with the season for the past 2 weeks and are barely pushing on in these last few games. Though the team has not had that great of a season as far as wins are concerned, we grew stronger as a team and, more importantly, grew closer as a family. Yes, we have our differences, and yes, we argue…a lot…but I know these girls will always have my back. Overall, this season has been a learning opportunity for all of us and a great experience for the whole team. What team do you consider your family? Comment below or tag us on social media!

Written by: Ashley Burnette

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G.I. Jane

The toughest military force in the world is now allowing women. Now for the sexist men out there who say that women aren't cut out for special forces, you should probably swallow those opinions back down and choke on them. There are many women who are more physically and mentally fit than the thousands of buds (Basic Underwater Demolition SEAL Training) washouts. BUDS is the hardest military pipeline in the world. Star athletes in college have washed out because they didn't have the mental capacity to fight through pain and discomfort.

Admiral Jon Greenert stated that if women can pass BUDS they should be allowed to serve as a SEAL. I agree with this statement 100%. If a woman can out do 80+ men to get into the SEALs then they are a part of an elite one percent of human beings in the world who can push their bodies past their limits. I don't want to hear anyone say women can't make it through the training in which they have never been afforded the opportunity to do so. What do you think? Comment below

Written by Joshua Lewis

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Autumn 2015 Makeup Trends

Fall is here, and with it, the opportunity to change up your makeup routine! This year, the focus seems to be going all out on brows or lips, and keeping everything else simple to focus on certain features. Let’s get started with the newest trend…

Strobing/Hilighting

Strobing (or highlighting), is a method developed by drag queens to help highlight and accentuate features of the face without all the trouble of contouring.  

So instead of looking like this, aka, a hot countouring mess,

No, seriously, it’s like real-life photoshop. This junk works wonders.

Bold Brows

Yes, I am perfectly aware that bold brows have been a staple all year, but the trend is being re-vamped as it’s getting colder and we don’t feel like doing anything but concealer and eyebrows.

Bold brow queen Cara Delevingne has mastered this look and is great inspiration if you’re looking to try this out for yourself.

Of course, you’re eyebrows don’t have to be as bold as Cara’s, or Lilly Collin’s, but if you really want to switch up your look for fall, go ahead and start off smaller. Not everyone can handle the Bold Brow.

I’m still not entirely sure what “fleek” means but I’m pretty sure this is it (bonus points for those Minnie Mouse buns).

Need help? There’s plenty of beauty vloggers that explain it in a pretty good way, but keep in mind that everyone has different shaped eyebrows, so you might be better off asking a professional (or that girl in your class who’s been wearing makeup since sixth grade) which shape works best for your unique face, you special snowflake.

Brown and Plum Matte Lipsticks

Woo hoo! Lipsticks! Lipsticks are my fave, and it’s that special time of year again where super pale girls like me can wear dark colors without looking like a 2005 emo band member!  I personally like wearing bolder colors like these all year ‘round and I’m completely used to plumbs and almost black reds, but I totally get that not everyone is comfortable doing that, so here’s some matte browns to help you ease your way in.

        

MAC is a pretty expensive brand, so I’m linking a few of my favorite cheaper drugstore brand lipsticks as well, in case you don’t feel like shelling out ten (or more!) bucks for a tube; but if you do, then more power to you, and you should  take me makeup shopping sometimes.

Once you feel comfortable with those, then you can move on to the dark stuff like these little beauties.

I mean seriously, look at these!

Have you ever seen something so beautiful? I might ugly cry.

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine

You make me happy, when skies are grey

I need a moment...

Ahem, sorry about that, but anyway, I hope you saw a few things that will inspire you this makeup season! Now, if you excuse me, I have to go spend all of my money on makeup I’ll wear once, and then let  melt in my pocket, and then I will be sad, and poor. But alas, such is the lift of a makeup enthusiast. Anyways, let us now if you've tried any of these looks by tagging us on instagram or twitter so we can comment heart eyes and those little 100 emojis. Good luck!

Written by Madison Clayton

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