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Ashokan Center Hosts Fourth Youth Empowerment & Sustainability Summit

Written By The Mountain Eagle on 3/13/25 | 3/13/25

YESS 2025 Senator Michelle Hinchey, Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha, Deputy County Executive Amanda LaValle, Tim Guinee of Climate Action Now, Ashokan Staff Member Caroline Bailey, and Kingston YMCA Farm Project Team- Photo by by Inna Ivanovskaya

YESS 2025 Welcome Address with Summit Organizer Caroline Bailey - Photo by Ruth Merenda

Students Exploring Wigwam at YESS 2025 - Photo by Caroline Bailey

Wild Center Celebrating Completion of Summit at YESS 2025 - photo by Caroline Bailey


OLIVEBRIDGE – From February 28 - March 2 2025, the Ashokan Center held its fourth annual Youth Empowerment & Sustainability Summit (YESS!) in Olivebridge. Students from grades 7 through 12 assembled from the Hudson Valley, Adirondacks, New York City, Massachusetts, and Connecticut for this immersive, three-day event. The theme this year was Restoration, Regeneration, and Resilience.  

Students attended a series of informative presentations and workshops, and also engaged in enrichment activities including team building, musical performances, hiking, songwriting, and stargazing.  Speakers for the welcoming address included State Senator Michelle Hinchey, Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha, Deputy County Executive Amanda LaValle, and Tim Guinee of Climate Action Now and the Climate Reality Project.  After addressing the students with inspiring words, the public officials held an engaging panel session to address questions from students.

Hudson Valley Farm Hub, Cornell Cooperative of Ulster County, Community Compost, New Yorkers for Clean Power, and the Wild Center offered a range of workshop sessions. Student teams also presented on sustainability initiatives they’ve led in their schools and communities.  

Schools and groups in attendance were the Kingston YMCA Farm Project, Hudson’s Tomorrow of Kingston High School, SUNY STEP, Saugerties High School, Haviland Middle School, Arlington High School, Wallkill High School, the National Wildlife Federation, the Sustainability Ambassadors of SUNY New Paltz, the Wild Center, Youth Squared, Indian Mountain School, and Glen Urquhart School.

Students worked together in teams to develop climate action plans which they presented to each other at the end of the summit. The experience helped them develop valuable skills for coalition-building and presenting the changes they envision in their communities including creating plausible plans, public speaking, and creating compelling pitches. It was also a unique opportunity for them to network with peers and presenters, and share ideas in a collaborative environment. 

Students expressed they appreciated the increased focus on wellness and mental health this year. They said they loved trying new things at Ashokan such as traditional folk dancing, stargazing, and connecting with each other while hiking and exploring in nature. Tanya Jabcuga, an 11th grade student from Arlington High School shared, “I really liked the intersection of art and music with climate change - the folk dancing and the concert, but also how that relates to climate change and how we can use these forms of expression to show our passion for this work.”  Sarah Zou, an 11th grade student from the Youth Steering Committee of the National Wildlife Federation’s Climate Resilience Education Task Force (CRETF) based in NYC said that a highlight was, “the knowledge that everywhere there’s people doing good things… Being in a space where there’s so many different people from all these different parts of the state, and they’re all doing good things everywhere, makes me feel really good.”  Amanda Ho, a 12th grade student also from CRETF added that, “It was super fun. Everyone was super nice, the food was great, and it was just a great opportunity to be with people who thought like me, had similar ideas, who we could build off of each other - just a great community.”

Attendees left the summit with new and deepened connections, actionable paths to implement their ideas, and a rejuvenated sense of hope. Teachers and chaperones also had opportunities to network with each other and attend professional development sessions. Abby Jordan, a staff member of the National Wildlife Federation and chaperone of the Youth Steering Committee of CRETF described the experience as transformative and shared, “As a chaperone, it was wonderful seeing how thoughtful the Ashokan team and Center planned everything out.  It was seamless… There were so many wonderful engaging things to do with folks across the state. I do want to say thank you so much to the Ashokan Center. Our students were happy - there were so many smiles and laughter shared, and we are just so happy that they had that opportunity to spend a weekend in nature and to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and really you know engage with folks from other communities, and have a great weekend, so thank you so much.”

The Ashokan Center would like to thank everyone who made it possible to run the summit, including all of the presenters, Radio Kingston who sponsored the Kingston High School team, the YESS planning committee, the Mid-Hudson Teacher Center and National Wildlife Federation staff who provided professional development opportunities, and especially the Wild Center Youth Climate Program team who is a partner on the event and led many of the workshop sessions.  

Caroline Bailey, Ashokan staff member and organizer of the event reflected, “At the Ashokan Center, we are all about building and fostering community, and the students and chaperones did just that with each other around sustainability at the summit. As was emphasized in our messaging, when we care for ourselves and each other, that’s how we persevere in the face of challenges and remain resilient. The model of our summit is designed to have a balance of taking on the tough work these students workshopped and will continue to have ahead of them, in combination with light and engaging activities like hiking, music, and stargazing - and as one student so beautifully stated, being reminded of what they're fighting for. As Tim Guinee and many attendees echoed, hope is action - and these motivated students give us a lot of hope as empowered leaders in their communities. We are grateful to have provided a supportive and productive environment for this important work to happen, and we’re excited to see how these engaged students carry their climate action plans forward.”

 

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Shandaken Planning Board Weighs Event Venue, Cell Tower, Housing Project Amid Resident Concerns

Staff Report

SHANDAKEN — The Shandaken Planning Board convened on Wednesday, Feb. 26 for a lengthy meeting featuring public hearings and discussions on several key development proposals, including a seasonal event venue, a cell tower, and an affordable housing project.

Perpetual Space LLC’s application to open a seasonal event venue at the existing Leeway Hotel in Mount Tremper, located in a residential zone, sparked significant concern among nearby residents. The proposal includes a temporary event tent, catering location, and portable bathrooms, with a maximum capacity of 75 people for events such as weddings and birthday parties.

Residents, including Ted Denman, who lives across from the property, expressed strong concerns about noise pollution. They argued that the unique acoustics of the surrounding mountains amplify sound, disrupting the peaceful environment. Several speakers worried that granting a variance for large parties would negatively impact property values.

"The spirit of the residential zone is to avoid this type of chaos and noise," one resident stated.

The board also discussed the project's impact on the floodway, as the proposed tent location falls within it. The board tabled the decision, opting to seek further clarification from the applicant and address public concerns in a workshop.

Horizon Wireless also presented its proposal for a new cell tower, including results from a balloon test and visual resource analysis. The test showed minimal visibility of the proposed tower from surrounding areas, alleviating some visual impact concerns.

The board discussed the project's compliance with regulations, particularly the requirement for the tower to accommodate multiple carriers. Verizon has provided a letter confirming its intent to allow collocation. The project is subject to federal regulatory approvals, and a public hearing is scheduled for April 9.

Wellington Blueberry LLC presented its plan to convert a historic building in Pine Hill into 10 affordable housing units and a small commercial market and cafe. The project includes 12 parking spaces and landscaping improvements.

The board discussed the project’s site plan, landscaping, and lighting, as well as reports on endangered species and archaeological findings. A public hearing is expected to be scheduled after the applicant completes part two of the Long Environmental Assessment Form (EAF).

In other business, the board also addressed a subdivision proposal, a complaint against commercial activity in a residential zone, and cabin renovations with airstream additions.

A complaint regarding commercial activity at 6280 State Route 28 was discussed, with the board suggesting a Class 2 home occupation permit as a potential solution.

Full Run LLC’s proposal to add airstreams to their property was discussed, with the board considering a sketch plan approval.

The meeting adjourned after several hours of discussion and public comment.

 

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[Filmed Locally] Severance and the Phoenicia Diner



By Bradley Towle

PHOENICIA — With all the buzz surrounding the return of Apple TV+'s popular Severance on January 17th, those of us who have not caught the program yet may be curious about the hype. For example, two days before the start of the show's second season, the marketing team created a pop-up performance in a busy Grand Central Station. Actors Adam Scott, Britt Lower, John Turturro, Zach Cherry, Patricia Arquette, and Tramell Tillman "worked" in a drab glass-enclosed mock office constructed within New York City's most grandiose train terminal. If, like me, you don't know much about the show, you might be curious just what you're missing, given the elaborate staging of the Grand Central Station promotion and zealous fan base. The psychological thriller follows a group of workers at a shadowy company known as Lumon who have agreed to undergo a brain surgery that separates their work lives from their personal lives known as Severance. There are "innies" and "outies" employed at Lumon. The outies walk into the offices of Lumon and take an elevator down to the windowless "severed floor," at which point their "innie" clocks in. The outies don't remember anything from their mundane workday, while the innies, by contrast, live hellish lives. 

The Ben Stiller-produced Severance has utilized numerous filming locations throughout upstate New York, primarily in the Hudson Valley, including Nyack, Kingston, New Paltz, and White Plains. Anyone planning to dive into the surrealist show in the Mountain Eagle readership area might spot a local landmark early on in the series. On March 9th, 2021, The Phoenicia Diner closed to the public and opened its doors to the Severance production team. The beloved diner was temporarily renamed "Pip's Bar and Grill" for the roughly week-long shoot. The Phoenicia Diner scenes appear toward the end of "Good News About Hell," Severance's pilot episode directed by Ben Stiller, when Mark Scout (played by Adam Scott) has a mysterious and pivotal encounter with a mystery man. 

It's not the first time the renowned Catskills diner has found its way to the screen. 2021's Werewolves Within used the location, and a Chase Saphire commercial featuring location scout Jillian Fisher also utilized the diner. To catch The Phoenicia Diner’s appearance in Severance, look back to the show’s pilot episode. 

 

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RV Camping At Village Park Being Reviewed - Water Infrastructure Discussed

By Mary A. Crisafulli

FLEISCHMANNS - Fleischmanns village officials are reviewing a contract with Belleayre Mountain for an RV campsite at the park during the Mountain Jam Festival, June 20-22. 

Mayor Samuel Gil assured residents no contract has been signed yet and if it does not meet village needs there is no obligation to sign. 

The request is for roughly 50 RVs to park in the parking lot and soccer field and use the concession stand bathrooms. Belleayre will be responsible for generators, water, and sewage removal.

A main concern is field damage after large vehicles are parked there for several days. Trustees will ask the contract to stipulate the area must be returned to its original state.

RV campsites are already being sold on the Mountain Jam website for $906. The advertisement states sites are 20' by 50' with electrical hookups with water and waste removal for an additional cost. A shuttle service is planned to transport visitors to and from the festival.

Gil believes the village has leverage in negotiations since the sight has already been advertised. 

In other business, the board reviewed water infrastructure issues. Gil reported a home and business off New York Route 28 has failing water pipes. The situation is unique because the pipes are the municipality's responsibility instead of the owners, explained Gil. Roughly 11 years ago a contract was signed where officials agreed to take sole responsibility and connect the home to the water system taking on a 150,000 debt, he said. Now those 11-year-old pipes need to be replaced.

All those years ago, Trustee Miguel Martinez-Riddle explained, the homeowners were awarded a MARK Project infrastructure grant. Then they discovered the property was not hooked up to village water. Martinez-Riddle believes MARK Project officials fought for the agreement with the village. It's a strange project as the pipes need to cross above a creek leaving them exposed to the elements, he explained. "It's complicated," he noted. Martinez-Riddle revealed the property as the Fleischmanns mansion.

Members of the public protested that the village should not be responsible for the project. "Contracts can be broken," one individual said.

Joe DeVitto, owner of the Print House, has volunteered time to review the contract.

Gil noted another water infrastructure project that officials are working to find other funding sources for. A failing culvert, across the street from Goatie Whites on NY Route 28, requires repair, said Gil. It appears to be the responsibility of the village, he explained, but he is working with Middletown and the County on alternative options. Although the culvert is on property owned by the Delaware and Ulster Railroad, officials have expressed no interest in helping with a tight budget themselves, reported Gil. Railroad President Todd Pascarella and Middletown Supervisor Glen Faulkner will be invited to discuss the issue at the next regular village meeting on April 14 at 6 p.m.

A NYClass representative is also expected to present and answer questions at the April meeting. NYClass is a local government and non-profit investment fund.

Long time resident Yvonne Reutter is working to beautify the village trash cans with wooden enclosures decorated by local artists. Reutter is seeking volunteers to assist with the effort. The board is expected to approve the project at the next meeting.

Gil wrapped up the meeting noting that Fleischmanns is a beautiful place to find oneself. “It’s peaceful, quiet, and friendly,” he said, “We can agree to disagree but we can still be friends, not enemies.”

 

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Resident Upset With MTC, NYSEG, & Transfer Station Rate Increases

By Mary A. Crisafulli

ROXBURY - During public comment, a Roxbury resident asked elected officials to seek justification for increased Margaretville Telephone Company (MTC) and NYSEG (New York State Electric and Gas) rates. She said that in addition to receiving extravagant electric bills, NYSEG has added a $10 supplemental fee. While the additional fees were announced to customers before becoming effective, she said there was no explanation. 

"I don't see that MTC deserves it," she said, asking if this is permitted through the town contract. 

Another individual said their electric bill has nearly doubled over the last few months.

Supervisor Allen Hinkley said the town has no authority over NYSEG and MTC rates. However, he explained that the NYSEG increase is due to supply. NYSEG only delivers energy to users, he said. "My understanding is the reason rates have increased is because NYSEG has had to raise rates to be able to supply electricity to New York City," Hinkley explained. One of the electrical plants used for the City recently shut down and with increased electrical use from the State's low emissions goals, Hinkley said the electricity has to come from somewhere. Any situation like this "is definitely going to come back to us," he noted, "It’s getting bad and it's going to get a lot worse." Much of the current infrastructure is not designed to support the State's Climate Act goals of reduced emissions, he explained, and they will have to update and expand infrastructure to support it.

"We understand there's a lot of frustration with customer's billing, especially when it comes to this winter. Prices have gone up for things like supply," NYSEG Communications Manager Mike Baggerman said to WGRZ reporters. He adds that NYSEG delivery rates have remained the same, but supply is something they do not control. 

MTC President & CEO Glen Faulkner said adjustments take effect April 1. "Most of these increases impact legacy cable television services where the wholesale cost of programming and broadcast network channels continues to see annual increases in rates," he said. Some of those annual growths are over 20 percent, Faulkner explained. Roughly 60% of customers will be affected by the change. A letter was sent out to all customers clarifying the increases, he said.

The town board recently increased the transfer station tag price to $25 for residential and $250 for commercial. Hinkley explained the increased charge was to bring the fees in line with going rates and uplift the station's budget. One major issue is disposal of C&D (construction debris). Overages for C&D disposal cost roughly $80,000 annually, he explained. The town has already collected over $7,000 from rate increases. Councilmembers are exploring adjustments to the C&D fee schedule. 

The recent hiring of a full-time transfer station attendant to enforce regulations has been beneficial, added Councilmember Kenneth Davie.

In another announcement, a large water main break across from the Civic Center almost left Grand Gorge without water. Denver Sewer District Operator Eli Martin said the area would have been without water by 2 p.m. if it had not been for the swift repair by Hubbell. "We were lucky they came within the hour," he reported. 

In other business

Scott Haskin was appointed as the deputy highway superintendent. 

Mark Project Director Peg Elsworth expects the state to announce DRI (downtown revitalization initiative) grant projects in the next two weeks.

The council is expected to review proposed additional language for building permit applications. The new language will keep the town up to date on recently adjusted New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) protected waterway regulations. DEC expanded the definition of wetlands of unusual importance among other adjustments that took effect in January. A presentation on the adjustments will be posted on the town website at roxburyny.com.

The Catskill Watershed Corporation was permitted to pursue funding for an updated appraisal of the Grand Gorge wastewater treatment plant.

A vacancy remains on the Planning Board.

The town contracted with John Buback for emergency water and sewer repairs. 

Lorenzo Dantoni was hired as a highway department heavy equipment operator with a salary determined by the Union contract. 

The town clerk is expected to take over scheduling for the Civic Center rentals. 

An audit review is scheduled for May 12 at 5:30 p.m.

The next regular meeting for the Roxbury Town Board is scheduled Monday, April 14 at 6 p.m. 

 

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Man Arrested for Alleged Suspended License

ARKVILLE — Sheriff Craig DuMond announced the arrest of a City of Troy man for driving with a suspended license. 

On March 3, 2025, while on patrol in Arkville, Sheriff’s Deputies observed a commercial vehicle being operated while the vehicle was traveling at a speed of 50 mph in a 35-mph zone.  The vehicle was also observed failing to maintain lane/keep right. Upon conducting a traffic stop, Deputies identified the operator as 29-year-old Tyler J Erbe of Troy.  Following an inquiry with the NYS DMV, Deputies determined that Erbe’s privileges to operate a motor vehicle in NYS had been revoked. 

Deputies arrested Erbe and charged him with one count of aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the 2nd degree, an unclassified misdemeanor, unlicensed operator, speed in zone, failure to keep right, and obstructed plate. 

Erbe was released on an appearance ticket and traffic summonses and was directed to appear at the Town of Middletown Court at a later date to answer the charges. 

 

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Hiking the Catskills Then and Now March 23

A Happy Hiking Party on Wittenberg
 


GRAHAMSVILLE —  Packed for Adventure: Hiking the Catskills Then and Now by Paul Misko will be held on Sunday, March 23 at 2 p.m. at the Time and the Valleys Museum on St. Rt. 55 in Grahamsville and virtually through Zoom.        

Misko's multimedia presentation will show the equipment, food, and clothing used by Catskill hikers in the 1800's, and the progression of equipment innovation. He will share the many funny and disturbing anecdotes found in the writings of John Burroughs and others. Be assured that you will hear things about John Burroughs you never knew! The talk will close with a quick review of what every Catskill hiker should carry in their daypack. 

 This program is FREE for Museum Members and $5 for non-members. In person admission includes light refreshments and Museum admission.  To join virtually, please register by email at info@timeandthevalleysmuseum.org and put Hiking Then and Now in the subject line, or call 845 985-7700. A link will be sent to you.  Non-members will be asked to please first make a donation on the Museum’s website:  www.timeandthevalleysmuseum. org

About the speaker:   Paul Misko has been hiking in the Catskills since his youth and has been researching its history for many years. He has written articles for Kaatskill Life, and Catskill Mountain Region Guide, and has given many talks on Catskill hiking and history, with a focus on the tanning industry and John Burroughs. He is the founder of the Catskill 4000 Club, a small but pithy hiking group, which holds history themed hikes, and promotes being properly prepared in the woods.

About the Time and the Valleys Museum:  Connecting Water People and the Catskills, the Museum is open Memorial Day through September, Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m., and other times by appointment. Located at 332 Main Street in Grahamsville (St. Rt. 55), Sullivan County, admission for adults is $5, children under 16 $2, and children under six are free.  

Museum exhibitions are interactive and both fun and educational for all ages:  

  • Water and the Valleys, an exhibit on the history of the Rondout and Neversink watershed area from early geological times to the 20th century. This exhibition includes interactives such as a Native American artifact guessing game, grinding corn with a mortar and pestle, videos and more.  

  • Tunnels, Toil and Trouble: New York City’s Quest for Water and the Rondout-Neversink Story, an interactive exhibit on NYC water supply system and the towns that were removed to build the system, which includes computer interactives, games, puzzles, videos and building a dam and tunnel. 

  • 1930s Lost Catskill Farm, a farmhouse, outhouse, barn, electric plant, milk house and working waterwheel help visitors experience life in the 1930s through displays, videos, games and hands on activities.

The Time and the Valleys Museum is proud to be a Blue Star Museum, providing free admission to active duty military members (with ID) and up to five family members.  This free admission for members of the military and their families runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.  For more information call 845 985-7700, e-mail info@timeandthevalleysmuseum.org or visit www.timeandthevalleysmuseum.org. To schedule a field trip for schools, or group tour for children or adults, please call 845-985-7700.

 

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Suspended License Arrest

ARKVILLE — Sheriff Craig DuMond announced the arrest of Mastic, NY man for driving with a suspended license. 

On March 3, 2025, while on patrol in the Arkville area, Sheriff’s Deputies observed a vehicle being operated with an obstructed license plate. Upon conducting a traffic stop, Deputies identified the operator as 42-year-old Brendan M. Wahl of Mastic, NY. 

Following an inquiry with the NYS DMV, Deputies determined that Wahl’s privileges to operate a motor vehicle in NYS had been suspended and that he was operating out of his restrictions. 

Deputies arrested Wahl and charged him with one Count of aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the 3rd degree, an unclassified misdemeanor, unlicensed operator, operating out of restrictions, and obstructed plate. 

Wahl was released on an appearance ticket and traffic summonses and was directed to appear at the Town of Middletown Court at a later date to answer the charges. 

 

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Margaretville celebrates 150th birthday in 2025



The Village of Margaretville will mark the 150th anniversary of its incorporation this year.The Village Board will observe the milestone when it meets May 8, the day a public vote in 1875 approved the formation of a system of governance for what had been an unincorporated hamlet. An illustrated program, to be held Sunday, July 13 at 2 p.m. at the Middletown History Center, will detail the story of Margaretville’s development, focusing on the past century and a half. The talk will cover the impact of railroads, wars, floods and technological progress on businesses, schools, hospitals, civic groups and families.

A block dance will be held on Main Street Saturday, July 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. The street will be partially closed, music will be provided by Sue’s Garage, vintage cars will be on display, food will be available for purchase, and a community portrait will be taken like those taken in 1979 and 2000. Everyone is welcome to be part of this special commemoration.

Mayor John Hubbell, with Trustees Iris Mead, Sarah Hubbell, Dave Budin and Jeff Warren; the Central Catskills Chamber of Commerce, and the Historical Society of the Town of Middletown are spearheading the birthday celebration. Contact Iris Mead or Carol O’Beirne if you have an idea for an activity, or would like to participate in some way. 

Businesses are encouraged to hang banners, decorate their store fronts and/or create appropriate window displays. 

For updates on the Sesquicentennial, visit villageofmargaretville.com or mtownhistory.org.

 

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Josh Riley Introduces Two New Bipartisan Farm Bill Priorities - Will Boost Rural Communities and Support Future Farm Leaders


Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Josh Riley announced two new bipartisan initiatives that he will  lead in upcoming negotiations on the Farm Bill. Riley’s proposals will direct funding to the rural communities that need it most and ensure the next generation of producers has the support they need to continue Upstate New York’s proud agricultural legacy. 

“For too long, family farms in small towns all across Upstate New York have been sold out to special interests who spend millions lobbying on behalf of the Big Ag monopolies,” said Riley. “I’m fighting to change that by supporting the next generation of Upstate farmers with the tools they need to grow our food and strengthen our economy.”

The Strengthening Rural Cooperatives and Communities Act reauthorizes and expands funding for rural cooperative development grants, which are a lifeline for many rural small businesses, farmers, and cooperatives. The bill provides local producers in economically distressed communities with technical assistance, training, and capital access. Riley is introducing this bill alongside California Republican David Valadao.

Riley’s second bill, The Future FARMERS Act, reauthorizes over $40 million in grants and fellowships for food and agricultural sciences education to support the next generation of Upstate New York’s agricultural leaders. Riley is introducing this bill with Iowa Republican Randy Feenstra.

As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, Riley is working to protect family farms and ensure local Upstate farmers get their fair share.

In just his first two months in office, he has already championed bipartisan efforts to lower costs, strengthen dairy farm resilience, stop price gouging, boost family farms, and stop the spread of avian flu.

He also recently launched the Upstate Agriculture Advisory Board to provide  recommendations and input for his work on the U.S. House Agriculture Committee.

 

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